This wasn't a place to be openly affectionate. True, there weren't courtiers about, but each passing hour brought more soldiers out into the training field. There was no need to test the bonds of their loyalty.

So, instead, his hand only moved to again squeeze affectionately at her arm, just above the elbow. It would have to suffice until they were properly away from prying eyes again.

"There's nothing owed, Anne, although I confess it difficult to turn down such a tempting offer."