03. NOT THE MOST AGREEABLE AMONG MEN
-Have you gotten the answers you were looking for? -Enya asked, lying in bed next to Catelyn, tucking herself under the blankets.
The truth was that Catelyn was not sure if she even had a question. Staring at the ceiling, she was now more conflicted than she was before. Of course, she managed to get Enya the answers she needed, but as in for herself... The situation was cloudier than before.
-I cannot be having these thoughts about that man... -she whimpered to her friend- I know he is very well capable of terrible things, and I can see the coldness of his ways... It is ridiculous, because I do not believe he has any intentions towards me, and still...
-You shouldn't condemn yourself for feeling things. You have no control over it. -Enya said- And you are wrong. You talk like you haven't seen how he looks at you.
-The same way Lord Kevan looks at you. -Catelyn rebutted- And by his own admission today, they were just admiring our youth.
-Lord Kevan cannot act on it, but there's nothing stopping Lord Tywin from doing so. He has been a widower for many years, and if you could see it from my perspective, you would understand.
-I don't even know if I wish him to act.
-Why wouldn't you? -Enya challenged as if her friend had lost her mind- This is the first time in years since I have seeing you enjoying the company of a man. The first time you confess an attraction...
-Is so wrong, Enya... -Catelyn was conflicted- He has father's age, maybe more...
-How does this matter? You have said yourself, you find him handsome. And to be quite frank, he does not look his age, like our fathers do.
-He probably sees us as children...
-I doubt it.
They kept their silence, staring at the ceiling, still hearing the faint sounds of the celebration.
-He came for us, when they believed we were at risk on the storm. He certainly didn't need to, but he chose to. -Catelyn whispered.
-He could not keep his eyes out of you during your nameday feast. I was right there; he barely started conversation with anyone else but you. And he got rid of Lord Ashford for you.
They were back at staring at the ceiling in silence.
-What do I do? -Catelyn asked, taken aback by the realization that Enya was probably right.
-You do not have to do anything. Just do not discourage him.
Catelyn struggled to sleep, staring at the ceiling and thinking over what she was feeling. It was while sitting next to him on her nameday that she was struck by how handsome he actually was. He was a tall, strong man, with sharp green eyes. His voice was deep. His touch was gentle, when he made her keep the little dagger, which she would wear on a leg brace from then on. When they left to the Twins on the next dawn, she could only think that they would be leaving without saying their proper goodbyes, even though she would certainly see him again very soon.
When the men arrived at the Twins, sick in worry for their safety, Catelyn had to restrain herself from talking to him for too long, as Lady Genna was being very observant of them. And in that occasion, he said beautiful things to her, creating even a wider edge between his known actions when dealing with his enemies and the pleasant, kind and almost soft behaviour he had with her.
She would not be fooled by her emotions, and she would never diminish what she knew of him. Her father still had the suspicion that Tywin Lannister, at the same age Catelyn had currently, plotted the assassination of Walder Frey, the lord of the same Castle in which she was a guest now. And that he subsequently crushed a rebellion, leaving Emmon Frey with only a couple young siblings. And that was clearly to secure Lady Genna's offspring's safety. In a way, neither Catelyn nor her father condemned the decisive actions taken by the Lannister brothers on such occasion, as Walder Frey was known to be a shameful twisted man.
But if there was something she struggled with, was with what he done in Castamere, and even though her father would say that it was a rebellion that threatened the Lannister rule, she wasn't sure that drowning children on their beds could ever be justified. She also wished for a better fate to the Targaryen heirs, although she knew that they could not have survived the end of the war. Elia Martell's tragic end, often attributed to him, most likely was a decision made by her killers. "You will rape her until she dies" is not an order she could picture being given by any lord, in any circumstance.
The tournament was to start in the next morning, and after a sleepless night, Catelyn was even more resolute not to attend any games. Breakfast had being served on the balcony, and the ladies listened attentively to the various pieces of gossip collected by their maids. Unlike Catelyn, the others were very interested on attending the jousting. Still tired for the sleepless night, she decided to get back to bed and try to be a better company during dinner.
That night, the feast would be served on the Eastern Tower, and Catelyn was ready for it before anyone else, having remained on the chambers for the entire day. She chose to wear a corseted midnight blue dress, and she had spent a long time brushing her hair while lost on her thoughts, to the point that they were very shinning and straight now.
