"You could be covered in slimy boils," he continued, "and I would still be standing right here, Absidy. Nothing will ever change that."

"Slimy boils?" I choked out. "Really?"

He pressed his smile into my forehead. "I'd just put a bag over your head."

I chuckled.

"Only one thing kept me going at the Byrians'." His warm breath fanned over my scales. "And she's standing right in front of me."

"I love you," I sighed into him.

"I love you ...