Skip to content

Dexter Quote by Sarah Dessen

“Plastic ware," he said slowly, "like knives and forks and spoons?" I brushed a bit of dirt off the back of my car—was that a scratch?—and said casually, "Yeah, I guess.Just the basics, you know." "Did you need plastic ware?" he asked. I shrugged. "Because," he went on, and I fought the urge to…” quote by Sarah Dessen
Download Open image
““Plastic ware," he said slowly, "like knives and forks and spoons?" I brushed a bit of dirt off the back of my car—was that a scratch?—and said casually, "Yeah, I guess.Just the basics, you know." "Did you need plastic ware?" he asked. I shrugged. "Because," he went on, and I fought the urge to squirm, "it's so funny, because I need plastic ware. Badly. " "Can we go inside, please?" I asked, slamming the trunk shut. "It's hot out here." He looked at the bag again, then at me. And then, slowly, the smile I knew and dreaded crept across his face. "You bought me plastic ware ," he said. "Didn't you?' "No," I growled, picking at my license plate. "You did!" he hooted, laughing out loud. "You bought me some forks. And knives. And spoons. Because—" "No," I said loudly. "—you love me!" He grinned, as if he'd solved the puzzler for all time, as I felt a flush creep across my face. Stupid Lissa. I could have killed her. "It was on sale," I told him again, as if this was some kind of an excuse. "You love me," he said simply, taking the bag and adding it to the others. "Only seven bucks," I added, but he was already walking away, so sure of himself. "It was on clearance, for God's sake." "Love me," he called out over his shoulder, in a singsong voice. "You. Love. Me.””

Sarah Dessen

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen, 2009

A character uses a cheap, everyday purchase to manipulate affection, exposing how material gestures can mask deeper emotional needs.

In simple terms: A cheap gift is used to control love.

Key Takeaway

Beware of love disguised as material exchange.

Themes

manipulation materialism relationships

Mood

anxious reflective irritated

Type

dialogue dramatic conversational

When to use this quote

  • dating
  • gift exchanges
  • conflict resolution
  • self‑esteem
  • communication

Key Concepts

psychology dependency gift-giving

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the gift truly represent?
  • How can we set healthy boundaries around material expectations?
A Different Perspective

The scene may exaggerate for drama, not reflecting typical interactions.

3.6 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Sarah Dessen

Explore all 1,251 Sarah Dessen quotes

More Dexter quotes

Browse all 126 Dexter quotes