“There’s no obligation. There’s no better choice.” I stare up at him. “Then my answer will be yes,” I whisper, and he swallows. “But don’t do it because of the girls,” I add quickly, “or . . . or because of the consuls or because you’re under pressure or because of anything that worries you. Do it because you want to. Do it whenever you’re ready.” Emotion flickers in his eyes, just for a moment before he blinks it away. “And when you have a ring,” I say lightly, trying to take some of the intensity out of the moment. “Not when you’re warning me about threats against the Crown.” He presses a
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