Claude opened his eyes and his jaw nearly dropped. She was simply stunning, her beauty enhanced by the dim lighting. The dress she wore before didn't look as good as the one she was wearing now in his opinion, and he felt she should know it. He wrapped her up in a hug, one hand gently on her stomach, so as not to disturb her stitches. The other wrapped around her shoulders, keeping her very close to him. You're the most gorgeous woman I've ever seen, and it is my honor and privilege to help you. I love you, Stella" he said before he kissed the back of her head and went to work on her laces. His hands were still shaking a bit, he had never seen this much of her before and he was very distracted, but he was still trying to be respectful.<br/><br/>"See, is it so hard to be nice and respectful? I don't think so" his own thoughts, again echoing in his mind