The inscription in your wedding band says ‘forever,’ Callie. And it means forever. I’ll love you until I close my eyes for the last time. And even afterward, I’ll love you.

After the pain, the pleasure.

All the people we loved, who have died, are still alive in the past. The only thing that really separates us is time. It’s a matter of perspective. That’s what separates optimism and pessimism.

How silly of her not to realize that strongest friends make the best enemies; they always know where the weaknesses are hidden.

But you’ll get used to it. Life has to be lived. You can’t sit by the road and watch it pass.

I’ve been noble since they took you to the hospital,” he said through his teeth. “I’m tired of it. I don’t eat, I don’t sleep, I can’t even work. I remember your voice moaning in my ear like the cry of the damned while I was having you,” he bit off, bending to her mouth. “You couldn’t get enough of me. You couldn’t get close enough to me. Your face when I fulfilled you... I ache every time I think about it.

Tate was probably on his way back to the nation’s capitol right now, she thought miserably. He would have protected her, and her child, but she’d sent him off in a fury. Great going, Cecily, she told herself. What a headline they’ll have now! Former Teenage Love Slave Killed By Vengeful Gambling Syndicate. That would give people something to read with their morning coffee!

Money isn’t enough. Happiness takes more than a padded bank account.

We all go through periods of anguish, times when we think we can’t face what lies ahead. But the only way to get past it is to go through it, straight through it. No detours, no camouflage, no running. You have to meet problems head-on, despite the pain.

Come on, forget your troubles and enjoy yourself. Tonight, there is no tomorrow. Eat, drink and be merry.