*******

Sarah stood beside the saddled horse while Daniel went around making sure everything was properly placed. They were set to go. Ule being the kind man he was, gave them enough dry food and water to last throughout their journey. He even gave them medicinal herbs and wrappers for the night.

"Thank you very much Ule. You have been kind to us"

"No problem. Go safely and pay me a visit when you return" Ule shook hands with Daniel

"We will" Daniel assured him

Daniel climbed the horse and then helped Sarah climb in behind him. Soon they were on their way.

Sarah who had never been on a horseback before wrapped her arms tightly around Daniel. Her long dark hair flew around her face. She didn't want to think of the way her body was pressed against Daniel's own nor did she want to think of the sweet sensation running through her and the urge to hug him tighter. Instead she thought of her time in the palace, Prince Isaac hatred for her, the queen’s betrayal...

But her treacherous heart continued to beat rapidly, reminding her of the position she was in. Sarah sighed... It was going to be a really long ride.

As dusk approached, they entered a new village. They decided to stop for the night. The horses needed to eat and rest.

Daniel searched for a suitable place where they could sleep. Since he didn't want to draw unnecessary attention to them, he choose an abandoned stall for them to spend the night. His arms were already sore. After helping her down he went in search of feed for the horse. Once the horse was well fed and ready for the night he returned to see that Sarah had prepared a bed with the wrappers they brought.

"How is your feet?"

"Fine...just a bit sore. I have already eaten so... Good night" she laid on one side of the bed

"Good night Sarah"

Daniel continued to stare for a while before turning away. Even though he was tired, he wasn't sure he would be sleeping much...not with Sarah by his side... Watching her sleep sounded more appealing. After he satisfied his hungry stomach, he slipped in beside her careful not to wake her up.

She was a beauty... He thought as he watched her sleep. He didn't think she knew just how beautiful she was. He took his Time memorizing every single outline on her face until sleep claimed him.

******

Sarah felt someone shake her gently. She opened her eyes...

"We need to leave early before the villagers start coming out" Daniel was already gathering their things

Just as she stood up a thought crossed her mind. They needed a disguise to tell the village warriors if they were questioned by them. Prince Isaac may have even declared them traitors to the kingdom. They would be at great risk if they used their real name and identity

"We need a fake identity in case we meet the village warriors" Sarah looked at Daniel

Daniel thought for a moment "we can say we are a couple going to visit a distant relative in Akanu village" he suggested

Sarah eyes widened in surprised - a couple- of all things he could think of. She looked away to hide her smile. She didn't want him to know just how much she liked the idea of them being a couple "okay.. Since it’s only in presence" she replied after some seconds. She didn't want to get carried away by his suggestion.

Daniel just grumbled in response and moved to where he tied the horse. She couldn't understand why he turned serious all of a sudden. Did she say something wrong? She was merely stating the fact. It was no reason for him to get upset.

She climbed the horse after him and wrapped her hands around him. She felt him stiffen at her touch.. What was wrong with him? Sarah wondered. Sighing she prepared herself to endure another painful ride.

*******