“I have a self-made quote: Celebrate diversity, practice acceptance and may we all choose peaceful options to conflict.”

“So entangled are we in our own designs that the concurrent and often conflicting plots of our families, friends, and enemies may come to us as surprises suddenly unraveled or traps suddenly sprung... If no one can see into another's heart, it is probably because no one comes close enough, or stays long enough, or listens loud enough over the thump of their own, to see and hear.”

“Edge rolled his eyes as he turned to face her. “I appreciate your concern but I think I can handle a few vampires on my own. Besides… it wasn’t anything serious. I have no unsavory intentions towards her. Despite what you may think of me I am not completely without conscience.” “I don’t think that. I think you’re a man- whore, there’s a difference.”

“It was the sort of day when deciding what to wear is like planning a military operation. Believe me – I have considerable experience of both.”

“Acceptance. We want someone to look at us, and really see us—our physical flaws, our personality quirks, our insecurities. And we want them to be okay with every square inch of who we are. We’re always afraid we might be too needy or too much work. We put all these limitations on ourselves and our relationships because we’re afraid that we’re not really loved. That we’re not really accepted. We hide little pieces of ourselves because we think that might be the one thing that finally drives away the person who’s supposed to love us.”

“Let me through – I’m a doctor.’ My heart beat a little faster, and I lingered just long enough to be sure he’d used the indefinite article. But the man was short and bald and rather ugly – not at all like any Doctor I’d consult. I hope. If ‘consult’ is the right word.”

“What is it?”“Something with which to penetrate you.”“But you can penetrate me now. As often as you like.”“Doesn’t mean we shouldn’t explore other options.”“Hmm,” I said. “Soooo instead of diamonds or shoes, you got me a . . .” I stared at him, and waited for him to reveal the nature of his present.He grinned. “Buzz, buzz, Ellie Bee.”