Epilogue

GENEVIEVE- 3 YEARS LATER

G enevieve was gently roused from sleep by the soft padding of footsteps across the carpet and the rich aroma of coffee. She stirred, acutely aware of the cold, empty space beside her. For a week now, she'd been falling asleep and waking up alone, the absence of Eden's warmth a constant reminder of her partner's gruelling night-shoot schedule.

As consciousness slowly seeped in, Genevieve blinked away the last vestiges of sleep, her gaze drawn to the doorway where Eden was now standing, a steaming mug in hand.

Eden looked exhausted but undeniably happy, still clad in the clothes she'd worn to the set. Her golden hair was slightly dishevelled and Genevieve could make out faint smudges of makeup around her eyes - remnants of her character's carefully crafted appearance. Despite signs of a long night's work, Eden's smile was radiant as she crossed the threshold into their shared sanctuary.

"Good morning, my love." Eden's voice was soft, a soothing balm to Genevieve's ears.

Genevieve pushed herself up, the covers pooling around her waist as she reached for the proffered mug. "You're a saint," she murmured, inhaling deeply before taking a grateful sip. The rich, bitter liquid was a welcome jolt to her system, helping to clear away the lingering fog of sleep.

Eden's smile widened at Genevieve's obvious appreciation. Without a word, she moved to the bed, carefully lowering herself onto the covers. Genevieve felt the mattress dip under Eden's weight, a familiar and comforting sensation she'd sorely missed.

As soon as she was settled, Eden reached for Genevieve, pulling her close. Genevieve willingly melted into the embrace, savouring the feeling of Eden's body against hers once more. She set her coffee on the bedside table, freeing both hands to wrap around her partner.

Eden nuzzled into Genevieve's neck, her breath warm against the sensitive skin. "God, I'm so glad to be done with night shoots," she sighed, relief evident in her voice.

Genevieve hummed in agreement, running her fingers through Eden's tangled locks. She'd missed the quiet moments of intimacy and the simple act of holding each other close. The past week had been a stark reminder of how accustomed Genevieve had grown to Eden's presence, and how essential it had become to her own sense of peace. Genevieve was more than ready to be done with this sad routine of passing each other like ships in the night.

Just as she was about to express her joy at having Eden home, she felt a slight shift in her partner's demeanour. Eden's body tensed almost imperceptibly. When she spoke again, there was a note of melancholy in her tone.

"I can't believe filming's almost over. I still hate the gaps I have to fill with meetings and auditions until I find my next job," Eden admitted, her words muffled against Genevieve's skin.

Genevieve understood the bittersweet nature of Eden's emotions all too well. The end of a project always brought a mix of relief and sadness. A sense of accomplishment tinged with the knowledge that a unique experience was finishing.

During the three years since their whirlwind romance had begun, Genevieve had watched Eden's career flourish. From stage to screen, Eden had tackled each new role with the same passion and dedication that had first captured Genevieve's heart. This latest project - a sapphic regency drama that had already generated significant buzz in the industry - was poised to catapult Eden to a new level of recognition.

Genevieve knew how much the show meant to Eden. How she'd poured her heart and soul into bringing her character to life. It was more than just another job; it was a chance to tell stories that mattered. To represent a community that had for too long been relegated to the shadows of history.

As Eden nestled closer, seeking comfort in Genevieve's embrace, Genevieve felt a swell of pride and love. She marvelled at the journey they'd taken together and at the growth they'd both experienced - as individuals and as a couple. The woman in her arms was still the same Eden who had walked into that first audition and turned Genevieve's world upside down, but she had become so much more.

The sympathetic director couldn't help but scoff playfully at Eden's melancholy. She pulled back slightly, just enough to meet Eden's gaze. Those impossibly blue eyes, though tired, still held the same depth and passion that had first captivated her years ago.

"Darling," Genevieve murmured with a tender smile, "this show is going to be huge." She punctuated her words with another kiss, just below Eden's ear. "You'll be called back for another season before you know it."

Eden's body relaxed at Genevieve's reassurance, the tension melting away under her loving ministrations. Genevieve revelled in her ability to soothe Eden's worries, to be a source of strength and support for the woman who had brought such joy into her life.

Just as Genevieve was about to deepen their embrace, a loud meow cut through the intimate moment. Both women turned toward the sound, their gazes landing on the indignant figure at the foot of the bed.

Bard, their Russian Blue cat, sat regally on the duvet, his green eyes fixed on them with an imperious stare. His tail swished back and forth, a clear sign of his impatience.

