“Hence asking for samples to be sent to our suite,” he said, understanding dawning in his eyes.
“Exactly. If I can study them in controlled conditions, maybe I can figure out what’s wrong. I’ll compare affected leaves to unaffected ones and test for magical signatures. Look for physical differences under closer inspection.” I was already planning the systematic approach I’d take. “It’spossible the contamination is so subtle that it’s only affecting certain batches.”
“And the cakes?”
“The cakes,” I said with a sigh. “We didn’t drink tea, so we’re looking at a broader contamination of some sort.”
I grimaced at the memory of losing control, of laughter bubbling up against my will. My body betraying me like that had been deeply unsettling.
That kind of vulnerability wasn’t something I could afford, not if I wanted to keep everyone safe. I shoved the unease down, focusing instead on how I could be useful, on piecing this puzzle together before it hurt anyone else.
“Whatever’s causing this could be in multiple food items,” he said.
My mind raced through possibilities. “A common ingredient, perhaps? Or someone with access to the kitchen is adding something to various preparations.”
His jaw tightened. “You think this is deliberate sabotage?”
“I don’t know what to think yet.” I touched my locket. “It could be accidental contamination from a common supplier. Or a magical experiment gone wrong. Or yes, possibly sabotage. I need more information before I can determine which.”
Though why would anyone taint food and beverages with something that would make people laugh?
Another small sound escaped Savory, mercifully too distant to affect us.
“Your companion certainly paid the price for her indulgence,” Dominic said with a smile.
“She knew better,” I said. “And now, so do you.”
His low, real laugh rang out.
“She’s never been good at resisting treats,” I said.
“I can relate.” His smile widened. “Those cakes were extraordinary.”
“They really were.” I found myself smiling back. “Even if they did make us giggle.”
Sitting beside him and working through a problem together, plus sharing observations and theories felt right, like the kind of partnership that could actually fix things without distractions getting in the way.
We had nothing more than good teamwork, I told myself, even while warmth spread through me that had nothing to do with the garden sun.
Better to keep it that way and stay focused on the facts.
“I should probably start mapping out what we know so far,” I said, already organizing information in my mind. “Create a timeline of incidents, catalog who was affected when, and track which foods could be compromised.”
“That sounds very strategic,” Dominic said warmly. “And helpful. It’s the kind of partnership I’ve been missing, someone to guard the details while I handle the rest. I’ve been too close to this problem, reacting to each incident as it happens rather than seeing the larger pattern.”
“Sometimes you need fresh eyes,” I told him. “And a systematic approach.”
He studied me for a long moment, soft appreciation in his expression. “I’m glad you’re here, Sasha. Not just because of your analytical mind, though that’s certainly valuable. But because…” He paused, seeming to choose his words carefully. “Because I think we could actually be good for each other. If we give it a chance.”
My breath caught.
“I’d like that,” I said before I could think it through.
His smile transformed his face, making him look sweet and carefree. “Good. That’s…good.”
Another fart erupted from Savory’s direction, and we both laughed.
“I really did warn her,” I said, shaking my head.
