The Do-Over

by Lynn Painter

“ ‘ass’ isn’t a bad word. It’s a donkey.”

“Tea drinkers are usually pushers who swear by the fact that if you just try tea the way they drink it, you’ll like it.”

Would I have liked me if I met me?

“That’s genius.” “No, it’s common sense.”

On a normal day when you’re feeling less than positive, force yourself to change your thinking.

I had a marvelous time ruining everything

We sat there like that, quietly watching the world all laid out in front of us, for what felt like a very long time. It wasn’t uncomfortable, though—just silent.

I told him a million little stories, but he seemed fascinated by each and every one. He joked and teased, but it was warm and sweet and everything my lonely heart needed.

I felt like he knew me. And I rarely felt that from anyone.

But he wasn’t going to remember it. Not any of it. The day had been unbelievably wonderful, yet when I woke up tomorrow morning, it wouldn’t have existed for anyone but me.

I have to confess that I think I’m obsessed with you.

“I love you, Nick Stark.” I blinked fast and was surprised by how emotional I felt. My throat was tight as I said, “It won’t count tomorrow and it’ll be like I never said it, but on this Valentine’s Day, I fell in love with you.”