Feeling better Quote by Susan Ee
““We walk for about an hour before Raffe whispers, “Does moping actually help humans feel better?” “I’m not moping,” I whisper back. “Of course you’re not. A girl like you, spending time with a warrior demigod like me. What’s to mope about? Leaving a wheelchair behind couldn’t possibly show up on the radar compared to that.” I nearly stumble over a fallen branch. “You have got to be kidding me.” “I never kid about my warrior demigod status.” “Oh. My. God.” I lower my voice, having forgotten to whisper. “You are nothing but a bird with an attitude. Okay, so you have a few muscles, I’ll grant you that. But you know, a bird is nothing but a barely evolved lizard. That’s what you are.” He chuckles. “Evolution.” He leans over as if telling me a secret. “I’ll have you know that I’ve been this perfect since the beginning of time.” He is so close that his breath caresses my ear. “Oh, please. Your giant head is getting too big for this forest. Pretty soon, you’re going to get stuck trying to walk between two trees. And then, I’ll have to rescue you.” I give him a weary look. “Again.” I pick up my pace, trying to discourage the smart comeback that I’m sure will come. But it doesn’t. Could he be letting me have the last say? When I look back, Raffe has a smug grin on his face. That’s when I realize I’ve been manipulated into feeling better. I stubbornly try to resist but it’s already too late.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Radiant, Book 1 by Susan Ee, 2015
A character uses sarcasm and exaggerated confidence to mask insecurity, revealing how manipulation can masquerade as encouragement.
In simple terms: People hide doubts behind bravado, and others can manipulate that.
Recognize when compliments feel like control.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- friendship
- personal development
- overcoming self‑doubt
- recognizing manipulation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do I use sarcasm to protect myself?
- How can I spot when encouragement is actually control?
The humor may downplay the seriousness of emotional manipulation.