Found:
Had I read the letter properly, I may have noticed that we were supposed to have an overnight stay in Frostbluff and planned accordingly. But then, both Rowan and I have always been travellers, neither of whom carried more than was strictly necessary, so having no personal effects to bring with us has made no difference.
He was surprised, however, that we were to spend the night here. It was not a surprise that he appreciated, I think.
He tries, though.
I know he's uncomfortable being around so many people. I suspect he is not overly fond of at least one in this small group. But he tries. For my sake, he tries, and I cannot fault him for that, even if I dislike putting him in such a position.
I'll make it up to him. I'm not sure how yet, but I will.
Dernwynn and Ruemax certainly enjoyed themselves, which was nice to see. Though the play we saw was short and didn't make a vast amount of sense, and the fireworks afterwards were a little clumped together, it was nevertheless a change of pace from the usual. That pair rolling around in the snow like a couple of teenagers was mildly entertaining, as was the snowball skirmish between Rue and Tilton.
I suspect the boy needed this distraction. He has spoken much of his upcoming wedding, and yet the distinct lack of Ria, even at this gathering, may not bode so well for their future. Whatever issues there may be that he is not speaking of, I do hope they are soon resolved.
I must admit, I found it all a little difficult myself. Not for the people, but for the terrain. Too much cold, far too much snow. Walking was a struggle. I tried not to show it, but I think Rowan noticed my physical discomfort as much as I noticed his mental uneasiness. When alone, later in the evening, he spoke of going to see Elias on my behalf to inquire about stronger pain relief, saying that he would keep a clear head for me should the concoctions be too mind-dulling. I'm still not sold on that idea. Better I ache than being reduced to a drooling mess staring at the walls!
This is not the first time he's expressed amused interest at the notion of me being drunk or otherwise incapacitated. I would find this suspicious were he anyone else.
I do hope he feels a little more at ease today. The first meetings are over, and it would be nice for him to find some enjoyment in this beyond being happy that he's making me smile.
