“You saved me," Nelson said, realization dawning. "You were the hand that came out of The Darkness”

“It created a murmur of voices, from which no single word could be discerned. Instead, it synthesized the sound of bees buzzing around in a mad swarm, angered by a breach of their hive.”

“But then when the sun rose, so would his shield, and he would walk into the sunlight with a determined smile and a speech prepared to rally the fighters.”

“She also saw mental hurt that would more than likely stay with him for the rest of his life as a constant reminder of how his mind had been violated and torn. But she also saw brightness—brightness and life and determination in those orbs. And, best of all, she saw the absence of fear and knew that he was going to be okay.”

“It’s the truth, Em. You do save me. I would still be lost if you hadn’t come into my life, and I thank God everyday that you gave me another chance to show you how much my soul cries out for you. There will never be anyone else for me in the world.”

“Dude,” I said low. “All cornfields are haunted. Trust me. I know.” Then I came up on my elbows so I was closer to him and I said quietly, “They whisper to you.””

“Day in, day out, you peel the layers back for me. Smart mouth, funny, sweet, wild in bed. Chattin' with bikers like they were insurance brokers. Holdin' my girl's hand, givin' her strength when her Mom's bein' a bitch. Keepin' your chin up when your people show in the middle of a full blown drama. But so fuckin' vulnerable, you're scared shitless of livin' life.""You don't know me, Tack."His head came up and his eyes pierced mine. "I know you, Tyra.""You don't.""Life's a roller coaster. Best damn ride in the park. You don't close your eyes, hold on and wait for it to be over, babe. You keep your eyes open, lift your hands straight up in the air and enjoy the ride for as long as it lasts.”