Sunspire Mountains Closer

His assumption was correct. Shandra blamed her ex-lover almost entirely for his trespasses, yet she knew at some level that she had played a part in driving him away. Still, she chose to focus on the pain he had caused her for leaving, and to allow it to keep her in a sour mood. Truth be told, she was a bit embarrassed that Howl had heard her outburst, and this embarrassment seemed to amplify when he sarcastically emitted an outburst of his own.

She blinked, unable to react. Fortunately,  he spoke flattery towards her, which redeemed him for his behavior. She felt mocked and ashamed, a little violated. However, the compliment delivered such a swell to her ego, the female sort of grinned and then laughed awkwardly. "Thanks? Haha."