She melted into him, gripping his shirt, trying to soak in everything: how he felt, how he smelled, and how he made her feel safe enough to really want this.

She had spent so long feeling like she wasn’t enough—too awkward, too quiet, too much herself.

But Zayn looked at her like she was everything he wanted, like her shyness was something to appreciate, not something to fix.

For the first time, Emma allowed herself to believe that.

Zayn pulled back just enough to really see her. His gaze traced her face like he was trying to remember every little detail, and Emma felt her cheeks heat up under his look.

"What’s up?" she whispered.

"Nothing. Just... you." He brushed his thumb across her lower lip. "You have no idea what you do to me."

Before she could say anything, he kissed her again—deeper this time, with more certainty. Her fingers tightened around his shirt, pulling him closer. She felt the warmth of his skin through the fabric and the steady beat of his heart syncing with her own racing pulse.

He suddenly pulled back, breathing heavily. "We should probably..." He stopped, his jaw tight. "We should take it slow."

Emma shook her head, surprising herself. "I don’t want to take it slow."

His eyes darkened. "Emma."

"I trust you." The words came out stronger than she expected. "I want this. I want you."

He stared at her for what felt like forever, something intense flickering in his eyes. Then he stood up, pulling her along, his hands still on her waist.

He walked her backward, step by step, until her legs hit the edge of the bed. She sat down suddenly, looking up at him with wide eyes. Her shyness rushed back, making her look down at his collarbone instead of meeting his gaze.

Zayn knelt in front of her, his hands resting on her knees. The position made her breath catch. He looked at her like she was something special—something worth waiting for.

"You still with me?" he asked softly.

She nodded, biting her lip.

"Words, baby."

"Yes," she breathed. "I’m still with you."

His hands moved up her legs, slow and deliberate, pushing the hem of her dress higher. Emma’s pulse pounded in her ears. No one had ever touched her like this, like she was something to be indulged.

"Zayn," she whispered, her voice trembling.

"Right here." He kissed her knee and then went higher. "I’ve got you. Just breathe."

She did, taking shaky breaths as his hands explored. Every touch sent sparks through her, and every gentle squeeze made her gasp.

She had thought about this while lying awake at night, wondering what it would be like, but the reality was so much better. The warmth of his hands, the way he took his time, the way he watched her face for any sign of discomfort.

When he got to the waistband of her panties, he paused and looked up at her. "Can I?"

Emma’s cheeks flushed. She had never felt so exposed, so seen. But she nodded anyway because she wanted this. She wanted him.

"Yes."

He slowly pulled them down, never breaking eye contact with her. Emma was so embarrassed she thought she might die, but underneath the shyness was a thrilling, almost desperate feeling that made her want more.

"You’re so beautiful," he said, his voice gravelly with desire. "Every part of you."

She hid her face in her hands, feeling overwhelmed. He chuckled softly, gently removing her hands.

"No hiding," he said, kissing her palm. "Not from me."

He laid her back on the bed, his body covering hers, and for a moment, Emma forgot about being shy. But then, as his weight settled over her, her nerves came rushing back. Her hands shook against his chest, and her breathing quickened.

Zayn noticed right away. He pulled back a bit, bracing himself on his elbows to give them some space.

"Look at me."

She did, her eyes wide with nervousness.

His forehead touched hers, and his breath was warm against her lips. "Last chance," he murmured, his voice low and serious. "Once we start, there’s no going back. If you want me to stop, just say so. But if I start..." He swallowed hard, his jaw tightening. "I might not be able to pull back. So if you’re at all unsure, even just a little, tell me now. Please."

The weight of his words hit her. He was giving her a real out—no pressure, no guilt, just honesty.

Emma’s heart raced. Her shyness was telling her to look away, to hide, to mumble something vague and retreat. But Zayn was right there, waiting patiently above her. He had been so kind; he deserved her honesty too.

She took a shaky breath, gripping the sheets beneath her for support. Then she lifted her chin slightly and met his gaze.

"I’m sure," she said, her voice soft but clear. "I know what I want."

She paused, her cheeks turning bright red. The words felt huge in her mouth—terrifying yet freeing. But she had to say it, because this was Zayn, and she trusted him.

"I want you to be the one," she whispered. "Just... take it slow. And hold my hand."

Her voice wobbled at the end, shyness creeping back in as she glanced down at his chest. But she stayed there, trembling beneath him, waiting.

Zayn let out a breath that was part laugh, part groan—caught between relief and desire. He reached down, took her hand, laced their fingers together, and pressed her palm flat against the pillow.

"I’ll hold your hand the whole time," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "And I’ll go slow enough that you won’t even feel nervous anymore. I promise."

He kissed her then—soft and sweet—a promise on her lips. When he pulled back, his gray eyes were warm. 𝚏𝗿𝗲𝐞𝐰𝚎𝕓𝐧𝚘𝘃𝗲𝐥.𝐜𝚘𝕞

"Thank you," he said quietly. "For trusting me."

Emma squeezed his hand, her heart still racing, but her fear starting to fade.

"Thank you," she whispered back, "for waiting."