Though it didn't stem the tide, she dashed her fingertips across each cheek. Brushing away the tears, as much as she could, as she moved over to the side of the bed. There was no way Maryanne could resist an invitation like that. She eased beneath the covers, up against him as close as she could get.
Though before she snuggled up, almost timidly she stroked his face. Slowly she leaned in, giving him time enough to stop her, should he want to, and kissed him. As tenderly as she could manage. Hoping it would help him know, beyond all doubt, that he was the only man she could love as she did. She loved Tony, and Applejack too, but not the way she loved him.
Her throat thick as she parted from his lips, though she almost didn't want to, she whispered. "I never wanted to leave you. But this is your home, and you're the best man I know. You deserve this far more than I ever will."