"Because I love you," Asher whispers, mournfully. "Because I knew what it was like to be used, to not have anyone care for your pleasure." He drops his head, looking down at his hands.

"I wanted to show you that sex is something to be treasured. That pleasure works both ways. I...I was trying to give you hope." He pauses.

"And, yes, because I found you beautiful, as I do now, and the thought of not touching you, when Anita already limits my time with you, was too much to bear."