It was bad enough when I thought your ghost was haunting me; I don't think I could handle the real thing.

Strangely enough, it wasn’t Gabe who was haunting my thoughts, though. That job belonged to a pair of sinfully black eyes that had lost their edge when they studied me, turning as soft and sultry as silk.

Patch's eyes were slate black, darker than a million secrets stacked on top of each other. He dropped his gaze to the ring in his hand, turning it over slowly. "Swear you'll never stop loving me," I whispered. Ever so slightly, he nodded.

I gave up something I wanted for something I need. And I need you, Angel. More than I think you'll ever know.

If you keep running from me, you're never going to figure out what's really going on.

I hung my fingertips on his waistband, tugging him closer. Patch buried his face in the curve of my shoulder, his hands flexing over my back. He gave a low groan. "I love you," he murmured into my hair. "I'm happier right now than I ever remember being.

Before I forget, here's your homework. Where do you want me to put it?" She pointed at the trash can. "Right there would be fine.