"I'm sorry, I didn't mean t'suggest your relationship is less than chaste."

Lover is, perhaps, a strong word. For a pair from a similar time and place as Kate, she wouldn't dare impugn their honor. It just seemed the safest explanation.

Which is why she pulls up short, shock now in her eyes as well.

"Friend?"

Kate, too, glances at Lineave. Certainly the mare must back up her impressions?

"I just assumed — y'both have such affection for each other."