"You make a smile inside me, that is why I want you. The way a man wants his wife." He ran a hand up her back, kneading her tense muscles. "You will trust this Comanche? As you did when you rode in a great circle back to me? This one last time, you will trust? No hurting after the virgin pain--and no shame. It is a promise I make for you, for always." Her breath came out in a rush. "Hunter, I'm afraid." "There is nothing to fear. You will trust, and I will chase your fear away, yes?" A tremor shook her. "I have made lies to you?" "No, never." "Then you will trust--one last time?" "What will you do if I say no?" Hunter prayed she didn't. "I will eat you and pick my teeth with your bones." She laughed, the sound shrill, nervous, and wet with tears. "Or sure enough beat me?" "Ah, yes, I will beat you, sure enough." He pressed his lips to the wild pulse in her temple, taking measure of her fear. His body tensed as he waited for her answer. "Blue Eyes, you will say yes to me?" "Tonight? Now?" "Yes, tonight. Before this time between us passes."