With Adrian providing her support, she protected against it, allowing her to get up. At first, she stood, wobbling, but gradually became more sure-footed. "I think I am okay now," she said, looking up at Adrian. "I will pay you back the two gold coins you offered to that child. I am sorry for your inconvenience." Adrian had earlier explained what had happened, making her feel strange, as this incident had never happened to her before. She adjusted her dress, dusting off the sand that had stuck to the fabric. It seemed everything that could go wrong today had gone wrong.
Adrian, despite the underlying discomfort, offered a small, understanding smile. "You don't need to apologize. I'm just glad you are okay," he replied, his tone gentle. Unspoken words between them hung in the air like a weight. His eyes held a question in them that he didn't dare to speak aloud.
