Chapter 196

• Yet, I can both see and feel his complete adoration. The look in his eyes thrills me, but it scares me a little as well. He chuckles almost in disbelief, his emerald eyes sparkling with excitement as though he's been given an incredible gift. Our eyes hold each other captive, and after a brief pause his expression changes and those small red sparks appear again at the edge of my vision. This time they mold together and grow larger and larger, moving to surround us in a protective cocoon, but I keep my eyes focused on Edward. My heart skips a beat at the very intense and forceful emotion that I feel growing within him. I recognize it immediately, as part of me begins to panic and rebel against it. This is all going too fast. I've accepted Edward as my mate and I already care for him deeply, but there are still aspects about our situation that make me feel weary and hesitant. I'm not ready to jump into the deep end with him yet.
• "You are my perfect mate," he whispers as though he's just had an epiphany.
• I keep my eyes locked on his as I do my best to push away the rising panic within me. I know he can sense it as well, but his expression and emotions remain steady and strong. The electricity continues to flow between us and I can feel how much the bond between us is begging me to give in, to throw caution to the wind and accept Edward's love, but I'm not mentally ready. Not yet. If my reluctance disappoints him at all, he doesn't show it.