His eyes don't waver as he brings his hand up to cover Pippa's as it cups his cheek. "I meant every single word." And more besides. "That's why I had to tell you. I couldn't -- couldn't move forward with you if you didn't know. I couldn't do that to you."

Taking the risk, Rory angles his head just enough to lightly brush his lips against the heel of her hand. "I want you, Pippa," he husks softly. "I want to be close to you inside as well as out. I want to share with you ... to love you."