It was all very simple, really, when Ed thought about it. Just words, easily broken down like an equation. Three syllables that, once out of order, had no significance what-so-ever. Yes--that was how he'd think about it. Three words that didn't mean anything. Maybe they'd be easier to get out now.
But his clammy palms and racing heart thought otherwise. They could not be deceived by the lies he was telling himself.
Three words.
Three fucking words.
So why was this so hard?
Under their favorite tree, on their favorite hill. Bright stars and a cool breeze, the night is perfect, romantic. Ed shakily takes Winry's hands in his.
Dry mouth. Muddled thoughts. Her blue eyes were blinding, blinding Ed! Lungs not working, legs malfunctioning.
"Winry..."
Blue eyes, so beautiful, hopeful.
Distracting.
"I...I..."
Can't do this.
Can't take the pain of her saying no, getting regected. At least now he would be comforted, knowing that she COULD have said yes. COULD have been his. Benefit of the doubt.
"Never mind."
Sure it still hurts, to see disappointment on her face, to feel the ghost of a kiss that would never happen now.
But this pain is better--bearable. Because if she had said no...the pain would have swallowed him whole.
"I love you." These three simple words echoed back to Ed in the empty room, never to reach Winry's ears.
