“I love you.” My voice is strong and clear, and I know Thayden has to have heard me, but before he can respond, I say it again to make sure he knows. And then again. Each time, it gets easier, my chest feels lighter. “I love you. I love you.” There’s a quick inhalation of breath, and the door creaks and groans, as though Thayden is trying to push his way through it. “You … love me?” He speaks on an exhalation, and there’s awe in it, like he’s standing at the edge of a cliff, admiring a breathtaking view. I speak through a smile. “I tried not to.”
