Chapter 51

• "Right," he replied, running a hand through his hair and shaking his head. "I had never been in a real relationship before. I mean, high school relationships don't really count, right?"
• Nathalie shrugged. "Depends on the relationship. I count the one I had with Jonathan as a real relationship. I loved him. We went on vacation together twice, and he was my first. I don't see why that wouldn't be real. Sure, living with someone is different, and as you get older, things get more serious. But I won't dismiss Jonathan as just puppy love. He was very real."
• Ethan looked at her thoughtfully. "See, that's what I mean, Nathalie. You're very mature. More mature than many women my age." Before she could become too flustered by his praise, he continued. "Anyway, my high school relationship ended because I went to jail, so I guess that's different. And I didn't really love her. Back then, I didn't even know what love was. So, when I finally fell for someone, I didn't know how to handle it. We had a great time together, but then..." He sighed, looking away again. "I hadn't told her about my past. And we hadn't told her brother we were dating. He was my best friend, and I was sure he wouldn't want his little sister dating me. I was right."