“Please," he begged, though he knew not for what. He'd never asked anything of anyone. Never put himself in such a vulnerable position. But he had no pride at this moment. He was utterly slain by her gentleness.”

“Not for his people, not for the world he protected, but for himself. He wanted to matter. To her.”

“Involuntarily, Valarius felt a stab of envy, but he tamped it down. He had no right to feel possessiveness toward her. He was nothing, and she, she was everything.”

“How do I please you," he whispered, embarrassed by his own deplorable lack of knowledge and skill.”

“You have what she needs," he said again. "And you're capable of giving her more than she'd ever bargained for because you love her. Wether she wants it or not, it's your gift to her. True love requires no reciprocation. True love is unconditional.”

“You will take me," he said resolutely. "You will accept me into your body.”

“If you want blood, come and get it. If you're here to fuck me, just name your place and position. Otherwise, get out.”