What she was saying made a whole lot of sense, and in that moment he realized he couldn't propose to her. Not now.

After the fight today she was sure to say no anyways, but he also had a lot to think about. He couldn't rightfully ask her to take his ring without confirming he met what she was actually looking for.

It was a realization that made him sad in a way he desperately hoped didn't show through. Aside from a lack of courage he'd thought he was ready, now he couldn't be sure. And what was worse, she wouldn't believe him if he did make that leap.

"I think you learned pretty well," he said, working up a small, shadowed smile. "Says a lot for weird an' strange, don't it?"