Chapter 310: The Weight of Change

**Thelma Zane’s POV** Aldrich laughed heartily at my attempt to explain my frustration. "So you're saying that now that you're a princess, everyone's attitude towards you has changed so drastically?" I nodded, a sense of gloom settling over me. “I knew this would happen sooner or later, and I thought I was prepared for it,” I admitted. “But I can’t help feeling disappointed. Does this mean I’ll never experience pure, genuine friendships again? It’s exhausting to feel like every word I say is being scrutinized or weighed for its value. I don’t want every conversation to feel like a transaction. It’s too much to bear.” Aldrich pulled me into his embrace, wrapping me securely in his arms as if to shield me from the weight of my thoughts. He gently patted my back, his touch as comforting as a lullaby. "Don’t be so pessimistic," he said softly, his voice a soothing balm. "You already have friendships that are pure, relationships free from ulterior motives. You have me, your a