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Shouldn’t You Be Working Instead Of Fraternizing With Customers?” I Choked. He Smiled. “what Are You Doing Sunday Night?” I Snorted. By Accident. “are You Asking Me Out?” “you’re Getting Cocky. I Like That, Angel.” “i Don’t Care What You Like. I’m Not Going Out With You. Not On A Date. Not Alone.

-Becca Fitzpatrick

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Shouldn’t You Be Working

Becca Fitzpatrick

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Shouldn’t You Be Working Instead Of Fraternizing With Customers?” I Choked. He Smiled. “what Are You Doing Sunday Night?” I Snorted. By Accident. “are You Asking Me Out?” “you’re Getting Cocky. I Like That, Angel.” “i Don’t Care What You Like. I’m Not Going Out With You. Not On A Date. Not Alone.

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I Swear To You, Nora Grey, On This Day, From Now And Forever, To Give Myself To You. I Am Yours. My Love, My Body, My Soul—i Place In Your Possession And Protection.” He Held Out The Ring, A Single Offering, A Binding Promise. ~ Patch + Nora

Anything Was Better Than Nothing. Half-full Was Better Than Empty. Ignorance Was The Lowest Form Of Humiliation And Suffering.

After A Long Day, My Favorite Way To Unwind Is By Going Running. Not Exactly The Most Relaxing Activity, Granted, But I Always Imagine I'm Sweating Out All The Things Weighing On My Mind.

I Don’t See Any Police Cars.” “they Probably Had To Park A Couple Blocks Over. Anyway, As I Was Saying, I Noticed Illegal Substances In The Hands Of A Few Guests.” “so?” She Snapped. “it’s A Party.” “alcohol Is Illegal Under The Age Of Twenty-one.” “great!” Marcie Shouted. “what Am I Going To Do?” She Paused, Then Raised Her Voice Again. “you Probably Called Them!” “who, Me?” Vee Said. “and Lose The Free Food? No Way.

I Love You.” His Voice Was Straightforward, Affectionate. “you Make Me Remember Who I Used To Be. You Make Me Want To Be That Man Again. Right Now, Holding You, I Feel Like We Have A Shot At Beating All Odds And Making It Together. I’m Yours, If You’ll Have Me.

Mr. Green Sweater Looks Normal, But His Wingman Looks Hard-core Bad Boy,” Said Vee. “emits A Certain Don’t-mess-with-me Signal. Tell Me He Doesn’t Look Like Dracula’s Spawn. Tell Me I’m Imagining Things.

Try It On." "it's Probably A Little Snug," I Said, Suddenly Feeling Conspicuous. "marcie Tends To Buy Down When It Comes To Sizing." He Merely Smiled. "it Has A Slit Up The Thigh." His Smile Deepened.

His Were The Kind Of Eyes That Held Secrets. The Kind That Lied Without Flinching. The Kind That Once You Looked Into Them, It Was Hard To Break Away.

You Think The Two Of Us And A Slummy Motel Make For A Dangerous Combination?

He Inclined His Head At My Dress. "what's The Occasion?" "homecoming," I Said, Twirling. "like?" "last I Heard, Homecoming Requires A Date." "about That," I Hedged. "i'm Sort Of...going With Scott. We Both Figure A High-school Dance Is The Last Place Hank Will Be Patrolling." Patch Smiled, But It Was Tight. "i Take That Back. If Hank Wants To Shoot Scott, He Has My Blessing.

Thinking. A Process By Which I Use My Brain To Make A Rational Decision.

I Tended To Be More A Romantic Than A Realist, And Chose Blind Faith Over Cold Logic.

I Couldn't Picture Myself With A Boyfriend, But If I Had To, I Envisioned A Nice Normal Guy Who Turned In His Math Homework On Time And Maybe Even Played Rec Baseball.

Ready?" Despite The Grim Mood, I Smiled And Cracked My Knuckles. "ready To Wrestle With My Gorgeous Boyfriend? Oh, I'd Say I'm Ready For That." Amusement Softened His Eyes. "i'll Try To Control Where I Put My Hands, But In The Heat Of Things, Who Knows What Could Happen?" I Added. Patch Grinned. "sounds Promising.

Because I Thought I Was In Love. And When You Think You're In Love, You Are Willing To Stick It Out And Make It Work Until It Is Love.

The Truth Is, Normal Might Take Years. Normal Might Never Happen. But It’s Definitely Not Going To Happen If I Lounge Around Here Watching Soaps And Avoiding Life. I’m Going To School Today, End Of Story.

Keep In Mind That People Change, But The Past Doesn't.

And You Would Have Lost. We Were Surrounded. He Threatened Your Life, And He Would Have Made Good On That Threat. He Had You, And That Meant He Had Me, Too.

I Need An Endorphin Boost.” “and Making Out In An Abandoned Barn With Me Will Give You One?” “no, It Will Probably Put Me In An Endorphin Coma, And I’m More Than Happy To Test The Theory.

I'm Telling You This Because I Want You To Know That I Know Something About You Isn't Right. You Haven't Fooled Everybody. I'm Going To Find Out What You're Up To. I'm Going To Expose You." "looking Forward To It.

