"Such a noble," he teases, close to her ear so only she can hear. "More worried about being seen than what you get to see. This way." He tugs her away from the main walk, lifting some overgrown vines to reveal a door. They slip inside. It's hotter, more humid, a small, tall room for tropical plants. And private. It's only here he releases her from his arm.

"But yes, it will be good for our ruse, which I think will keep suspicion off you. Should keep suitors off you, too. No vagabonds in seedy taverns for you." He grins at her, watching her eyes take in the foreign plants and gorgeous architecture.