Reyland tilted his head to the side, his brow furrowed.
“You said that before. You don’t have to wait with me. I’ll…I’ll only slow you down. Your legs must either be freezing or numb. It’s worse if they’re numb.”
“They’re numb,” Marian replied flatly.
“Wha-What?! Why didn’t you –” Reyland stared at her, his tiny eyes wide, his cheeks wobbling as his lips shook.
He closed his eyes and aspirated, again.
“Go inside. I’ll be right behind you. Go through the back, the guards –”
“No.”
“I’ll slow you down!” Reyland pressed, a slight edge in his voice.
“I’ll carry you.” She said flatly.
Reyland gaped at her.
“Wha– No.”
“Why not? You’re cold too, right?”
“No. I’m not. I’m fine.”
“But.”
“Look at me, Marian. Do I seem cold to you?” He asked exasperatedly.
She looked closely and eyed h
