[ He squeezes her waist and grimaces miles into her hairline. A deep sigh comes a after a moment's consideration, and it sounds a bit like a low growl. ]

I am proud of having you at my side and enjoy your company. I don't think of pride as a sin, but I'll admit it all the same.

[ Clay steps back to gauge her response and tilts his head. The jealousy that was warping his face into a sneer has faded; he looks impassive and his brows are knitted with a touch of uncertainty. ] Sufficient?