“Time, it seemed, was not our enemy after all. It was just air and space and hours. Anything worth having was able to withstand it.”

“Pax is worth anything.”

“My need for him was almost palpable because any time that wasn't spent in his arms was just... wasted. Our time was always so limited.”

“Son, you were your mother's peace. You brought her so much peace and joy from the very first time she held you, that she knew she had to name you Pax. Your mother loved you more than anything in the world. She would have gladly given her life a hundred times over to keep you safe. Whatever you do, just live a good life for her. She had so many hopes for you. But when it boils down to it, all she would want is for you to be happy.”

“You can have all the time that you need, Mila. I'll wait forever if I have to.”

“I'm counting on that," Mila murmurs as she steps away. "I just need some time Pax; time for you to show that you are serious about this, about putting the work in. That's all I need.”

“We were soul mates. Bound through time with a love stronger than steel. He was mine. And I was his. Unquestionably. Forever. Yet here we were. He was half-dressed and embracing my sworn enemy.”