Lyra already had a plan: in daylight, when Damon looked worn and distracted, she’d swoop in to comfort. By evening, she’d feign an excuse to slip away, leaving the boy longing for her return. Building goodwill without real sacrifice, that was her specialty.
She leaned toward Damon with soft concern.
“You must be hungry too. I asked the chef to prepare your favorites. Come, try a little.”
“Mm.” His response was flat, almost mechanical.
Lyra pressed on, her voice lilting.
“I also landed an acting role. It might push my career up another level. I really should thank you, you pulled strings for me, didn’t you?”
Damon’s gaze barely flicked toward her.
“If you like it, that’s what matters.”
Lyra’s smile tightened. She tested the waters again.
“The director wants to t
