I bit a pillow. Or two.

It was the first time I'd ever felt truly jealous of anyone else in my entire life.

The waves of pain that had only lapped at me before now reared high up and washed over my head, pulling me under. I did not resurface.

I’m afraid you’re going to have to make a choice.

And yet, I found I could survive. I was alert, I felt the pain - the aching loss that radiated out from my chest, sending wracking waves of hurt through my limbs and head - but it was manageable. I could live through it. I didn't feel like the pain had weakened over time, rather that I'd grown strong enough to bear it.

The best part is coming." "What's the best part? You swallowing an entire cow whole?" "No. That's the finale.

Jasper chuckled, shaking his head. " You truly are one frightening little monster.