"I think I don't want to be Lord Father's heir anymore."
Cecilia froze.
Did telling him make him think he had no right to it? The thought flickered through her mind. A flash of worry, of protective instinct emerged, but she didn't let it settle.
"Sure." Her voice was calm. She tapped the pajamas she had set on the bed for him, to signal him to change from his travel clothes. "Did your father know that you don't want to be heir anymore?"
Rinne chuckled.
"I think this is why you are the best, Lord Mother."
Cecilia blinked. "Hmm?"
Rinne took the pajamas and disappeared behind the partition. His voice floated back as he changed, explaining with the earnest thoughtfulness that always caught her off guard in one so young.
"You will never assume things people are thinking unless you are very sure it can be dangerous." Fabric rustled as he pulled on the sleep clothes. "And you avoid just saying no just because you think it's wrong."
