The royal customs she knew were clear and strict, unyielding. So never, not even once, had she imagined she would witness something like this.
Of course, she had hoped the prince would treat Agatha kindly, would care for her like any father should. But to see them like this, sleeping peacefully, side by side, was a dream she never dared to imagine.
The prince had said he would try to understand Elara better. But now there is Agatha in their relationship, too. And nothing would please her more than seeing the prince soften towards their daughter.
Elara knew too well what it meant to grow up without a father's love. Since she had learnt to speak, Agatha always said she envied her friends for having a father.
At times, Elara felt guilty for being strict with Agatha so early on. But life in the palace was cruel. She had to raise her daughter strong.
