[b]"You really are the most stubborn man that I've ever come across."[/b]

An astonished laugh escaped her as she looked at Arthur. Why did he have to be handsome? This whole situation would be made far easier if there were no redeeming factors at all.

[b]"If you hang them out, your red coat will get covered in water drops..Then you'll have to go back looking like you found the only rainstorm in Leicestershire." [/b] 

Matilda put her hands on the edge of the basket, and perked an eyebrow at the Major. She bit her bottom lip in thought, and cocked her head to one side. It was indeed a curious pose, and one that was quite often dangerous. A cursory look about confirmed that nobody was about. Besides, there was a rather large linen sheet blocking them from view. 

With a small tug - Tilly made a claim on her basket. But before Arthur could protest, Matilda had kissed him. It was a soft, lingering peck on the lips, but it was a kiss all the same. The action made her feel warm and fuzzy, and she looked at him unapologetically.

[b]"Apology accepted."[/b] 

And with a playful wink, she retrieved her linen from the basket that Arthur still held, and continued to peg it up as though nothing had happened.