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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.

-Becca Fitzpatrick

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Your File Was Empty.

Becca Fitzpatrick

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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.

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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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

Stop Crying. You're Giving Archangels Everywhere A Bad Name." Patch To Pepper

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

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

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

I Needed Him Like I'd Never Needed Anyone.

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 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

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

I'd Fallen In Love With The Devil.

I’m Not Going Anywhere Near A Motel With You.

His Smile Was Sexy And Warned Of Trouble, But I'd Made Up My Mind That Not All Trouble Was Bad.

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!

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?

If I Lose You, I Lose Everything

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

Killer Skirt, Deadly Legs.

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

A Girl Could Lather Up In Soap Like That.

Are You Crazy?" I Said. "crazy About You." "patch!" "don't Worry, We've Got Time." "how Do You Know?" He Staggered Back A Step, With His Hand Over His Heart. "your Lack Of Faith Hurts.

What Was Up With Class Today? It Was Watered-down Porn. He Practically Had You And Patch On Top Of Your Lab Table, Horizontal, Minus Your Clothes, Doing The Big Deed.

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?

It’s Brown.” So Maybe I Had The Teeniest, Tiniest, Most Infinitesimal Amount Of Auburn In My Hair. I Was Still A Brunette. “it’s The Lighting,” I Said. “yeah, Maybe It’s The Lightbulbs.” His Smile Brought Up Both Sides Of His Mouth, And A Dimple Surfaced.

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

You're Crazy. You're Impossible.' 'i'm Crazy?' He Tipped My Chin Up And Planted A Quick, Rough Kiss On My Mouth. 'and I Must Be Crazy For Putting Up With It.

You Killed My Dad." Any Trace Of Kindness Or Sympathy Vanished From Rixon's Eyes. "well This Is Awkward.

I Undress To Impress - Patch

It Will Cost Me A Lot To Send You With Scott Wearing That Dress But, Just So You Know: If You Come With That Dress Slightly Wrinkled,i Will Trace Scott, And When I Find Him, It's Not Gonna Be Pretty

In The End, The Only Thing Between Us Was Silence.

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

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

I Fell In Love With You

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

Guess Where I Am. Clue? She Texted Back Swear U Won't Tell A Soul? U Have 2 Ask? I Reluctantly Texted,@ Dinner W. Marcie's Dad. #?@#$?!& My Mom Is Dating Him. Traitor! If They Get Married, U & Marcie... Could Use A Little Consolation Here! Does He Know Ur Texting Me? Vee Asked. No. They R Inside. I'm In The Parking Lot ----coopersmiths. The Pimp. 2 Good 4 Applebee's, I See. I'm Going 2 Order The Most Expensive Thin On The Menu. If All Goes Well,him Going To Throw Hank's Drink In His Face 2. ~nora & Vee

I’m Not Stealing It. We’re Stranded. This Is Called Borrowing.” “this Is Called You’re Crazy.

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

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.

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.

What Little Light Was Left Inside Me Flickered Out.

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

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

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

I Was Tired Of Admiring Your Legs From A Distance.

Vee Lowered Her Lashes And Smiled Wickedly. "this Class Isn't Going To Teach Me Anything I Don't Already Know." "vee? As In Virgin?" "not So Loud." She Winked Just As The Bell Rang, Sending Us Both To Our Seats, Which Were Side By Side At Our Shared Table.

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

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.

What Is It With Girls?” Elliot Said, Splitting A Smile Between Us. “i Swear, I’ve Never Known A Girl Who Could Go To The Bathroom Alone.” He Leaned Forward And Grinned Conspiratorially. “let Me In On The Secret. Seriously. I’ll Pay You Five Bucks Each.” He Reached For His Back Pocket. “ten, If I Can Come Along And See What The Big Deal Is.

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

Deep, Dark Unearthly Black. I Hadn't Told Anyone Yet, But The Color Kept Streaking Across My Mind At The Oddest Moments. When It Did, My Skin Shivered Pleasantly, And It Was As If I Could Feel The Color Tracing A Finger Tenderly Along My Jaw, Tipping My Chin Up To Face It Directly. I Knew It Was Absurd To Think A Color Would Come To Life, But Once Or Twice, I Was Sure I'd Caught A Flash Of Something More Substantial Behind The Color. A Pair Of Eyes. The Way They Studied Me Cut To The Heart.

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

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.

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.

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

It Makes No Difference To Me Whether I Shoot You Or You Fall To Your Death.” “it Does Make A Difference,” I Said, My Voice Small But Confident. “you And I Share The Same Blood.” I Lifted My Hand Precariously, Showing Him My Birthmark. “i’m Your Descendant. If I Sacrifice My Blood, Patch Will Become Human And You’ll Die. It’s Written In The Book Of Enoch.

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.

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.

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

Violence Doesn't Equal Strength.

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

Rear View Mirror

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?

You're Scared Of What You Can't Control

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

He Gave Marcie A Spare To The Jeep—i Should Park This Thing In The Ocean, Twenty Feet Under.

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

What I Really Wanted Was The Impossible.

Reading A Good Book In Silence Is Like Eating Chocolate For The Rest Of Your Life And Never Getting Fat.

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

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 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 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

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.

I Loved You Long Before You Loved Me. It's The Only Thing I Have You Beat At, And I'll Bring It Up Every Chance I Get.

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.

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

If We Hooked Up, He Could Write Me Ballads And Stuff. You Gotta Admit, Nothing's Sexier Than A Guy Who Writes Music.

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

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!

Boys Everywhere Take Note: That Was A Kiss.

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 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.

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

I Don't Have A Car." His Eyes Sliced Into Mine. "i Walked Here," I Explained. "i'm On Foot." "angel," He Said In A Way That Sounded Like He Sincerely Hoped I Was Joking.