Eden's laugh, rich and warm, filled the room. She sat up, reaching out to the disgruntled feline. "Oh hush, you drama queen," she chided affectionately, her fingers finding that spot behind Bard's ears that never failed to appease him. "You've already been fed. No doubt you’ve been tricking us into giving you two breakfasts while we’ve been on opposite schedules."

Genevieve watched as Bard leaned into Eden's touch, his loud purr a stark contrast to his earlier complaints. The cat's eyes narrowed in contentment, his regal posture softening as he settled into the attention.

The scene before her filled Genevieve with a profound sense of peace. She reached for her coffee again, taking a long sip as she observed the simple, domestic moment. Eden lavishing attention on their pampered cat; the soft morning light casting a golden glow over their bedroom; the familiar scents of coffee and Eden's rose perfume mingling in the air.

It was a life Genevieve had never dared to dream she could have. For so long, she'd convinced herself that personal happiness was a sacrifice necessary for professional success. She'd built walls around her heart and focused solely on her career, believing that love and fulfilment in her work were mutually exclusive.

But Eden had changed all that. With her warmth, her passion, and her unwavering support, Eden had shown Genevieve that it was possible to have both - a thriving career and a loving partnership. Together, they'd created this haven, this place where they could be fully themselves. Where they could find respite from the demands of their public lives.

Genevieve admired how naturally they'd fallen into this rhythm. How seamlessly their lives had intertwined. From that first explosive meeting in the audition room until now, sharing quiet mornings with their cat, they'd built something beautiful and lasting.

Genevieve’s reverie was interrupted by Eden's voice, soft and curious. "How long before you have to leave for the theatre?"

Genevieve glanced at the clock on the bedside table, mentally calculating the time. The annual summer Shakespeare retelling was in full swing, with rehearsals demanding more of her attention as opening night approached. But today . . .

"Actually," Genevieve replied, setting her mug down, "I have a meeting later this morning." She watched as Eden's eyebrows rose in question, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "It's with some fellow directors who are interested in working with me on the charity."

Eden's eyes lit up with understanding and pride. The charity had been Genevieve's passion project for the past year, a way to create opportunities for underprivileged queer youth in theatre. It was Genevieve’s way of paying forward the success she'd found. Of opening doors for talented individuals who might otherwise be shut out of the industry. The program at TBTC had been a roaring success since its inception two years before, welcoming all manner of incredible actors from different backgrounds into an otherwise elitist space. Now Genevieve was hoping to branch out further by creating a new program, specifically designed to shine light on queer performers and stories.

"They want to discuss collaborating on the project," Genevieve continued, unable to keep the excitement from her voice. "If we can get more directors on board, we can expand our reach, and perhaps offer more workshops and mentorship programs."

Eden's smile grew wider with each word, her pride in Genevieve's endeavours evident in the way she gazed at her. It was a look that still made Genevieve's heart skip a beat, even after all this time.

"That's wonderful, Gen," Eden said, her voice warm with affection. "I can’t wait to put together my own workshop. Lord knows I could have done with a space like that when I was just a little, closeted actress."

Genevieve chuckled, grateful once again for Eden's unwavering passion and support, as well as the history that bound them together. In Eden, she'd found not just a partner, but a true collaborator. Someone who understood her dreams and ambitions, and who pushed her to be her best self, both personally and professionally. “Aren’t you lucky to have found me, to show you the light?”

Eden huffed her own quiet laugh and leaned in, closing the distance between them. "Yeah, yeah . . . Have I told you lately how incredible you are?" she murmured, her lips barely brushing against Genevieve's as she spoke.

Before Genevieve could respond, Eden closed the gap completely, capturing her lips in a tender kiss. Genevieve melted into it, savouring the soft press of Eden's mouth against hers. As they parted, Genevieve found herself chasing Eden's lips, reluctant to break the connection. She hummed contentedly, her hands moving of their own accord to pull Eden closer.

"I've missed this," Genevieve breathed. "Missed you."

Even after three years together and the demands of their respective careers pulling them in different directions, the magnetic pull between them remained as strong as ever.

Eden pulled back slightly, just enough to meet Genevieve's gaze.

"Well," she said, a playful lilt in her voice, "if you have some time before your meeting . . ." She paused, her eyes flicking toward the en-suite bathroom before returning to Genevieve's face. "Care to join me in the shower?"

The suggestion sent a thrill through Genevieve, igniting a familiar warmth low in her belly. Images flashed through her mind - of water cascading over Eden's curves. Of steam rising around them as they lost themselves in each other's touch.

" Fuck yesss ," Genevieve groaned. She stood, hastily pulling Eden up with her.

