The market streets were still busy with late evening traffic when Leander and Aria left the eastern warehouses behind. Leander walked close at Aria's side.
When she deemed it finally safe to speak, Aria pulled her cloak tighter, green eyes flashing with exasperation.
"You did not have to rip the irons off like that, You scared everyone and exactly the sort of display that will reach the palace before morning."
Leander's mouth curved in that familiar, arrogant half-smile. "He enjoyed seeing me bound. I enjoyed denying him the pleasure. Simple math."
"You realize you're here as his guest?"
"I can get lodgings anywhere I wanted, my Duchess."
She sighed, running a hand through her hair. Then why…"
"To piss him off."
She scoffed.
"I mean!….why are you here?"
"To see my business partner of course."
Just great.