Looking Forward

I Would Lay Down Everything I Possess, Even My Soul, For You. If That Isn't Love, It's The Best I Have.

The More Time I Spent With Him, The More I Knew The Feelings Weren't Going Away.

What Good Is A Body If I Can't Have You?

Hate To Disappoint, But No Feathers. I Came To Earth Stripped Naked.

That’s An Unfortunate Place For A Birthmark,” I Said, More Than A Little Unnerved That It Was So Similarly Positioned To My Own Scar. Patch Casually But Noticeably Slid His Sleeve Down Over His Wrist. “you’d Prefer It Someplace More Private?” “i Wouldn’t Prefer It Anywhere.” I Wasn’t Sure How This Sounded And Tried Again. “i Wouldn’t Care If You Didn’t Have It At All.” I Tried A Third Time. “i Don’t Care About Your Birthmark, Period.

I Think I'm More Of A Guardian Angel Girl.

See, When You Lie To Me It Hurts," Rixon Said, Swiping An Imaginary Tear. "i Thought We Had Something Special. I Thought Our Joint Eternal Sentences Of Damnation Were Our Bond.

I Saw You, And I Wanted To Be Close To You. I Wanted You To Let Me In. I Wanted To Know You In A Way No One Else Did. I Wanted You, All Of You. That Wanting Nearly Drove Me Mad.” Patch Paused, Inhaling Softly, As Though Breathing Me In. “and Now That I Have You, The Only Thing That Terrifies Me Is Having To Go Back To That Place. Having To Want You All Over Again, With No Hope Of My Desire Ever Being Fulfilled. You’re Mine, Angel. Every Last Piece Of You. I Won’t Let Anything Change That.

If I Had Known Things Would Turn Out This Way, I Would Have Trained Harder. I Would Have Learned To Take Care Of Myself. But I Guess That's The Point, Isn't It? You Never Know What You're Going To Have To Face, So You'd Better Be Prepared.

First,” He Said, Coming Behind Me And Placing His Hands On The Counter, Just Outside Of Mine, “choose Your Tomato.” He Dipped His Head So His Mouth Was At My Ear. His Breath Was Warm, Tickling My Skin. “good. Now Pick Up The Knife.” “does The Chef Always Stand This Close?” I Asked, Not Sure If I Liked Or Feared The Flutter His Closeness Caused Inside Me. “when He’s Revealing Culinary Secrets, Yes.

She Likes You, She Just Doesn't Understand You.

Heat Flushed Chauncey's Neck; It Took All His Energy To Curl His Hands Into Two Weak Fists. He Laughed At Himself, But There Was No Humor. He Had No Idea How, But The Boy Was Inflicting The Nausea And Weakness Inside Him. It Would Not Lift Until He Took The Oath. He Would Say What He Had To, But He Swore In His Heart He Would Destroy The Boy For This Humiliation.

If I Need Romance, That's What Netflix Is For.

If You Can't Feel, Why Did You Kiss Me?" Patch Traced A Finger Along My Collarbone, Then Headed South Stopping At My Heart. I Felt It Pounding Through My Skin. "because I Feel It Here, In My Heart," He Said Quietly.

Every Animal On The Planet Attracts Mates With The Goal Of Reproduction. Frogs Swell Their Bodies. Male Gorillas Beat Their Chests. Have You Ever Watched A Male Lobster Rise Up On The Tips Of His Legs And Snap His Claws, Demanding Female Attention? Attraction Is The First Element Of All Animal Reproduction, Humans Included

I Tilted My Chin Up A Fraction. "you Can't F-force Me To Stay Here." I'd Only Agreed To Come This Far Because I Didn't Want To Stand Out In The Downpour, For One, And I Had High Hopes Of Finding A Phone, For Two. "that Sounded More Like A Question Than A Statement," Said Patch. "then Ans-s-swer It." His Rogue Smile Crept Out. "it's Hard To Concentrate On Answers With You Looking Like That." I Glanced Down At Patch's Black Shirt, Wet And Clinging To My Body. I Brushed Past Him And Shut The Bathroom Door Between Us.

He Grinned When I Didn't Protest, And Lowered His Mouth Toward Mine. The First Touch Was Just That - A Touch. A Teasing, Tempting Softness. I Licked My Lips And Patch's Grin Deepened. "more?" He Asked. I Curled My Hands Into His Hair, Pulling Him Closer. "more.

I Know You Followed Me. Don't Look So Surprised. It's Called A Rearview Mirror.

Rear View Mirror

I'd Fallen In Love With The Devil.

Before I Could Stop Myself, I Punched His Arm. “careful,” He Said In A Low Voice. “they Might Think We’re Flirting.

Patch: "it's Hard To Concentrate On Answers With You Looking Like That.

Your Mom Isn’t Going To Let Me Step Foot Inside This Place. I’ve Seen The Gun She Keeps On The Top Shelf Of The Pantry.

Whoa, Who Peed In Your Cheerios?

