of course , it also showed him how easily he could kick his way out of his rickety prison if he had to . she 'd always been a good girl and sometimes i wondered if she only kept up with our deal because she thought i would change my ways . by the stars , had dallas told everyone ? `` cut it out , kids , '' alec said , his dark eyes laughing . then it finally occurred to me that i had n't shed a single tear . 