“My presence here hurts you. You need distance from the mortals.” “I need you. You’re the only person I can trust.” “You’re being selfish. Stop thinking about what you want, and think about what’s best for the realm.” I flinched at the criticism, closing my eyes as my chest suffocated under the weight of his shame. I hadn’t realized until now just how badly I wanted my father to be proud of me as Queen—to be impressed by me and my plans, to be willing to stand by my side, whatever may come. And I hadn’t realized until now just how badly it would hurt that he wasn’t. “I’m sorry to be such a
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