A Love I Want To Keep

"I love you Tony."

He froze.

It was the first time Steve had ever said that to him. Love is such a strong word, but it was probably the most accurate description of what he felt for Steve.

"You don't have to say it back if you don't want to."

"I... I love you too Steve." The words rolled off his tongue as if he was so used to saying it and this wasn't the first time. Sure, he said he said those words to other people, but this was Steve. Steve is different from all his lovers. He really did love Steve.