"And if I cannot remember such moments," Carlisle returns with another sigh, "I'm sure you can remind me."

His hand shakes as he reaches over to grab the more vibrant of the two orbs, moving it aside so he can scoot closer to his partner. He closes his eyes, shutting out all but them once more.

Well, all but them and the still-present pounding of his own heart in his chest -- he can't help but smile as he catches his breath. "And to think not an hour ago, I thought I might drop dead in the bathroom because my heart was racing so fast, yet it beats so stubbornly now, and I have never felt more secure in my life."