Illusion Of Control

After letting out a low sigh, Naida, her voice embodying the gentle but firm tone of a mother's guidance, took hold of Silvia's wrist and guided her to sit, "When I told you to be sincere, I thought you would understand it doesn't mean you have to completely act like your usual self. It's fine if you are mischievous before me or your family, but you shouldn't trouble your king when he is on official duty. Imagine the consequences if he had failed because of you. I thought you knew better," she explained, her brows knit together in mild disapproval.

The reprimand stung Silvia more than she anticipated. It was rare for her mother to adopt such a stern demeanor, and the seriousness of her words weighed heavily on Silvia's heart. Yet, amidst the rebuke, another thought weighed heavier on her heart which she struggled to express.

Still, thinking about what her mother said about troubling Asher, Silvia looked up with a aggrieved look,

"B-But Silvia helped him—"