And Doc knows that she trusts him, which is why he leads them along at an easy clip. Nova's plenty good at following, so neither of them need to say a word.

It's almost better that way.

He sneaks a glance back at her face, at the way she's soaking in the sun and the surroundings, and then returns his attention to the path in front of them. Eventually, they round the lake and begin the long trek back towards the inlet, and eventually, the stables.

It'll take them awhile, and Doc's just fine with that, even if it is a bit cold out, still.