"Nobody's trying to replace anyone," Lacie says, a frown creasing her brow. "But... I think it does make a difference, if there's someone who understands how you feel."

It's really only because of her Kevin's presence in her life that she's come to understand this. She'd gone through her old life resolutely alone--not because she wanted to be, precisely, but because it was the best way to go through the kind of life she'd had. Her new life is different in nearly every way it's possible to be different, and the contrast has taught her a few things.

She gathers her knees up to her chest, wrapping her other arm around them.

"I don't think he's gone forever. I'd know..."