Tilly POV.
When I got back to my room, my mother was there. She was sitting on the bed and looking out the window and she looked really sad.
When the door closed, she turned to look at me, standing up instantly. Father must have sent her here to tell me about the marriage and the consequences that awaited us if didn't go through with it.
"Am I a bad person, Mama?" The words fell out in a rush. "Do I deserve to be punished? because I think I am... bad. I think I deserve everything happening to—"
I clasped my hand over my mouth to stop myself from talking.
Mother's whole face changed. The queen vanished, and in her place was just… my mom. Her eyes filled with deep concern. She came closer and she held my hand.
"Why would you ever say that about yourself, Chicken?"
Because I wanted things proper girls shouldn't. Because I got excited by things that would make you faint. Because I ruined myself and you and Kess and Papa.
