**Introduction**

In the short story "The Doll's House" by Katherine Mansfield, Kezia is a young girl who is presented with a moral dilemma when she accidentally reveals a family secret. When faced with the consequences of her actions, Kezia chooses to admit her fault to her mother but not in front of her father. This decision can be attributed to several factors, including Kezia's relationship with her parents, her fear of her father's reaction, and her desire to protect her sister.

**Kezia's Relationship with her Parents**

Kezia's relationship with her parents plays a significant role in her decision to admit her fault to her mother but not in front of her father. Throughout the story, it is evident that Kezia is closer to her mother and feels a greater sense of comfort and understanding in her presence. Kezia's mother is portrayed as kind-hearted and empathetic, providing a safe space for Kezia to share her concerns and feelings. On the other hand, Kezia's father is depicted as strict and authoritarian, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. Kezia's closer bond with her mother makes it easier for her to approach her and confess her mistake.

**Fear of her Father's Reaction**

Furthermore, Kezia's decision to admit her fault to her mother and not her father can be attributed to her fear of her father's reaction. Kezia is aware of her father's strict nature and is likely afraid of facing his anger and disappointment. She may anticipate that her father's response would be harsher and less forgiving compared to her mother's. This fear of retribution and the desire to avoid confrontation may have influenced Kezia's choice to share her mistake with her mother in private.

**Protecting her Sister**

Additionally, Kezia's decision may also stem from her desire to protect her sister, Else. Kezia's accidental revelation of the family secret causes a rift in the Burnell family and leads to the exclusion of the Kelvey sisters from the doll's house viewing. Kezia's mother, understanding the unfairness of the situation, expresses sympathy towards the Kelvey sisters and their exclusion. Kezia, being more perceptive than her siblings, may have sensed her mother's compassion and wanted to shield her sister from her father's potential anger. By confessing her fault privately to her mother, Kezia hopes to prevent her sister from facing harsh consequences.

**Conclusion**

In "The Doll's House," Kezia's decision to admit her fault to her mother but not in front of her father is influenced by her closer relationship with her mother, her fear of her father's reaction, and her desire to protect her sister. These factors contribute to Kezia's choice to confide in her mother privately, as she seeks understanding, avoids confrontation, and safeguards her sister from potential harm.