“There is a reason I need pain in my life, Stephanie,” I tell her. The most honest I’ve ever been with anyone since it happened. I know it’s not much. It’s not a revelation. But for me, it is. It’s like she understands the weight of it as she continues to trace them. “I understand.” My heart stops. “I really, really fucking hope you don’t,” I tell her. She gives me a sad smile. “I guess we will figure that one out.” If someone has hurt her, I will hunt them down, each and every one, and slit their throats as they sleep. I stroke her hair away from her face and press my nose against hers, and
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