Her hand froze mid-adjustment.
Her cheeks puffed.
Her entire face bloomed red. "Meanie! Meanie!"
He laughed as she started playfully punching him on the shoulder with weak but rapid hits.
"Hey! Don't assault your escort. I'm delicate."
"You're the worst!" she huffed, crossing her arms and looking away like a pouting kitten.
"Also the best," Tobias added smugly.
Before she could retaliate with more slaps, the carriage suddenly lurched slightly as the driver called out. "We're entering Timberstead now! Inn's just ahead!"
Tobias peered out the window, eyes scanning the still streets.
There weren't many people out yet, probably due to what happened last night, though neither he nor Celeste knew the details.
The town was too quiet — almost eerie.
Still, he exhaled.
Finally. Finally, he was going to see the party after a while.
