More honesty

John stared at her for an eternity as he processed this information.

She eventually took pity on him and assured him, "you promised you'd keep me safe and happy. I was."

He sputtered, "I promised I wouldn't scramble your brain too much either... you didn't write that one down."

She answered smugly, "and my score was only a three," as if it made her point.

John stared at her silently in response.

After a long time, he started "Ronnie, I..." he stopped and reconsidered. "wait, if I say it, you'll just believe me."

She looked at him. Finally she was the one confused.

He snatched the note out of her hands, grabbed a pen, and quickly scribbled on the back. He handed it to her.

I love you, Ronnie

Her expression softened. She smiled. "I love you too... dork."

For the rest of the day, and for many more days, lots of stress was relieved on all sides.