"It's a big step," Krem protested, knowing she was teasing but feeling the need to defend his honor in this case. Of course the ceremony was boring. Ceremonies tended to be. But this was yet another milestone for the both of them.

They'd been through quite a few of those now. But he could hold himself together for the moment.

He kissed her hair gently. "Don't startle the sheep and goats," he protested. "Do your fireworks out in the front."