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Heath’s face broke into a grin that was so like his mother’s I blinked in surprise.
He snapped to attention and executed a formal bow to his mother. “May I take my leave, my lady mother? Since you appear to have no further need of me, I have other duties to attend to.”
“Of course, son.” Lady Lyra motioned for me to hand her the refilled sewing basket. I passed it over, settling into my chair once more as she sorted through the contents.
Heath, however, didn’t move. The contemplative expression on his face mirrored his father’s common look.
“What is wrong?” Lady Lyra asked when she glanced up.
“Jas is going to be upset when I don’t come looking for her.”
“Perhaps.”
“I should try to find them before I leave.”
“You can if you wish.”
Heath nodded decisively. “I will.” He dropped a quick kiss to his mother’s cheek as he passed, striding toward the conservatory door.
Lady Lyra smiled as he disappeared inside. “There are moments I despair of raising the pair of them well with so many fae influences and so few human ones. I suspect every mother worries about such things, but blending two cultures adds an extra dynamic.” Her blue eyes appeared unfocused. “His soft heart gives me hope that he will resist the fae world when he reaches adulthood.”
“Is there really a chance of that?” I asked.
“Given the Unseelie court being what it is and the fact he is a Dullahan like his father—” Noting my confusion about the significance, she added, “Dullahans are a very powerful fae kind. It is easy for a young fae to be tempted to use that power for their own benefit and take advantage of those who are weaker. Considering many of the fae who do exactly that without the least twinge of conscience, yes. I pray my son does not succumb to that or similar temptations.”
Genuine worry clouded about her. “It is dangerous raising children while so enmeshed in court affairs.”
“Why not leave?”
Lady Lyra shook her head. “It would follow us. Greyson built his power base one alliance and relationship at a time. By making himself indispensable to the king, he made it so he could use that power for good. He used it to mitigate the king’s actions, protect victims, defend the nation, and preserve peace, despite the king’s actions.”
She frowned out across the lawn. “That power protects our children and me. But the power needs to be maintained.” With a glance at me, she added, “Which is why it is important that Kent takes the throne and establishes his own power base.” Her gaze shifted to focus on something just behind my shoulder. “Isn’t that correct, my love?”
I turned to find Kent and Lord Greyson approaching from the direction of the mansion.
Lord Greyson stood out like a dark shadow against the sun-drenched green of the lawn. From his inky hair to the matte texture of his dark clothing, he drew attention. Despite this, there was nothing dark about his expression as he met his wife’s regard. “Educating Mistress Rue on the basics of court navigation, I see.” He ducked beneath the awning, removing his gloves as he did. Then he greeted his wife with a kiss on the top of her head as he caught her offered hand, interlacing their fingers in a snap of magic that set my senses afire. The crackle of the magic dropped to a slight buzz as Lord Greyson turned to stand by his wife’s side, hands still clasped. “Power is necessary for any fae who wishes to move safely in court circles.”
“Even the king?” I asked.
His expression grew grim. “Especially the king.”
“I wish to speak with Rue,” Kent’s voice interrupted. “Alone.”
“Lady Lyra and I are required in the main salon,” Lord Greyson announced.
“Oh?” Lyra asked.
“The first wave of court officials has arrived with His Majesty’s usual list of demands.”
“Ah.” Lyra nodded and set her sewing and basket on the grass beside her chair with her free hand. “In that case, we best not keep them waiting.” She rose to her feet and let Lord Greyson draw her away toward the house.
Setting aside my work, I rose from my chair and brushed the stray threads from my skirts. “No Raven?” I asked with a glance around for Kent’s nearly constant companion.
“His uncle arrived with the court officials and Raven wished to catch up with him. Besides, what I wish to discuss is for your ears only.”
A frisson of unease skated across my skin, but I suppressed the urge to shudder. I glanced toward the conservatory doors. Our hosts hadn’t quite reached them. I smoothed the front of my gown, avoiding looking at Kent. I feared what I would see in his eyes. Had he decided to distance himself from us? It would make sense. Mela and I were a liability that he couldn’t really afford in the upcoming struggle for the throne.
Splitting his focus between politics and protection would be exhausting.