She decided to take a walk to the eastern gardens in the hopes of finding a bit more energy to face the feast that night. She saw that Lady Genna's strategy to use small tables scattered around the hall was to be repeated tonight, and Catelyn hoped for a quiet dinner with her ladies and family, but for as long as that Tournament lasted she would have to be sociable.
Sir Harold Forrester, one of Catelyn's personal guards, was following his lady around the garden.
-Why are you not at the Tournament, Sir Harold? -Catelyn decided to establish small talk.
-I have attended the morning, my lady. Now is Wyllem's turn.
-Oh... There's no need for neither of you to miss the games... You should enjoy yourselves...
-Do not worry, my lady. -Sir Harold smiled- We are here to make sure that you remain safe and not bothered.
-I do not believe I am under any threat. -Catelyn smiled
-You may not be in any danger, but you are at risk of running into less than desirable people. Lord Ashford, by all means.
-Oh... -she remembered the man's existence- You are very much right, sir. I appreciate your service.
-It is an honour, my lady.
-And, to make your job easier, we should walk back to the tower. The peace and quiet is very attractive, but the sun is starting to set. And once we are back there, you and Sir Wyllem are free to enjoy the feast. Keira has told me that a large entourage from the North arrived last night, so I would very much like for you to enjoy this precious time among yours.
-Thank you, my lady. I am sure that the people would like to see you as well.
Now, back at the hall, that was starting to be filled with people, Catelyn could see Lady Genna supervising the servants that walked around with wine pitchers, ready to fill some empty goblets. She was a beauty, even for her age and after bearing four children. Her hair was golden blonde, that was perfectly braided tonight, and her eyes were the same as her brother's, the same as Saera. She was slim, tall, dresses in a plum coloured satin dress, with rich gold embroidery, long flowing sleeves and heavy jewellery. Catelyn imagined that Cersei Lannister, the queen, would look a lot like her aunt in the years to come.
-My dear Lady Genna... -Catelyn stood next to her
-Oh, Lady Catelyn... I was meaning to talk to you.
-About?
-My brother.
Catelyn was taken aback, her heart fighting against her chest bone. Was that conversation really about to take place?
-Kevan seems to believe that you would be a good alternative to help and find a good bride to my nephew Tytos.
And at the sound of that, she felt like a block of ice was pushed down on her throat.
-I had suggested you as a proper match, but Tytos seems to think that a younger bride must be better.
-Isn't Tytos two and twenty? -Catelyn asked, hearing the unsaid teasing on Lady Genna's tone.
-Yes, but he still wishes to have a proper engagement and a younger bride would eliminate the pressure of a wedding happening too soon.
-Well... -Catelyn took a deep breath- I will give it some thought.
-Keep in mind that Tytos have a refined taste.
Based on her knowledge of the man, and his behaviour on the previous night, Catelyn was sure that no lady she could ever suggest would be of his liking. He was far from being unpleasant or mean, and Saera loved him very much, even though they often teased each other. He was funny, but introverted, and some of the conversations between him and her ladies were almost too feminine.
-Why don't we consult with Saera? By age, she will know much more about an appropriate match to her cousin. Or even the new Lady Frey, as she is young enough.
The two women exchanged a dangerous look, and Catelyn knew that she should have left the young bride's age out of the conversation. It was clear that Lady Genna felt some type of way about that and that she wasn't pleased on having to comment on it.
-What are you suggesting, Lady Catelyn?
-I do not know what you mean. –Catelyn tried to deflect- We are talking about youth, and they are both young.
Genna Lannister took a deep breath, looking around. Her expression was bothered, uncomfortable.
-Too young, you would say?
-We shouldn't be marrying ladies that are this young, risking beds of blood so early on in their lives… -Catelyn realised that Genna Lannister was in agreement with her.
-Her father was insistent. –she said, disguising her discomfort with a smile to the salon- I did what I could, which was to raise my son to be a kind man.
-And your daughter to have a heart as beautiful as her face. A daughter we must protect. –the two women exchanged a complicit look.
-You shan't worry. –Lady Genna said, reassuming her assertive expression- Saera will be heading back with you to Riverrun.
