SHE WAS RIGHT THERE SAY SOMETHING!

Kaphiri stared like a googly-eyed fool until Amrei was right in front of him and asking questions. She honed in on what was behind him quickly, which just so happened to be hidden behind him -- he'd thought she'd come from another direction. Still, it worked in his favor, and the auburn prince finally broke his silence as she broke the ice.

I've brought a great many things for you, he hummed, stepping forward to brush his muzzle along her cheek. She could probably see past him at that point, short as he was, but he pretended she couldn't anyway. Besides, it wasn't supposed to be a bribe or a price, but a show of his appreciation for her, something she'd have even if she kicked him to the curb right here and now.

Starting... with a question.

No, that sounded stupid! He cleared his throat, nervous.

What I mean -- I know it hasn't been terribly long, but, well, he stumbled out next, face increasingly warm. This was NOT how it was supposed to go!

I love you, he blurted dumbly, and he thought he might faint.

I love you, and I want to spend every day of the rest of our lives together, and I want to get married.

FUCK!

He stared up at her, mortified, eyes wide and sure she was about to laugh at him.