forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

Started May 08, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

(Oh, of course it was. It's so fun when the one short answer question is the one you don't know since you can't even guess XD Dude I wasn't expecting it either. I was shocked but I'm down with it lol)

Her breath mists the air in front of her as they guide her back toward the grand stone entrance of the palace. The chatter of the courtiers and the distant echo of laughter fill the courtyard, but it all seems distant to Ophelia, who can't shake the chill that has settled into her bones. Her ladies exchange concerned glances as they escort her, whispering words of comfort and reassurance, but it's clear that her pallor has paled further, a telltale sign of encroaching sickness.

The grand doors of the palace swing open, and she steps into the welcoming embrace of the warm, torch-lit corridors. The contrast between the frigid outdoors and the comforting indoors is stark. Her ladies-in-waiting hurriedly herd her up to her chambers, not listening to her protests that she's not helpless. They waste no time in starting to assist her in shedding the wet layers, gently tending to her needs. As much as she appreciates that they want to help, she's still insistent that she can manage on her own.

After getting changed into some dry warm clothes, the realization dawns that the harshness of the cold weather may have taken its toll. The soft, muted glow of a bedside candle casts a warm, inviting pool of light on her disheveled bed. With a sigh of relief, she slips off her slippers and slowly climbs into the welcoming embrace of her blankets and sheets. Under the weight of the thick covers, she snuggles in, feeling the immediate comfort of her cocoon-like sanctuary. She burrows deeper into the folds, the covers enveloping her like a protective shield against the world outside. As she nestles in further, she revels in the gradual warmth seeping into her bones.

The ladies-in-waiting gather around Ophelia's bedside, their expressions laced with concern. "Your Grace," begins Lady Eliza, her voice gentle and imploring, "you really should consider seeing the royal physician. Your health is of utmost importance."

Ophelia, wrapped in her mountain of blankets, looks up with a weary smile. "Thank you, but I assure you, it's just a passing ailment. I'll be perfectly fine in no time."

Lady Isabella chimes in, her voice tinged with worry, "But you've been unwell for days, my lady. It's not right to dismiss it so lightly. The physician could provide you with some remedies to ease your discomfort."

Ophelia shakes her head, her resolve unwavering. "I appreciate your concern, truly, but I have too much to attend to, and I can't afford to be slowed down by a physician's care. I'll be up and about in a day or two, you'll see. I just need some rest." As if to prove it, she turns on her side to get some sleep, trying to end this conversation.

As Ophelia nestles beneath her covers, one of her faithful ladies-in-waiting, Anne, takes it upon herself to retrieve Kaillas, . Her steps are swift and purposeful as she makes her way through the labyrinthine corridors, her satin gown swishing softly with each graceful stride.
Anne finally reaches the door to Kaillas' office and gives a hurried but respectful knock. She knows that she should wait to be invited inside and yet her patience ceases to exist in this situation. As she opens the door, she meets Kaillas's gaze and wastes no time in explaining the situation. "Your presence is needed, My King," she says, her voice carrying a note of concern. "Her Grace is in her chambers, and it appears as though the cold weather has no agreed with her. She refuses to see the physician."

Kaillas watched as Ambrose left the room and waited until the door clicked shut before reaching for his food. His stomach was grumbling, and rightfully so. He hadn't eaten since last night. He wasn't undereating on purpose. There was just too much to do in a day and so little time to do it. He woke up early as usual to train. He bathed and kissed his wife goodbye before leaving for his office. And he had been in there ever since. Some days he saw little of his wife and some days he saw more. Being king was demanding and it seemed everyone needed his attention these days.

He felt guilty how little time he had been spending with his wife these past few days. Unfortunately, too many things had passed to his desk and constant meetings had been called. This was the same thing every year, to discuss how the winter was looking and predictions for the next few months. As well as ensuring that their trade was still locked with the kingdoms that were providing their produce for these next few months of winter. Cattle and livestock were in good shape and they were careful about not depleting their sources. Kill too many and then there was none to breed for more livestock during the warmer months.

