It was late in the day, many weeks after what they both called the "Best worst birthday ever". Since then, Winry had noticed that Ed had become more secluded, as if trying to avoid her. Finally, she decided to investigate. Her first guess was to check the basement. For the past three years, ever since they had started sharing a house, whenever something happened between the two, Ed was always to be found in the basement, mulling over what had happened. She was right. He had pulled a chair up against the corner. But something was wrong. Usually, Ed was silent, but this time, he was crying. She had only once seen him cry, and that was many, many years ago.
"Ed, what's wrong?" She asked. "Are you still thinking about what happened?"
"I almost did it, Winry. For years I've told myself I wouldn't, but I almost did…"
"That's what's been bothering you this whole time? It wouldn't have bothered me had you dedcided to use me like that. We've been over this before, Ed, remember? There's nothing wrong."
"Maybe not to you, but it would have been wrong to me. If I had done it, I never would be able to look at you again without crying . And the worst part is, there was a part of me that said to do it. I never want to have to take the risk that that part may win. So I'm going to do the right thing so it never can." Ed got down on his knees, and grabbed her hands. "Winry, would you marry me?"
"Ed, this is all so sudden, I mean…"
"This is the only way I can be sure. This way, even if I act on those thoughts, it won't make me feel ashamed of what I did. I'm probably not the man you thought you'd end up with, but…"
"Oh, Ed, you're better than what I thought I'd end up with."
"so you'll accept?"
"I wouldn't have it any other way. But when should we have the ceremony?"
"Well, I was thinking it over down here, and I've decided that summer would be best. At the Central city park, if you wouldn't mind going out that far."
"That works perfectly." Quickly changing her tone, she asked "And, Ed, I hope it's not too soon to ask for another kiss."
"It's not soon enough." He replied as they shared another, much longer kiss.