"I don't need help climbing a horse, Ares," Eleanor laughed, her heart racing.
Ares's hands lingered on her waist as he lifted her onto the saddle. It was the same horse she had used to escape last time without a saddle.
"Oh yes, you do, Little bird," he teased, tugging her dress playfully.
Eleanor's cheeks flushed brightly. She hastily donned her hood, concealing her face.
Kaito trotted up on his horse, grumbling, "I am still surprised, hurt and disappointed you didn't kill him."
Ares settled in behind Eleanor, his arms wrapping around her. "Should I apologize?"
"I always thought you'd get to him first," Kaito frowned.
Ares's voice dropped to a low mutter, "Consider this an escape for him. He will find peace knowing that he didn't die by my hands."
He forgot himself, Eleanor's presence momentarily slipping his mind. However, her subtle shift hinted she'd heard him loud and clear.
