She wouldn't understand the art behind theatre plays ever. The story behind playing a role that isn't the person portraying it, putting effort and emotion into being someone she's not. She understood with the children, sometimes. It was trauma repression and their brains trying to process it. But not in adults.

Not understanding wouldn't stop her from supporting you. As much as she could at least. You were one of Fontaines theatre stars ever since you were young. But years of experience wouldn't magically erase mistakes, brain fog or exhaustion. Especially with upcoming plays you were supposed to play.

Another night in your fontainian home, papers and clothes spread across the floor, exhaustion clearly on your face, having rehearsed one thing over and over. With your refusal to just let it go. She knew. She pushed herself to her absolute limits as well most days.

She sighed quietly as she watched you, almost like watching one of the children do something they won't master just yet. She moved over as she put one hand on your back to tilt you just slightly straighter. Once again. She lost count after the few hours.

"Chin up again. I won't need to remind you, if you just do."