Page 99 of Micah

I snort.

Then shake my head.

“Sloane.”

She won't meet my eyes.

“Look, I’m not asking for some fake praise or reassurance. I know I’m big. I've always been the fat girl with the cute face.”

Something inside me twists so hard it hurts.

I tighten my hold on her just a little.

“First off, you’re not fat or cute. You are fucking perfect.”

Her breath catches.

Those big brown eyes snap to mine.

“Second, if you don’t want me holding you, just tell me. I’ll never do anything you don’t want, Princess. That’s a promise.”

For a long moment, neither of us says anything.

Then, she smiles.

Small.

Fragile.

Beautiful.

“You really think I’m perfect?”

“I know you are. Now, do you want me to hold you?”

She swallows.

“I...”

Her voice breaks.

“Yes. Thank you.”

I nod once and keep walking.

She reaches up hesitantly and touches my shoulder.

“Micah?”

I glance down at her.

“Thank you for saving me.”

The words are barely louder than a whisper.

“I’ll always be there for you.”

“But you didn't have to do any of that. Really, Micah, thank you.”