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Vee Is My Un-twin. She's Green-eyed, Milky Blond, And A Few Pounds Over Curvy. I'm A Smoky-eyed Brunette With Volumes Of Curly Hair That Holds Its Own Against Even The Best Flatiron. And I'm All Legs, Like A Bar Stool. But There Is An Invisible Thread The Ties Us Together; Both Of Us Swear That Tie Began Long Before Birth. Both Of Us Swear It Will Continue To Hold For The Rest Of Our Lives.

-Becca Fitzpatrick

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Vee Is My Un-twin.

Becca Fitzpatrick

...

Vee Is My Un-twin. She's Green-eyed, Milky Blond, And A Few Pounds Over Curvy. I'm A Smoky-eyed Brunette With Volumes Of Curly Hair That Holds Its Own Against Even The Best Flatiron. And I'm All Legs, Like A Bar Stool. But There Is An Invisible Thread The Ties Us Together; Both Of Us Swear That Tie Began Long Before Birth. Both Of Us Swear It Will Continue To Hold For The Rest Of Our Lives.

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I Should Probably Confess That Ice Cream Is My Favorite Food, And I Eat It Every Night. When I Go Grocery Shopping, I Try To Buy A New Flavor, Rather Than Reverting Back To A Favorite Flavor. I'm On A Mission To Taste Every Flavor Of Ice Cream Out There!

They Say That When You're About To Die, Your Life Flashes Before Your Eyes. They Never Tell You That When You Watch Someone You Once Loved Dying, Hovering Between This Life And The Next, It's Twice As Painful, Because You're Reliving Two Lives That Traveled One Road Together.

I Didn’t Accept Your Sacrifice. I Turned It Down.” I Felt A Small Oh Form At My Mouth, But It Never Quite Made It Past My Lips. “are You Saying You Gave Up Getting A Human Body For Me?

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 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.

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

"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".

If I Were Thinking Straight, I'd Take You Home Right Now.

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

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.

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.

Just Because I've Gone And Snagged Myself A Hot Boyfriend Doesn't Mean I'm Going To Leave My Bestfriend High And Dry.

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

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

My History Is Long, And Not Much Of It Is Good. I Can't Erase It, But I'm Determined Not To Make Another Mistake. Not When The Stakes Are High, Not When It Comes To You.

You Possess Other People's...bodies." He Accepted That Statement With A Nod. "do You Want To Possess My Body?" "i Want To Do A Lot Of Things To Your Body, But That's Not One Of Them.

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.

You Smell Good, Too,” Said Patch It’s Called A Shower.” I Was Staring Straight Ahead. When He Didn’t Answer, I Turned Sideways. “soap. Shampoo. Hot Water.” Naked. I Know The Drill.

I Wondered Why Life Had To Suck So Hard Sometimes.

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

Do You Think The Bible Is Accurate? I Mean, Do You Think It's Real?" " I Think Pastor Calvin Is Hot. In A Fortysomething Way. That Pretty Much Sums Up My Religious Conviction

The Older Woman Waiting For Admittance Looked At Me, Then Over Her Shoulder At Patch, Who Was Vanishing Down The Hall. “honey,” She Told Me, “he Looks Slippery As Soap.

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.

Your File Was Empty. Nothing. Not Even An Immunization Record.” He Didn’t Even Pretend To Look Surprised. He Eased Back In His Seat, Eyes Gleaming Obsidian. “and You’re Telling Me This Because You’re Afraid I Might Cause An Outbreak? Measles Or Mumps?” “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.” I Flushed, Catching The Innuendo Too Late.

If I'd Wanted You Dead Five Minutes Ago, You'd Have Died Five Minutes Ago.

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.

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

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.

I Study Her,” Patch Said. “i Figure Out What She’s Thinking And Feeling. She’s Not Going To Come Right Out And Tell Me, Which Is Why I Have To Pay Attention. Does She Turn Her Body Toward Mine? Does She Hold My Eyes, Then Look Away? Does She Bite Her Lip And Play With Her Hair, The Way Nora Is Doing Right Now?” Laughter Rose In The Room. I Dropped My Hands To My Lap. “she’s Game,” Said Patch, Bumping My Leg Again. Of All Things, I Blushed.

