Royal Princess Of Blood

Chapter 41: Mera's Worry

I entered the dining room. I stopped my stride for a moment when I saw my parents. I peered around at the... somewhat pitiful atmosphere oozing around the room.

My mother carefully massaged her eyes with her palm, she appeared to be tired. While Father seemed to be in deep thought, appearing to be spacing out.

Are they overworking themselves?

My parents were still terribly occupied with their work that was unbeknownst to me. I understand Father would be having a headache due to being king and all. As for mother, she also seemed to be the same as Father does.

Wait, what could Mother be doing? I had no idea.

Was she covering up for my Father's kingly work? That seems to be the most plausible.

"Um, is everyone alright?" I asked in a worried manner.

Mother and Father finally turned their attention to me. My pure and wide eyes colored with concern greeted their sight. I was like a small puppy afraid to be chided by the owner...you know, that was a weird comparison.

At the same time, my brother had arrived by my side. He also stared at their current state. He faintly smiled at the sight as though he sympathized with them.

"Hehehe," he chuckled. "I guess everyone was busier today than usual."

I blinked several times, then realization struck me as I timidly lowered my head.

"T-Then, I'm the only one... not doing much... I'm such a burden, even though I was..."

Regret filled my face while I avoided everyone's gaze. I then felt a hand atop my head, it was my brother's hand. I looked up at him.

"What are you so distraught about? Let us handle everything, okay? Everything will be fine. So don't think much of it."

I didn't reply but merely nodded my head with pursed lips. I quietly walked towards my seat.

"Dear daughter," my Father called out to me. "Lift up that upper lip, enjoy the delicious food."

I looked at him, his tender smile graced my eyes. I turned to look at my mother, her fond gaze looking at me. All of them, my family, looked kindly at me. Their gazes lacked any mischief and trickery, they were genuine. It made me wonder why I am only seeing it now. Why was I now only feeling their... true warmth? No...

"We are family, Estelia. It only made sense that we are to give our all for your sake," she said softly.

After hearing them, I forced a smile, a bit faint, but a smile nonetheless as though I have shown understanding to their words. But I'm sure, by how I looked in their eyes, it seemed I did not understand completely, like I was still remorseful of being unhelpful.

It was at that moment that the food had arrived and the servants placed them on the table.

As we ate, my Father spoke to me.

"Estelia."

"Yes, father?"

"Because of the situation, we decided to cancel your weekly lessons for the time being."

"....... I.... I understand."

I guess this was an expected outcome. However, I sort of preferred if I could still do my music lessons. That subject was my favorite among others.

What a shame...

Haaah, I guess there's nothing I can do.

Besides, I think it was for the best. That way, I can focus on the task at hand.