“I know . . . I just . . . I want it all to end. But I don’t know what that would look like. What’s more human? Kinder? Releasing it, or letting it continue, unaffected? Or something else entirely? Eric wanted the code so he’d have more control and the ability to change how the Registration works. Maybe I can do that.” Lynell pauses, remembering the words that sustained her. “‘Don’t settle for what has always been,’ my dad said in the letter. ‘Demand better. Be better.’” She shakes her head. “If only I knew how.”

Daniel reaches over and grabs Lynell’s hand. “I don’t have an answer. But I know one thing: I know you’ll make the right decision. I know you’ll choose good.”

“I’m not so sure,” she says. “I screw up all the time. I mean, look at you. Two bullet wounds. If you’d fallen in love with someone else, you—”

“Let’s get one thing straight,” Daniel says, cutting her off. “I love you. All of you. I don’t care who you are, where you’re from, or what you’ve done. Lynell Elizabeth Carter, yesterday, today, tomorrow, and forever, I’ll love you.”

She stares at him before leaning into his bed and pulling him into a deep kiss.

“I love you, too. More than life itself.”

They stay up and watch the clock tick to 12:01 a.m., hands clasped together. She’s done it, she’s outrun the Registration. Her life lies before her, an unwritten book full of blank pages waiting to be filled.

With good.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I have loved writing stories since I was a child, but I truly believe I would not be here, witnessing my debut novel enter the world, if it wasn’t for my incredible parents. My mom and dad have supported me and my dreams since the beginning and cultivated my love for writing, reading, and learning. Without their love and encouragement, I would have given up long ago. Mommy, you are my best friend and the best evidence that there is genuine love in the world. Daddy, you taught me every day how important joy and forgiveness are. You exemplified selfless love, loyalty, strength, bravery, humility, and wisdom every day. Thank you for guiding me through both the journey of life and the journey of writing a book. More than anything, I wish you could be here to see this book on the shelves. Thank you so much for going above and beyond to be fantastic parents, teachers, protectors, friends, and supporters. I could never thank you enough for all you’ve done for me.

I would be remiss to not thank my incredibly encouraging sisters, Meg and Haley. Despite being super busy running their own businesses, raising children, and traveling the world, Meg and Haley continually make time not only to read my manuscripts, but to discuss them with me and commend my hard work. Haley, thank you for always being there for me no matter what. You exemplify persistence and hope every day. Meg, you are one of the most honest, loyal, and talented people I know. Thank you for being my biggest fan. You’re my spider sister for life.