That kiss. For one long, glorious moment, everything was good and right between them.

And then the kiss was over and the moment ended and they were just two kids standing in a blood-drenched hallway, one leaving, the other staying. "I know," she said. "And I don't blame you for that at all." Honestly, even as much as it hurt, it was probably one of the most mature things she'd ever heard him say. "Thank you for not trying to use love as a way to get me to do what you want."

Her parents wouldn't have hesitated.

"When I come home, we can see what's left. See if there's something we can build on. But even if there isn't, I love you. And you'll always be my best friend."

She gave him a victory-sign and stepped back. "Go shower. I'll get you a portal."