You flatter me shamelessly. I like it. Good.

But chance runs like a river through all our lives, and being prepared for surprise is the best we can do.

You've no fear of heights," puffed the girl. "None," I said. "I've heard that about you.

I know you pretty well." "Better than anyone I think." I smiled. Her compliment was like a gift itself, only more precious than anything that could be bought.

I turned around and headed back to the stairwell, planning to go downstairs and buy a chocolate bar from the vending machine. Maybe it would fall on me and end my misery.

I could not help staring back, for they made quite a contrast: Kate's pale skin and elegant purple suit, Nadira's dusky skin and exotic fiery sari. "Do we clash?" Nadira said dryly. "We certainly do," said Kate. "Would you like me to move?" "Don't trouble yourself.

There is a passion in you that scares me.