[He's surprised by the maneuver, his bangs falling messily over the right side of his face and hanging over like a curtain. But the slightly widened eyes curve into amusement as she takes his hand, the heat from her skin tantalizing...but it's the feeling of that precious heartbeat that makes him press his palm more firmly against it, as if wanting to secure it in place so it never stops.

He stares down at her for a moment before he shifts and repositions himself so that he's more aligned with her, his face lowering closer.]

...I just want to tell you how much I love you. And how no matter what...

[He lifts the hand holding his, pressing his lips against her ring finger that still remains empty.]

...I won't falter again. I won't make you doubt my love for you again. I will be your strength... Just as you have become mine.