Twilight

"I love you," he said. "It's a poor excuse for what I'm doing, but it's still true."

We don't always need a reason for the things that we do. Sometimes our foolishness is so blatant and unfathomable; it's simply so strange that we could be this way. Every slightest thing an issue, every little bit a bother. But we can only suffer from cardiac arrest or live with mental inhibition, and the latter's less painful than the former.

Then he smiled his crooked smile, and took my face between his hands. "I told you I'm not going anywhere. Don't be afraid. As long as it makes you happy, I'll be here."

The one thing that we can always try to preserve is our responsibility and accountability. Promises made where they will never be broken.

"I will," he promised. His voice was beautiful, like a lullaby. "Like I said, as long as it makes you happy ... as long as it's what's best for you."

What brings us joy doesn't necessarily do the same for others. Sacrificing our happiness may seem stupid and naive, but that's what human beings do.

"I think that boy is in love with you," she accused, keeping her voice low.

"I think so, too," I confided.

"And how do you feel about him?" She only poorly concealed the raging curiosity in her voice.

I sighed, looking away.

"That's the beautiful thing about being human," he told me. "Things change."