[all the ways Cinder never could. then Neo certainly had her work cut out for her, but... Emerald was okay with that. Emerald was absolutely, completely, unquestionably okay with that. and her heartbeat quickened again but all it did was generate more warmth inside her chest. when she spoke, she was quiet, too, and she was feeling more romantic than she ever thought herself capable of before.]

I told you once, but I didn't do it right. Can I do it again? [and a small smile as her words weighed heavy with intent and she looked right into Neo's eyes.] I love you. And I'm not afraid of it anymore. It makes me so happy knowing that I get to come home to you every day. Just having you in my life makes me a better person... even if we're both the bad girls. [a small, embarrassed laugh.] I don't want to get too sappy here or anything, but I wanted to make sure you knew. That I love you, and that I'm done being scared.