From the Bookshelf of Addicted to YA…

“Sometimes, “ he gasped, “the family you choose …is stronger than blood.”

Khalid smiled again. “Because it reminds me that all things come at a cost. That every decision we make has consequences.”

“It’s late,” Khalid said. “You should sleep.”
“What are you talking about? I’m not doing anything.”
“Stop smiling and go to sleep.”
“How do you know I’m smiling? Your not even looking at me.”
“I can feel you smiling, Shazi.”
The warm sound of her laughter stole through Khalid’s skin, heating
the coldest reaches of his soul.

“I hate your scars, too,” Shahrzad murmured. “But skin is skin, be it a man’s or a woman’s. And pain is pain. Don’t lament mine more than I do yours. And trust that—if ever there comes a time when an injustice is done to me—you will be the first to know.” She pressed a kiss to his injured palm. “And I will stand by your side as we right it.”

“Take help when it is offered, Khalid-jan. True strength isn’t about sovereignty. It’s about knowing when you need help and having the courage to accept it.”