As Eden took her hand, guiding her toward the bathroom, Genevieve felt a rush of emotions bloom in her chest. Desire, certainly. That was a constant undercurrent in their relationship, a flame that had never dimmed. But there was something deeper, too. A profound gratitude for this life they'd built together. For the love that had blossomed between them against all odds.

Yet here they were, three years later, still finding new ways to fall in love with each other every day. From opening nights at the theatre to lazy Sundays spent reading scripts together on the couch, every moment was a reaffirmation of the choice they'd made to build a life together.

As they reached the bathroom door, Eden paused, turning back to Genevieve with a smile that made her breath catch. In that moment, Genevieve was struck anew by Eden's beauty, just as she had been that first day, when Eden had stumbled into her audition.

"I love you," Genevieve sighed, the words falling from her lips as naturally as breathing.

Eden's smile widened, her eyes shining with an emotion that mirrored Genevieve's own. "I love you more," she replied, her voice filled with a tenderness that made Genevieve's heart ache in the best possible way.

Genevieve's hands moved with urgent desire as she pushed Eden into the bathroom, fingers fumbling with the buttons of Eden's dress. Her impatience grew with each passing second, until finally, she growled in frustration and simply tore the garment open, sending buttons scattering across the tiled floor. Eden gasped, unrestrained lust flashing in her eyes as Genevieve's hands roamed over newly exposed skin.

Eager to fulfil the promises she saw in those deep blue eyes, Genevieve swiftly removed her own t-shirt, tossing it aside without a care. As Eden turned to start the shower, Genevieve's gaze raked over her lover's form, drinking in every inch of her beauty. Even after years together, the sight of Eden's naked body never failed to take her breath away.

Eden was a vision of pale, milky skin flowing over elegant curves. Her long legs seemed to go on forever, tapering into delicate ankles that Genevieve loved to throw over her shoulders. The gentle swell of her breasts, the soft plane of her stomach, and the enticing curve of her hips - every part of Eden was a masterpiece that Genevieve yearned to worship.

Unable to resist any longer, Genevieve almost lunged forward, crowding Eden into the walk-in shower. Her hands found purchase on Eden's hips, tearing through the flimsy lace of her underwear and pulling her closer as the warm water began to cascade over them both. She raked her nails up Eden's back and then down again, eliciting a sharp gasp from her lover that stoked the heat between her legs.

"Careful," Eden chided half-heartedly, her breathless tone betraying her arousal. "I've still got a couple weeks of filming left. Can't have any visible marks."

Genevieve huffed in frustration, her hands stilling on Eden's waist. She understood the restriction, but that did nothing to quell the animalistic hunger that burned within her. She wanted nothing more than to mark Eden’s perfect skin, to leave a visible reminder of their passion that would last for days.

As she reined herself in just a little, Genevieve's mind wandered to the journey they'd taken together, exploring the depths of their sexual dynamic. It had been no surprise to discover how much she enjoyed dominating Eden, how intoxicating it was to have her lover submit so willingly to her every whim. But over the years, they’d taken that heady pleasure to new heights together.

She thought back to the first time she'd properly spanked Eden. About the way her pale flesh had blossomed into a beautiful shade of pink, then deepened to a vibrant red. Eden’s breathy moans and the way she'd arched into each strike, begging for more. It had sparked an addiction in Genevieve that she hadn’t seen coming.

And it wasn't just spanking. Genevieve had discovered a primal satisfaction in marking Eden in other ways - sucking dark bruises into the soft flesh of her inner thighs, leaving bite marks along the curve of her breasts. Each mark was a testament to their passion, a visual representation of the intense connection they shared.

What had surprised Genevieve most was how much Eden loved it. Her partner revelled in wearing these marks, often admiring them in the mirror with a satisfied smile. It was as if each bruise, each bite mark, was a badge of honour. A secret symbol of their love that Eden carried with her.

"Hey," Eden's soft voice in her ear pulled Genevieve from her thoughts. "Once filming's wrapped, we can celebrate properly." Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she added, "It’s been a while since you thoroughly fucked my ass."

Genevieve groaned, her head falling back against the shower wall as Eden's words painted vivid pictures in her mind. The thought of bending Eden over, of slowly working her open before burying a dildo deep inside her . . . it was almost too much to bear.

Eden, ever attuned to Genevieve's reactions, seized the opportunity to press her advantage. Her lips found the sensitive skin of Genevieve's neck, alternating between gentle kisses and teasing nips. "In the meantime," she murmured against Genevieve's pulse point, "no one's going to see any marks on you, are they?"

Before Genevieve could object, she felt the sharp suction of Eden's mouth on the swell of her breast. A hiss escaped her lips as pleasure mingled with the slight sting of pain. Eden worked diligently, sucking and nibbling until she was satisfied with her handiwork.