I Gave A Relenting Sigh. "fine! I'll Throw On Some Clothes. Turn Around. I'm In My Pj's." Pj's That Consisted Of Nothing But A Tank Top And Boy Shorts--an Image I Didn't Want To Sear Into Scott's Mind. Scott Smiled. "i'm A Guy. That's Like Asking A Kid Not To Glance At The Candy Counter." Ugh. The Dimple In His Cheek Deepened. And It Was Not In Any Way Cute... Pg 196

Right Then, I Wanted To Go Back In Time And Relive Every Moment With Him. One More Secret Smile, One More Shared Laugh. One More Electric Kiss. Finding Him Was Like Finding Someone I Didn't Know I Was Searching For. He’d Come Into My Life Too Late, And Now Was Leaving Too Soon. I Remembered Him Telling He’d Give Up Everything For Me. He Already Had.

You're Mine, Angel," He Murmured, Brushing The Words Across My Jawbone As I Arched My Neck Higher, Inviting Him To Kiss Everywhere. "you Have Me Forever.

Patch’s Eyes Were Black Orbs. Taking In Everything And Giving Away Nothing.

Did I Really Want To Stay On This Road Longer, Knowing It Was Only Going To End In Devastation?

...five Minutes From Now, When Everything Else Had Dropped Away And I Realized The Full Impact Of What I’d Done, I’d Feel My Heart Breaking.

The Higher Up, The Harder The Fall.

Sometimes Bad Things Have To Happen Before Good Things Can.

Something Doesn't Look Right," Vee Said. "is The Tire Supposed To Look Like That?" I Banged My Head Against The Nearest Tree Trunk. "so We've Got A Flat," Vee Said. "what Now?

That Woman." Vee Hissed, "i'm Making The Sign Of The Cross Right Now.

..but Maybe This Was A Defense Mechanism. Maybe My Mind Was Making Me See Things I Refused To Accept Were Gone Forever. It Was Filling The Void, Because That Was Easier Than Letting Go.

Ready To Wrestle With My Gorgeous Boyfriend? Oh, I´d Say I´m Ready For That." Nora :d (p.375)

I'm Not Leaving Until You Tell Me Why You Followed Me. I Know I'm A Fascinating Guy, But This Is Starting To Feel Like An Unhealthy Obsession.

I Take That Back. If Hank Wants To Shoot Scott, He Has My Blessing.

Don’t Start. I Saw Marcie Climb Inside Your Jeep.” “she Needed A Ride.” I Adopted A Hands-on-hips Pose. “what Kind Of Ride?” “not That Kind Of Ride,” He Said Slowly.

Gosh, It Was Nice Talking To You, But I’ve Got A Lot Of Things I’d Rather Be Doing. Like Sticking My Hand In The Garbage Disposal.

I Trailed Off.patch Leaned Lazily Against The Counter. Dark Hair Flipped Out From Under His Ball Cap. A Smile Tugged At His Mouth. My Thoughts Dissolved And Just Like That, A New Thought Broke The Surface Of My Mind. I Wanted To Kiss Him. Right Now.

Don't Make Me Regret This", I Said Breathless. "you Haven't Regretted Me Once.

I Already Know My Size. I Don't Need Reminding.

Everything Had Come Into Sharp Focus : His Smooth Words, His Black, Glinting Eyes, His Broad Experience With Lies, Seduction, Women. I'd Fallen In Love With The Devil.

You Dress To Impress," I Said Approvingly. "no, Angel." He Leaned In, His Teeth Softly Grazing My Ear. "i Undress To Impress.

He Cracked A Slight Smile, But It Didn’t Look Amused. “i’m Not Letting You Out Of My Sight. You’re Looking A Little Deranged, Angel. We’ll Go Together.

Do You Ever Think Of Moving Back?" "to Coldwater? Heck, No. England Suits Me Fine. These Brits Love My Accent. The First Time Gavin Asked Me Out It Was Just To Hear Me Talk. Lucky For Him, It's One Of The Things I Do Best." All Teasing Left Her Eyes. "too Many Memories Back Home. Can't Drive Down The Street Without Thinking I See Scott In The Crowd.

I Take My Job Seriously, Which Means I'm Going To Need To Get Acquainted With The Subject Matter On A Personal Level.

He Was Abominable...and The Most Alluring, Tortured Soul I'd Ever Met.

You Don't Happen To Have A Thousand Dollars I Can Borrow?" "i Don't Have Five You Can Borrow. My Piggy Bank Is Officialy Anorexic.

Don’t Panic, I Thought. But Already My Breathing Was Faster, Shallower. “you Mean You Can Feel Happy Or Sad Or—” “desire.” A Barely-there Smile.

Have You Finished Your Column For Tomorrow's Headline?" It Was Vee. She Came Up Beside Me, Jotting Notes On The Notepad She Carried Everywhere. "i'm Thinking Of Writing Mine On The Injustice Of Seating Charts. I Got Paired With A Girl Who Said She Just Finished Lice Treatment This Morning.

We Need A Ride. We're Stranded." "we Still Have Two Legs, Leftie And Rightie. Mine Are In The Mood For Exercise. They Feel Like A Nice Long Walk--are You Crazy?" She Shrieked. I Was Standing With The Tip Of The Beach Umbrella Aimed At The Driver's-side Window. "what?" I Said. "we Have To Get In.

