Author's Note: Thanks to everyone who reviewed, followed, and favorited! I really appreciate it. Here's an update since you guys are awesome.
"Why should I believe you?" Skye's voice cracked, but her expression remained blank. Ward smiled tenderly.
"Because I told you I'd never lie to you again, and I'm so certain you know that was the truth."
They sat in silence for a moment. He stared at his hands; they were battered and bruised from all the pain he had inflicted on himself. He was empty. Nothing he had done was forgivable; he knew that too well.
Ward risked a glance up at Skye. Silent tears streamed down her beautiful face as her eyes locked on his. She whispered carefully, "I never believed you were a monster. Garrett was the monster, and he took you down with him."
He beamed at her with such a rare, magnificent smile. Skye had been his everything from the day they had met, and her words melted his heart.
"Skye?"
Her tears had dried slightly, and she had a quizzical look on her face. "Yes, Ward?"
Say it. Tell her. He steeled his nerves. He had to tell her. Skye, above all else, deserved to know.
"I'm in love with you."
He hadn't meant to say that. He was supposed to tell her who her father was.
He cursed himself as he saw her eyes widen and her mouth open, awestruck. Her caramel skin blanched, and her hands began to shake. She stared at them intently, returned her gaze to Ward for a fraction of a second, and bolted from the chair. She rushed up the stairs and out of his sight.
He was alone. Again.