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

Door’s Locked,” He Said. “and We Have Unfinished Business.

Unfinished Business

Shh!" The Guy Beside Me Hissed Again. "blame Him," I Told The Guy, Pointing At Patch. The Guy Craned His Neck Back. "listen," He Said, Facing Me Again. "if You Don't Quiet Down, I'll Get Security." "fine, Go Get Security. Tell Them To Take Him Away," I Said, Again Signaling Patch. "tell Them He Wants To Kill Me." "i Want To Kill You," Hissed The Guy's Girlfriend.

Chauncey Seethed At The Outrageous Insult. "and Your Father?" He Demanded, Extending The Sword. He Didn't Yet Know All His Vassals, But He Was Learning. He Would Brand The Family Name Of This Boy To Memory.

His Eyes Made A Slow Scan Of My Closet Doors, Which Were Cracked. “i Thought I Heard Something.” “yeah, Well, Guess What? I’m A Living, Breathing Person, And Every Now And Then I Make Noise!

Well Yoy Did It,"i Congratulated Patch. "i´m As Trained As I´ll Ever Be-a Lean, Mean Sword-fighting Machine. I Should Have Made You My Personal Trainer From Day One." A Rogue Smile Surfaced, Slow And Wicked. " No Match For Patch." Patch&nora (p.379)

Boys Everywhere Take Note: That Was A Kiss.

With You, What You See Is What You Get. And I See Cheap.

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

Let Me Show You,” He Said In My Ear. “like This. Feel That? Relax. Now Pivot Your Hips—it’s All In The Hips.

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

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.

I Felt His Eyes Devour Me As I Moved Around The Room. He Assessed Me Head To Toe Without Blinking, And A Hot Ache Shivered Through Me. A Kiss Would've Been Less Intimate.

You Keep Life On A Short Leash.” “what’s That Supposed To Mean?” “you’re Scared Of What You Can’t Control.

All This Time I've Hated Myself For It. I Thought I'd Given It Up For Nothing. But If I Hadn't Fallen, I Wouldn't Have Met You.

It Would Be Like A Cleansing Diet. The Problem Was, The Only Diet I'd Ever Been On Backfired. Once I Tried To Go An Entire Month Without Chocolate. Not One Bite. At The End Of Two Weeks, I Broke Down And Binged On More Chocolate That I Would Have Eaten In Three Months. I Hoped My Chocolate-free Diet Didn't Foreshadow What Would Happen If I Tried To Avoid Patch.

I Got A New Job.” Patch Locked Eyes With Me, And I Warmed In A Lot Of Places. In Fact, I Was Dangerously Close To Feverish.

Your Past Wouldn’t Frighten Me,” I Said, Buckling My Seat Belt Across My Lap. “i’m Guessing I’d Be More Appalled Than Anything.

Well, Well,” He Said. “five Days A Week Isn’t Enough Of Me? Had To Give Me An Evening, Too?

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

There´s My Date, I Said. "fashionably Late." Nora (p. 232)

Normal And I Parted Ways When Pateir1ch Strolled Into My Life. Patch Has Seven Inches On Me, Operates On Cold, Hard Logic, Moves Like Smoke, And Lives Alone In A Supersecret, Superswanky Studio Beneath Delphic Amusement Park. The Sound Of His Voice, Low And Sexy, Can Melt My Heart In Three Seconds Flat. He’s Also A Fallen Angel, Kicked Out Of Heaven For His Flexibility When It Comes To Following Rules. I Personally Believe Patch Scared The Pants Off Normal, And It Took Off Running For The Far Side Of The World.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

Scott: Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. Nora: Are You Trying To Appeal To My Conscience? Scott: How Can You Turn Down A Once-in-a-lifetime Chance To Drive The 'stang? Nora: How About You Sell Me The 'stang For Thirty Dollars? I Can Even Pay Cash. Scott: Drunk, But Not That Drunk, Grey.

