"I was hoping you'd say yes." That smile of hers... Aleron catches himself staring at her with the same goofy smile that he started out with on seeing her. It grows at the idea of going for a ride however. That and her holding on to his hand roots him in place all the more. He could well stand there all day taking pleasure in nothing more than the warmth of her touch. Which of course will get them no where. He's got the vague inkling he looks foolish, which makes him turn red at the collar again.

Once he fully realizes he's not moved an inch, Aleron clears his throat and mumbles, "Pardon me, just one moment."

He places the tarts into the saddlebags with such care one would think he were handling priceless porcelain dishes. Once he's satisfied they will not get squished in any way, he swings back into the saddle and holds out a hand to help hoist Bethany up behind him.

It hasn't quite occurred to him that he's about to be treated to her needing to hold on to him for the duration of the ride. The man does not have enough guile to have planned that.