The worst is when someone in your past trumps the person in your present, and you think to yourself: if I'd known this, then maybe I wouldn't have let him go.

We both have a lot of growing-up to do... A lot of the world to see & figure out on our own." -- Leo

You don't have to talk to someone to think about them and check up on them now and again.

After all, I think, isn't it always about a boy?

I'm glad you were both here," I finally manage, thinking how strange it is to be standing with the two people who made you, something most kids take for granted every day of their lives.

I think it's important to try to be present with whatever it is you're doing. And if you can't be present, take a break.

This time, I whispered that I loved him too. Then, I silently listed all the reason: I loved him for his gentleness. I loved him for being an amazing catch yet still vulnerable enough to be insecure. But most of all, I loved him for loving me.