“Damn me for being half naked so I can’t escape. Instead, I’ve resorted to feeing into the bathroom, hiding like the desperate tart that I am.”

“I can’t answer that, Ava, because I’ve never wanted anything enough to pursue it so relentlessly. Not like I wanted you.”

“No!” I push him away from me. “You’re not manipulating me with your delicious Godliness!”He grins that roguish grin. “You think I’m a God?”I huff, turning back to the mirror. His head is expanding at a rate so fast, I might be forced to jump out the bathroom window before I’m squashed against a wall.”

“That's your problem, Jesse. You want to fix things by distracting me with your touch instead of talking to me and giving me some answers. I can't let that happen again.”

“Damn you, Jesse Ward, of an age I don't know!”

“He disregards my opinions and wishes at every turn, with his neurotic, challenging ways, and now I fear I’m becoming neurotic and challenging as well. He brings out the worst in me, and I know damn well I bring out the worst in him.”

“I'm so, so sorry. I don't deserve it, but give me a chance." he squeezes me hard. "I need another chance.”