Suddenly Tommy is confronted with several things-- 'bitch'? chose to throw her future away? making promises he can't keep? something special? heart all tied up?-- and it takes a while for him to pick a reaction and go with it.

"Kate--"

He cups her cheek as it grows flushed against his palm, turning her face so he can look her in the eye.

"I already promised you that I wouldn't lie to you-- and that's a promise I'll keep. And whatever happens down the road, just know that I don't wanna hurt you. Okay? Now, we've got this far. We've been through some rough spots. But bein' here, in your room, with you, in my lap and reading to me--"

He utters a half-laugh in amused disbelief, because he'd never thought that he'd ever want anybody to read anything to him--

"Honey, this right here is worth it."

Stroking her temple with the pad of his thumb, he sighs, pursing his lips.

"I just hope you never regret choosing to be with me."