[ But if they had come to this point without experiencing all of the pain and the loss, would it still feel so meaningful? For his part, Aymeric remains certain that it would not. After all, one can hardly live in the world and not experience difficulty, even pain and loss. It is the balance between hardship and happiness that he, like so many others, has had to find. ]

I am certain that she will, even though I cannot explain what it is that makes me feel that way. And I would consider myself quite fortunate indeed should I be considered part of your family. [ He considers himself quite honored that she and her sister even gave him a second look. ]

Oh, of course, not all. I must do my level best to ensure that you do not grow disheartened or discontent while we wait for that occasion.

[ When she presses a kiss to his lips, his eyes close as feelings of pleasure and happiness sweep over him. Something is stirring inside him, a feeling he has not felt before, and it is clear that she has succeeded in making him feel both happy and good, although aroused might be a more accurate term. ]