'Whether or not to marry, to take a husband... that's a matter of personal freedom. Just look at The Exalted One and his wife. Their love for each other is profound, and they have a son and a daughter. Their relationship has stood the test of time—something she has witnessed every step of the way.'
When she said nothing, Aeron clutched the sleeves of his robes, his head lowered slightly. "Are you still unwilling to be my wife?"
She could hear the sadness in his voice.
"Nerida."
He called her name.
Then he raised his head, his gaze locked on hers, his tone accusatory. "What's so wrong with me? Tell me, what's so wrong with me? How am I not good enough for you?"
Before Nerida could say a word, he continued.
