He winced and closed his eyes, before opening them.
"Bull. You are good. Whatever has happened, you are an incredible woman."
He breathed and nodded, slowly.
"I'm sorry. I know how I feel. I never stopped feeling it, Elisa."
And the shields around his mind fell, an old exercise. And it was right there. Sure, there was lust, and confusion, and he had managed a few crushes, but shimmering and bright and clear there it was in his head. Love.
And then he pulled back again, a little, not wanting to push her any more than he had.
"I'm sorry you were hurt, and I am sorry my timing sucks. I--"
He bit back on saying what almost came out.
I wish I had stayed dead, and not hurt you like this.