Thorns

*Ana*

“Ana?” Mykhol stands waiting with a measured smile.

“Am I interrupting something?”

“Not at all.” I go simply. “Sir Pendwick is on a walk. We stopped to chat.”

“Yes, I was on a walk,” Pendwick adds, stepping a little closer. “For my health,”

“Is that right, a walk?” Mykhol lifts his chin as if to stretch. It makes me notice his gown.

Again, I seem to be the only one dressed down today.

As always, Mykhol is dressed sharply. His hair is combed and parted to the side, and his golden earrings shine in the sun. He also has another new gown on.

However, Mykhol does not look like he is dressed for a walk any more than Pendwick is. But I push the odd note aside.

Who am I to question people’s preferences? My favorite color is purple, after all.

“Yes,” I answer. “It is a good day for a walk like Sir Pendwick was just telling me.”

“Yes, I was just-”

“So it is.” Mykhol cuts over, only looking at me.

“ And You both happened to want to go on a walk today of all days? At the same time?”