“I know you have always doubted my intentions,” he said. “And I don’t blame you, considering my past. But know this: I will never do anything to hurt you.” He leaned in. “Know this also: I want you. And I know that’s not what you want to hear. And I know you don’t want me back—at least, not enough to justify betraying whatever connection you have with him. But I cannot live without you. Even if it means I only have some part of you—that is far preferable to no part of you at all.”
