Normally the sound of a band striking up sent a spark of anxiety through Zoe's body. When there was music, there was soon to be her voice mingling with them. All part of the job description.

Not tonight, though.

The room was full of jazz, as her concerts always were, but it was New Year's Eve and Zoe was an honoured guest. Just one more reason to love her record label; they were small, but they knew how to throw a party!

Zoe's glass was filled for the third time since she arrived, and she felt like she was on top of the world. She swirled around the room, greeting faces familiar and new, finally settling on a tapir finishing what could only be an amusing tale.

"...I get a twenty-minute sermon singing the praises of laser surgery. Says his eyesight's the best it's ever been. Five minutes into his set, he's in the middle of a story, isn't thinking about where he is, and walks right off the stage!"

"Clap, I can't see you!" Zoe chimed in as the laughter died down, parroting another of Alvin's fellow comedians.

"Always one with a punchline. I think you missed your calling, Zo," the tapir snarked back.

"Would you have me any other way?"

"Hmm, let me think...nahhh."

They clinked glasses.

"Laughter business is keeping you well."

"Yeah, can't complain. How's jazz treating you?"

"Doing pretty good. Just finished the year in New York."

"Ah, if only I'd been at home. Coulda gone into the city to meet ya!"

"Well what are you doing for St Patrick's Day?" Zoe narrowed her eyes playfully. "Minnie's got March Break coming up...no plans yet."

"I think I could fit playing tour guide into my schedule," Alvin grinned. "On one condition."

"Go on..."

"Got anyone lined up for a kiss at midnight?"

"I do believe my calendar's free."