Galt smiled to himself, glad to see a bit of insight into her mind. He found it fascinated him, something he hadn't felt in awhile. He had been sweet on a girl or two when he was younger, staying up late at night, asking them any question under the sun. Whatever came out of their mouth, Galt was interested. It was a strange thing to experience, being close to a woman. But he found his curiosity now was greater than ever in his life, and again he remembered they were to be married. The thought thrilled him. But he could not lose himself to daydreams now, they needed to get back.

"Oh, I'll be fine." Galt assured her, getting up. He held his hand out for her to take, grinning. "I might be a worse rider, but I don't feel sick. You, on the other hand, are getting in bed and drinking tea as soon as we get back. Even if you won't listen to me, I bet your brother will agree." 

Once they were up, they gathered their clothes and put them in a burlap sack, and took what coats or jackets they could to shield themselves from the rain that still fell just above a sprinkle outside. The fire was doused and the door was closed firmly. The horses nickered as they approached, but they seemed none the worse for wear, and once Galt and Silke were mounted, Galt looked at Silke and asked if she was ready. Once she acquiesced, they would plunge into dreary landscape, Galt taking the lead as he had a good memory and could see the trail well enough now that he had already traversed it once. Periodically he would turn and look back at Silke to make certain she was upright and safe, but otherwise they kept their pace. The drops hitting the lake was a peaceful sight, and the small sounds of trembling leaves filled their ears until they saw passed the treeline, the estate now visible across a wide, cleared field. 

Galt was relieved they had both made it back quickly enough, but he lamented that they could not have stayed. He would be sent home before long, and they had a long couple of months ahead of them. He guessed they might have even less time to spend together, once the marriage was announced. Silke would be busy and there would be a lot of discussion. Galt wondered if he had to speak to her father as well, before too long. He had never even imagined doing that with the girl he married. He had always assumed he would become betrothed to some street rat like himself, with no parents and no connections. 

Galt allowed Silke to take the lead now, to better guide them to the stables. He might be alright riding the horse through a wide trail, but more minute maneuvering would likely be more problematic. Stablemen approached from under an awning, smiling at the two of them finally returning. Galt's head was soaked again, but his new clothes were relatively dry still and he imaged an hour or two indoors would solve the wet. Silke, on the other hand, needed rest. 

"We wondered about you, my lady, my lord." A younger stableboy said. He had a broad face and a dimpled smile. 

"We're fine, though your lady might need some rest. Help her off the horse, if you would." Galt said to the lad, a silent thanks written on his face.