Holly and I Only!!!

He kissed her forehead, a little hurt that she didn't say it back, but it didn't surprise him. "You don't need to say anything," he murmured.

"I feel like I should though."{

He smiled at her and shook his head. "No, you're fine," he stroked her cheek.

She nodded, moving closer to him and resting her head on his chest. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," he murmured softly, holding her.

She sighed. "You don't remember anything from the last 6 months?" She asked.

He thought hard and shook his head. "Not really. I remember a thirst that wouldn't go away. And I remember someone... I think it was you. I'd stay in your mind while I was asleep. The thirst wasn't as bad then."

She nodded. "You were always in there." she said softly.

"I'm sorry. It must have hurt," he kissed the top of her head gently.

She nodded. "You wouldn't leave." She chuckled slightly. "Am I really that calming?"

He nodded. "I can't explain why, but you are. I feel peaceful when I'm with you."

She nodded. "Guess that's a good thing."

"I think it is. It helped me a lot," he nodded.

"I'm glad. I really am happy that you're back." she said softly. I love you. she thought.

He was out of her mind, being polite, but he thought he felt the admittance. He figured it was just hopeful thinking and hugged her gently. "I am, too. Thank you for helping me," he told her gently.

She smiled slightly, happy that he wasn't snooping in her mind anymore. "It wasn't really help as much as a want for the head aches to stop."

"I see how it is," he teased gently with a chuckle.

"really." She chuckled.

He laughed gently and kissed the top of her head.

"I love you." She whispered.

He looked down at her. He'd heard clearly, due to his vampire hearing. Was she serious? His heart leaped with hope.

She lifted her head and looked up at him. "did you hear me?"

"I did," he nodded, smiling happily despite himself. "I love you, too," he held her close, nuzzling her like a happy puppy.

She smiled, holding herself close. "Good."

Ryder was as happy as a clam, holding her. If he had a tail, it'd be wagging a mile a minute.