Author's Note: All reviews that were given for the previous chapter were greatly appreciated.

Conflicted Contemplation

A conflicted and worrisome sigh made its way out of his mouth as he gazed down at the precious item in the palm of his hand. His eyes were a little bit narrowed and they only held concern and undisguised uneasiness. Seeing that the day was transfiguring into deep evening, Diaval removed himself from the rock he was sitting on and kept his vision on the object that was resting on his hand.

What was he going to do?

Lifting his other hand, he gently ran his index finger over the item, enjoying the way it felt beneath his skin. It was a ring. It wasn't anything fancy either; it wasn't a jewel or a diamond or a ruby, nothing like that. The ring was made entirely out of rough bark from a tree and there were fresh green vines circling around it beautifully. Diaval had made it himself. It was astonishing, really. He really didn't believe he could create something like this for his dear one.

Diaval ran a hand through his dark hair, wondering and worrying. He and Maleficent had been together for two whole years now. Their love was honest and pure; there was nothing false or wrong about it. It was clear that the two of them loved each other dearly. Diaval wanted her to be his always…he wanted to ask for her hand in marriage. However, he was reluctant and hesitant to go through with it.

Why? Well, he wasn't sure if Maleficent wanted that. Diaval was incredibly sure that he wanted it. The male wanted Maleficent to be his forever. He wanted her to be his wife and he wanted to be her husband. Maybe one day…they could start a family together. The thought of that made him smile uncontrollably. Still, his smile withered away when he realized that he wasn't sure his winged lover wanted that as well. He wanted to respect her wishes and desires, he didn't want to force her into anything or make her think that she had to marry him.

"Diaval?"

Alarmed, the raven lifted his head and his vision captured the sight of Maleficent journeying his way. She wore a small smile and her eyes were glimmering with joy. Diaval couldn't help but smile back at the female; her smile was contagious to him.

"Maleficent." Diaval rapidly slipped the ring into his pocket, concealing it. He didn't want Maleficent finding out just yet. He wasn't ready to ask her.

When the winged female reached him, her arms quickly found their way around his neck and a kiss was pressed against his lips, which he returned without hesitation. Diaval's arms rapidly went around her waist and he pulled her against his body. He always wanted them touching whenever they were near.

"You seemed troubled," Maleficent talked, immediately noticing that something was wrong. "What is it?"

Diaval opened his mouth and was about to tell her exactly what the problem was, but decided against it. Now wasn't the time. He didn't have the confidence at the moment. So, instead of saying anything, the male leaned forward and kissed her lips, instantly deepening it.

Maleficent got lost in his kiss and completely forgot about what she had wanted to know a moment ago.

As they kissed, Diaval decided that he would ask at a different time; he was so worried and conflicted.

Author's Note #2:Well, what do you think? Should Diaval ask for her hand in marriage? Let me know in a review. :)