Chapter 10: Whispers of influence

Lysandra found Theron in his study, moving restlessly before the large windows. that overlooked the front courtyard. The late afternoon light threw long shadows across the room, deepening the lines of agitation on his face. When she entered, he turned with such sudden intensity that she instinctively paused in the doorway.

"Where have you been?" he demanded, his tone oscillating between concern and accusation. "I've had servants searching the entire house."

"Forgive me, my lord," she replied, keeping her voice calm and respectful. "I was gathering herbs with Saren for tonight's dinner preparations when your message found me."

The mention of such a mundane task seemed to mollify him slightly. "The kitchens? What business do you have there now? You're my personal secretary, not a scullery maid."

Lysandra stepped further into the room, carefully calculating her approach. Theron's mood seemed more volatile than usual, his eyes held that feverish gleam that had begun to appear with increasing frequency.

"Old habits," she offered with a small smile, designed to seem both humble and warm. "Sometimes I find comfort in simple tasks."

Her response struck the right balance, his expression softened, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. This was the delicate dance she performed multiple times daily now, soothing his insecurities while maintaining the careful distance necessary for her own safety.

"I suppose that's understandable," he conceded, moving to pour himself a drink from the crystal decanter on his desk. The slight tremor in his hand didn't escape her notice. "But I needed you here. Cassian sent word about the arrangement."

Lysandra's pulse quickened, though she kept her expression composed. "Oh? Has he agreed to the terms?"

"Too readily," Theron muttered, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. "He's offered generous compensation for your services, arranging his household accounts, organizing his correspondence." His eyes narrowed. "He specifically requested you by name. How would he know to do that, I wonder?"

Lysandra recognized the danger immediately, Theron's jealousy was flaring, threatening the very opportunity she needed.

"I believe Lord Cassian was impressed by my note-taking during the consortium meeting," she replied carefully. "He mentioned something about my organizational skills."

"Did he?" Theron's voice hardened. "And what else did he mention during these... observations of your skills?"

Lysandra realized she needed to defuse his suspicion quickly. She moved closer, close enough that he could catch the light scent of herbs that clung to her from the garden. Not touching him, that would only intensify his obsession, but near enough to trigger his protective instincts.

"My lord, I serve your interests alone," she said, injecting just the right note of vulnerability into her voice. "If this arrangement with Lord Cassian no longer serves your purposes, you have only to say so. I will remain here, wherever I can be most useful to you."

The strategy worked. Theron's expression shifted from jealous suspicion to possessive satisfaction. "No, no, the arrangement is beneficial. His connections to the palace trade office could prove valuable." He set down his glass and regarded her thoughtfully. "But I find myself... concerned about your welfare in another household."

"Lord Cassian has a reputation for propriety," Lysandra offered reassuringly. "And it would be a temporary assignment, with me reporting back to you regularly."

Theron nodded slowly, then reached out to brush a wayward strand of hair from her face. The touch was light but proprietary, sending an unpleasant chill through her despite her composed exterior.

"I've instructed Saren to accompany you," he said, his fingers lingering near her cheek. "As your personal attendant. To ensure your... comfort."

The news sent a wave of relief through Lysandra, though she carefully masked the reaction. This had been her hoped for outcome, but hearing it confirmed meant everything. Having Saren with her would provide both practical support and emotional anchor in the unfamiliar territory of Cassian's household.

"That's most thoughtful, my lord," she replied, allowing genuine gratitude to color her tone. "Saren has served me well, and I would feel more at ease with a familiar face."

"Yes, well." Theron moved away, resuming his restless movement. "The arrangement begins next week. Cassian will send a carriage for you on Monday morning. I've negotiated a three month contract to start, with the possibility of extension if the benefits prove worthwhile."

Three months. It was longer than Lysandra had hoped for long enough to establish connections and explore opportunities beyond Cassian's household. The timeframe suggested Theron's obsession had overridden his business caution, a development both useful and concerning.

"There's one more thing," Theron added, his back to her as he gazed out the window. "You'll return here every Sunday. To... report on your progress."

The real meaning was clear, he couldn't bear the thought of being separated from her for entire weeks at a time. The requirement was inconvenient but not unexpected. She would need to manage these weekly returns carefully to maintain his dependence without allowing it to grow more dangerous.

"Of course, my lord. I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve your interests in this new capacity." She paused, then added carefully, "Lady Ravenna mentioned that she had some insights that might help me be more effective in Lord Cassian's household."

Theron turned sharply, his expression darkening. "You spoke with Ravenna? When? About what, exactly?"

The sudden shift in his demeanor confirmed what Lysandra had suspected, Theron was increasingly keeping his wife at a distance, perhaps unconsciously aware of how his behavior might appear to her analytical mind.

"She summoned me earlier today," Lysandra replied truthfully. "She wished to understand my role in the household, given my new responsibilities."

"And what did you tell her?" His voice had taken on a dangerous edge.

"Only that I serve at your pleasure, my lord, in whatever capacity you deem most valuable."

Theron studied her face intently, searching for signs of deception. Finding none, Lysandra had perfected her mask of calm subservience years ago, he nodded slowly.

"Ravenna is... perceptive," he said finally. "But she doesn't always understand the necessities of business. You need not concern yourself with her 'insights'."

"As you wish, my lord." Lysandra kept her tone neutral, though internally she noted this growing rift between husband and wife. It presented both opportunities and risks that would need careful navigation.

"Good." Theron seemed satisfied. "Now, I need you to transcribe some correspondence before dinner. The eastern trade negotiations have reached a critical point, and I want to ensure our position is properly documented."

Lysandra moved to the writing desk positioned near his larger one, taking her seat with fluid grace. As she arranged quill, ink, and parchment, she observed Theron from beneath lowered lashes. His movements remained agitated, his focus scattered. Three months away from his increasingly erratic behavior would be a welcome respite, but the Sunday visits would require careful management.

As dictation began, her mind worked on multiple levels, capturing Theron's words perfectly while simultaneously planning her next moves. She would need to speak with Saren again tonight, adjusting their plans based on these new developments. Ravenna's offer required careful consideration as well. And most importantly, she needed to gain better control over her power before entering Cassian's household.