"Of course not. You overthink it. Everyone heard the Emperor's decree, and after tonight people will soon get used seeing you around and in no time they will be seeking your company."
The edge of his lips lightly bent. "Thank you for saying this. It warms my heart knowing that the only person I truly care for is not ashamed to be seen with me. But as far as others are concerned, far too naive and shallow your optimism is."
She put her hands on her hips. "Dearie me! You are such a prophet of doom."
Eyes bleak, his sharp gaze looked her over for a moment. After sighing lightly, he slowly opened his mouth and spat out the words one by one, "I am afraid I am not in the mood to go back to the festivities with you." He shook his head resolutely before she could talk. "I just feel I... I just feel I might not be able to hold back my tongue nor my temper." And then he turned his head away and gazed ahead, afar into the night.