When she pulled back, a smug smile played on her lips as she admired the dark lovebite blooming on Genevieve's pale skin. The sight of it, coupled with the lingering sensation, stoked the fire of Genevieve's desire. A needy hunger pooled between her legs, her body thrumming with desperation for more of Eden's touch.

Genevieve tangled her fingers in Eden's hair, tugging firmly. "You think you’re so clever flipping the script on me don’t you, baby? On your knees. Now," she commanded, slipping easily into her dominant role. Eden complied eagerly, sinking to the shower floor with graceful submission. Genevieve guided her lover's mouth to her throbbing clit, gasping as Eden's tongue made contact with her sensitive flesh.

Eden feasted on her hungrily, her talented tongue exploring every fold and crevice of Genevieve's pussy. She lapped at her entrance, gathering her arousal before focusing her attention on her clit. As Eden sucked the throbbing bud into her mouth, she slipped two fingers inside Genevieve, curling them to hit that perfect spot.

Genevieve's head fell back against the shower wall again, her hips rocking against Eden's face as pleasure built within her. She could feel her orgasm approaching rapidly, her legs beginning to tremble with the effort of staying upright. Eden's fingers pumped in and out relentlessly, her mouth never ceasing its assault on Genevieve's clit.

When her climax hit, it was with an intensity that took Genevieve's breath away. Her body shook uncontrollably, her legs threatening to give out as waves of ecstasy crashed over her. It was a Herculean effort to keep from from collapsing entirely.

As the aftershocks subsided, Genevieve reached down and yanked Eden to her feet by her dripping, golden locks. She claimed her lover's mouth in a searing kiss, her tongue delving deep to taste herself on Eden's lips.

Without breaking the kiss, Genevieve's hand snaked down between Eden's legs. She plunged two fingers into Eden's pussy, finding her hot and dripping wet. Her other hand moved to Eden's throat, applying just enough pressure to hold her in place against the wall at her back.

Eden moaned, her eyes locking onto Genevieve's gaze with unwavering focus. Genevieve loved this about her - how Eden instinctively knew now to maintain eye contact during these heated moments. There was nothing Genevieve craved more than watching her lover come undone, seeing the pleasure and trust and vulnerability in those beautiful blue eyes.

"Come for me, baby," Genevieve whispered, her fingers working furiously inside Eden. "Let me feel you fall apart on my fingers."

Eden's response was a strangled keen, her throat vibrating against Genevieve's palm. Her pussy clenched around Genevieve's fingers, pulsing rhythmically as her orgasm washed over her. Genevieve kept fucking her through it, relishing every twitch and shudder of Eden's pliant body.

As Eden slowly floated back down to earth, Genevieve softened her touch. She peppered Eden's face with gentle kisses - her cheeks, her eyelids, and the corner of her mouth. Each kiss was an expression of love. Of gratitude for the trust and intimacy they shared.

"Turn around," Genevieve murmured, releasing her throat and reaching for the shampoo bottle. Eden obeyed, sighing contentedly as Genevieve began to lather the fragrant soap into her wet hair.

Genevieve took her time, massaging Eden's scalp with firm, circular motions. She loved these moments of aftercare, when she could shower Eden with affection and tenderness. It was a beautiful contrast to the intensity of their lovemaking, and a reminder of the deep emotional connection that underpinned their physical relationship.

Eden's head fell back slightly, a low groan escaping her lips as Genevieve's fingers worked their magic. "God, that feels amazing," she murmured, her voice thick with satisfaction and a little exhaustion.

As Genevieve rinsed the shampoo from Eden's hair, letting the warm water cascade over them both, Eden spoke again. "You know," she said softly, "you're the best thing that's ever happened to me."

The words sent a rush of warmth through Genevieve's chest, a feeling of love so intense it brought tears to her eyes. She wrapped her arms around Eden from behind, pressing a kiss to her shoulder. "And you're the best thing that's ever happened to me," she replied, grateful for the shower that obscured any tears that managed to escape. "I still can't believe this is my life, sometimes."

As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms with the warm water flowing over them, Genevieve thought back on the journey that had brought them to this point. From that first electric meeting in the audition room to this moment of domestic bliss, every step had led them here. To a love so deep and true that it took her breath away.

In Eden, Genevieve had found not just a lover, but a partner in every sense of the word. Someone who challenged her, supported her, and loved her unconditionally. Someone who had shown her that it was possible to have both a fulfilling career and a passionate, loving relationship.

As Eden turned in her arms, sighing contentedly and capturing her lips in a soft, lingering kiss, Genevieve knew with absolute certainty that this - this love, this life they'd built together - was everything she'd ever wanted and so much more.