Swiftcurrent Creek wild inside

He smiled gently at Etienne’s apology, which wasn’t necessary, but Cambria did not say anything. He gave his friend a moment to work through what he wanted to say, trying his best to ignore the tightening in his own chest and stomach. He let out a slow breath right as the healer continued, then held it without being aware through the entire rest of the man’s rejoinder.

Now it was his turn to collect his thoughts, all while his stomach did somersaults. Cambria felt so many things at once: slight dejection, that Etienne had not even considered him before; deep sympathy for the man’s plight with unrequited love; and a fierce flicker of hope that he knew he probably shouldn’t entertain. But could he even help himself?

He wanted to give Etienne this—he wanted to give him anything and everything—but the Dragonling forced himself to pause and consider. He could be setting himself up for the worst disappointment yet. Even worse, Cambria could be breaking his own heart. But as his two-toned gaze rested gently on his friend’s face, he discovered clarity in a compromise.

I know you’re worth waiting for, he said in a low voice, and of course I’d love for you to know me better. I want to know you better too. He paused, drawing in a deep breath. What if I stayed in the area and we met up on a regular basis? We can just focus on getting to know each another without anyone making any commitments or promises they may not be able to keep. We could… He halted again, reaching for the right word and finding, court. Cambria amended, Well, I could court you, if you’ll let me, Eti, smiling gently through his flush.