I never used to work this hard at anything. There was a time that I did only what pleased me.

Like eating breakfast at noon.

I used my money to procure what I desired, bedecked myself in wonderful clothing and surrounded myself with all that is refined.

No more.

I rise--or attempt to--with the sun. I cannot stomach a meal before noon, but I will drink coffee to keep company with my Vin.

I find myself questioning my reasons for doing anything. Will Vin approve? Would he mind? Can we, should we, could we?

The power he wields over me is terrifying.

Every day, I look at myself in the mirror and trace the evidence of last night's passion. The marks are a promise from Vin, that I belong to him, that I belong with him.

I have my own promise.

Every day, I strive to be a better man, someone my lover can be proud of. Some day, I will be worthy of his love.

It is the most precious thing in my life.