"Yes. Right now. River might be here any second --" Tarantulas slides his feet, grabbing Ryja's hand to tug her up as well -- but on a sudden impulse he suddenly throws his arms around her waist, squeezing her tightly and burying his face in her soft flesh.

"I love you," he exclaims, the sound falling from his lips like the groan of a wounded beast. "Ryja, I love you. Never forget that, I beg you."