[ He opens his mouth to say something else, but she surprises him with her sudden movement, and he stops when her hand moves to the side of his face. ]

I do not wish for this to become only a memory either. I would- [ His eyebrows draw together and for a moment, he closes his eyes as a swirl of emotions threatens to overtake him. Another moment passes and he finds his voice again. ] It matters not to me how often you are called away or how long you may be gone. I would wait a lifetime for you to return, and if I might be so bold, I would do this because you have become so very important to me.

[ He hesitates, because part of him feared that this was premature, that it would only cause her to turn away from him, but he has realized he needs her to know how he truly feels. ]

You do not need to ask me anything either, simply because I admire you greatly and even love you, if you will allow me to say that.

[ He sees no reason to withhold his feelings, but at the same time, he does not expect her to return them. ]

Because of that, I will wait for you and be present when your duties allow you to return.