anyone;

[Wallace]

She watched with a smug little grin as the woman stalked off. Wallace had analyzed the witch's actions, taken her measure, and struck at the heart of the problem. Point goes to the underdog. She turned to share her victory with the man of the hour, only to find him looking at her in an entirely new expression she had as yet to cause on such a pretty face. Or any, for that matter.

Her breath froze and her smile faltered, confused by his reaction. Hadn't she just freed him of a pesky little burr that would not give him peace? She'd called the terrible woman out on her actions, and had clearly been correct as the wretch scampered off with her truth now known to him.

Ohh, but that delicious fire in his eyes brought her smile right back. Who knew the so-soft Tiphon had a buried mettle in that beautiful soul? So delightful! She'd very much like to see more of that, indeed!

She flinched as he snapped at her. It was not something she'd experienced before, and it hurt her heart. She tried to bury this new pain as he continued to scold her, hiding it behind a mask of defiance. He came forward and pressed his face near hers, throwing a flutter into her stomach. It took her breath away with startled unease and awe. But the closeness felt like a challenge, and her eyes narrowed and caught his fire within her own gaze. She battled with thrill, excitement, confusion, rebellion, hurt. No emotion outweighed the others, and it wasn't until he pulled away with clenched teeth that she regained her senses once again.

Still reeling from the puzzling experience, she remained quiet as she steadied her own breathing, watching him warily. What would he do next, banish her? The thought made her defiance burn brighter. Her chin lifted and her tail flicked boldly. This was her home. She had chosen it on her very own. She would not be thrown out to fend for herself again.

"Now why, Wallace, do you want me alone?"
His question immediately eases her, a bright smile returning. Yes! Finally, a conversation. Why the hell was it so hard to get one of those around here? Perhaps she could salvage what was left of their interrupted greeting.

She tilted her head to the side, brown hair falling limply against her neck. "It does make it quite difficult to have a proper conversation when you're constantly overshadowed and tripped by the masses, does it not? Alone, free, or not swarmed and herded; it matters not which term you use."

She brushed away the underlying bitterness still in his calm voice, and instead directed their topic to less menial things. His mind, his thoughts; those were not boring things. Despite his odd show of affection for the wicked mare as she left, Wallace was determined he had a fair amount of wit in that lovely noggin of his.

"How are you enjoying your Ischia? Is it to your liking thus far?" she asked with a genuine smile.

Wallace