“I don't think you need to worry too much. I wouldn't actually let her tell my fortune if I thought there was a chance she'd get it right.” The prospect of being told that her life would unfold exactly as she expected it to was a little too daunting to face. “Just don't get her started on the voodoo."

The near collision made her lose her balance, and for a split second she was afraid she'd fall over, but then his arms were around her to hold her steady. The apology she was about to utter died on her lips as her eyes met his. She was instantly lost in the blue of his eyes, in the feel of him so closer to her, and she could neither move nor look away. He seemed almost to be leaning closer, and she was certain she'd even forgotten how to breathe.

The sounds of the timer actually made her jump slightly, and then he was moving away. What just happened?! “I'm sorry,” she managed. “I wasn't watching where I was going.” She forced herself to focus on what he was saying, and not the fact that he'd been so close she could feel his breath against her lips. The idea of singing with him brought the smile back to her face, helped her to focus on something besides the strange moment they'd just had. “I'd love to,” she replied, already excited about the idea. “I'll have to ask my dad, of course, but I think he'll say yes. He likes carols.”