**Chapter 52: Morning After**

Kou's fingers danced across Mitsuba's chest, his thumbs teasing the nipples into hardened peaks. Mitsuba let out a shaky breath, his eyes fixed on Kou's face as he tried to will himself to be unaffected. But Kou's touch was like a spark to dry tinder, igniting a flame that threatened to consume him. "Kou, stop," Mitsuba said, his voice firm but his body betraying him. Kou's eyes crinkled at the corners as he chuckled, his fingers never ceasing in their gentle torment. "You're not exactly in a position to be making demands, Princess," he teased, his voice low and husky. Mitsuba's face went redder as he tried to squirm away, but Kou's arms were wrapped around him, holding him in place. "I'm serious, Kou. No sex. Not today, not tomorrow, not for a month." Kou's eyebrows shot up, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "A month? You think you can go that long without me, Princess?" he asked, his voice dripping with skepticism. Mitsuba gritted his teeth, trying to ignore the flutter in his chest. "I have to," he said, his voice firm. "I'm exhausted, Kou. I need a break." Kou's chuckle died down, and he leaned in, his breath hot against Mitsuba's ear. "You're not exactly known for your self-control, Mitsuba," he whispered, his voice sending shivers down Mitsuba's spine. Mitsuba's nipples hardened further under Kou's touch, and he let out a shaky breath. He was trying to be strong, to resist Kou's charms, but it was no use. Kou knew exactly which buttons to press, and he was pressing them all. "Kou, please," Mitsuba said, his voice barely above a whisper. Kou's fingers stilled, and he pulled back, his eyes searching Mitsuba's face. For a moment, they just stared at each other, the air thick with tension. Then, Kou's face softened, and he wrapped his arms around Mitsuba, pulling him close. "Okay, Princess," he whispered, his voice gentle. "I'll give you a break. For now." Mitsuba let out a sigh of relief, his body relaxing into Kou's touch. He knew it was only temporary, that Kou would wear him down eventually. But for now, he was grateful for the reprieve.