Portia laughed. "You're always saying things so seriously, Cliff. So—so pontifically. Is that the word?"
"I'm serious, Portia."
"I know." She laughed a little more, then straightened her face. "I didn't mean to offend you."
"You're always laughing at me. Why?"
"I don't mean to."
"I want to marry you, Portia."
"I know." And instantly her eyes were grave. "I've known for a long time."
"I've wanted you since the day you first looked at me."
"I've known that, too."
"It was all I could do to—"