Without thinking, Celia released Dominic's hand. It felt natural this time, but Lacey still saw what had just happened.

"You and Dominic are..." Lacey stumbled over her words, her face morphing from shock to the expression of a heartbroken teenage girl.

Celia quickly interjected, not allowing anyone to interrupt, "I almost tripped back there, and Dominic just lent a helping hand. There's nothing between us." She hastily continued, "I've got things to do, so I'll leave you two ...