We swore sacred oaths to be strong and to save the planet and to be friends forever.

Too much sun after a Syracuse winter does strange things to your head, makes you feel strong, even if you aren't.

I pushed my ragged mouth against the mirror. A thousand crushed bleeding lips pushed back at me.

Having a friend made everything else suck less.

I want to tell him that it's just a stupid car, but bits of me are scattered all over town; the graveyard, school, Cassie's room, the motel, and standing in from of the sink in my mother's kitchen. It takes too much energy to gather all the bits together, so I just sit there and watch him implode.

You have to know what you stand for, not just what you stand against.

Homework is not an option. My bed is sending out serious nap rays. I can't help myself. The fluffy pillows and warm comforter are more powerful than I am. I have no choice but to snuggle under the covers.