Page 114 of Bound By Crimson
Lyric stepped in and took her seat across from her.
“Thank you for joining me,” Mrs. Thornwick said smoothly.
“I do enjoy mornings like this.”
“So do I,” Lyric replied, her voice thinner than she wanted.
They sipped in silence for several minutes.
The ticking of an unseen clock sounded louder with every heartbeat.
Then the older woman spoke again.
“You know, he was mine before he was yours,” Mrs. Thornwick said, her voice a polished blade.
Lyric’s hand froze around the delicate teacup.
“My only son. My greatest joy. I raised Malachai to be exceptional. To lead. To carry on something greater than himself. Naturally, I’m protective of him.”
Lyric’s throat was dry.
“I understand. You’ve raised a wonderful man.”
A slight incline of Mrs. Thornwick’s head.
“And I know how easily young women get swept up in the idea of love. Especially those who weren’t raised with… legacy.”
The word dropped like a stone into the center of the table.
Lyric forced herself to hold her gaze.
“I just want to make him proud. And be someone he can count on.”
“Good,” Mrs. Thornwick said.
“Because soon, we’ll have to start thinking about names.”
Lyric blinked.
“Names?”
“For the child,” Mrs. Thornwick said lightly, as if discussing the weather.
“Have you decided on anything?”
Lyric hesitated.
“I’ve thought of a few. But… nothing set yet.”
Mrs. Thornwick stirred her tea precisely, her spoon tapping exactly three times against the porcelain.
“A child needs a strong name. One that carries the Thornwick legacy forward, not whimsy. I’ll send a list to your room. I expect you to consider it carefully.”
Lyric’s stomach twisted, but she only nodded.
“That’s… very thoughtful,” she murmured.
Mrs. Thornwick set her cup down, her hands folding neatly again.
