章 194: Showcase, Part Twelve

{Aria}

Aria watched her father hunched over his paperwork. As always, he looked so admirable. The sheer level of focus on display, the one bead of sweat sliding down the side of his face, it brought a smile to Aria's face just watching this dedication. 

But, at the same time, it made her worry a bit. 

[He's going to work himself to death at this rate,] she thought, leaning against the doorframe of his study.

"Father," she said, keeping her voice light despite her concerns. "The sun's barely risen and you're already buried in papers. Come walk with me."

King Aldric didn't even look up.

"Not now, Aria," he said quietly. "The trade agreements with Yalmir-"

"Will still be there in an hour," she interrupted, making an attempt to channel every ounce of her mother's imperious tone.

The thought of her mother sent a familiar pang through her chest, but she pushed it aside.