Ileus's expressions tightened, but he nodded. "Let's reach the tunnel and then you can tell me."
"Okay!" she replied with a grin and then trotted her horse where Guarhal was.
Anastasia watched her going away and when she was at a distance she thought was out of ear shot, she remarked, "You are pretty close to Darla."
His fingers brushed her hips and went back to the belly. "We've known each other since we were kids. She is a year younger to me," he said affectionately. "There are only a few friends who you can depend on in your life and she is one of them. She has been with me on all my journeys in and out of kingdoms and realms. So yes, she is an integral part of my life."
