Two Rivers Isle This world is only gonna break your heart

She confirmed it. She did love him. He released a breath that seemed to flow out of him forever, and his legs felt like jelly. He shook where he stood, and not just from the cold now. But what was supposed to happen now? He was overjoyed with happiness for a few brief, bright moments, and then his mind clouded in confusion and worry. What was she expecting? Marriage? Out here? They were not even safe yet.

I... he began, and then stopped. Did he love her in return? He... he thought he did... probably. He had never given himself permission to think of her in this way, so now he was only confused. But he could not destroy her after she had just confessed to him. Will... will you give me time? he begged, his voice thick with emotion, still so close to her that he could feel her warm breath on his face. I... I need to think. And... we must... find somewhere warm. Terrified that she would take this all the wrong way, he rushed on. You have made me... the happiest man alive, Adylaide. I just... never expected this. I just need time. Is that--is that all right? He pulled back to stare at her, concern clear in his eyes. I am not rejecting you. I just need time to think.