Shawn retorted, "Don't you want to hear me say those three words?"

"Nope."

"Hmm?"

"Not now. I'll tell you later. Besides, I never forced you to say those three words before," Gale said.

Shawn pursed his lips. "I'll wait until you say it."

"Hey, Shawn!"

He was always a man of his word; he would surely stand his ground. How could she weasel her way out of this?

Gale could only say in a very soft voice, almost a whisper, "I love you."

As soon as she said that, Shawn responded, "Gale, I love you too."

At that moment, her heart raced incredibly fast. The feeling of having love reciprocated was so wonderful. Shawn insisted on making her say those words so she could feel that way.

Gale smiled radiantly, and she looked up at him. Their eyes locked, and they could see each other being reflected in their gazes.

"How much longer do you guys need?" Joshua's voice interrupted. "If you have time, please help me play the next episode of my cartoon. I've tried to avoid interrupting the bot