Manipulation - II

In evening Kael sat alone in his chamber, his hands resting on the armrests of his chair as he gazed out the window.

The events of the day had gone precisely as he had planned.

Lenora was breaking, her loyalty to her family crumbling under the weight of doubt and guilt.

She was close, but not yet his. The final step required patience and precision.

A knock at the door broke his reverie. He turned, his expression curious but calm. "Enter."

The door creaked open, and Lenora stepped inside, her posture hesitant but resolute.

She wore a simple dress of pale blue, her hair loosely braided.

There was a nervous energy about her, the kind that spoke of a decision weighing heavily on her mind.

"Lady Lenora," Kael said, rising to his feet. "To what do I owe the honor of your visit?"