"I like when you ramble," Tommy protests. He doesn't mind being compared to Inej and her penchant for proverbs. There were worse things to be compared to.

Really, Tommy wishes he could be of more use. Maybe in a few months, a year, as he builds himself up. He's got to get things in order for that, but if he does start in ventures like he had in Birmingham and London, having someone like Nina on his side would be a blessing.

For now, though, he's simply focused on her. The soft fragrance she wears, the feeling of his clothes and the warmth of her body beneath his fingertips. He hasn't stopped kissing her yet. Gently, his fingers work her skirts up her legs.