"No, Mother. I know exactly what you can tolerate. And I know what you cannot." Henry said. "I would really like this matter private."
"Is she the one you have been sneaking out at night to see?"
Theodora did not need the answer. She saw it in the way his shoulders went rigid. Still, he said it.
"Yes."
"I see," Theodora said.
Henry gave her a tired look. "Yes, I know you see. And do not go threatening Stephen and Lionel for information."
Theodora scoffed, offended mostly because she had absolutely considered doing exactly that. "Please, as if they would tell me anything."
"They would not."
"I know. Your men are annoyingly loyal. Stephen is ready to die before betraying you. I do admire it."
Henry's mouth twitched. "He shouldn't be punished for it."
Theodora sighed dramatically. "Fine. I shall not skin your precious Stephen or Lionel. Happy?"
Henry looked down at his hands. "I will be fine, Mother. I promise. I just need time."
