"I would not have offered if it was." Which was partially a lie, because she would have offered regardless; thus proving his assumption about her absolutely correct. But that wasn't the point!

Concocting an excuse to speak with him also wasn't the point; just a happy coincidence that holding his supplies for him also meant the chance to interact more than they might have otherwise. She wouldn't deny how much she enjoyed their time together, even if the last few hours had been somewhat hectic and a little embarrassing.

She stopped just near the front doors of the inn, turning to face him. "I will make sure there is a bowl of stew ready and warmed up for you, then. I can take your things now, if you like."