“I love you. I am utterly and unfathomably in love with you, Ashabelle Keller.” At his words, she closes her eyes. Takes a shallow breath, the action rocking her body. He means it. She’s his. She will always be a sharp object. And he will never stop loving her. Her mouth works. Those bold red lips part. But nothing comes out. “You don’t have to say it back.” He stares at her, thumbs whisking over her sharp cheekbones. A heavy ache pierces his gut. And yet, if she’s not ready, he won’t push. “I’ll love you enough for the both of us.”
