Love for a man like Rafe didn’t disappear overnight — apparently, not even after two years. She didn’t regret her decision to walk away — it was what she’d had to do — but still, she missed him.
-- Narrator (Chapter 1 paragraph 8)

Importance: Although Ari doesn’t think Rafe is the man for her, she cannot help but admit to herself that she misses him.

I did some things I will forever regret, but I’ve had a lot of time to think since then. Yes, I forced your hand, but the night you walked away from me, you told me you loved me. I’m here to prove I’m worthy of that love.
-- Rafe (Chapter 1 paragraph 45)

Importance: When Rafe first approaches Ari in her classroom, these are the words that he uses to try to convince Ari that he is a different man and is determined to win her love.

She didn’t need another man like...
-- Narrator (Chapter 2 paragraph 13)