"Lionel, I'm giving you the day off."

You stare him straight in the eye, his shoulders tense up in anticipation of a scolding, not as if you had ever done so. Speaking softly in a soothing tone of voice, "Lionel, I'm giving you the day off. Go rest up & treat yourself to the estate's pantry."

He stands there with his eyes wide and lips parted in shock. You address him once more, "Lionel...?" It snaps his focus back onto you.

"Y-yes, m'lord. T-th-thank you m'lord." The boy manages to stumble out. Lionel bows his head, afterwards walking out of the room. A few moments later, you hear his excited cheering and laughter as he tells the maids of what had just transpired.

Chuckling, you get yourself out of bed with a smile. However, despite your altruistic act, it has not resolved your morning wood.