He could do anything—except bear to watch me suffer in despair with such a devoted gaze. His blue eyes, usually so cold, now burned with an intensity that made my breath catch.
"Don't reject my kindness. I hate being rejected!" His voice quivered intensely. "Margie, if you love me, there's no need to distance yourself."
As if I wanted to pull away! Deep down, I longed to cling to him every moment. My fingers itched to trace the sharp lines of his jaw, to memorize the feel of him. If not for this damned curse, I wouldn't be in this position—all thanks to his wretched father!
As I reached for the ring, he suddenly yanked me into his arms, crushing me against his very being. The impact knocked the air from my lungs. His strained, pained voice whispered in my ear.
"Margie, I love you... so... so... don't leave me. Don't agree to any damned engagement... cough... spit..."
