"That doesn't mean I'll ask for anything." He gave her the north by bending the knee. He's given her far more than a great many have, and in doing so, he's hacked his way past her defenses with each stubborn word and every attempt he made to protect not only his people, but an entire country.

Upon the thought of him being a painter, she can't help the weak smile, the soft snort.

"Am I going to find you behind every door?"