Growing tense, I released a sigh. "I don't have a good relationship with my father, so my training and lessons are all we ever discuss."
Simon studied me tenderly, but his expression baked with curiosity as though he'd wondered about my relationship with my father for a while.
"You're wondering why our relationship is sour."
He nodded once. "If you'll tell me."
"You know I'd share everything with you," I reminded him.
As if to gather himself from that, Simon briefly looked away.
Continuing, I said, "My mother passed away when I was one, as you already know. I don't know who my father was before then, but afterward, his time was focused on Elion, the heir. He ensured Elion had the best tutors in our province, and he'd order him to train his magic long hours of the day. The only time I ever saw my father was at dinner, but he hadn't ever spoken to me. He addressed Elion only, and sometimes Taegen when he'd join us."