Patch Was In My Life For A Reason. I Needed Him. We Were Two Halves Of The Same Whole.

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.

You Want Me To Come Clean, I Will. I'll Tell You Everything. Who I Am And What I've Done. Every Last Detail. I'll Dig It All Up, But You Have To Ask. You Have To Want It. You Can See Who I Was, Or You Can See Who I Am Now. I'm Not Good," He Said, Piercing Me With Eyes That Absorbed All Light But Reflected None, "but I Was Worse.

Being With You Never Felt Wrong. It's The One Thing I Did Right. You're The One Thing I Did Right.

Try It On." "it's Probably A Little Snug. Marcie Tends To Buy Down When It Comes To Sizing." He Merely Smiled. "it Has A Slit Up The Thigh." His Smile Depened. "zip It Up?" Patch's Eyes Made A Slow Assessment Of Me, Sharpening To Vivid Black. "i'm Going To Have A Hard Time Sending You Off With Scott In That Dress. Just A Heads-up: If You Come Home And The Dress Looks Even Slightly Tampered With, I Will Track Scott Down, And When I Find Him, It Won't Be Pretty.

Patch? Whatever Happens, I Love You." I Wanted To Say More, Those Three Words Painfully Inadequate For The Way I Felt About Him. And At The Same Time, So Simple And Accurate, Nothing Else Would Do.

But If The Choice I Have To Make Comes Down To You Or Me, I Choose You. I Always Have. All My Love, Patch

Right Now, I Had Everything I Could Ask For. It Wasn't A Long List, But It Was A Very Satisfying One, Starting With The Love Of My Life Back In My Arms.

Love Of My Life

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

Patch: “let’s Get Out Of Here.” – Nora: “where Are We Going?” – Patch: “you’ll See.

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

He's Got The Whole Bad-boy-in-need-of-redemption Thing Going On, But The Catch Is, Most Bad Boys Don't Want Redemption. They Like Being Bad. They Like The Power They Get From Striking Fear And Panic Into The Hearts Of Mothers Everywhere

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."

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

I Had To Lull Mom And Hank Into Believing I Was In The Right Frame Of Mind To Be Taken Into Public. If I Exited My Bedroom Foaming At The Mouth And Dressed In Black Love Sucks Tee, My Plan Would Never Get Off The Ground.

The Patch I Knew Didn't Run From Anyone.

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'll Be Firm," I Promised Patch, Adopting A No-nonsense Expression. "no Backing Down." By Now Patch Was Full-on Grinning. He Kissed Me Again, And I Felt My Mouth Soften Its Resolve. "you Look Cute When You're Trying To Be Tough," He Said.

For The First Time All Day I Felt Safe. Except That Patch Had Cornered Me In A Dark Tunnel And Was Possibly Stalking Me. Maybe Not So Safe.

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.

I Was Tired Of Admiring Your Legs From A Distance.

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.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

I Gave Up Something I Wanted For Something I Need. And I Need You, Angel. More Than I Think You'll Ever Know.

What Little Light Was Left Inside Me Flickered Out.

Any Happiness, No Matter How Brief, Seemed Better Than The Long, Simmering Torture Of Waking Up Day After Day, Knowing I Could Never Have Him.

Pac-man? Or Is It Donkey Kong?” In Truth, It Looked A Little More Violent And Military. A Slow Grin Spread Over His Face. “baseball. Think Maybe You Could Stand Behind Me And Give Me A Few Pointers?

I Believe In Destiny Angel. I Believe Every Choice I've Made Has Brought Me Closer To You. I Looked For You For A Very Long Time. I May Have Fallen From Heaven, But I Fell For You.

As In, I Wouldn't Know Normal If It Marched Up And Poked Me In The Eye.

Wouldn't Have Pegged You For A Dancer," He Spoke To My Mind "funny, I Would Have Pegged You For A Stalker," I Shot Back.

Listen, Patch, I Don’t Want To Be Rude, But—” “sure You Do.” “well, You Started It!” Lovely. Very Mature.

