I missed feeling that deep curiosity about people, that spark of excitement when you realized you had something in common or admiration when you uncovered a hidden talent or quality. Sometimes, I just missed liking people.

I always liked that thought, the way two people really did seem to grow into one. Or at least two overlapping parts, trees with tangled roots.

Her laugh,' she said finally 'She snorted when she laughed.' The corner of my mouth inched up but a new heaviness settled across my chest. 'I love when people do that,' I admitted. 'My best friend does it. I always feel like she's drowning in life. In a good way. Like it's rushing up her nose, you know?

When she connected with someone, she opened up like a rose to expose the most tender, pure, selfless, and loyal heart I'd ever known.