A Feeling Of Violation Swayed Inside Me, Making Me Feel As If Id Been Shoved Off A High Platform Without Warning. I Was Falling, And I Feared The Sensation Far More Than Hitting Bottom. There Was No End; Just A Constantsense Of Gravity Having Its Way With Me.

Tell Me What's Going On Here. Why Can I Hear Your Voice Inside My Head And Why Did You Say You Came To School For Me?" "i Was Tired Of Admiring Your Legs From A Distance.

Are We Going To Have To Teach You To Fight, Angel?

I Saw You, And I Wanted To Be Close To You. I Wanted You To Let Me In. I Wanted To Know You In A Way No One Else Did. I Wanted You, All Of You.

Chase Him Down And Stall For Time. I Need Two More Minutes. ” “chase Him Down? How? The Neon Has A Flat.” “with Your Own Two Feet!” “you Mean Exercise?

There's Nothing Special About Losing Your Virginity Over A Toilet.

Angel... I Don't Think You Understand The Lengths I Would Go To If It Means Keeping You Here With Me.' -patch (pg 262)

Go Ahead. You're Not Going To Walk In On Anyone. I'm Home Alone." "the Whole Night?" Immediately, I Realized It Might Not Have Been The Smartest Thing To Say. "dorothea Will Be Coming Soon." That Was A Lie. Dorothea Was Long Gone. It Was Close To Midnight. "dorothea?" "our Housekeeper. She's Old- But Strong. Very Strong." I Tried To Squeeze Past Him. Unsuccessfully. "sounds Frightening," He Said, Retrieving The Key From The Lock. He Held It Out For Me. "she Can Clean A Toilet Inside And Out In Under A Minute. More Like Terrifying.

If You Can't Feel Then Why Did You Kiss Me? Because I Can Feel It Here, In My Heart.

Nothing Makes Me Happy Quite Like A Boatload Of Freshly Fried Fast Food, Smothered In Good Old Msg.

What Little Light Was Left Inside Me Flickered Out.

Nora: I Have Questions. Patch: I Should Have Known You've Only Been Keeping Me Around For Answers. Nora: Well, That And Your Kisses. Anyone Ever Tell You You're An Incredible Kisser?

No, Hear Me Out. The Long Answer To That Question Is That Everything About Me Has Changed Since Meeting You. What I Wanted Five Months Ago Is Different From What I Want Today. Did I Want A Human Body? Yes, Very Much. Is It My Top Priority Now? No." He Looked At Me With Serious Eyes."i Gave Up Something I Wanted For Something I Need. And I Need You, Angel. More Than I Think You'll Ever Know. ~patch

I Cared About Us. But The Cold Hard Truth Was, Nothing I Said Or Did Could Realign The Stars.

You're A Psychopath." "i Prefer Creative.

My Arms Hurt From How Tightly Patch Held Me. “now That’s What I Call A Scream,” He Said, Grinning At Me.

Patch Wasn't The Kind Of Guy Mothers Smiled On. He Was The Kind Of Guy They Changed The House Locks For.

I Shouldn't Have Been Looking At Lingerie. It Naturally Made Me Think About Sexy Things. Like Kissing. Like Patch.

Science Is An Investigation," Coach Said, Sanding His Hands Together. "science Requires Us To Transform Into Spies." Put That Way, Science Almost Sounded Fun. But I'd Been In Coach's Class Long Enough Not To Get My Hopes Up.

She Looked Up, Her Face Pink As A Christmas Ham. “you Ever Try Chasing Down A Car?” She Gasped. “i’ll One-up You. I Gave Scott My Hot Dog And Asked If He’d Go To Summer Solstice With Me.” “what Does The Hot Dog Have To Do With Anything?” “i Said He’d Be A Wiener If He Didn’t Go With Me.” Vee Wheezed Laughter. “i’d Have Run Harder Had I Known I’d Get To See You Call Him A Wiener.

Patch Grinned Down At Me. “i’m Hard To Resist.

I Took Three Steps Back; He Nudged The Door Closed With His Foot. “you Like Mexican?” He Asked. “i—” I’d Like To Know What You’re Doing Inside My House! “tacos?” “tacos?” I Echoed. This Seemed To Amuse Him. “tomatoes, Lettuce, Cheese.” “i Know What A Taco Is!

I Undress To Impress - Patch

Patch Stood Over Me, And A Drop Of Rain Slid From His Hair, Landing Like Ice On My Collarbone. I Felt It Slide Along My Skin, Disappearing Beneath The Neckline Of My Shirt. His Eyes Followed The Raindrop, And I Began To Quiver On The Inside.

You Want A Blood Relative To Lead Your Army? Get Marcie. She Likes Ordering People Around. She'll Be A Natural.

Since We're Keeping It Primal, You Smell Good," He Observed. "it's Called A Shower...," I Began Automatically, Then Trailed Off. My Memory Snagged, Taken Aback By A Compelling And Forceful Sense Of Undue Familiarity. "soap, Shampoo, Hot Water," I Added, Almost As An Afterthought. "naked. I Know The Drill," Jev Said, Something Unreadeble Passing Over His Eyes.

They Said The Moment I Fell In Love With You Was The Moment You'd Leave.

I Fell In Love With You

If I Missed Out On Some Really Big Action, I’m Going To Be Royally Pissed Off!

