Sissi2

“I hate that there’s a chance you might care for someone else. I’ve never despised something more in my whole existence, but I refuse to become the monster my father believes I am. I will never force myself upon you, even if some untamed, wild beast thrashes inside me, begging for a chance to destroy anyone or anything that might steal you away.”
― Kerri Maniscalco, Becoming the Dark Prince

“Come back to me, love. Come back.” I’m still struggling to breathe, desperately searching his eyes for answers. Explanations. “Where?” “Here,” he whispers, pressing my hands to his heart. “Home.”
― Tahereh Mafi, Imagine Me

“(…) But I have never known jealousy until I was introduced to it aboard the Etruria. I want to deny it, to pretend I’m some perfect, unfeeling machine who didn’t care, but that’s a vicious lie. I cared. I cared so much I wanted to punch a wall, as senseless and idiotic as that would be. I considered shoving that pompous ass of a ringmaster right off the deck, knowing I’d rejoice in his drowning. It gave me unparalleled pleasure just imagining his demise. You have no idea the strength it takes, shoving that beast inside, remembering that’s not the kind of person I want to be. Not now, or ever. I will not become a monster for you. The kind of love I crave isn’t cruel or possessive. Do not expect me to act either way. I will never beg or use subversive tactics to win your heart. I will earn it because you choose to give it to me of your own free will, or I won’t have it at all. I will never manipulate you. No one should. And if they do? They aren’t worth your time.”
― Kerri Maniscalco, Becoming the Dark Prince

“You’re a Bennett.”
“I don’t know that I appreciate the derision in your voice. It’s a nice name. One I’m proud of despite everything.”
“Joe is your son. Which makes him a Bennett.”
“Yes. That’s usually how it works.”
“Which means Kelly is a Bennett.”
“It’s good to know your talent for stating the obvious remains remarkably intact,” she said dryly.”
― T.J. Klune, Heartsong