Freya held Rowan back, trying to stop him from taking another step. She didn't know what the law around here said, but these people looked too brutal and crude, and she was sure it would be the same with their fighting skills. She didn't want to see Rowan bleed because of her.
"Are you worried about me or scared that I might lose?" Rowan asked, looking at the small hands that grasped his arm tightly.
Freya bit her lower lip nervously. "I don't... you don't have to fight. We can just go back," she whispered.
Rowan chuckled, raising his hand forward to touch the girl's hair. He stroked it gently. "You're scared and worried," he remarked with a small smile. "As much as I'm happy to see you worried about me, my pride is also hurt that you believe I can't win a fight for my woman's sake."
"I... I don't mean it that way," Freya stammered. Her gaze on Rowan softened. She inhaled deeply, feeling his hand on her hair. It was a gentle yet comforting touch.
