I've been that for a long time, haven't I? It seems to me you've just been taking the risks without the benefits. Someone can crush something they don't know they're carrying just as easily.

[One hand's on the move, steadily up Byerly's forearm, to clasp his elbow: a better grip.

Yes, he was betrayed, beaten and battered by love. But love didn't end with the betrayal - it would hurt less if that were how it worked. He doesn't loathe Louis. And somewhere, in a city that doesn't exist anymore, Louis still loves Prior, and loathes himself too much for anyone else to bother adding to it.]

I've been halfway in love with you for months, did you know that? And I didn't think I could risk it again. But in the end, I can't risk not.