[ If he had any other request but the one he finds himself wanting to make, for reasons he feels absolutely foolish for having, he would not be so hesitant. Perhaps on some level, he is afraid of her reacting badly to his request, and that is why he stammers.

For a moment, his eyes travel to her borrowed attire, taking in the way it hangs off of her, but he wills his senses to remain as intact as possible. ]

I suppose it is not scandalous at all, in light of that, but I fear you may find it crossing a line or ridiculous enough to cause you to despise me for asking it.

[ But what is living and being in love without taking a little risk? Even if this turns out to be no real risk at all... ]

I wondered if you might permit me to touch your ears. [ He wishes to do more than merely touch them, perhaps kiss them if she allows him to, but he feels the need to ask permission first.

On some level, he feels as though this may be too intimate, because her ears are simply a part of who she is, but he would be lying if he said he has not wished for this before now. ]