All I Can Think About Is Bed.” “we’re Sharing The Same Thought.” “you’re Thinking About Bed Too?” “i’m Thinking About You In My Bed.

Thinking About You

Did They Look Like Anyone We Know? For Example… A Cross Between Pippi Longstocking And The Wicked Witch Of The West Would Obviously Give Us Marcie Millar

I Need To Get Back To Work,” Patch Said. He Gave Me A Once-over That Lingered A Bit Below The Hips. “killer Skirt. Deadly Legs.

I'm A Private Contractor Now. I Choose My Clients, Not The Other Way Around.

It Was A Smile That Spelled Trouble. With A Promise.

He Brushed My Curls Back Off My Face. “i Never Pictured My Life So Complete. I Never Thought I’d Have Everything I Want. You’re Everything To Me, Angel.

Bout Time," She Huffed, But Her Voice Sounded Thick And Emotional Too."i Was At The Hospital All Day Yesterday, But They Wouldn't Let Me See You. I Bolted Past Security But They Called Code Ninetynine And Chased Me Down, They Escorted Me Out In Handcuffs. The Way I See It, The Only Criminal Here Is Your Mom. No Visitors? I'm Your Best Friend, Or Did She Not Get The Memo Every Year For The Past Eleven? Next Time I'm Over, I'm Going To Lay Into That Woman." ~vee

There's Only One Thing I Know For Certain Anymore." He Turned, His Eyes A Clear Black. "that I Would Do Anything For You, Even If It Means Going Against Mu Instincts Or My Very Nature. I Would Lay Down Everything I Possess, Even My Soul, For You. If That Isn't Love, It's The Best I Have.

His Muscles Flexed Under His Clothes, Holding Me, Leading Me. Never Letting Me Stray Far.

You’re Not Going To Drive Me Home?” I Asked. A Waste Of Breath, Since I Knew Her Answer. “there’s Fog.” “patchy Fog.” Vee Grinned. “oh, Boy. He Is So On Your Mind. Not That I Blame You. Personally, I’m Hoping I Dream About Him Tonight.

When It Comes To Reflexes, I'm Like A Cat. I'm Catwoman. I'm Invulnerable. The Only Reason He Got A Piece Of Me Is Because Of The Rain. Cats Don't Like Water. It Impairs Us. It's Our Kryptonite.

I’m Not Going To Kill You, Nora. I Don’t Kill People Who Are Important To Me. And You Top The List.

Vee Scowled At Him. She Is Famous For That Scowl. It's A Look That Does Everything But Audibly Hiss.

If I Lose You, I Lose Everything

He Bowed Is Head Into My Throat, Groaning Softly. "i Loved You Long Before You Loved Me. Its The Only Thing I Have You Beat At, And Ill Bring It Up Every Chance I Get." His Mouth Pressed To My Skin, Took On A Devilish Curve. "lets Get Out Of Here. I'm Taking You Back To My Place, This Time For Good. We Have Unfinished Business, And I Think Its Time We Do Something About It.

Unfinished Business

I Could Get You To Smile Like That, And Without Sales Tax." I Whirled Around To Find The Real Patch Standing In The Fitting Room Behind Me. He Was Wearing Jeans And A Snug White Tee. His Arms Were Folded Loosely Over His Chest, And His Black Eyes Smiled Down At Me. Heat That Wasn't Entirely Uncomfortable Flushed Through My Body. "i Could Make All Kinds Of Pervert Jokes Right Now," I Quipped.

When I Watched Lifetime Original Movies, It Took Me A Day Or Two To Get Over The Idea That The Cute Boy Next Door Is Actually A Serial Killer.

Humans Are Vulnerable, Because They’re Capable Of Being Hurt.

Violence Doesn't Equal Strength.

You Picked The Seats You Did For A Reason, Right? Familiarity. Too Bad The Best Sleuths Avoid Familiarity. It Dulls The Investigative Instinct.

That's Really Eco-friendly Of You," Vee Told Marcie. "recycling Nora's Old Trash.

The Only Thing A Boyfriend Was Good For Was A Shattered Heart.

You've Got Food Stuck In Your Teeth," Vee Told Marcie. "in The Crack Between Your Two Front Teeth. Looks Like Chocolate Ex-lax.

Cooking Isn’t Taught,” Patch Said. “it’s Inherent. Either You’ve Got It Or You Don’t. Like Chemistry. You Think You’re Ready For Chemistry?” I Pressed The Knife Down Through The Tomato; It Split In Two, Each Half Rocking Gently On The Cutting Board. “you Tell Me. Am I Ready For Chemistry?” Patch Made A Deep Sound I Couldn’t Decipher And Grinned.

It Isn't About Love," Vee Said. "it's About Fun.

You're Mine, Angel, And Don't You Forget It. Your Fights Are My Fights. What If Something Bad Had Happened Today? It Was Bad Enough When I Thought Your Ghost Was Haunting Me; I Don't Think I Can Handle The Real Thing.

Wow. Nice Bike,” I Said. Which Was A Lie. It Looked Like A Glossy Black Death Trap.

I Couldn't Stand Here, Hanging On, When The Very Thing I Held Disappeared More With Each Passing Day.

