Chapter 102: Favorite Flower.
They walked over to his magnificent black stallion, Soar, whose sleek coat glistened in the warm sunlight. As Salviana reached out to stroke Soar’s mane, Alaric’s gloved hand moved to help her mount.
His touch lingered a bit longer than usual as he steadied her, his hands strong but gentle. She noticed the way his hands lingered on her waist, steadying her as she settled onto the horse, and the warmth of his touch sent a thrill through her. She shivered but waited for him to join.
Alaric mounted behind her, his arms encircling her protectively, and she felt the warmth of his chest against her back, his touch reassuring.
His gloved fingers brushed her hand briefly, and she caught his soft smiles, more frequent and tender than she was used to.
There was a comfort, a quiet intimacy in each gesture, that filled her with a new sense of closeness.
She leaned into him as Soar started forward, the rhythmic motion of the horse and the warmth of Alaric’s presence creating a peaceful, shared silence between them as they rode into the day together.
They soon reached the city so they rode in comfortable silence to a rental stable.
The stable was a humble structure at the edge of town, with wide paddocks and wooden posts weathered by sun and time.
They paid the keeper to watch over their steeds and, with a final pat on the neck for his horse, Alaric murmured his thanks to the gentle creature, feeling a slight pang in his muscles from the long ride.
Once they were assured the horses were cared for, Alaric took Salviana’s hand, lacing his gloved fingers with hers as they walked toward the heart of Wyfellon.
They found a flower shop nestled between a cobbler’s stall and a bakery that wafted with the scent of fresh bread.