Erik had never been around virgins much. He'd not been the type to go around deflowering the nation for one. For another, he hadn't wanted to end up being shamed or trapped into marriage. His life was on the sea and fighting wars, not marriage and family. That was Chief's plan, not his. But the ache he felt for this woman wasn't going to abate - he could tell that from the fire that erupted from their very first kiss. So, there was nothing for it but give it his best...and not frighten the lass into rabbiting off.

Gently, he slipped his hand to the small of her back and pulled her in close. "What ye feel on yer stomach, lass, is how very much what ye say pleases me."