Emboldened, Maria began dangling and wiggling her feet even more playfully. The faster she teased, the faster Cassius ran, picking up speed with joyful energy.
"How do you like it, Maria?" He called up to her, voice bright. "How do you like the Cassius Express?"
"It's absolutely wonderful!"
She answered, spreading her arms wide as if she really were riding a magic carpet.
"I feel like I'm flying right now—like I'm using some sort of magic to just float around!"
But then Maria realized something, and a flicker of concern crossed her face. She leaned forward slightly in the throne, peering down toward where Cassius's head must be beneath the wide seat.
Her voice was hesitant, worried.
"We've already left your estate, and we're on public roads now. Everyone can see you." She bit her lip. "What will this do to your reputation? A man of your standing, carrying a woman around like a servant?"