Catelyn could not believe it, as she was sure that Lady Genna intended on sending Saera to Highgarden. She smiled and thanked the older woman, relief taking over her. She hadn't expressed to anyone, but her real intentions were to wed Saera to Edmure, and solidify relations on the Riverlands. She was well aware that the Lords of the Crossing had too much power now, with the Lannister gold supporting it. She was afraid that a divide would be formed on the Riverlands, and that the best way to prevent this was by binding the major Houses in marriage. The promise of Frey and Lannister blood ruling on the Riverlands was far too appealing for people like her Lord Father and Genna Lannister.
-Do not thank only me... -Lady Genna did not seemed very amused- You should thank Tywin, as he talked to my Lord Husband about it and I figured you were the one to blame.
With that, she walked away leaving Catelyn unable to process the words. He had done something for her, even though it seemed to be by mere chance. Why would he be interested on that? Why would he interfere on such a seemingly trivial matter, of the fostering of his niece? Wouldn't it be more interesting to House Lannister to reinforce relations to the Reach? Was he thinking along the same lines as her? She looked around the hall and spotted him sitting next to his brother, and they seemed to be immersed in a serious conversation.
Gladly, Enya was finally there, and Catelyn crossed the hall to join her.
-How was your afternoon? -Enya asked when they met- Judging by how straight your hair looks, you must have being very bored.
-Deadly bored... -Catelyn confessed after a long sigh- But not enough to attend the jousting.
-You didn't miss much. However... –she lowered her voice- Lord Tywin was there and asked about you.
-Did he? –she faked disinterest.
-He seemed disappointed.
-You are seeing things where they do not exist.
-Well... I think we have to wait and see.
They found an empty table and made themselves comfortable. Catelyn, trying very hard to keep her mind clear, refused wine and sat with her back towards the table where the Lannister brothers were. She used the privacy to tell Enya about the conversation with Lady Genna.
-Are you sure that I am seeing things where they do not exist? -Enya teased- That man went out of his way to entertain you, taking the risk of crossing his scary sister.
However, he couldn't know of Catelyn's intentions with Saera. She looked away, brimming with all those questions, which she had no expectation of finding answers for.
-Father is looking for you. -Edmure said, demanding her attention.
-What about?
-I don't know. He is at the chambers. Asked both of you to join him.
Wondering what could it be, Catelyn made her way up the staircase and looked for her father. Enya was with her, as she had a very good theory about what was to be said.
-I do not believe it. -Catelyn protested her friend's ideas
-I think is perfectly possible that Lord Tywin might have spoken to your father. -Enya said- They were very friendly during the games.
Trying not to think of that, Catelyn entered the solar, followed by Enya. Lord Hoster was sitting in the couch by the window, looking out and sipping wine.
-What is the matter? -she was surprised with the heavy expression on her dear father's face, and sat next to him.
-You received a marriage proposal. -Lord Hoster said making not only his daughter, but also Enya, stare at each other in disbelief- Were you expecting this? -he frowned in curiosity with their reactions.
-Perhaps... -Catelyn's voice was no much more than a whimper.
-I am not particularly pleased with this, as it will not strengthen our position whatsoever. However, the young Lord Oakheart has approached me very respectfully...
-Pardon me, father... -Catelyn was confused now- Who?
The expression in Hoster Tully's face now was borderline amused. He could see that whoever his daughter had expected to propose, it was not the young Gawain Oakheart.
-Who were you expecting?
-No one. -Catelyn stood up, trying to recompose herself. An entire conversation being held between her and Enya only by the way they looked at each other.
-Are you interested in someone? -Lord Hoster would not let go of it, and asked with a half-smile on his face.
-No! -Catelyn clearly lied, turning to him and her face almost as red as her hair, denounced that she was, indeed, interested in someone.
-My dear, you can tell me... -Lord Hoster insisted, extending his hand and bringing Catelyn back to the couch with him- It does not need to be acted on, but if is in your heart I would love to know.
-Cat... -Enya joined them, sitting next to her friend and passing her arms around her shoulders- Maybe your father can help you make sense of it.
