He grinned. “That’s because pixies are ever-after. We’re magic, baby. Just ask Matalina.

Growing up is hard, love. Otherwise everyone would do it.

You tried to slide his original curse back onto him?” Al said in wonder. “At the restaurant? And I stopped you? Sweet mother pus bucket!” he exclaimed, and I swear, dust sifted from the ceiling. “Rachel, we have to work on this communication thing.

I'm only going to be here for a time, then leave you." His gaze met mine. "And I will cry when I go, because I could love you forever.

What are you?" I rasped. It smiled. "Whatever scares you.

Sure, it was nice now, but eventually there would be running and screaming and blood on the floor.

But a slow, deeply satisfied smile came over him, and his breath quickened. 'So softly it starts,' he whispered. 'Foolishly clever and with an unsurvivable trust. It just saved your miserable life, that questionable show of thought, my itchy-witch.' Al’s smile shifted, becoming lighter. 'And now you will live to possibly regret it.