“Because, Ava, it's in my past where I want it to stay. I don't want anything affecting my future.”

“I can’t answer that, Ava, because I’ve never wanted anything enough to pursue it so relentlessly. Not like I wanted you.”

“Where you're concerned, I'll try my best, Ava. I already told you, I've waited too long for you. You're my little piece of heaven. Nothing will rob you from me. Nothing.”

“I want to stay stuck to you.”

“I love it. Reminds me of you." "It reminds me of a man I don't like." I never want to hear it again. "I'm sorry." He nips at my neck, drawing his tongue up the length to my jawbone. "My arse is dead.”

“Don't mess with me, Ava," he says smugly, "You should know by now I always win.”

“I want you here when I go to sleep." He licks my bottom lip. "And I want you here when I wake up. Starting and ending my day with you is all I need.”