I had confessed my attractions to you. I know you remember this. I am not a shallow man, and my attractions are not purely physical. To be as plain as I can, Estinien, I believe myself to be smitten with you.

[his posture changed as he spoke. He was less confident here, but tried to shrug off the tiredness and awkwardness of the task by pulling his back taut and squaring his shoulders. The snacks fell with his hands by his thighs.]

As the man I am— having earned your trust and friendship, I hope that you will hear me.