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.

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.

My Most Noticeable Physical Trait Is, Hands Down, My Hair. It's Big, Unruly And Curly, And You Can Spot It From A Mile Away... Literally.

Religion?" I Asked More Firmly. Patch Dragged A Hand Thoughtfully Along The Line Of His Jaw. "not Religion ... Cult." "you Belong To A Cult?" I Realized Too Late That While I Sounded Surprised, I Shouldn't Have. "as It Turns Out, I'm In Need Of A Healthy Female Sacrifice. I'd Planned On Luring Her Into Trusting Me First, But If You're Ready Now...

Vee Said," I'm Trying To Read The Title He's Holding…hang On…how To Be A Stalker." "he Is Not Checking Out A Book With That Title." But I Wasn't So Sure. "it's Either That Of How To Radiate Sexy Without Trying.

Don't Blame Me. Tell Your Mom To Move Closer. Tell Her There's This New Club Called Civilization And You Guys Should Join.

Hang On, Did You Just Call Me Angel?" "if I Did?

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.

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

Stay With Me Tonight. Let Me Hold You Even If That's All It Is. Let Me Keep You Safe.

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

Right Now, Holding You, I Feel Like We Have A Shot At Beating All Odds And Making It Together.

Biggest Dream?” I Was Proud Of This One Because I Knew It Would Stump Him. It Required Forethought. “kiss You.” “that’s Not Funny,” I Said, Holding His Eyes, Grateful I Didn’t Stutter. “no, But It Made You Blush.

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

I'd Fallen In Love With The Devil.

Boys Like Girls Who Look Like...girls.

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

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

Rear View Mirror

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

You Can Call Me Patch. No Really. Call Me.

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 Don't Go Out With Strangers," I Said. "good Thing I Do. I'll Pick You Up At Five.

What Is It With You And Girls’ Bathrooms?

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

Citizen's Arrest," He Said. "well, That, And Patch Told Me To.

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

But If I Hadn't Fallen, I Wouldn't Have Met You.

Fine! I'll Throw On Some Clothes. Turn Around. I'm In My Pj's" "i'm A Guy. That's Like Asking A Kid Not To Glance At The Candy Counter.

Your Name?” I Repeated, Hoping It Was My Imagination That My Voice Faltered. “call Me Patch. I Mean It. Call Me

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

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.

This Ring Belongs To The Black Hand. He Killed Your Dad.

Too Bad. There's A Party On The Coast. I Thought We Could Go." He Actually Sounded Sincere. ( A Bit After) I Affected A Yawn. "well, Like I Said, It's A School Night." In Hopes Of Convincing Myself More Than Him, I Added, " If This Party Is Something You'd Be Interested In, I Can Almost Guarantee I Won't Be." There, I Though. Case Closed- Page 77

I Swear To You, Patch, To Take Your Love And Cherish It. And In Return, To Give You My Body And My Heart—everything I Possess, I Give To You. I Am Yours. Wholly And Completely. Love Me. Protect Me. Fulfill Me. And I Promise To Do The Same.” ~ Nora + Patch

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.

You Should Go," I Breathed. "you Should Definitely Go." "go Here?" His Mouth Was On My Shoulder. "or Here?" It Moved Up My Neck.

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?

Patch's Eyes Were Slate Black, Darker Than A Million Secrets Stacked On Top Of Each Other. He Dropped His Gaze To The Ring In His Hand, Turning It Over Slowly. "swear You'll Never Stop Loving Me," I Whispered. Ever So Slightly, He Nodded.

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)

You're Going To Have To Drive Off The Road And Park Behind Thoses Bushes," I Instructed Vee. Vee Leaned Forward, Peering Into The Darkness. "is That A Ditch Between Me And The Bushes ?" "it's Not Very Deep. Trust Me, We'll Clear It." "looks Deep To Me. This Is A Neon We're Talking About, Not A Hummer.

Kiss Me In A Way I'll Never Forget. Kiss Me In A Way That Will Stay With Me Until See You Again

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.

