Dominic had moved with her, slipping down, his fingers lacing through with hers', while his other arm had remained at his side once Adelaide leaned in against him. It should have been comforting, even sweet, for the young couple to be sitting there...
There was the guilt, and slight worrying still inside of him, although he tried to relax, keep the brief happiness that had flared up there. To fan it into a stronger flame.
Instead, he felt it wilting at her questioning, though his voice remained firm. "I wasn't joking, Adel. I honestly think it would be a pleasure to marry you... I mean, if I am to be wed, it might as well be with someone I care about, and enjoy being with. " He paused, giving her a slight, almost playful jostle.
"You deserve all that and more, too. If they would allow me, I would be engaged to you like --- " Here, he snapped his fingers, briefly breaking their hold. " That."