Being next to the pond reminded Leonor of what she had wanted to tell the duke about someone's familiar being on his property. However, there was never a right time before that moment to tell him.
She didn't think it was a threat considering the familiar was in an outdoor space where they had no hope of gathering information. It made her drag her feet considering the fragility of their relationship at that moment.
She still tested the waters with him. Every time he responded to her, she took note of his likes and dislikes. While she couldn't see his face, his tone became easier to read.
Based on his ease that evening, it seemed the time had come to introduce him to the magical aspect of her life. She hoped to prove her worth through something other than being the lady of the house.