“He had a Chinese symbol tattooed on the crook of his arm. He says it means ‘peace’ but I’m almost positive it really means ‘cigarette’ or ‘coyote’.”

“He leans against me and gives a gentle push. I resist curving my neck into that place on his shoulder.”

“It seems sort of unnecessary to prolong my life but I guess they can’t just let me die. I’m sure there would be paperwork.”

“Our kitchen is stuffed with enough food to feed a small country. The refrigerator is full as are all of the counters. Liechtenstein can have it all. I don’t understand how broccoli casserole and Shepherd’s pie is supposed to help me forget that I won’t be seeing my mom anymore.”

“I am breathless, hopeless, and consumed. I now know that I am between balloons.”

“This house is always going to be quiet now, I should get used to it. Laughter will no longer run rampant through the hallways, decorating each room.”

“I think of all the things I will miss. I think about coffee, red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, Little Women, and Channing Tatum. Oh, how I will miss Channing Tatum.”