“There was a flicker of something in Greta's look. I couldn't tell whether it was a flicker of love or regret or meanness.”

“I . . . Why do you want me to?” There was a flicker of something in Greta’s look. I couldn’t tell whether it was a flicker of love or regret or meanness, and then she said, “Why wouldn’t I want you to?” Because you hate me, I thought, but I didn’t say it.”

“Po flickered. "Thank you?" it repeated. "What is that?"Liesl thought. "It means, You were wonderful," she said. "It means, I couldn't have done it without you.”

“Persephone told me that you said it wasn't as good as you expected it. When she kissed you, I mean."Something flickered behind his eyes, but it was gone so fast that I couldn't tell what it was. "No, it was not. I find little joy in showing affection to somebody who does not return it.""Yeah, me too." I covered his hand with mine and pressed my lips against his palm. "It hurts being the one who loves more.”

“Something flickers across his bloodshot eyes. Pain.”

“I have a writer’s concentration: intense, but flickering.”