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

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.

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.

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)

Hang On, Did You Just Call Me Angel?" I Asked. "if I Did?" "i Don't Like It." He Grinned. "it Stays, Angel.

Are You Defending Marcie?” He Shook His Head. “i Don’t Need To. She Handled Herself. You, On The Other Hand…” I Pointed At The Door. “out.

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.

Rollover Minutes Don’t Work With Curfews.

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?

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

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

The Higher Up, The Harder The Fall.

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

I Don't Have 'five' You Can Borrow. My Piggy Bank Is Officially Anorexic.

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.

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 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.

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

Boys Like Girls Who Look Like...girls.

The Subject’s Pulse Increased On Contact,” He Said. “don’t Write That.

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

It Was Bad Enough When I Thought Your Ghost Was Haunting Me; I Don't Think I Could Handle The Real Thing.

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.

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

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.

I'm Touched, Rixon. A Bomb. How Elaborate. Why Didn't You Keep Things Simple And Just March Inside My Bedroom One Night And Put A Bullet Between My Eyes?" Nora, Crescendo

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

I Don't Have The Body For This," I Quipped, Lifting My Chin To A Voluptous Woman Nearby Who Shook Her Hips Zealously To The Beat. "no Curves." Jev's Eyes Held Mine. "are You Asking My Opinion?

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

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

Maggots Squirming In Your Eyeholes...and Your Other Orifices, Might Be Carrying Things A Bit Too Far." "this Is Why I Keep You Around, Rixon. Always Seeing Things From The Bright Side.

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.

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.

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.

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.

She Cleans A Toilet Inside And Out Under A Minute. More Like Terrifying

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.

Men Are Attracted To Beauty Because It Indicates Health And Youth—no Point Mating With A Sickly Woman Who Won’t Be Around To Raise The Children.

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

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.

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

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

You Should Shower," I Said. "right Now." "i Smell That Bad?" (patch) Actually, He Smelled That Good.

I'm Not The Distraction In The Room.' 'oh? And What Might Be?' -nora & Patch (pg 242)

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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 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.

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?

Arrogance Can Be Deadly.

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

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.

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.

This Was It. Together. Forever. As We Left It All Behind, The Sun Warmed My Back, Lighting The Way Before Us. I Knew Of No Better Omen.

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

Patch Smiled. “you Come By Your Red Hair Naturally?” I Stared At Him. “i Don’t Have Red Hair.” “i Hate To Break It To You, But It’s Red. I Could Light It On Fire And It Wouldn’t Turn Any Redder.

The Truth Is Scary, But Knowing Nothing Is Crippling.

Knowing Nothing

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

I Didn’t Break His Jaw, But If He Lays A Hand On You, It Will Be The First Of Many Things To Break,” Patch Said.

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

You're A Liar!" He Turned Around, His Black Eyes Snapping. "i'm Also A Thief, A Gambler, A Cheat, And A Murdered. But This Happens To Be One Of The Rare Times When I'm Telling The Truth. Go Home. Consider Yourself Lucky. You've Got A Chance To Start Fresh. Not Everyone Can Say The Same.

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

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.

The Archangel." I Murmured. Looking Back Over My Shoulder At The Ride, Which Had Started Its Next Ascent. "it Means High-ranking Angel." There Was A Definite Smugness To His Voice. "the Higher Up, The Harder The Fall.

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

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?

Does Patch Have A Restraining Order Against Him?' He Read. 'is Patch A Felon?' 'give-me-that!' I Hissed Furiously. Patch Gave A Soft Laugh, And I Knew He'd Seen The Next Question. 'does Patch Have A Girlfriend?

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 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.

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?

Does This Have Anything To Do With The Unit We’re Studying? Because I Can’t Find Anything About Desired Characteristics Of A Mate Anywhere In Our Text.

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

Vee Never Needed A Reason To Do Something Stupid. Sad Thing Was, Most Of The Time I Didn't Either.

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?

Sometimes Bad Things Have To Happen Before Good Things Can.

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...

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.

...i Need A Boyfriend. And To Get A Boyfriend, You Have To Look Good. Doesn’t Hurt To Smell Good Too.

My Legs Are Falling Asleep,” I Blurted. It Wasn’t A Total Lie. I Was Experiencing Tingling Sensations All Through My Body, Legs Included. “i Could Solve That.” Patch’s Hands Closed On My Hips.

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

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

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

You Sound Worked Up. Really Worked Up. No, That's Not It. You Sound Agitated...flustered...aroused." I Could Feel Her Eyes Widen. "he Kissed You, Didn't He?" No Answer. "he Did! I Knew It! I've Seen The Way He Looks At You. I Knew This Was Coming. I Saw It From A Mile Away." I Didn't Want To Think About It. "what Was It Like?" Vee Pressed. "a Peach Kiss? A Plum Kiss? Or An Al-fal-fa Kiss?" "what?" "was It A Peck, Did Mouths Part, Or Was There Tongue? Never Mind. You Don't Have To Answer That. Patch Isn't The Kind Of Guy To Deal With Preliminaries. There Was Tongue Involved. Guaranteed.

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

I Turned My Face Up To His. I Could Hardly Look At Him The Same Way. I Was Crying Without Realizing I'd Started. "you Made A Deal With Hank. You Saved My Life. Why Would You Do That For Me?" "angel," He Murmured, Clasping My Face Between His Hands. "i Don't Think You Understand The Lengths I Would Go To If It Means Keeping You Here With Me.

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.

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.

If You Keep Running From Me, You're Never Going To Figure Out What's Really Going On.

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.

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

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.

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

And Just Like That, I Shut Off The Switch To My Brain.

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