Robert had never opened up about his past the way he’d promised to open up to Melanie. Only his Aunt Pamela knew the true story of his scar. He gritted his teeth. Talking about his past didn’t come easy. Yes, it was difficult, but Melanie was worth it. He wanted her desperately, and until tonight he hadn’t realized exactly how much. He led her to the couch and sat her down beside him. She tucked her long legs underneath her, studying his face curiously in the light. “This is hard for you,” she said, seeming to understand all the emotions teeming inside him. “Yeah,” he admitted. “You don’t have to do it.” His hand went to her waist. “Yes, I do.” “I’ll go first,” she said. Funny, how she was rushing in to protect him from himself. He might be a lot of things, but he wasn’t a coward. “It’s all right. I can do it.” “No, I’d rather go first. In case…” She trailed off. “In case what?” “In case you’re disappointed in me.” “Melanie, what is this guilt you’re carrying around with you?
