Life is still life. It’s still tough, complicated, and more than a little messy, with lessons to be learned, mistakes to be made, triumphs and disappointments to be had, and not every day is meant to be a party.

Now, now." He smiles, "Don't you worry 'bout a thing. Damen's right where you left him. Though I must say I can't believe that you left him. I underestimated you. I had no idea. Though I can't help but wonder how Damen would feel if he knew. I bet he underestimated you too.

Damen's The One. Always has been. Always will be.

Sometimes--sometimes it just hits me, you know? And, it's not getting any easier." I choke, my eyes flooding all over again. "I'm not sure that it will. I think you just get used to the feeling, the hollowness, the loss, and somehow learn to live around it

Because if you're gonna make someone choose, then you shouldn't be surprised when they don't choose you.

Somewhere in the crowd was at least one potential friend who'd understand the fundamental value of goofing off. Because if not, how boring would that be?

Where there is life, there is hope.