His expression became serious, and his hand almost slipped from mine. “I’ve had a long time to think about it.””This can’t work!”He looked down, then jerked his head up in frustration as his finger tightened on mine. “I’m not asking you to marry me, Rachel. I just …”My heart pounded, and he stepped closer, so close the scent of cinnamon and wine enveloped me.”I like walking into a room and seeing your face light up when you see me,” he said earnestly, the sun from the open window making his hair glow. “I like arguing with Quen over the wisdom of employing a demon to be my security.”My throat caught. This wasn’t going to happen, but something in me was withering. I wanted more–and I knew I couldn’t have it.He touched my hair, and I twitched as he tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “I want to wake up beside you, see your curls on my pillow. I want a chance at falling in love.” My breath came fast. That was what I wanted too, and it hurt more than I thought was possible to survive.