“Once upon a time, my world revolved around you.”

“He took a step toward me and whispered in my ear "I really did love you." Leaving out the unsaid word; Once. "Me too." Once.”

“She threw her arms around my neck and pressed her head into my shoulder. Everything within me stilled. I wrapped my arms around her warmth and softness, closing my eyes to savor the peace Echo's presence brought to me. Life would almost be enjoyable if i could feel this way all the time. I nuzzled the top of her hair with my chin, sending Isaiah a glance of gratidute. Using my arms as chains, i kept Echo locked against me when she pulled her head off my shoulder.”

“I'm buying you a coat." And i meant it. I opened the car door and slung my lether jacket around her shoulders.”

“You 're my world, so i'd say that evens things out.”

“With a sigh, I moved my lips once more against hers before shifting and pulling her body to my side. “I’m in love with you.”Echo settled her head in the crook of my arm as her fingertips lazily touched my face. “I know. I love you, too.”

“Luke continued to stare, as if he physically couldn't take his eyes off of me. My dazed mind began to function. He wasn't staring at my face, but my arms. The glove on my right arm no longer protected my scars from the outside world. It hung limply around my fingertips. Before my eyes, though, it suddenly slipped back up my arm. Noah mumbled several words directed at Luke as he placed an arm over the glove he straightened.”