Aleksandr's cheeks rosened. He was not expecting her to abruptly leave the table. The other siblings were too busy chatting to notice him redden. He quickly excused himself, pushing himself from the table. He wanted to be there for Nadia. He found that this was a silly thing to fight over. Just listen to father. . she had such soft hands, even for having been baking for over a month, now . .

"Excuse me, everyone. Lunch was delightful, as always," his voice was stoic as he gave a less than blessed thanks, but it sounded sincere, nonetheless. Aleksandr had given many Thank You's in situations that he deemed torturous.

He quickly walked after Nadia, calling her name, "Nadia, Tear," he said. He was nervous with Tear around Nadia, but she had been spying on them the whole time. He should loosen up around her. She seemed to be in the best interest of the children. . and perhaps, kingdom. Was he right to follow his father's orders so strictly? He pushed that thought from his mind. Right now, thinking more about Nadia's mental well-being.