“I lied about how I got bashed in the head,” he mumbled. “I wanted you to have your earrings back. But the man was tougher than he looked. … I got into a little trouble. But it was worth it to see your face. …” A ghost of a smile moved his lips. “I should have stayed away from you … but I really wanted you to succeed. … I wanted to—”
GASP he wanted to see her happy GASP
