“We have an answer now, unfortunately. My lord commands that you live with me as my servant.”
The steward informs her of this as though delivering the verdict himself. “This is a punishment for both of us. I do not keep a servant and never have. But my lord anticipates greater things for me and tells me I should act accordingly.”
Petra does not fully understand. She remains quiet, her hands folded in her lap. But inside, her mind races. Her heart beats wildly. She will live. She has damaged the lord’s property and she will live.
