Sophie

“You’re a really terrible father,” I said, matter-of-fact. “You know that, right?” “Of course I know it. I’m dumb but I’m not stupid,” he said. “It’s not like you’re winning Daughter of the Year prizes yourself.” “Oh, fuck off.” “Same to you.”
― Kate Alice Marshall, What Lies in the Woods

“I’d known from the start that he’d sought me out because my sad story was written on my face and he was hoping to borrow it.”
― Kate Alice Marshall, What Lies in the Woods

“There is a wilderness in little girls. We could not contain it. It made magic of the rain and a temple of the forest.”
― Kate Alice Marshall, What Lies in the Woods

“He dropped the taunts and looked me in the eye. “Yes, you will be of my flesh, my Hand,” Roman said.

I felt myself blanch – I knew the price would be steep, but that didn’t sound like a job offer. I wasn’t sure what he was or what he meant, but I had a sinking feeling that I would regret my ignorance very soon.

“It’s only fair. A body for a body. Unfortunately, you don’t have much time.” Roman paused for dramatic effect. “Tick tock, kitten,” said the alligator.”
― Mel Harlan, The Demon You Know