Amara moved forward; a bit more courageous. "I'm sorry for coming on so cold. I was just. overwhelmed."

"I know," he replied, taking her hand and holding it. "I'm sorry I pushed you so hard."

"You didn't," she replied, holding his hand tighter. "I wanted it too. I just. I needed time to sort everything out."

"I know that," he said, his eyes sweeping over hers. "I just want you to be aware that I'm here for you, Amara. I'm not going anywhere."

She felt a heat spread through her chest, and she ...