Since that was issued as a challenge, she merely inclined her head. “I don’t think I ever said otherwise. But still, that choice was yours.”

“Aye, it was, and I’d make it again if only to touch you with my mind. It’s not easy for me to admit that I want you as I do. To tell you that I’ve suffered being without you. Or to ask you to forgive me for doing what I thought was right.”

“You’ve yet to tell me what it is you expect from me now.”

“I’ve been clear enough on it.” Frustration shimmered around him. “Do you want me to beg?”

“Yes,” she said after a very cool, very thoughtful moment.

His eyes went bright gold with shock, then dark with what she thought was temper. When he started toward her, her knees began to tremble. Then, eyes narrowed, he was down on his.

“Then I will.” He took her hands, which had gone numb. “I’ll beg for you, Rowan, if that’s what it takes to have you.”

“Liam—”

“If I’m to humble myself, at least let me get on with it,” he snapped. “I don’t think you were ordinary ever. Weak is something I don’t believe you could be. What I see in you is a woman with a tender heart—too tender at times to think of herself. You’re the woman I want. I’ve wanted before, but I’ve never needed. I need you. You’re who I care for. I’ve cared before, but never loved. I love you. I’m asking that it be enough for you, Rowan.”

She’d been struck speechless, but found her voice as she laid a hand on his shoulder. “Why did you never ask before?”

“Asking’s not easy for me. If it’s arrogance, that’s how I am. Damn it, I’m asking you to take me as I am. You love me. I know you do.”

So much for begging, she thought, and had to fight back a smile. He managed to look arrogant and not a little fierce even on his knees. “I never said I didn’t. Are you asking me for more?”

“For everything. I’m asking you to take me on—what I am and what I’ll do. To be my wife, leave your home for mine and understand that it’s forever. Forever, Rowan.” The faintest of smiles touched his mouth. “For wolves mate for life, and so do I. I’m asking you to share that life, to let me share yours. I’m asking you here, in the heart of this sacred place, to belong to me.”

He pressed his lips to her hands, held them there until she felt his words turn to feelings and the feelings rush through her like magic.