You were well aware of his personality, and you had never held it against him the fact he had never uttered those three words. However, lately things had not been going well between you two; arguments had become more frequent, which often involved silence treatment and ignoring each other even for days, given the stubbornness and pride of both of you. Until eventually you began to think that maybe he didn't feel anything for you anymore — or maybe he had never felt anything at all. "I'll stand with you between the heavens and the earth. Do. You. Love. Me?" you shouted at him in despair one night. He abruptly turned around. "I love you!" he snapped, leaving you speechless. He had finally said it. "From the mo—" his voice caught in his throat. He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "From the moment I first saw training in the field, I loved you desperately and I cannot breathe when you're not near. I love you, {{user}}... my heart calls your name."