Page 247 of Shhh…It’s A Killer Story

His jaw flexed.

"But none of that scared me."

He looked directly into my eyes.

"You do."

I laughed softly through a tear. He exhaled.

"I know exactly who you are."

His voice steadied.

"I know the darkness. I know Frank. I know Gerald. I know the parts of you that make other people run."

Another tear slid down my cheek.

"I know you collect my damn hoodies."

Heat flooded my face.

"I know you stole my beanie."

"...Borrowed."

"My chain."

"...Temporary ownership."

"My cologne."

"...That one was an accident."

He chuckled.

"You stalked me."

"You were very stalkable."

"You terrified me."

"I tried."

"You still terrify me."

His smile softened.

"But I've never loved anyone the way I love you."

Silence. Only wind. Only birds somewhere high in the trees. Only my heart trying to escape my chest.

"You made me believe I could have something besides the darkness inside me."

He swallowed.

"You made this place feel like home."

He lifted the ring slightly.