"Don't. I thought we were past that. Don't ever say that to me again." She pulled my hips against her, stilling me. "Please, don't. You must know that I don't feel like I deserve you, after all I've been through. You're a Godsend, more than I'd ever dreamed for. Every time you say it, it makes me feel more and more like I'm the one that's not worthy. So please stop. For me."

"I'm sorry. I keep hurting you, and I never mean to. I'll do better. Be patient with me, please," I kissed her softly.

"Do I still excite you?" she asked softly, smiling.

"Does the sun rise in...