[fuck. he should just tell her, shouldn't he? he owes her. but it's terrifying to admit, as much to himself as someone else.

...]

I... I don't want to hurt you. I'm jealous, and possessive, and if you give me an inch I'll take a mile. I'll destroy everything and everyone else who even looks at you. I'll make you miserable. I'll make you hate me.

...

No, that's... not it. It's more selfish than that. [laughs a little, breathy and unhinged] I'm just... a coward who's afraid... of getting hurt.