"I'll protect you," she said dreamily. "You won't need anyone else. I'll take such good care of you."

His lips took hers in a kiss of enchanting sweetness that opened entire new horizons of joy and commitment. How wonderful that so much could be contained in just a single kiss.

"And I'll take care of you," he said with a touch of huskiness in his voice. "Now, hush. I want to lie here and hold you and be peaceful for a bit. Heaven knows, I'll get little enough chance to do it in the future."

"Will you mind?"

"No, I won't mind. You expect a little discomfort when your life is starting to grow and change." He smiled. "You expect it, and you look forward to it."

Growth and change. Such exciting words for what was to come. Growing individually, yet together, sharing ideas and experiences. Sharing love. A love that would make their lives rich and fertile for the blossoming to come.

"What are you thinking about?" he asked curiously, gazing down into her glowing face.

She laughed softly. "Deserts," she said. "And blossoms." Her expression held all the wonder and eagerness of a child. "Oh, Philip, we have so many wonderfully exciting things in store for us. I can hardly wait!"

His eyes were intent and warmly tender. "Neither can I." He kissed her gently on the forehead. "Neither can I, love."