[ He listens without interrupting, much as he wants to in some parts. To tell her she's not a spare anything, to reassure her about her role in her family right from the start. But he knows these are all feelings he can't change for her. That just because she understands now doesn't mean the pain of the past would disappear so easily.

So instead, he hugs her tightly to him for a moment, pressing a kiss on the top of her head. There's a part of him that was frustrated with all of this just being thrust on her without any real discussion, but it was a part he quieted often enough, because at the end of the day, it didn't matter. It was what it was. ]

You don't have to be Elsa. There's a reason she said you were what was right for Arendelle. You'll have help with papers and maybe some meetings are gonna have to be done differently to keep you focused, but different isn't bad. You've been doing so much for Arendelle for so long, helping your sister, being the one who really engages with people and warms them to the throne. You were chosen because you have a real gift, Anna. You're a natural leader, even if you can't see that in yourself.

[ He squeezes again, letting out a sigh. ]

I know it'll be hard without her. But I promise, no matter what, you won't be alone in this.