"You're probably right." Eonwe looked around. "Does this mean I hVe to pretend I an sick when we go down there?" she said, recalling what Camomille had said.

"Probably..." Camomille said. "Nothing drastic though. Just maybe walk slow and lean on Crixus's arm, or limp, or wince when you sit down. But be gracious about it - i told them i learned everything from you, so they think you're a genuis!"

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"What??" her eyes went wide. "I don't...know...genius?" she cringed.

"Well, i had to say something." Camomille explained. "Where else would a 9 year old learn life skills? I couldn't go saying i was my acctaul age, now could i? Don't worry," she soothed, "Your 'sick' remember? All you have to do is graciously walk into the room, sit down, and smile."

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Eonwe mumbled something, but nodded. "Which dress?" she motioned to the dresses, looking from Crixus to Camomille.

She decided to choose the green dress. Once she had slipped it on, she placed a hand over stomach and began to walk slowly down to the main room. She had tonpretebd she was sick, so she figured this would work. Once downstairs, she gave the people a small smiled, and winced when she sat down. A perfect act, she said to herself as she sat.

Crixus followed her, impressed by her acting. He sat down beside her, glancing at her hand, wondering if he should hold it. They were pretending to be married after all. He hesitantly reached out and laid it over hers, not entirely sure whether he was permitted to grasp it or not.

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She blinked, then smiled slightly. She gripped his hand with hers. A bar maid came over "Your daughter really knows how to cook! And for you to teach her everything!" the girl gushed. Eonwe made a polite, regal bow of her head, "It is only her eagerness to learn that makes her so excellent at it." she gave a small smile. The bar maid asked if she could get them anything. "Tea, please, for me. And," she looked to Crixus, "An ale for you, dear?"

He smiled as she gripped his hand. ''Yes, an ale would be fine'' He watched her hand on his and smiled a bit more.

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She had a soft look in her eyes. She leaned in and whispered into his ear. "It's wonderful to see you smile." she kissed his cheek before pulling back and smiling at him.

He smiled back at her. ''Thank you. Your smile is pleasing as well. You do look pretty'' he said, not able to look her in the eyes as he complimented her.

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Her face brightened "Really? Thank you!" she squeezed his hand, glad for the compliment. "You're...very handsome." she blushed.

His heart warmed as he saw her smile and he turned slightly crimson at her next words. He nodded with a small smile, not sure what to say. He shifted in his seat and moved closer, so they now sat shoulder to shoulder.

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She felt her heart beat grow faster, and her cheeks grew warm. What was it about him? She studied him, then hesitantly slipped her arm around his waist and laid her head on his shoulder.

He was shocked at her actions but found that he did not mind them at all. He moved closer to her, showing her he didn't mind.

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She closed her eyes, relaxing against him. She was startled by the barmaid who approached with their drinks. The bar maid grinned at them "Here you are! Enjoy!" Eonwe smiled. "Thank you."