"Oh, Roman," Angelica sighed, caressing her brother's cheek. "I love you so, so much."

"But the answer is no," Roman said in understanding. "I love you too, little girl. And it's okay. Just being able to kiss a goddess like you is more than I'm worthy of." He smiled warmly, causing Angelica to smile too. He kissed her. "Get dressed," he said, patting her bottom twice and then rising, "we're late for school again."

In the days following, Roman seemed just a little different to Angelica. Like he was slightly sullen about her refusal. She wondered whether it might just be her imagination, or that she really did want to...