And Catelyn knew it was true, however she suspected that any allusion to the bonding between her House and House Lannister would interest her father greatly, no matter what she would even propose. She also knew that her father feared for her future, convinced that she was unable to feel anything romantic. When he promised her that she would be free to choose her destiny, he probably expected her to marry the first appropriate suitor that offered her good enough prospects, but she was not in a hurry. After collecting dozens of proposals, which would come in many different ways, she was convinced that nothing would touch her heart, and her father certainly was getting tired of dealing with the strained relations her negatives would amass.
-Father, I am so confused... -she decided to include him on her little secret- I do not recognize myself. He is not the most agreeable of men, but... -she ceased talking, searching for words.
-But he is different to her. -Enya completed, understanding dominating Lord Hoster's expression.
-For the love of The Seven... -he said staring at his daughter- And I thought I was imagining things... Oh, my dear girls... How amusing is the way of the gods…
-This is madness, father... -Catelyn whimpered- I don't even know what I am feeling...
-Well, he seems just as confused. -her father promised- But he cannot keep his eyes to himself if you are present. I am not sure if Tywin Lannister is what I hoped for your future, but if it brings you joy... I will not oppose.
-He doesn't know about my feelings and I beg you to keep it this way.
-I will not say a word. -he guaranteed- But I need you to promise me one thing in return...
-Anything, father...
-That now, when we get to the feast, you will spend time with him.
-Father...
-I will be there with you, and so will Enya.
-You need to know, Cat. -Enya declared- And I think he also needs to find out.
She was far from certain that she wanted to know it for sure. And she needed to distract her father enough so he would, hopefully, give up on that idea.
-Tell me about Lord Oakheart. -she asked- And explain why you looked so displeased.
-He is too young. -Lord Hoster declared- He is not a good match, and he seems very intimidated by his family on finding a bride. He is handsome, highborn. But he is to be seven and ten and his prospects are not what I envisioned for you. Not after you proved yourself to be a proper ruler.
-Oh... -Catelyn frowned- He isn't that much older than Edmure.
-That's my point. –but Catelyn knew that her father's point was far from only that.
She knew that he would only be happy with her marrying beneath her status if the man was a vassal of her House. Part of him still wished she had married Ned, after Bran's death, securing the North. She knew he remained bitter with her refusal to Doran Martell's proposal. And she was sure that even despite the pride he took on her, she was never to actually inherit the seat, and give away House Tully's legacy to whoever sired her children.
-However, father... -Catelyn risked it- You seem very happy with this impossible prospect between me and a man that is your age.
-That is different! -Enya said, like Catelyn had lost her mind- You and Lord Tywin spent hours talking. What would you have to discuss with a boy? Would you give him lessons, like with Edmure?
Enya had a point, and Catelyn saw that her father did not had to say a word to express his agreement, now conducing them back to the hall, one in each arm. Catelyn stopped on the gallery, before entering the hall.
-If we are to do this... -she aligned her skirts and made sure her hair was still behaving- How do I look? -she asked, watching her father stare only at her eyes.
-Like the Maiden herself.
And taking a deep breath, they entered the feast. Music was playing loudly, food was already being served, and because of the Tournament, some people had already had too much to drink. Catelyn could see that in the back of the hall, a large group of Northerners raised their goblets to her as a sign of recognition. She smiled and bowed her head, taking a mental note to pay them a visit.
Her ordeal, however, was standing right in front of her. One arm resting on the back of the chair his brother was sitting at, the other holding a goblet of wine, looking around without a care in the world. On that table, that wouldn't sit more than six people, Lord Kevan, Lord Mallister and Lord Selmond Stackspear, a very powerful man that was part of the Lannister entourage, discussed the games. Lord Tywin, however, had not engaged, observing the hall lost in his thoughts.
-Do not start any bets without me! -Lord Hoster said, attracting their attention, being offered a seat. The men behaved like old friends, having no much more than a week ago being almost strangers.
She felt the fire of his eyes burning on her face, and something like a smile reaches his lips. He did not say a word, but gently held her hand and kissed it, never breaking eye contact.
-How was your day, Lord Tywin? -she was fully aware that they were the only ones standing, since Enya had taken a seat next to her father, and Lord Hoster was pretending they didn't exist, engaging in the talks about the jousting.
-Rather uneventful. -he answered, her hand still on his- I trust you might have found entertainment away from the games.
-Indeed. The gardens are particularly beautiful when they are empty. -and she smiled.
