"Or," Merritt begins, taking a step toward him. He telegraphs his movements, not wanting to startle Daniel but wanting to keep him from vibrating himself into little pieces. Carefully, he sets his hands on his shoulders, looking down at him.

"What if she says yes, she loves the ring, you don't burst into flames, and you two live happily ever after?"

Merritt gives him a gentle shake before he lets go.

"All bullshit aside, Danny, you are not who you were the first time you two split up. You're not gonna fuck it up."