I nodded and smiled, because I did know these things. People didn't always say it, but that was okay, because I felt it. Elio had made me welcome in his life in such an easy, casual way that I almost hadn't realized it was happening until he suddenly felt like family. And Eddie loved me enough to offer to kill Peter for me, something I hoped would never, ever happen, but a gesture that made me feel more loved than I had ever known.

There was Lisbeth and Magnus, who would be the grown ups on my side if I ever really needed them. I was so lucky here, with all the joy and goodness I had found.

"I know," I said and leaned my head back against the couch, warm under Elio's arm. "I like it here. I- I'm happy here."