Aria glanced up at him, smiling contentedly, a pleased twinkle in his eye.
"Thank you," he said, softly, and it sounded more than just thanks for the compliment, there was something deeper in it.

However, just then a mighty cheer rose up and people began to rush to the roadside, pushing one another to get a good view as a procession of horses and guards approached, leading an open carriage.
Aria tensed and stepped back from Damon, giving him an anxious look. He knew he'd soon realise what this celebration was for and he didn't know how he'd react.
It almost didn't seem to matter, Aria's heart was in his throat, his dear husband was so close.
Would he see him? Did he want him to see him?