Prince Ivan's words were passionate, unyielding, yet Alana allowed herself no surrender.

"Love is something that cannot be denied, cannot be refused," Ivan protested, "though I thought the real ecstasy and wonder of it was something that would never exist for me."

At last Alana's strength gave way.

"But I cannot marry you," she sobbed.

"Then tell me why!" the Prince insisted. "And hurry, my precious, say what you have to say, before I take you in my arms. You are mine, Alana, mine since the beginning of time, and mine for the rest of eternity, and whether you many me or not, that is an indisputable fact!"