Pas de Deux

The forest thinned and the air became cooler. They were growing nearer to the ice barrier. Aurora found once again that she was very glad for the Guardian's cloak. At times in the evening, she could see her breath, but the strange black cloth kept her warm. As Devrim had no such luck, he wore a thick fur-lined coat that he bundled around himself to sleep. The days were still warm, but not hot like they had been.

Since leaving Junayd and Nurlan, Devrim had given up his overtures of love for the time being. They were alone, and despite his desires, he was afraid of making things awkward. If she accepted him, then they might do something they would regret. He longed to hold her tightly, but he wanted it to be her genuine desire and not a decision based on fear of the unknown. Devrim wanted to do things right. Her honor was his highest priority. On the other hand, if Aurora rejected him, they would still have to finish their journey and return home together. He pictured her stayi