Even though Gladio can't see it, a soft, sad smile crosses Ignis' face, "You really don't understand what I'm trying to say, do you? You've let yourself become so resigned to the loss than you can't even imagine my answer being something different."

There's a rustling as Ignis pulls his posture straighter against the rock. He bites his lip gently and then makes a decision. No turning back now.

"Gladio, I'm not talking about my feelings for Ardyn. I'm talking about my feelings for you. I love you, but I feel like you're not even going to give me a chance to do that because you're so afraid of what will happen. Please, I need you to stop hiding that behind this mantra of 'I'll do better.' I don't want you to do better. I'm so confused right now--matters of the heart are new to me--but I do know what I want. I want this. We've both waited so long."