I finally look up at him, and I can’t hold back what I’m feeling any longer. “Do you have any idea how much I love you?” His broad chest rises and falls slowly, and I now recognize this as him trying to gain control of himself. Trying to prevent another collision. As he absently touches the plush toy lying between us, he answers in a soft, somewhat melancholy tone. “I hope as much as I love you.” Yes, I do.
