She wanted to give some sort of explanation as to why she hadn't said anything, but the words died on her lips when he silenced her, and she nodded, trying to contain her guilt.

The hand over her heart made it beat a little faster, and though he was looking down at his hand she watched his face as he spoke words that knocked the breath out of her. Joy filled her when he described dreams that so perfectly matched hers, but hearing him doubt that she was really his kept the smile from her face. Still, she couldn't keep the wonder out of her eyes or the slight pink tinge off her cheeks. She glanced down to look at the place where they touched, to the one difference that would keep her father from giving them his blessing. "You wish you could marry me?" she whispered, eyes flickering back up to meet his. "You don't know how many times I've wished that, how badly I want to be your wife... But Jim, I'm already yours. No one could ever steal me away. Not ever." Her eyes stayed on his as she spoke, trying to convey her sincerity and searching for signs as to whether or not he believed her.