"Mama, are you not tired? It was a long journey," Roman said with earnest concern. "You should rest, and I promise I will not make a sound to disturb you."
Eilika looked down at her stepson, a soft smile temporarily easing the tension in her face. "I am tired, yes, but if I sleep now, I will find no rest after supper. I mean to check on your father. Will you accompany me, or would you prefer to remain here?"
Roman hesitated, his small brow furrowing as he weighed the invitation against his duties. "I ought to review my tutors' lessons, Mama. If I neglect them today, I shall surely forget them by tomorrow."
"My boy is such a diligent scholar," Eilika said, her smile widening as she patted his head affectionately. "I shall see you at the dinner table, then."
"Yes, Mama!" Roman replied, waving a cheerful farewell as she slipped out of the chamber, leaving him to his books in the quiet room.
