“Don’t go falling down any more stairs, avoid sharp objects, and above all, above all, keep away from disreputable people, alright?” A tear rolled down Ophelia’s cheek. Thorn’s words were carving out an abysmal void inside her. She knew with absolute certainty that from the moment they separated, she would never know warmth again. Thorn swallowed against her shoulder. “Oh, and by the way, I love you.”