He Grinned. “busted. I’m A Monster. Jev Is My Deceptively Harmless — And Shockingly Handsome — Alter Ego.” “and I’m On Top Of It,” She Announced With Witty Triumph. “is That A Freudian Slip?” His Bluntness Caught Her Off Guard. A Self-conscious Blush Rose In Her Face.

Whoa, Who Peed In Your Cheerios?

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.

Being Nice? He’s Being Horny.

It’s So Real." "most Dreams Are. It Isn't Until You Wake Up That You See All The Plot Holes.

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.

One More Thing. I Sold The Mustang. Too Conspicuous. Don't Get Too Excited, But I Bought You A Little Something With The Extra Cash. I Heard You've Had Your Eye On A Volkswagen. The Owner Is Dropping It By Tomorrow. I Paid For A Full Tank Of Gas, So Make Sure She Delivers.

I Shook My Head. “i Don’t Think So. This Isn’t A Good Idea. This Isn’t Right.” “there’s All Kinds Of Right,” He Murmured. “on The Spectrum, We’re Still In The Safe Zone.” ... “definitely Right. Usually Right,” Patch Continued. “mostly Right. Maybe Right.

Are You Keeping Anything Else From Me?” “i’m Keeping A Lot Of Things From You.” “like?” “like The Way I Feel About Being Locked Up In Here With You. You Have No Idea What You Do To Me.

The Truth Is Scary, But Knowing Nothing Is Crippling.

Knowing Nothing

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 Think I'm More Of A Guardian Angel Girl.

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.

I Wrinkled My Nose, Trying To Figure Out What He Smelled Like. Not Cigarettes. Something Richer, Fouler. Cigars.

Say 'provoking' Again. Your Mouth Looks Provocative When You Do.

His Black Eyes Sliced Into Me, And The Corners Of His Mouth Tilted Up. My Heart Fumbled A Bit And In That Pause, A Feeling Of Gloomy Darkness Seemed To Slide Like A Shadow Over Me. It Vanished In An Instant But I Was Still Staring At Him. His Smile Wasn't Friendly. It Was A Smile That Spelled Trouble. With A Promise.

If I Asked You To Do Something For Me, I Don't Suppose You'd Listen?" When He Had My Attention, He Continued, "i'm Going To Take You Home. Try To Forget Tonight Happened. Try To Act Normal, Especially Around Hank. Don't Mention My Name." By Way Of An Answer, I Shot Him A Black Look And Swung Out Of The Tahoe. He Followed Suit, Coming Around To My Side. "what Kind Of Answer Is That?" He Asked, But His Voice Wasn't Nearly So Gruff.

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

I Called Vee. "how Are You Doing?" I Asked. "good. How Are You?" "good." Silence. "okay," Vee Said In A Rush, "i Am Still Totally Freaked Out. You?" "totally.

Father' Is Such An Arbitary Word. Douche Bag, On The Other Hand.

Patch Reached For My Hand And Pushed My Dad's Ring Off The Tip Of His Finger And Into My Palm, Curling My Fingers Around It. He Kissed My Knuckles. "i Was Going To Give This Back Earlier, But It Wasn't Finished." I Opened My Palm And Held The Ring Up. The Same Heart Was Engraved On The Underside, But Now There Were Two Names Carved On Either Side Of It: Nora And Jev. I Looked Up. "jev? That's Your Real Name?" "nobody's Called Me That In A Long Time.

A War Was Coming Either Way. Now All I Had To Do Was Choose My Opponent

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.

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.

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

Since The Dawn Of Time, Women Have Been Attracted To Mates With Strong Survival Skills—like Intelligence And Physical Prowess— Because Men With These Qualities Are More Likely To Bring Home Dinner At The End Of The Day.” He Stuck His Thumbs In The Air And Grinned. “dinner Equals Survival, Team

Right Now, Vee Was The Only Person I Could Count On. She Could Be Obnoxious,annoying, And Lazy, But She Never Lied To Me.

What I Really Wanted Was The Impossible.

