“Wanting and needing are two different things.”

“Different time, different place,” I said. “Things can change. People can change.”

“Can you come over to Amberwood? I need you to help me break curfew and escape my dorm.”There were a few moments of silence. “Sage, I’ve been waiting two months to hear you say those words. You want me to bring a ladder?”

“Of course it's jealousy," said Adrian nonchalantly. "What do you expect? The former love of your life comes back—from the dead, no less. That's not something I'm really excited about. But I don't blame you for feeling confused.""I told you before—""I know, I know." Adrian didn't sound particularly upset. In fact, there was a surprisingly patient tone in his voice. "I know you said him coming back wouldn't affect things between us. But saying one thing before it happens and then actually having that thing happen are two different things.""What are you getting at?" I asked, kind of confused."I want you, Rose." He squeezed my hand more tightly. "I've always wanted you. I want to be with you. I'd like to be like other guys and say I want to take care of you too, but...well. When it comes down to it, you'd probably be the one taking care of me."I laughed in spite of myself. "Some days I think you're in more danger from yourself than anyone else. You smell like cigarettes, you know.""Hey, I have never, ever said I was perfect. And you're wrong. You're probably the most dangerous thing in my life.”

“It was one thing to accept I couldn't have Dimitri. It was something entirely different to realize someone else could.”

“Throughout history, people with new ideas—who think differently and try to change things—have always been called troublemakers.”

“You need me? You yell. You want to leave? We go. I'll get you out of here, no matter what.”