He finally understood that God's presence was everywhere, at all times, and was experienced by everyone at one time or another.

Mike, however, heard nothing at all. Lost in her breathlike touch, he knew only one thing for sure: In the instant their lips first met, there was a flicker of something almost electrical that made him believe the feeling would last forever.

But you're disappointed." He brushed a strand of hair from her face. "It's not possible for you to disappoint me.

Grown-ups always say that things are complicated.

When you fall in love, love deeply. Be tough but also be open to the possibility of forgiveness.

Without you in my arms, I feel an emptiness in my soul. I find myself searching the crowds for your face - I know it's an impossibility, but I cannot help myself.

He always apologized, and sometimes he would even cry because of the bruises he'd made on her arms or legs or her back. He would say that he hated what he'd done, but in the next breath tell her she'd deserved it. That if she'd been more careful, it wouldn't have happened. That if she'd been paying attention or hadn't been so stupid, he wouldn't have lost his temper.