Kiara's blushing intrigued Ostus; what had she been thinking about then? If they were on better terms, he would have teased her about it. There was no mistaking her transition into anger, however. Ostus expected a scene or some sort of clever retort back. After the immediate satisfaction of what he just said, he was even beginning to enjoy the banter a little. So it came as a complete surprise when Kiara actually gave in to his demand without fuss, without complaint, and without too much of a snide tone, all despite her anger.

The offer was even more stunning. At once he felt guilty. He could barely look at his horse as he muttered to the man which one he wanted. Eagerly, the stable master collected their coin and got to work preparing the beasts for departure, but Ostus could hardly feel excitement over knowing they would finally leave.

Why was Kiara so upset anyway? She was acting as though they actually were married, as though they actually did have a private life to talk about, as though he had given away her most intimate secrets. He had no idea of her private life; had he said something personal, too close to home? He would wonder what exactly her experiences while traveling were if he didn't feel so guilty about thinking he had crossed a line. Damn her for making him feel this way... over a [i]story[/i]! He knew, however, that the guilt was over how he made her feel regardless of what she had said.

He remained silent as they waited for the horses to be ready, offered to help Kiara on her own horse with only a gesture before mounting his own, and said not a word as they headed out to take their place in line to leave the city and catch up with the caravan they'd be traveling with on this first leg of the trip. In truth, he was tired of fighting with Kiara and didn't want to say anything to set her off.