"I have seen the results of that ... and I think it a just punishment. One that fits the crime." He feels the tightness in her grip, and then he looks up at her.

"I promise. I will never hurt you in that way." He rasps out quietly, swallowing against the lump in his throat. "As we have agreed, lady wife. As we will it, and no other."

He sealed that promise, by turning over her hand and kissing her palm gently, knowing his beard would scratch her soft skin, but it made it all the more real.