His Finger Flicked Open A Button On My Cardigan-then Two, Three, Four. It Tumbled Off My Shoulders, Leaving Me In My Camisole. He Pushed Up The Hem, Teasing And Stroking His Thumb Across My Stomach. My Breath Came In A Sharp Intake Of Air.

Tacos." "tacos?" I Echoed. This Seemed To Amuse Him. "tomatoes, Lettuce, Cheese." "i Know What A Taco Is!

She Shrieked. "nora! What Happened To The Banister!" Good Thing She Hadn't Seen Her Bedroom Yet.

Patch Backed Me Into A Tree And Kissed Me, Hard. I Regained My Breath. "boys Take Not Everywhere: That Was A Kiss.

And Anyway, The First Three Letters In The Word Diet Should Tell You What I Want It To Do.

I’m Really Starting To Like All This Spy Work,” Vee Said. “when My Normal Life Gets Boring, All I Have To Do Is Sidle Up Next To You.

Nice Costume," He Said. "ditto. I Can Tell You Put Alot Of Though Into Yours." Amusement Curled His Mouth. "if You Don't Like It, I Can Take It Off." I Tapped My Chin Thoughtfully. "that Just Might Be The Best Proposal I've Had All Night." "my Offers Are Always The Best, Angel.

He Tasted Deeper, Holding Himself Over Me, And Suddenly He Was Everywhere; His Knee Trapping My Leg, His Lips Grazing Warm, Rough, Sensuous. He Splayed His Hand At The Small Of My Back, Holding Me Tightly, Driving Me To Sink My Fingers Deeper Into Him, Clinging To Him As If Letting Go Would Mean Losing Part Of Myself.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Hank Had Left Me His Doomed Army, And He’d Left Marcie His Inheritance. Unfair Didn’t Begin To Cover It.

Nora: What Are You Planning? Patch: I Wouldn't Call This Planning. I'd Call This Throwing A Hail Mary With Seconds Left On The Clock.

Human Reproduction Can Be A Sticky Subject—” “ewww!” Groaned A Chorus Of Students

"this Isn't Over," I Said. "after Everything We've Been Through, You Don't Get The Right To Brush Me Off. I'm Not Letting You Off That Easily." I Wasn't Sure If It Was A Threat, My Last Stab At Defiance, Or Irrational Words Spoken Straight From My Splintered Heart. "i Want To Protect You," Patch Said Quietly. He Stood So Close. All Strength And Heat And Silent Power. I Couldn't Escape Him, Now Or Ever. He'd Always Be There, Consuming My Every Thought, My Heart Locked In His Hands. I Was Drawn To Him By Forces I Couldn't Control, Let Alone Escape. "but You Didn't".

My Mom's Coming Home Soon," I Said. "we Should Go To Your Place." Patch Ran A Hand Across The Shadow Of Stubble Along His Jaw. "i Have Rules About Who I Take There." I Was Getting Really Tired Of That Answer. "if You Showed Me, You'd Have To Kill Me?" I Guessed, Fighting The Urge To Feel Irritated. "once I'm Inside, I Can Never Leave?" Patch Studied Me A Moment. Then He Reached Into His Pocket, Twisted A Key Off His Key Chain, And Slipped It Into The Front Pocket Of My Pajama Top. "once You've Gone Inside, You Have To Keep Coming Back.

I Could Get You To Smile Like That, And Without Sales Tax.

He Felt Warm And Familiar. He Felt Solid And Safe. I Wanted To Cling To His Shirt, Bury My Face Into The Warm Curve Of His Neck, And Never Let Go.

I Held Out My Hot Dog, Which Had Grown Cold. “do You Want This?” “no Way. You’re Going To Need It. If Anything Bad Happens, Just Take A Bite. Ten Seconds Later, You’ll Feel All Warm And Happy Inside.

It Didn't Escape Me That He Couldn't Seem To Stop Finding Reasons To Touch Me. Nor Did I Miss That I Didn't Want Him To Stop.

I Learned That I Was Either Crazy In Love With You, Or Putting On The Best Performance Of My Life.' -nora (pg 263)

My Life Sucks When I’m Only Half-aware Of It. If I Quit Drinking And Saw What It’s Really Like, I’d Probably Jump Off A Bridge.

I Personally Believe Patch Scared The Pants Off Normal, And It Took Off Running For The Far Side Of The World.

Arrogance Can Be Deadly.” The Corners Of His Mouth Crept Up. “but You Didn’t Hear Me Say That.

There's A Disconnect Between My Mind And My Heart, But I Feel The Truth. They Say When People Lose Their Vision, Their Hearing Comes Sharper. I've Lost Part Of My Memory But Maybe My Intuition Is Stronger.

The Sensible Part Of Me Wanted To Dissect My Emotions, Overthinking And Overcomplicating My Reaction To Jev.

Patch Was Dressed In The Usual: Black Shirt, Black Jeans And A Thin Silver Necklace That Flashed Against His Dark Complexion. His Sleeves Were Pushed Up His Forearms, And I Could See His Muscles Working As He Punched Buttons. He Was Tall And Lean And Hard, And I Wouldn't Have Been Surprised If Under His Clothes He Bore Several Scars, Souvenirs From Street Fights And Other Reckless Behavior. Not That I Wanted A Look Under His Clothes.

