Chapter 49 — "Before the Storm" (Panam + Alaric — Aftermath / Prelude to "Play It Safe")
Night settled heavy over the Aldecaldo camp. The celebration died down, but the heat between them didn't.
Panam's tent wasn't far. They didn't speak much — they didn't need to. One look… and the world outside vanished.
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Inside, the air grew thick with heat and breathless tension.
Panam pushed Alaric onto the cot, climbing astride him, eyes burning.
"You always this reckless?"
Alaric smirked, hands gripping her hips.
"Only with you."
She leaned down — their lips clashed, fierce and hungry. Armor hit the floor, followed by her pants… his shirt…
When he pulled her down on him, she gasped — loud, desperate.
"Shit… you're… f**k…"
Alaric's hand tangled in her hair as he thrust up into her, slow but deep.
"You wanted reckless."
Panam's nails raked his chest.
"Give me more."
And he did — over and over, until the cot creaked beneath them and her moans echoed into the desert night.
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Aftermath…
Panam lay sprawled across his chest, sweat-slick and breathless, legs tangled with his.
She traced a finger along his scars.
"You're dangerous… but I don't mind."
Alaric kissed her temple, hand on the curve of her waist.
"Guess you're stuck with me now."
Her soft laugh was honest.
"Not complaining."
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[System Feedback — Emotional Metrics Updated]
Panam Palmer
[Affection +80] — Shared intimacy
[Trust +50] — Vulnerable aftermath
[Attraction +100] — Sexual bond sealed
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