And Here I Thought They Were Called Peeping Toms." I Didn't Need To See Him To Know He Wore A Smile. "stop Laughing," I Said, My Cheeks Hot With Humiliation. "get Me Down." "jump." "what?" "i'll Catch You." "are You Crazy? Go Inside And Open The Window. Or Get A Ladder." "i Don't Need A Ladder. Jump. I'm Not Going To Drop You.

The Guy I've Got My Eye On Happens To Be Hot. Off-the-charts Hot. Hotter-than-patch Hot.' She Paused. 'well Maybe Not That Hot. Nobody's That Hot.

I Want Scott To Look At Me The Way Patch Looks At You.

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.

Are You Gloating Inside? That's What This Is About, Isn't It? Getting Me To Trust You So You Could Blow It Up In My Face!" [...] "i Get That You're Angry—," Said Patch. "i Am Ripped Apart!" I Shouted.

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?

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.

You're Scared Of What You Can't Control

She Already Has A Car.” “a Ford. That’s Like Toyota’s Worst Enemy.

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

His Words Filled My Heart To The Brim. I Loved Him In A Way I’d Never Be Able To Express In Words. He Was Part Of Me. And I Was Part Of Him. Tethered Together For The Rest Of Eternity.

You Find The Wrong Boy, You Ask For Trouble. You Find The Right Boy, You Find Love.

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

Jev Stroked His Chin. "do I Look Like A Summer Fling?

You’re A Guardian Angel Now.”.... I’m Your Guardian Angel,” He Said. “i Get My Very Own Guardian Angel? What, Exactly, Is Your Job Description?” “guard Your Body.” His Smile Tipped Higher. “i Take My Job Seriously, Which Means I’m Going To Need To Get Acquainted With The Subject Matter On A Personal Level.

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

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

Why Did Everyone Think I Needed A New Boyfriend? I Didn't Need A New Boyfriend. I'd Had Enough Of Boyfriends To Last A Lifetime. The Only Thing A Boyfriend Was Good For Was A Shattered Heart.

Strangely Enough, It Wasn’t Gabe Who Was Haunting My Thoughts, Though. That Job Belonged To A Pair Of Sinfully Black Eyes That Had Lost Their Edge When They Studied Me, Turning As Soft And Sultry As Silk.

Before I Forget, Here's Your Homework. Where Do You Want Me To Put It?" She Pointed At The Trash Can. "right There Would Be Fine.

He Nuzzles My Neck Affectionately. "i Love You. I'm Happier Right Now Than I Ever Remember Being.

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

I'm Yours, If You'll Have Me.

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

You Laugh, But You Haven't Seen Me In A Tux. Or Maybe You Don't Like Broad-shouldered Guys With Muscular Chest And Washboard Abs?

..."good, Because I Need Your Help." "help Is My Middle Name." I Was Pretty Sure She'd Already Told Me Bad Was Her Middle Name, But I Kept My Opinion To Myself.

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.

Your Enemy's Enemy Is Your Friend

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.

You’re Crowding Me. I Need— Room.”... What I Needed Were Boundaries. I Needed Willpower. I Needed To Be Caged Up, Since Yet Again I Was Proving I Couldn’t Be Trusted In Patch’s Presence. I Should Have Been Bolting For The Door, And Yet … I Wasn’t.

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

If I Lose You, I Lose Everything

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.

Anyone Ever Tell You You're An Incredible Kisser?

Should Have Known

If I Could Make This Go Away, I Would. If I Could Stand In Your Place, I Wouldn't Hesitate. But I'm Left With One Choice, And That's To Stand By Your Side Through The End. I Won't Waver, Angel, I Can Promise You That. -patch To Nora

What Do I Have To Do To Convince You That I'm Only Using Dabria For One Reason, One Only Reason: Destroy Hank, Bit By Bit If Is Necessary,and Make Him Pay For All The Things He Has Done To Harm The Girl I Love?

I Looked To The Window. Patch Was Gone, But A Single Black Feather Was Pressed To The Outer Pane, Held In Place By Last Night's Rain. Or Angel Magic

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