I Can't Imagine Why You're So Interested." He Shook His Head. "interested? We're Talking About You. I'm Fascinated.

Love The Hair. Love When It’s Out Of Control. It’s Like Seeing A Side Of You That Needs To Come Out More Often.

Vee: And I'm Not Going To Let You Sit At Home All Afternoon With Your Sour Face On. Nora: I Don't Have A Sour Face. Vee: Yes, You Do. And You're Wearing It Right Now. Nora: This Is My Annoyed Face. You Woke Me Up At Six In The Morning!

There Was Nothing Wrong With Fire … As Long As You Didn’t Stand Too Close. Something To Keep In Mind.

I Need To Brush My Teeth. And I Need A Shower." He Grinned, Hopping Off The Bike. "now That Is An Invitation.

Being Nice? He’s Being Horny.

How Warm I Feel. How Icredibly Alive And Vibrant And Heedless Every Last Inch Of Me Feels Next To You.

I Wanted To Imprint His Touch, His Taste, Even The Scent Of Him So Solidly Inside Me That No One Could Take Them Away From Me.

A Girl Could Lather Up In Soap Like That.

Her Hair Was Strawberry Blond, And She Had The Shape Of A Popsicle Stick: Turn Her Sideways And She Practically Disappeared.

Your Biggest Dream? - Nora Grey Kiss You. - Patch Cipriano

We All Know You're Beautiful, Scott.

You Re Beautiful

Quit Calling Me Grey. It Makes Me Sound Like I’m A Boy. Like Dorian Gray.” “dorian Who?” I Sighed. “just Think Up Something Else. Plain Old Nora Works Too, You Know.” “sure Thing, Gumdrop.” I Grimaced. “i Take That Back. Let’s Stick With Grey.

I'm Not Good," He Said, Piercing Me With Eyes That Absorbed All Light But Reflected None, "but I Was Worse.

Nope. That´s My Line. This Is My Boyfriend´s House, Which Makes That My Line,exclusively.where Is He?" Nora (p. 287)

For Someone Who’s Made It Clear That Her Life Is Superior To Every Other Student’s At This School, You Sure Make It A Habit Of Pursuing Every Facet Of Our Boring, Worthless Lives.

Girl, I'm Going To Show You The Bear In Hug.

Patch Is The Last Person You Want To Antagoonize. He Doesn't Hold Grudges Because The People Who Cross Him Tend To Disappear Quickly.

Your Mine, Angel. And I Won't Let Anything Change That.

You're Mine, Angel. And I'm Yours. Nothing Can Change That.

This Is Crazy," I Told Patch In An Undertone. "i'm Crazy." He Was On The Brink Of Smiling Again. "about You.

I Want To Wake Up With You Every Morning And Fall Asleep Beside You Each Night,” Patch Told Me Gravely. “i Want To Take Care Of You, Cherish You, And Love You In A Way No Other Man Ever Could. I Want To Spoil You — Every Kiss, Every Touch, Every Thought, They All Belong To You. I’ll Make You Happy. Every Day, I’ll Make You Happy.

How Was Your Night?" I Asked, My Voice Carefully Neutral As I Attempted To Break The Ice. My Spying Adventures Still Hung Uncomfortably Between Us. "interesting.yours?" "not So Much." "homework Was Brutal,huh?" He Was Making Fun Of Me. "i Didn´t Do Homework." He Had The Smile Of A Fow. "who Did You Do?" I Was Speechless A Moment. I Stood There With My Mouth Slightly Open. "was That An Innuendo?" "just Curious What My Competition Is." "grow Upp." His Smile Stretched. "loosen Up.

Light Had A Way Of Keeping The Monsters Of My Imagination At Bay.

I Missed You, Angel. Not One Day Went By That I Didn't Feel You Missing From My Life. You Haunted Me To The Point That I Began To Believe Hank Had Gone Back On His Oath And Killed You. I Couldn't Escape You And I Didn't Want To. You Tortured Me, But It Was Better Than Losing You.

The Antique, Almost Primitive Band He Held Between His Fingers Caught The Sunlight, Glinting Silver. “i Found This Ring Shortly After I Was Banished From Heaven. I Kept It To Remind Myself Of How Endless My Sentence Was, How Eternal One Small Choice Can Be. I’ve Kept It A Long Time. I Want You To Have It. You Broke My Suffering. You’ve Given Me A New Eternity. Be My Girl, Nora. Be My Everything."

If Anyone Were To Find Out—” I Began. Patch Kissed Me, Hard, But With An Amused Glint In His Eye. “if I Get Caught, It’ll Mean The End Of Kissing You. Do You Really Think I’d Risk That?” His Face Grew Serious. “i Know I Can’t Feel Your Touch, But I Feel Your Love, Nora. Inside Me. It Means Everything To Me. I Wish I Could Feel You The Same Way You Feel Me, But I Have Your Love. Nothing Will Ever Outweigh That. Some People Go Their Entire Lives Never Feeling The Emotions You’ve Given Me. There Is No Regret In That.

