Lionel was honestly surprised the Queen Mother had not yet suspected that something was wrong.
Theodora noticed everything. Very little escaped her. Fortunately, the preparations for the royal wedding had consumed Whitehall. The French royal family would be arriving in a day or two.
For once, chaos had proved useful. Lionel approached Livia. She had scarcely shifted since the physician entered. Her back was straight, but worry had drained the warmth from her face.
"Miss Valenti…"
She turned immediately. "How is he?"
Lionel paused. "I cannot tell you that."
"Of course." Livia nodded once and returned her gaze to the closed doors.
Lionel had expected protest, perhaps even one of the sharp remarks Henry seemed to encourage from her. Instead, she accepted his refusal with resignation.
"You should return to your apartments," he said.
"I shall wait, my lord."
"There is little you can do here."
