"You really do not have to walk me back to my room, I can make it back myself," Maria said matter-of-factly to Arthur the second they were alone in the hall.
"I don't mind it," he replied while still holding onto her hand.
Maria's hand tingled where he touched her, and she had to admit that she did not mind him walking her back, either.
"I know I told your father that I would make sure you got to bed, but we have not had a chance to talk about what happened this morning. Or about the fact that we're now engaged to be married."
Maria felt her body tense and she struggled to remember to breathe. "We have a whole five days that we'll be locked away in a carriage together. Shouldn't we just end today on a better note and take the time to really discuss everything tomorrow after we've gotten some sleep? We've both had a long day, and I know it's because of my faults, but I promise to answer any questions or concerns you may have. I owe you that, at least."
