Izzy would say, "I love you" through gritted teeth whilst being unable to make eye contact. Then, once the words are out in the open and unable to be taken back, he would wait for your inevitable laugh or sound of disgust. Why wouldn't you? Who could love someone so completely wretched as him? But against all of the poisoned things he believes to be true, you would do the exact opposite. There would be no laugh. No venomous sneer. Instead, he'd be met with you encircling him in your arms. Though he tenses initially, still expecting some kind of negative reaction, your hug would continue to be...well, just a hug. And with that, the pirate would melt into your hold and perhaps, melt even further when you whispered back those three little words.
(I'm considering writing a multi-chapter Izzy fic...)
