Asking permission Quote by Ilona Andrews
““His Majesty needs a can-I girl anyway. And I’m not it.” “A can-I girl?” Andrea frowned. I leaned back. “ ‘ Can I fetch you your food, Your Majesty? Can I tell you how strong and mighty you are, Your Majesty? Can I pick out your fleas, Your Majesty? Can I kiss your ass, Your Majesty? Can I...” It dawned on me that Raphael was sitting very still. Frozen, like a statue, his gaze fixed on the point above my head. “He’s standing behind me, isn’t he?” Andrea nodded slowly. “Technically it should be ‘may I,’” Curran said, his voice deeper than I remembered. “Since you’re asking permission.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Iron Throne by Ilona Andrews, 2015
A character resists being objectified and refuses to fulfill a ruler’s demeaning demands, asserting personal agency.
In simple terms: Refusing demeaning requests shows self‑respect.
Key Takeaway
Stand firm in your boundaries.
Themes
agency
power dynamics
respect
identity
boundaries
Mood
defiant
assertive
reflective
Type
statement
dialogue
When to use this quote
- workplace
- political negotiation
- personal relationships
- social hierarchies
Key Concepts
feminism
personal autonomy
service
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain dignity when pressured?
- What limits can you set without endangering yourself?
A Different Perspective
The quote may oversimplify complex power structures where safety is at stake.
