**Chapter 3: Safe in His Arms**

As I lay there, wrapped in Hange's warmth, I felt my heart rate slow, my breathing steady, and my mind clear. His words still lingered in the air, a gentle promise of protection and love. I looked up at him, my eyes locking onto his, and he smiled softly, his gaze never wavering. Hange leaned in, his face inches from mine, and I could feel the warmth of his breath on my skin. His lips brushed against mine, soft and gentle, sending shivers down my spine. I opened my mouth to him, and he deepened the kiss, his tongue dancing with mine in a slow, sensual rhythm. The world around us melted away, leaving only the two of us, lost in the moment. I felt his love, his passion, and his devotion. It was as if time itself had stopped, and all that existed was the gentle pressure of his lips on mine. As we kissed, Hange's hands roamed over my body, gentle and soothing. His fingers brushed against my skin, sending sparks of electricity through me. I moaned softly, my body responding to his touch, and he pulled me closer, his chest pressed against mine. But then, something unexpected happened. Hange's body began to shift, his muscles rippling beneath his skin. His back expanded, and his arms morphed into something else. I felt a rush of excitement and a little fear as I realized that he was shifting into his true form. His wings unfolded from his back, massive and powerful, with feathers that shimmered like gold in the dim light of the room. They flapped gently, creating a soft breeze that caressed my skin, and I felt a thrill of excitement run through me. I reached out, my hand brushing against his chest, and he let out a soft growl of pleasure. His skin was warm and inviting, and I could feel the beat of his heart beneath his skin. As I touched him, I realized that his back was incredibly muscular, with defined ridges and veins that seemed to pulse with life. My fingers trailed along his spine, feeling the ridges of muscle and the softness of his skin. I ran my hand along his toned, big muscular back, marveling at the way his body seemed to ripple with power. His wings, still softly flapping, seemed to be a part of him, an extension of his being. Hange's eyes never left mine as he shifted, his gaze still burning with intensity and love. I felt no fear, only a deep sense of connection and trust. He was still the same person, still my Hange, no matter what form he took. As I wrapped my arms around his neck, I felt his veiny arms beneath my hands, strong and muscular. His wings continued to flap softly, creating a soothing rhythm that seemed to match the beat of my heart. I kissed him back, my lips meeting his in a soft, passionate exchange. Our mouths moved in tandem, each of us lost in the other's eyes. Hange's growl rumbled through his chest, a low, soothing sound that vibrated through me. In that moment, I knew that I was safe, that I was loved, and that Hange would always be there to protect me. His wings enfolded me, wrapping me in a warm, comforting cocoon that seemed to shield me from the world. As we broke apart for air, Hange's eyes locked onto mine, shining with love and adoration. I smiled softly, my heart full, and he leaned in, his lips brushing against mine once more. "You're mine," he whispered, his voice low and husky, "and I'll always keep you safe, princess." I nodded, my heart overflowing with emotion, and he pulled me close, his wings wrapping around us like a shield. In that moment, I knew that I was home, that I was exactly where I was meant to be.