And because of that, he had very little time to see to his wife. She had her own duties as well, her own projects she was working on and he even passed some things on to her that he believed would suit her. Orphanages and schools and other charity work. He allowed her to choose it all and dictate how much they contributed. He knew how much that meant to her. As well as other things, such as some minor laws and so on. Just smaller things he knew she could handle and that she would be interested. More than just planning balls and tea parties. He knew how much it meant for her to be involved. And he saw her potential and her eye for politics. He treasured it. He wouldn't lock her away and keep her from using her skills. Even if he had a tendency to take on the majority of the workload.

Kaillas had not been expecting anyone else to come into his office today. At least not until dinner time when ultimately either a maid brought his food or his wife came to get him to join her for dinner. His now empty plate from lunch sat to the wide while he was hunched over his desk when there was a knock on the door. It was quickly opened and he raised his head.

No one entered his office without his verbal approval other than Ophelia and Ambrose. Everyone else had to wait for him to give them permission. It wasn't Ambrose, seeing as he had just left. It must have been Ophelia. Only when he raised it head, it was not Ophelia standing in his office, but her lady-in-waiting Lady Anne. His brow furrowed. What was she doing here? If Ophelia needed him, she always came to him herself.

At the mention of his wife, he stood abruptly. What did she mean that Ophelia was unwell? She had seemed just fine when he had left her this morning. But if Lady Anna was coming to retrieve him, it must be serious. "Thank you, Lady Anne," he said hurriedly before rushing out of his office.

He paid no mind to the looks he got for almost running through the halls. He had only one thing on his mind, getting to Ophelia as fast as possible. Even if that meant having to run through the palace.

He made it to their rooms in record time. he threw the door open and strode through the chambers to their bedroom. He dismissed the ladies with a look. He would attend to his wife. All other matters could wait. he saw her form on the bed and walked over to her, kneeling beside the bed. He placed his hand on her forehead, feeling her temperature. "My love, are you alright?"

Lady Anne offers a small, understanding nod as she watches Kaillas' swift reaction to her unexpected presence. She knows the importance of respecting his boundaries and is aware that this deviation from protocol carries some weight. "Of course, my lord," she acknowledges with a curtsy, appreciating his swift understanding of the urgency.

With a graceful demeanor, she steps aside to allow him to exit his office, her concern for Lady Ophelia etched on her face. The matter is indeed serious enough to warrant this exception, and she hopes that Kaillas's swift response will aid in attending to his wife's needs.

Ophelia, her eyes heavy from having nearly fallen asleep, stirs at the sound of Kaillas' urgent entry. His presence is surprising but reassuring in the midst of her discomfort. She offers him a faint smile as he kneels by her bedside, his hand gentle on her forehead. His touch, always a source of comfort, momentarily eases her worries. Though she's always happy to see him, she does shoot a pointed look in the direction of Anne, who briefly hovers in the doorway before disappearing into the hall. She's not thrilled that Anne thought to bother Kaillas with something so minor when he's as busy as he is. That will have to be a conversation for another time, though.

"Kaillas," she breathes, her voice faint but filled with affection. She takes a moment to sit up, though the effort makes her bite back a groan. There's an unfortunate amount of pressure in her head. "I didn't mean to trouble you," she continues, her eyes searching his with concern. "It's just a minor ailment and I didn't want to worry you unnecessarily. But it seems as though Lady Anne has gone rogue." While she isn't thrilled about this, there's still fondness in her tone. She appreciates how much the woman cares for her, even if it can be troublesome at times.

As she speaks, she reaches out to clasp his hand, giving it a light squeeze in the hopes of assuring him that things really aren't serious. "I'm feeling a bit feverish, darling, and my head aches, but I'll be fine. It's probably just a passing illness." Her pale face is a contrast to her usual vibrancy, but she tries to reassure him with a weak smile. "You see? Nothing serious. Just a little rest, and I'll be back on my feet in no time."

(Good god I am so excited to get into the beginnings of my plan lol)

(You know who isn't ready? Me. I am not ready. Nor am I prepared lol)

Feeling Ophelia's head, Kaillas began to worry more. She was hot, more than normal. Her face was pale, and that in itself was concerning. And she clearly wasn't acting herself. Ophelia didn't rest lethargically. Hell, she rarely ever rested during the day at all, unless, of course, it was due to certain activities. But then they would rest together. This was something else entirely and it made him nervous.

