“Hayes, you don’t have to treat me like I’m made of porcelain. I’m fine.” I hovered above her and leaned down, my nose rubbing against hers. “Have you ever loved someone so much that you just want to make sure nothing ever hurts them?” She sucked in a breath, and her gaze softened. “Yes.” “When I look at you, I feel so much, and I’m not used to that. So I just want to protect you and love you, and if I could put you in a box and keep you safe there, I would do it. And if that makes me an asshole or a caveman, so be it.”
