“As long as I have you, I have purpose and reason. That is why I won't be drinking and that is why I will do everything in my power to keep you safe. Understand?”

“Oh, I love that grin. You won't be filthy for long.”

“The sex is just sex. I can't get close enough to you. The control is because I'm frightened to death that something will happen to you...that you'll be taken away from me. I've waited too long for you, Ava. I'll do anything to keep you safe. I've lived a life with little control or care. Believe me, I need you..please...please don't leave me.”

“I couldn't find you. I thought you had left. I had a hundred heart attacks in ten minutes, Ava. Why were you in the other bedroom?”

“You see, this is exactly why I want you here morning, noon and night.”

“How can I fix things if you keep dodging my attempts?”

“I need to have all of you, Ava. Say I can have all of you.”…“Take me.” I say quietly against his lips.’“Oh, I will.”