As a blush appeared on Penelope’s face, Crow studied her curiously, wondering what had crossed her mind that would make her so flustered. Personally, he’d thought their conversation had been quite lighthearted. Had he said something that embarrassed her? He opened his mouth to question her about it but didn’t get a chance before she told him where they were headed to now. Apparently the marketplace was next on the list. He put his brief confusion behind him as his eagerness to explore the city with her replace the emotion.

“I can’t wait,” he said with genuine excitement. No matter where they were, marketplaces had always been a scene he enjoyed. The lively crowds of vendors and consumers were thrilling, and there were often stands of goods that had been traded from neighboring kingdoms. He liked seeing the artistry and exotic produce from places like Medora and Waithen. This was a noble market too. That meant there would be a surplus of expensive products like jewelry and weapons that he wouldn’t be able to see in the outer villages, where there was no demand for such fine items.

Plus, the busy streets were the perfect cover for a thief.

While he had been keeping his hands to himself since he took on the title of viceroy, Crow couldn’t help but feel tempted to pocket a few coin purses or rings. Stealing was his favorite part of visiting any marketplace. He had gotten quite good at it and hadn’t been caught in years—aside from once in Younis when Hartley had sold him out to the local guards. There was no bratty kid to ruin his odds this time though. As long as he was careful, it could be the perfect opportunity for him to brush up on his skills.

Keeping the thought to himself, he met Penelope’s gaze with a roll of his eyes, “I may have my clothes picked out for me, but they’re nothing I would have chosen for myself. Everything is so bright and gaudy. The only nice thing about them is that the fabric is softer than what I wore as a peasant.” He shrugged and casted her a playful smile. “Besides, I don’t know what you’re worried about. You impress me no matter what you’re wearing, love… even if you’re not wearing anything at all.” He added the last part in a lowered voice, winking at her flirtatiously.