The question hovers between us.

A simple yes, then I can take his hand. I can pull him to me and let him in completely. So he can finally feel the power of our hearts combined.

An equally simple no, then I can give him back his heart. Even now, I can feel it beating next to mine.

"There's a third option," he says.

I look up meet his eyes. When I take a step back, he takes a matching step forward, keeping me within his arm's reach.

"I take your heart," he says with a sharpness I haven't noticed before. "And you keep mine."