He kisses her, interrupting the kiss only to speak, not pulling away from her.

“Mm. I’ll follow your lead.”

The truth is that the idea of him claiming her is almost preposterous. They may spend hours upon sweet hours in each others’ arms, learning and exploring and loving, but they meet nearly as equals.

Still, it’s an easy jest. When the kiss breaks, he leans his forehead against hers and speaks in a low tone, only for her ears.

“You have me, my queen. Every bit of me. You have my heart.”