Our town was known for two things--no, three: salted fish, expertly dyed fabrics, and corruption.

“But adolescence is a time of hurts.”

“And let me tell you - carrying sad memories will wear you out. You've got to pu…”

“Tell me," he said, leaning forward with his elbows braced on his knees, "tell m…”

“Like blood out of a wound, a keening wail rose from the bottom of my heart and …”