[ Aymeric smiles when she rests her head against his shoulder. Truthfully, he has always liked it whenever she positions herself close to him in such a way. The feel of her in his arms as she is now seems right somehow, although he certainly wishes that she were less exhausted; not for any selfish reasons, naturally, but because he only desires that she be well and healthy and not so thoroughly tired as she is in this moment.

Before he responds, he pulls her in just a little bit closer so that he might lower his head enough that the tip of his chin is resting upon her head as well. Any contact at all between them is desirable, and that is what he seeks to achieve. ]

They would talk as they always do. It is nothing I have not heard, and I expect to hear more of it. What concerns me, as always, is preserving your reputation.

[ He does resume walking, as they must reach their destination soon; theirs can be a leisurely walk at least to an extent, and he knows he does not need to move at a burning pace. Still, the sooner they arrive there the better, so he does not linger too long either. ]

Should too many people heap insults upon you and your name, I fear that it would be yet another reason why you would consider me a poor partner.

[ But then, as if to counter the somewhat heavy turn this conversation has taken, he adds: ] I would hope that I will have many other opportunities to carry you and be close to you like this.