He opened the door.
In the sitting room, Lyanna had been asking Lin Yue about her grandmother, about the calligraphy she learned, about the small things that made up a life before Primus. The conversation had been light, easy, surprising Lin Yue with its warmth.
Now the study door opened, and both women looked up. Alistair emerged, his expression calm. Uriel followed, his eyes finding Lin Yue immediately.
"We should be going, we're unfortunately too busy to stay for dinner," Alistair said, his hand finding Lyanna's. "The council will expect a report."
Lyanna rose gracefully, pausing to look at Auriel one more time. She handed him back to Lin Yue carefully. "He is perfect," she said softly. "Truly."
Lin Yue inclined her head. "Thank you."
Alistair touched his wife's arm, guiding her toward the front entrance. He paused at the threshold and looked back at his son. "Do not forget what we discussed."
Uriel nodded once.
