The headache was still there, pounding behind his eyes, but so easily forgotten with her there on the floor in front of him, their foreheads touching and her sweet, sweet words echoing in his mind. Just want you. Forever.

It was then that he noticed that Alexa was still playing ridiculous Christmas music in the background. He called over his shoulder, "Alexa, shut off the music. No, wait. Alexa. Mascagni. Intermezzo, Cavalleria Rusticana. Softly, please." He turned back, reaching up to cup her cheek with his palm, but instead he pulled away, concern on his face, worry knitting his brow. "You're crying, Ruri." He used his thumb to gently brush away some of the tears, then held her face in his hand, leaning in so that his lips were meeting hers again, knowing now that he was ready to take things further. "I won't break your heart." He spoke the words into her mouth, a whisper, full of intent. "Forever." It sounded just about right. His own tears were falling, but he hadn't noticed them either, too lost in his thoughts of her. Love was a given, though unspoken. There was something else he needed to know.

Reluctantly scooting away from her, he stood up carefully. When he was sure he wouldn't be overcome by any stray waves of dizziness or pain, he held his hand out to her to help her up as well.

"I need to know something, Ruri." He held her gaze for a beat before he continued. "Do you trust me?"