“Both of you know that one of you will get hurt if you keep this up.”“I can’t stay away from her,” I said, curling my fist.”
“You know I can never stay away from you.” She reached up with both hands and pinched his cheeks, hard. “You’re just so darn cute,” she said, pursing up her lips. “I’m studly baby, get it right.”
“I can’t stay away from you,” he whispers...“Don’t stay away from me, then,” I whisper back...”
“I have to go," he said at last, getting to his feet. "I shouldn't even be here, but I cannot keep my self away from you. I worry about you in every waking moment. I love you, Luce. So much it hurts.”
“I don’t want you under those damn stairs. I hate it. But I can’t move you up here. I’ll never be able to stay away from you. I need you safely tucked away.”
“You can’t keep her.”I know that. But I’m not ready to give her up just yet.”