***
Ember kept her smile as Evian pulled her along past the main buildings and other upright structures entirely while avoiding all Guard patrols not because they would be stopped or questioned but rather for convenience.
They walked into one of the Estate's many gardens and as they strolled through, the various flowers forming an intimate atmosphere around them, Ember chuckled,
"I still think it was rude," she said.
"What was?" Evan asked.
"Leaving the celebrations. It might come off as rude. I mean, Lady Myrine invited me and I didn't even give her the courtesy of a goodbye greeting."
Evian laughed as he chose a spot at the very center of the garden, carpeted with soft shrubs and he gently guided Ember to the floor not because she lacked the strength or coordination to do it for herself but rather as a personal attempt of his at being a gentleman. Likely a consequence of the mood.