-You haven't missed much. -he said in a lower voice, looking around for a servant with wine- Barely any spears broken during the jousting. Tomorrow it might be more entertaining, if the rain allows for it.
A servant approached them, and Lord Tywin selected a glass of arbour golden for her, placing it on her hands. The conversation on the table now was revolving around the only man that had being seriously injured on the games, and Catelyn turned away, not willing to hear about broken bones. Lord Tywin, ever so observant, touched her elbow and guided her away from the talks, to the edge of the galleries.
-Your ears might be safer here. -he said- I know you do not take pleasure in pointless violence.
-In any kind of violence, my lord. -she said, taking a sip of her wine.
His eyes now were observing her figure, and Catelyn was very aware of that. She had also silently inspected him, which with the stance of a king, looked like a giant among the rest of them. There was something about his shoulders that really attracted her. She could see the shape of his muscles under his tunic, and for a man with double her age, he certainly didn't look it. His golden beard was always perfectly groomed, but tonight a small blemish on the line of his sideburns captured her attention, certainly a small shaving accident.
-You got hurt, my lord... -she dared and touched his face.
-Oh, it was nothing. -and touched the same spot where her fingers had just being.
He was too handsome, Catelyn concluded. His eyes of an emerald green sparkled with gold, and were probably the most beautiful set of eyes she had ever looked into. His hair was golden, and yes, some white started to show, but that only accentuated his colours. He had the most perfect jawline. And when he looked at her, she needed to make use of all the amenities taught to young ladies on how to conceal their true feelings.
-I suppose my gratitude is in order, my lord.
-In relation to what?
-Saera. -and she smiled- Lady Genna has informed me that she'll be returning with me to Riverrun.
-You look very pleased. -he commented, almost opening a smile.
-Thank you for interceding. Lady Genna mentioned that this is of your doing.
-I am glad to be at service. I saw how much you care for her, especially last night. I was aware of her parent's intentions on sending her to Highgarden, despite Saera's reluctance. Her father and I have agreed that, if is to your liking, she must return to your protection, which I trust will please both of you.
-Oh... -she felt the air be stolen from her lungs and she could have hugged him, right then and there, but an entire life of behaving properly did not allow for such rampant- My lord, I have no words...
-You have the truest smile on your face, no words are needed. -the edges of his lips turned upwards for an instant, witnessing her joy- Gods, my little niece is very lucky to have such a dedicated friend...
-She is too special, my lord. It matters to me, deeply, that she remains near me.
A look of recognition dominated his expression, and Catelyn knew she had denounced herself.
-You wish to make her the Lady of Riverrun, beside your brother.
-You read me too well, my lord. -she blushed, looking away, deciding that he deserved to be part of her secret intentions- This kind of fortune does not happen often, I must say. My brother is truly enchanted with her, and she feels just the same. I know they are only four and ten and they don't know of love... But they are close, and closeness matters. Of course they wouldn't wed for years to come…
-As I said, my darling... -he almost whispered his endearing terms- She is very lucky to have you.
-And you. –she declared, looking him on the eyes.
She saw as he held his breath for a moment, and felt how his gaze softened. The silence between them prolonged itself, but neither of them felt discomfort. Tywin extended his hand and took hers, disguising it with relieving her of the wine. Catelyn felt a warm sensation trickle down her spine and looked down, seeking clarity.
-My lady… -his voice was deep- I believe the talks of violence have ended. –he referred to the rest of the group on the table.
-If not, we might have to make them talk of something else. –she smiled, hoping for calmness.
Gods sent, Enya interrupted them, fully aware that Catelyn was in need of rescue. Taking her friends arm, and smiling brightly, she joined them.
-Lord Tywin, I believe the men await you for the bets. –she said, removing the man from his daze.
-Sure. –he agreed, still holding Catelyn's glass on her hand- Will you join us? –he asked her directly, partially ignoring Enya.
-Oh, we have to greet some folk that arrived this afternoon. –Enya kept talking- But we will surely find you later.
And with that, she pulled her friend away, and Catelyn felt the hand he still had on hers migrate upwards on her arm and hold it softly for a fleeting instant. With a final exchange of recognition between them, Catelyn was ready to follow Enya.
Now, she knew.