He made a face as Ophelia attempted to sit up, his brows furrowing as he watched her struggle. He reached forward to support her weight as moved. He got up off the ground and perched on the edge of the bed beside her. He brushed her hair out of her face, frowning the longer he noticed just how truly pale her skin was. How could he be so neglectful? How could he have not noticed this morning? Or for the past couple of days that these symptoms had been manifesting? He needed to pay better attention to her.

"You could never bother me, my darling. You should have sent for me the moment you weren't feeling well. And the physician." He sighed, leaning forward to kiss the top of her head. "Lady Anna did the right thing getting me. In sickness and in health, remember my love? I am here for you always."

He gripped her hand, hating how clammy it felt in his own. He pulled her into his side before turning to her lady-in-waiting. "Anne, would you fetch the physician for me?" Then turning back to Ophelia he said, "Do not argue me on this. You need to see him. Even if it is a small cold, he can give you something to ease the symptoms."

(It's going to start off so sweet and loving and then I'm going to absolutely destroy their happiness in every way possible XD)

Ophelia, although feeling physically weakened, remains resolute in her desire not to burden Kaillas more than necessary. As he supports her and brushes her hair from her face, she gazes up at him with a tired but determined expression. "I appreciate your concern, my darling, but I'm sure it's nothing serious. I've been pushing myself too hard, that's all. And the cold weather isn't helping" Her voice, though frail, carries a hint of stubbornness. She doesn't want to admit that she might be more unwell than she initially thought. She knows that Kaillas has a million other things that he needs to be doing right now.

His kiss on her head elicits a faint smile from her, though it doesn't quite reach her eyes. "I know you're always here for me, and I'm truly grateful for it," she says, her words filled with affection. "I'll rest, I promise, and see the physician. You needn't worry too much." As much as she appreciates that he wants to care for her, she knows that the more time he spends here with her, the further behind he falls with his work.

She clings to his hand, her palm feeling warm and clammy. "I won't argue, then," she concedes with a sigh. "I suppose it's best to be safe." She leans into Kaillas's comforting embrace, resting her head on his shoulder, her exhaustion more apparent as she grows still. "I love you,," she murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you for taking care of me, even when I'm being stubborn." She closes her eyes for a moment, hoping that rest, with Kaillas by her side, will bring some relief to her ailing body.

Lady Anne swiftly departs from the chambers, her footsteps echoing softly on the marble floors as she makes her way through the palace corridors. Her usually composed demeanor carries a sense of urgency, and she maintains a determined stride. Approaching the physician's quarters, she gives a respectful knock on the door. It doesn't take long for the elderly physician, known for his wisdom and experience, to answer. His eyes widen slightly at Lady Anne's somber expression. "What is it, Lady Anne?" he inquires.

"Your immediate presence is required in Her Ladyship's chambers," she informs him, her voice respectful but tinged with concern. "The queen is not feeling well, and the king has requested your assistance."

The physician nods, his professional instincts kicking in. He reaches for his medical bag, prepared to provide the necessary care. "Lead the way, Lady Anne," he says, his demeanor calm and focused, ready to attend to the needs of the royal household. Together, they make their way back through the corridors, Lady Anne guiding him back to the royal chambers

(I have no one to blame but myself)

Kaillas would never not worry for her. She was his wife and her wellbeing was the most important thing. Everything else could wait. Work and meetings and anything else requiring the attention of a king, none of it mattered as long as she needed him. And she did need him, even if she was being stubborn. Thankfully it was one of the traits he loved about her. Even if it stressed him out at times, like now.

He kissed her head once more. "I will always care for you. Even when you're being stubborn. Especially when you are being stubborn." He gave her a small smile, trying to lighten the mood. The room felt too heavy. Heavy with his worry for her and the feeling of impending doom. He knew, rationally, everything was likely fine. it was likely just a cold. She wasn't as used to the cold weather as he was. Her terrain in her home was different than his. So of course it would take a toll on her body. He should have expected this when winter came. Another shortcoming on his end.

