You're Too Kind

Derek Mason looked at her, a smile playing on his lips. "What did you say?"

Avery Miller turned away quickly, sealing her lips. "Nothing... nothing at all! I was just... marveling at how truly wonderful you are!"

Derek chuckled, "Have I ever let you down?" He regretted the words as soon as they slipped out, spoken without thought.

Avery's expression remained cheerful, unchanging. Derek relaxed, turned away from her, and bent down, saying, "My lady, allow me to carry you down."

Avery, amused by his antics and hindered by her injuries, climbed onto his back without a fuss.

Just as she was about to grip his shoulders, Derek suddenly leapt up from the ground, startling Avery into a soft cry.

Derek's laughter followed, mischievous like a child who had just played a prank, yet it added a playful charm to his gentle features.