“but I learned long ago that it does no good to think too far into the future. There is only here. Only now.”

“I recall his somber eyes during that last, private conversation. His eyes and his words, far too wise for a boy of ten: only time will tell, Lia. In the end, I suppose it will.”

“I'm only trying to pull my own weight. I don't want to be a liability.' She reached out, smiling. 'And I would imagine I'll still be required to maintain close contact with you while I learn. At least in the beginning.'He looked at their joined hands before turning his eyes to hers, a slow smile spreading across his own lips.'It would be, ahem, wise to maintain physical contact while learning, that is true.”

“You've become my friend, and I love you."It was right and true and that made saying it easy.She heard the surprise in the intake of his breath."And I, you, Helen. I think I've loved you since the moment you first stood on my doorstep." He paused. "But now, I really must insist that you sleep. My love will still be here when you wake up.”

“I avoid looking at the clock, fearing the slow passing of time that will only seem slower if I watch its progress.”

“I think I should learn to jump on my own soon, don't you?''And deprive myself of the opportunity to be near you?' His voice was husky in her ear, his breath tickling the tender skin of her neck. 'That seems foolish on my part, but if you'd like to learn, I'll teach you.'She nodded, her voice stuck in her throat.'Very well,' he said. 'But not tonight. Tonight you'll stay with me.”

“Time—and all the events held therein—plays out as it must. We cannot impose our will on it. The only true measure of strength is our ability to bear that which time demands.”