Sage had come to terms with her loss, thinking that at least the white wine she had at home would pair nicely with the peaches. It was a small consolation, but at least there was something to look forward to when she returned home. Perhaps she would stop and get a cocoa from the Honeyduke's booth to help boost her mood, and her warmth.

At the sound of her name, Sage turned to find a face that was only somewhat familiar to her. The other woman might have been a few years ahead of her in the same house, probably closer to Tess in age; she could not recall the other woman's name. "Oh," the invitation was not unwelcome, but Sage rather thought she would be poor company. "I was about to head home," she answered truthfully. "In defeat of missing out on my favorite annual treat." Her smile turned rueful, not wanting to ruin anyone else's festive mood.