Hermia holds me as if we are holding each other up, which I suppose we are. I swing her around gently.

"It will be good for the town to have a place that's dedicated to being happy. Perhaps that will help prevent fights in its own way."

"Yes," I say, smiling at her. My dearest always has a positive way of looking at things. "These simple pleasures are important. And," I add, "think of how many people may meet their future husbands and wives here." That's a cheering sort of thought.

We move about the room, and I keep an eye out for Micah. I see him talking to a blonde haired girl, and my heart jerks painfully, but it's not Danika.

"I keep being afraid," I say softly, "that Micah's friend will show up. I really must talk to him soon."