The Changing Stars — Nan Asquith

Tory's foot slipped and she fell back.

For one frightening moment she swayed, held only from falling into the deep, dark waters below by Julian's viselike grip.

"Hold on, Tory," he said, stretching his other hand toward her. She managed to clutch it and slowly, achingly, he pulled her to safety. His arms closed tightly around her. Tory leaned agoinst him; struggling to get her breath.

"That was a near thing. I'm sorry," he said. I didn't expect you to react quite so violently."

She said shakily, "I...it was my fault, too. I'm sorry."

"Shall we seal a pact of mutual forgiveness?" he asked, and slowly bent his head and put his mouth against hers.

There was thunder in her ears, her lips opened beneath his, and she was transported. Her arms went around his neck and everthing and everyone was forgotton....