Guess Who Has Pe First Hour? This Is So Unfair. I Start The Day Off Perspiring Like An Elephant In Heat. Don't The People Who Make Up Our Schedule Understand Body Odor? Don't They Understand Frizzy Hair? ~vee

My First Job Entailed Spending A Summer Working In A Cornfield In Nebraska.

Tell Me What's Going On Here. Why Can I Hear Your Voice Inside My Head And Why Did You Say You Came To School For Me?" "i Was Tired Of Admiring Your Legs From A Distance.

How Does This Whole Guardian Angel Business Work? Am I The Only Person Who Can See You? I Mean, Are You Invisible To Everyone Else?" Patch Stared At Me Like He Hoped I Wasn't Serious. "you're Not Invisible?" I Squeaked. "you Have To Get Out Of Here!" I Made A Movement To Push Patch Off The Bed But Was Cut Short By A Searing Jab In My Ribs. "she'll Kill Me If She Finds You In Here. Can You Climb Trees? Tell Me You Can Climb A Tree!" Patch Grinned. "i Can Fly." Oh. Right. Well, Okay.

Hey Now, None Of That. You Know I Don't Have One Evil Bone In My Body. Only Two Hundred And Six Of Them?

You Belong To The Biblical Race Of Nephilim. Your Real Father Was An Angel Who Fell From Heaven. You're Half Mortal." The Boy's Dark Eyes Lifted, Meeting Chauncey's. "half Fallen Angel." Chauncey's Tutor's Voice Drifted Up From The Recesses Of His Mind, Reading Passages From The Bible, Telling Of A Deviant Race Created When Angels Cast From Heaven Mated With Mortal Women. A Fearsome And Powerful Race. A Chill That Wasn't Entirely Revulsion Crept Through Chauncey. "who Are You?

Anthony Raised His Red Plastic Cup To Me And Shouted Something, But It Was Too Hard To Hear Over The Music. “what?” I Called Back. “you Look Great!” A Goofy Smile Was Plastered On His Face. “oh Boy,” Vee Said. “not Just A Pimp, But A Smashed Pimp.” “so Maybe He’s A Little Drunk.” “drunk And Hoping To Corner You Alone In A Bedroom Upstairs.” Ugh.

Hmm?' I Looked Away, Flustered Automatically Using Irritation To Cover My Discomfort Up. 'what Does 'hmm' Have To Do With Anything? Could You Ever Use More That Five Words? All This Grunting And Minced Words Make You Come Across-- Primal.' His Smile Tipped Higher. 'primal.' 'you're Impossible.' 'me Jev, You Nora.' -nora & Patch (pg 226)

That Was A Good Fight Back In The Gym,” He Said. “but I Think You Could Benefit From A Few More Boxing Lessons.

Is Everything A Joke To You?” I Asked. He Dabbed His Tongue To His Lip Again. “not Everything.” “like What?” “you.

I Have A Free Couple Of Hours," I Told Him, Walking Toward My Car, Which Was Parked On The Next Block. "there's A Very Private, Very Secluded Barn In Lookout Hill Park Behind The Carousel. I Could Be There In Fifteen Minutes." I Heard The Smile In His Voice. "you Want Me Bad.

I Was Just About To Ask You The Same Thing. I Know You Followed Me. Don't Look So Suprised. It's Called A Rearview Mirror. Are You Stalking Me For A Specific Reason?

Anyone Ever Tell You You're An Incredible Kisser?

Should Have Known

Hang On, Did You Just Call Me Angel?” I Asked. “if I Did?” “i Don’t Like It.” He Grinned. “it Stays. Angel.” He Leaned Across The Table, Raised His Hand To My Face, And Brushed His Thumb Along One Corner Of My Mouth. I Pulled Away, Too Late.

If We're Doing This For Ten Hours, I'm Going To Need A Little Incentive To Stay Motivated." Patch Hooked His Elbow Around My Neck And Dragged Me Into A Kiss. "every Time You Strip My Sword, I Owe You A Kiss. How's That Sound?" I Bit My Lip To Keep From Giggling. "that Sounds Really Dirty." Patch Waggled His Eyebrows. "look Whose Mind Just Rolled Into The Gutter. Two Kisses Per Strip. Any Objections?" I Pulled On An Innocent Face. "none Whatsoever.

You’re Impinging On My Private Space,” I Said, Inching Backward. Patch Gave A Barely-there Smile. "impinging? This Isn’t The Sat, Nora.

You Never Know What You're Going To Have To Face, So You'd Better Be Prepared.

You’ve Never Been To School, Ever? If That’s True— And You’re Right, I Don’t Think It Is—what Made You Decide To Come This Year?” “you....your Eyes, Nora. Those Cold, Pale Gray Eyes Are Surprisingly Irresistible.” He Tipped His Head Sideways, As If To Study Me From A New Angle. “and That Killer Curvy Mouth

There Was No Sign Of Jules. “bad News,” Said Elliot. “the Man Is Sick. You’re Going To Have To Settle For Me.” “sick?” Vee Demanded. “how Sick? What Kind Of Excuse Is Sick?” “sick As In It’s Coming Out Both Ends.” Vee Scrunched Her Nose. “too Much Information.

I’m Doing Boy Detox. Like A Diet, Only For My Emotional Health.

Emotional Health

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