Rhea headed to the kitchen while Venus followed her, instructing Alora to stay behind with their father. Alora watched them go, then turned her attention to her father, Norman. She couldn't help but notice the lines of worry etched into his face, his usual composed demeanor noticeably strained.
"Father, you look worried. Is everything okay?" Alora inquired in a gentle voice.
Norman forced a smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Yes, everything is fine," he replied, the lie evident in the unconvincing tone of his voice.
Alora frowned, not willing to accept his dismissal. "Please, Father. Don't hide your troubles from me," she urged, her concern deepening. "Are you worried for Venus? Are you worried that she would always live her life as a widow? Or is it something else?"
