Lilliana's expression softened with a sympathy that was genuine and deep. "Oh," she said softly. "I'm so sorry to hear that about your father. That sounds terribly difficult." She paused, then a bright, determined smile touched her lips, chasing away the somber mood. "But for what it's worth, Lord Theodore, I am most definitely rooting for you and your art. I think it's wonderful."
Theodore, who had likely expected a more reserved or polite response, seemed taken aback by her earnest support. He looked at her, then at the smudge of blue paint still faintly visible on her cheek. A gentle smile touched his own face as he reached into his tunic and pulled out a clean, neatly folded linen handkerchief. "You still have a bit of the sky on your cheek, Princess," he said, offering it to her.
She took it, her fingers brushing his for a brief, warm moment. "Thank you," she said, her voice a little breathless as she gently wiped the paint away.
