Chapter 98: Pie, Proximity, and Private Counsel
Lyria looked at the slice of cherry pie extended toward her on the square of parchment, then lifted her gaze to Lucian's face. For a moment she hesitated, her posture straight and proper despite the unconventional circumstances. It was not every day a duke stood in a servant's chamber offering sweets as though it were the most ordinary thing in the world.
"Thank you," she said at last, her voice quiet and measured, the words shaped with the careful politeness expected of one in her position. She reached out and took the slice from him, her fingers brushing lightly against the parchment.
