Rhy listens. He even scoots a little closer, pulling his chair around the side slightly so they're not fully across each other, closing the space between them to provide the illusion of intimacy even when they're surrounded by people. It helps, of course, that none of the people are paying attention or give a single thought to them; they are all background noise, and so are Rhy and Wilhelm in their lives. Sometimes, a crowded room is the most private place for a quiet conversation.

His expressions shifts, a momentary confusion, then understanding. Sympathy in the way he nods.

"...I see."

He'd had his fair share of arguments with his family for being flighty and unserious, strict talkings-to about securing an heir, but despite their frustration, they'd never tried to stop him being who he is. When Wilhelm says he wasn't allowed, it sounds so-- crushing. And impossible.

"That sounds awful. Your mother shouldn't have treated you like that. That's no way to make sure you can be your best self for your people."