Then I see you standing there
Wanting more from me
And all I can do is try
Then I see you standing there
I'm all I'll ever be
But all I can do is try
- Nelly Furtado
"I love you." 3 words, 3 short syllables sincerly pronounced. 3 words of a declaration that had completely brought fear in her. She could feel her heartbeat rise with all the anxiousness she was feeling.
Michonne looked into Rick's eyes, seeing all the apprehension that he surely was feeling inside. His face aired the expectation of receiving the same revelation but also showing the fear of rejection, which saddened her. She did not want him to believe that it would be an unrequited love, the reality of what she felt for him frightened her.
Honestly, she actually felt the same. She loved him. Being honest with herself and saying it in her head was one thing, but to actually reveal it to him was another. She had spent years keeping potential suitors at bay in fear of being hurt the way she had been in the past.
She couldn't bring herself to open herself up to the same possibilities. She had run away at the mere appearance of romantic feelings, but here she was faced with the consequences of her lowering her guards and emotionally exposing herself despite all the panic she could feel.
"I love you Michonne." He repeated himself, sliding his hand to hers to hold. Michonne's eyes dropped to their joined hands, swallowing the ball of fear she felt in her throat as she tried as hard as she could to silence the alarms blaring in her head. But nothing brought her more panic than the thought of not having Rick in her life. He had been so patient with her, even when she didn't feel deserving. He had shown, not only with his words, but by his actions that love didn't have to represent dread and pain. He showed that he was trustworthy and devoted. He loved her. He truly loved her and he deserved to be treated with reciprocity. Meeting his gaze, a nervous smile developing on her lips, she wouldn't let her fears ruin this.
"I love you too."