My mother would beam at me proudly; her little girl was back, beautiful as ever, sweet with the smell of bergamot and spray sheen.
-- Venus (chapter 1)

Importance: This quote represents the beginning of the pressure Venus has always felt to appear beautiful and perfect both for her family and the men she has relationships with.

The way I saw it, he was never going to get on his feet as long as I was carrying him around like a small child.
-- Venus (chapter 3)

Importance: This quote represents the resentment and fatigue Venus begins feeling in her relationship with Clint. Rather than seeing him as an equal and a partner, Venus begins to see him as more of a liability and a responsibility.

Right now he had a sensuous woman in his arms, moving slow next to him, letting him know he was capable, desirable, and, best of all, still alive. What more could he ask for...
-- Clint (chapter 4)