Blackbeak Bluff And the rings i am breaking

His words are short, but they are enough to comfort her for the time being.  She didn't realize she was holding her breath until he replied and it came out in one big gush.  Mirabelle realizes how childish — or doggish, maybe — she looks next to him with such emotive body language and pictures it in her mind.  Should she meet anyone else, she might respond differently but in all honesty she did not expect the man to ask with his previous silence.

I am sorry if I frightened you, she follows quickly, resuming their travels. and thank you.  She's quite glad he does not mind; she did not intend to use him as a bodyguard but had secretly hoped that his presence might ward off any unwanted attention.  Are you seeking somewhere in particular?