Matlin shook his head in wonder. "The words—just came!"
Haazahri was still smiling. "No, you wouldn't be married."
"Why not?"
"Because," said Haazahri, "until this day you hadn't met me."
"Haazahri, listen...." he began.
"Don't start that again. I'm coming with you to Balata 'kai."
"Haazahri...."
But she swung to him abruptly, clutching his tunic and drawing herself close to him. "Matlin," she breathed tremulously. "Matlin, love...." They were in the pleasure district of Junction City, the lights a mad whirl-and-flash, the crowds noisy, drunken, unconcerned.
They stood together, as stone. But the blood boiled in their veins, and their hearts were not stone.
"Haazahri," he said. Then he kissed her.