Katelina thought it best to call her mother before Jorick had time to back out. The only problem was that he didn't have a phone. She sensed his reluctance when he admitted that Loren had one. It was only a short walk to his house and, though Loren had already left, they could get inside.

She bundled up in a too-big black coat and pulled her stocking hat firmly over her head. With a resigned sigh, Jorick led her through the front door and out into the night. White snowflakes ...