“One thing you must not do is let fear enter your heart; for it will breed fearful things. Remember that all in this false material world is only the reflection of your thoughts. Have you any word from your mother?”
“Yes. A man brought a note. She wants me to escape and join her at the court.”
“Do you wish to go?”
“I would like to see her again. . . .” Lalette looked up to see Dame Domijaiek watching her attentively, though she remained very quiet, and under the pressure of that silent scrutiny, the girl moved. “She is under Count Cleudi’s protection. And I told you about Demadé; he is very kind and gay, and I think he is in love with me, but—”
“Go on.”
“He told Mathurin about the little girl, the heiress.”
“He was also trying to do the best for you, in his own way. Do you want to go? Or would you rather stay with Rodvard?”
In a small voice, Lalette said; “I think I would rather stay with him. Is it wrong?”
“Not if it is done in love and good will, rather than for any hope of gain. Have you asked him to take you away from the city?”
“No. This—regency is so much to him.”