I want to be with you, Jessica. Not just sex. I like the sex but I also like talking about what happened during the day. I like watching you devour what I make to eat. You waking me up when I fall asleep on the couch so I come to bed with you. Carrying you to bed when you fall asleep. I like going to sleep with you in my arms and waking up with you there. Or being able to still catch your scent on the bed when I miss you leaving before I wake up...

[ Shadow felt more nervous about what he just confessed than anything he'd said previously. He remained close to her, yet allowing Jessica room to drink or sit without being smothered. One hand propped up his head while the other rested on her leg closest to him as he spoke. ]

...I love all that but if you don't... [ His thumb rubbed over where it rested on her leg. He looked to it for a moment then returned his gaze to her face. Shadow looked like a kicked puppy but spoke with certainty. ] ...If all that isn't worth having to look over your shoulder because of the shit storm that's my life, I understand. If you decide tomorrow or in a week, I'll understand.

[ It was difficult seeing her shaken. Shadow didn't look with pity or guilt. He kept his eyes fixed on her face, looking at her vulnerably and tenderly all at once. ]