@gingerreadsthings
Riftan was a knight apprentice that was raised way above his station by Maxi's father. He did that to send Riftan off to the war/dragon instead of going himself or paying fines for not supporting the king. The assumption was that Riftan would die and everybody knew that except for Maxi.
Because of that Riftan believed Maxi was married to him against her will. He also did/does not have any direct experience with women romantically. He got what he knows second hand from the other knights. So, he does not read her emotions well.
Add to that,
The miserable wedding consumation they had (they were given a few hours to meet and mate before he had to leave for the front or the marriage could be annulled, and Maxi didn't know what was going on)
Maxi did not step foot in the castle he was given as dowry for three years (Maxi didn't know she was supposed to go)
Maxi has not been able to express herself and it shows as fear or guilt
All of these things add up to Riftan believing Maxi feels disappointed and guilty about being trapped in a marriage she does not want. He asked on their wedding night if she wanted to back out. She said no so he made the decision to try and be a good husband. He's trying to woo her but at the same time he thinks it won't be good enough because he's essentially seen as a propped up lord sitting way above his station. So, when she cries he thinks that's the reason why.
Though it seems like a lot of time has passed, their one on one time has been limited and essentially monopolized by sex. They'll change as they get more time to talk.
D
