As predicted, Ariel stopped when Rukeewei interrupted her. She stared up at him with wide eyes and a slightly open mouth.

When referring to the wedding vows, Ariel swallowed and lowered her eyes to her ring.

Ariel waited for a moment to be sure that Rukeewei was done before she even thought of something to say. After a slow blink, she stood up from her chair with her head bowed. Her voice came out low and deep. "You...You did." She was unable to look him in the eyes. "I haven't done a very good job of keeping that vow."

Ariel's hand tightened and loosened around Rukeewei's. There were no more rapid excuses and she was left with nothing else to say.