"No one," I whisper, shaking my head. "You just got finished telling me that you lead by example. I won't be the reason you change who you are. Or do something you'll regret."

"The rules I live by are going out the window very quickly..." he says hoarsely, his left hand molding my thigh. "So quickly when it comes to you."

"I...I'm sorry..."

He hesitates, visibly battling against the part of himself that I inspire. Then finally, he leans in and speaks right against my mouth. "Apologize by ...