“No, really, Noah," she said. "I'll wait until you 're dressed." So i could miss that blush creeping across her face? No way.”

“I've missed you Noah." "I've missed you, too, little bro. I'm so proud of you.”

“Wait." I began to pull off his jacket. "You forgot this.""Keep it," he said without looking back. "I'll get it from you on Monday. When we discuss tutoring."And Noah Hutchins - girl-using stoner boy and jacket-loaning savior - faded into the shadows.”

“She revealed her pale face and sniffed again. One red curl clung to her tearstained cheek. My hand reached out to release it, but I hesitated a mere heartbeat away from her skin. I swear to God she quit breathing and even blinking, and for a second so did I. In a deliberate movement, I freed the curl.~Noah”

“Her perfectly shaped eyebrows furrowed as she ran through what i said. I loved how her lips twiched in humor and a blush touched her cheeks.”

“You make me feel safe, Noah. Maybe if i felt safe i could sleep." "I'll sneak into your room one night and we 'll give it a shot. Sleep only, i promise.”

“So, Noah, Echo’s the coat girl.” I had a nickname? Noah chuckled. “Yeah.” “Echo, is your father aware of this relationship?” “Would you believe me if I told you I didn’t know about it?” Her eyes laughed. “Yes.”