Sylvian and Iliana stopped at the center of the bustling market, pausing by a large stone fountain where several couples had gathered.
Despite feeling flushed from their run away from the palace grounds, he still wore his muffler securely around his neck, particularly his mouth.
"Here, take this bouquet," Sylvian said, extending the vibrant flowers to her. "She already declared us husband and wife."
Iliana felt her cheeks burn, but she didn't argue, gently accepting the bouquet from his hands. "Thank you," she answered, averting her gaze. "But we aren't husband and wife yet. That grandmother just wasn't hearing well."
Sylvian closed the space between them, leaning down to whisper softly against her ear, "If you want, we could be soon."
His eyes carried a deep warmth that made her heart flutter once again.
"Is that you, Iliana, the bakery girl?" a voice called out from behind.
