There was a pause as Evelyn absorbed Claire’s words, the tension in the room slowly dissipating. “So, you didn’t do it to make a statement or anything?”

“No, not at all. I just… I wanted to let Lily have some fun, but I see now that I went about it all wrong,” Claire admitted, her voice tinged with regret.

Evelyn sighed, her rigid posture softening. “Claire, I only want what’s best for Lily. She’s a child, not a canvas for experimentation. Her feelings and comfort should come first.”