They stood upon the quay of Tol Eressëa, their eyes locked.
“You’ve come.”
“Yes.”
“We had no warning.”
“I know. I wished it to be a surprise.”
Her voice warmed with humor. “Oh, it is that indeed, my lord husband.”
“Then I am gratified, my lady wife.”
Those who but heard the exchange would likely think it only a courteous greeting between two long estranged. But those who watched saw the great flaring of the Lights of each, and knew this was but the public face of their meeting. Oh, passions were engaged, and would be so even more surely in time, once the two were assured of their privacy.
And the onlooking Maia smiled in satisfaction.