Page 147 of The Pacifist
“Why?”
“Because… because…” Nero’s head fell forward. “I don’t know how to say this without sounding like a loser.”
“Just say it.”
“I can’t stop thinking about you, Anne. I get physically ill when I see you talking with all the other men who are desperate for your attention. The thought that you might like one of them more than me is enough to make me…”
“Make you what?”
“I don’t know, but I feel it here in my chest. Like I can’t breathe right.”
Her voice was soft. “I don’t like any of them better than you.”
“Anne, do you understand what I’m telling you? I’m in love with you and I want to be your man.”
She was quiet.
“I just don’t know how to go about it. You’re not in a tournament so I can’t fight for you. You’re not in the Couples Matching Program either.”
“Would you fight for me if I was in a tournament?”
“Of course.”
“But what if there were Doomsmen?”
“Even big guys have weaknesses.” He paused. “The question is, if I was one of the five champions, would you pick me?”
Her answer came fast. “How can you ask me that? Haven’t you noticed how I’ve been rejecting men all evening so that I could dance and talk with you? I’ve literally met and greeted thousands of Nmen. They’ve all been charming and kind to me, but no one makes me feel like you do.”
“Yeah? Are you picking me now? Do I have your permission to take this to the next level?”
Anne played with her hair. “Sure, but what is the next level?”
I almost gave a small shriek of joy when Nero pulled Anne in and kissed her.
“Shhh… Mila,” Jonah whispered when I couldn’t control my excitement anymore.
“Who’s there?” Nero was looking up at the balcony and we had to come clean.
Waving at them, Jonah called out. “Sorry, it’s just us. We didn’t want to disturb you two.”
“Were you spying on us?” Anne was staring up at Jonah.
“Nooo… Jonah wanted to come out here to make sure you were safe,” I defended my husband.
“Why wouldn’t Anne be safe? She’s with me.”
“No, you misunderstand. We weren’t worried about you hurting her, but you know how Jonah and I were attacked in the park recently. We were just worried about you two being alone out here.”
“Ahh, I see.” Nero relaxed his stance. “Well, as you can see, we’re fine.”
“Good. That’s... ehh... good.”
Anne had her neck bent all the way back. “Would you mind if I don’t go back with you tomorrow.”
Pretending that we hadn’t eavesdropped, Jonah gave a look of surprise. “Why not?”
“Because Nero and I would like to spend some more time together.”
