stede, who has never been openly loved before, being told by ed for the first time that he loves him and responding with, "i know. i know that," has completely ended me. COMPLETELY ended me. he has never known love. and now know he KNOWS THAT.

like. has anyone ever told him they love him?? has he heard those words to his face before?? has he ever known love like this?? has he ever felt so certain in it?? has he ever had someone look him in the eyes and say "i love you" and mean it????? has he???????????