[ He lets his instincts direct him now, and he tries to push himself just a fraction more upright than he's been thus far, but he also tries not to overdue it, lest he worry her once again. ]

Oh, but there is. Would I still be here if not for your assistance?

[ He shakes his head as if to say he's certain he would not. ]

What if I count you as one of those I wish to be with? [ Too forward? Perhaps. But that's something he's willing to risk. ]