"Because you're precious to me," he said, no hesitation there. "You're exquisite. Strong and bright and beautiful and I wanted to ensure I was worthy of that." His hand slid along her side, feeling more secure. "I guess this thing with Cobb made me realize I can't be either or. I have been that man and now I have my life here. With you. I just want you to know. Its been a lot of years and I I can't say I wouldn't kill again, but not like that, not because of the job."

He made a face. "At least not outside of dreams."