`` we have been preparing for the festival for many months , and now it is nearly upon us . '' he slowly let me go , and i had trouble finding my breath . `` 'course , '' she grabbed the pile and placed them down one by one . his hands reached for her shoulders to steady her . carol had her own life , and now that she and the baby were safe , she was free to seek her own happiness . my gaze shot to my purse . 