That spontaneous suggestion almost sent Puck into a meltdown.
"Thorin!" he called out, frustrated. "The party is about to start. Don't even think about going anywhere! You'll be the focus of these vampires' attention if you come in late."
He eyed Riona, almost implying that arriving late to the Blood Moon Masquerade with a troublemaker would smear his reputation.
But Thorin didn't heed Puck's warning. He wrapped his arm around Riona's shoulder and turned towards the courtyard. The sun was already setting, and it was safe for them to travel without sun-protection gear.
They just needed to make it to town before the dress shop closed for the Blood Moon.
While riding in a carriage would have been more ladylike and logical for Riona to wear an elegant dress later on, they were racing against time. Thorin opted for a horse instead.
He helped Riona climb up before jumping on behind her, taking the reins, and galloping away toward town.
