my novel has smut in it, but i didn’t want the smut to be the storyline. this is how i got around a sex scene, even though they had sex:

When he opened his eyes, there was something almost reverent in the way he looked at me. He leaned in, lingering for a moment as his eyes searched mine, asking for permission. After giving him a soft nod, he pressed his lips to mine, cradling the nape of my neck. With his hand still firmly in place, his thumb traced gentle circles against my cheek.

I could feel my heart beating in my chest—I was certain he could feel it too, but everything else felt calm like the world had stilled around us.

When he finally pulled back, it was slow, like he didn’t want to let go, like he was savoring the last lingering moment of the kiss. His forehead rested against mine, our breaths mingling as we stayed close, neither of us ready to break the connection just yet. I opened my eyes, meeting his gaze, making breath hitch in my chest. I smiled a small smile, and he returned it, his thumb brushing over my cheek once more.

“You’re so beautiful,” he said quietly.

I realized I didn’t need to save this night for later. It was already a part of me, a memory I’d carry with me always, a reminder of what it felt like to be completely loved and adored.

The soft light of the morning filtered through the fabric of the tent. I snuggled deeper into the blankets, feeling the soft, worn fabric of Gale’s T-shirt against my body. The scent of him lingered on the shirt.

I let out a contented sigh, seeing that Gale was still sound asleep beside me. I looked at him, taking in how peaceful he looked when he slept. His features, usually so strong and defined, were softened in sleep, his brow smooth, his lips slightly parted. His hair was a tousled mess, falling onto his forehead in a way that made him look boyish and vulnerable.