There was something so heavy about the burden of history, of the past. I wasn't sure I had it in me to keep looking back.

Everything always gets crazy at the end. You just have to keep going, regardless of how awful it gets. So that's what I do.

And that was it. All this buildup to a great leap, and I didn't fall or fly. Instead I found myself back on the edge of the cliff, blinking, wondering if I'd ever jumped at all. It's not supposed to be like this.

But I'd long ago learned not to be picky in farewells. They weren't guaranteed or promised. You were lucky, more than blessed, if you got a good-bye at all.

I've always written in first person. It gives the readers more insight.

It's funny how someone's perception of you can be formed without you even knowing it.

Stop it. Seriously. This isn't funny.' 'You're right.' A pause. 'It's pathetic.