María

“I hated when someone told me to smile, as if a smile of mine belonged to them and not to me.”
― Danielle Lori, The Sweetest Oblivion

“There are three sides to every story. Mine, yours and the truth.” —Joe Massino”
― Danielle Lori, The Sweetest Oblivion

“I crept into his lap. “What am I, Reid? Say it again.”
“You’re a witch.”
“And what are you?” He didn’t hesitate, and my heart swelled. “I am too.”
“Only partly right, I’m afraid.” My smile—now genuine—grew at his confusion, and I leaned forward, rubbing my nose against his. He closed his eyes. “Allow me to fill in the gaps for you.” I kissed his nose. “You are a huntsman.” Though he recoiled slightly, I didn’t let him escape, kissing his cheek. “You are a son.” I kissed his other cheek. “You are a brother.” His forehead. “You are a husband.” His eyelids and his chin. “You are brave and strong and good .” And, finally, his lips. “But most important, you are loved.”
― Shelby Mahurin, Blood & Honey

“Hope isn’t the sickness. It’s the cure.”
― Shelby Mahurin, Gods & Monsters