Nicole Renard

• Quote 1

  • “He took something from me that I can never get back.”
  • This poignant line reveals the deep trauma Nicole suffers after being assaulted by Larry. The phrase "something I can never get back" indicates not just the physical loss, but also the emotional and psychological impact of the assault, leaving her irreparably changed. It also highlights the novel’s theme of loss and violation.
• Quote 2

  • “I had always thought of myself as pure.”
  • Nicole’s perception of herself before the assault is one of innocence and purity. The assault destroys this self-image, and the contrast between her former self and the person she becomes is central to her character development. This loss of innocence reflects the broader theme of corruption and betrayal.
• Quote 3

  • “You didn’t do anything, Francis. You were just a child.”
  • This line highlights Nicole’s forgiveness towards Francis, despite his guilt over not protecting her. Nicole recognizes that Francis was not responsible for the assault, showing her maturity and empathy. This quote marks a pivotal moment in the novel, as it allows Francis to begin forgiving himself.
• Quote 4

  • “I don’t want your pity, Francis. I want you to remember me as I was before.”
  • Nicole’s plea for Francis to remember her before the assault shows her desire for dignity and self-respect. She does not want to be reduced to her victimhood but wishes to maintain her identity and agency. This reflects the theme of empowerment despite suffering.
• Quote 5

  • “I tried to get it back, but I couldn’t.”
  • This line, spoken after Nicole’s emotional and physical recovery, reveals her ongoing struggle to reclaim her sense of self after the trauma. The inability to "get it back" suggests that healing is not linear, and trauma can never fully be erased. Nicole’s inner conflict between moving on and remembering is central to her character.
• Quote 6

  • “I was afraid of you, Francis, because of what you might do.”
  • Nicole’s fear of Francis here shows her own emotional complexity. Although she loves and cares for him, she is also scared of his obsession with revenge against Larry. This adds a layer of tension to their relationship, highlighting the way guilt, trauma, and love collide.
• Quote 7

  • “I thought you were a hero, but you’re not.”
  • Nicole’s disappointment in Francis is a key moment in the novel. It shows that heroism is not as simple as it may appear, and it points to the idea that real heroism is often more complicated than simply killing a villain or seeking revenge. Nicole challenges the notion of glorious revenge and calls Francis to confront his moral and emotional complexities.
• Quote 8

  • “We’re both broken, you and I.”
  • Nicole’s recognition that she and Francis are both victims of trauma marks a moment of connection between them. Both have been deeply scarred by Larry’s actions, and this shared pain creates a bond that transcends the events of the novel. It’s also an acknowledgment of the long-lasting impact of their experiences.