"Lay down for me, love, while we wait for the physician. We need to keep you warm." He coaxed her to lie down, tucking the blankets in around her. He stayed perched on the bed next to her, reaching his hand forward to brush his fingers through her hair. If he wasn't so nervous to leave her alone, he would have gotten a cool rag from the bathroom to place on her head and clean the sweat from her skin.

He raised his head as he heard the royal physician and Lady Anne arrive back in their chambers. His face said it all. The concern and worry etched on his face. He needed her to be well.

(Well, I definitely can be blamed too haha)

Ophelia appreciates her husband's concern, and she can't help but smile weakly at his attempt to lighten the mood. She knows she's being stubborn, but it's comforting to see how much he cares. It isn’t as though she wants to be stubborn, she just doesn’t think that this is as serious as everyone else does. She’s been sick before. It certainly isn’t pleasant but it’s not the end of the world. Regardless of her feelings on the matter, she’ll deal with the physician to put Kaillas’ mind at ease.

As Kaillas coaxes her to lie down and tucks the blankets around her, she complies, realizing that she does need to rest. She's grateful for his presence and the soothing touch of his fingers through her hair. “I really am fine, darling, you’ll see,” She insists lightly, unable to help herself from assuring him one more time.

Seeing the concern on Kaillas's face, she knows she needs to get better soon, not just for her sake but for his as well. She nods in acknowledgment of the physician's arrival, silently hoping that the treatment will help her recover quickly, so she can put her husband's worries to rest.

The royal physician, a man of considerable experience and compassion, approaches Ophelia's bedside with an air of careful consideration. As he examines her, he becomes increasingly observant, sensing something more.

With gentle and precise movements, he checks Ophelia's forehead for fever, his touch warm and comforting against her skin. He listens to her descriptions of her symptoms and the discomfort she's been facing. His questions are thoughtful and empathetic, aiming to make her feel at ease.

The physician then takes a wooden tongue depressor and asks Ophelia to open her mouth, examining her throat and tonsils. As he continues his assessment, he notices signs that raise his suspicions. His experienced eye catches subtle changes that lead him to consider a different possibility.

His fingers move to her pulse, and as he takes it, he takes a deep breath. A change of expression flickers over his face but he doesn’t speak yet. Rather, he continues with the exam, pressing his hands lightly against her stomach. He then covers her back up with the blankets and steps back. "My lady," he begins, his tone gentle and caring, "there's something more to consider here. I believe you may be with child."

(You're right, it's all your fault!! XD)

Kaillas gave her a look. "I'd rather be sure that you're fine than forgo the physician and it be something serious. Ophelia, my love, please just allow this." Perhaps he was hovering over her. Perhaps he was being overprotective and blowing this all out of proportion. But he would rather have blown it out of proportion than it truly be something serious that they ignored. It wasn't as if he wasn't the same with his sisters. He always made them see the physician anytime they were affected by an ailment. He wouldn't risk any of his family. Even if his sisters were overly dramatic anytime they came down with a cold.

He moved out of the way as the physician approached them. He stood by her head, watching the royal physician carefully. Even though he had known the man all his life, he was protective of his wife. He didn't want to see any discomfort befall her. And especially not because it was done by someone else's hand.

When the physician moved away from her head, he placed his hand on her hair, his thumb caressing her forehead. Though touch was reassuring him that she was alright. Or as alright as she could be in her condition. The heat and sweat on her forehead made him nervous. He hated to see her so.

He straightened his back as the physician stepped back, his diagnosis decided. Kaillas searched his face, looking for any indicator that this was more than it looked like. That this was something to be worried about. Then the physician said the last thing Kaillas had been expecting.

May be with child.

(Harsh but fair. But hey, you agreed to the pain XD)

Ophelia's gaze softens as she listens to Kaillas's words, understanding the depth of his concern. She knows he's just being protective, and that's one of the qualities she loves about him. She nods gently, conceding to his plea, and offers a weak but reassuring smile.

When the royal physician approaches, she watches Kaillas move aside, standing by her head. His presence is a source of comfort in this uncertain moment. His hand on her hair and the gentle caress of his thumb against her forehead reassure her, even if her condition remains a source of concern.

As the physician continues his examination, she feels a mix of anticipation and vulnerability. While she’s certain that the man is trustworthy, she doesn’t know him. It’s unpleasant to have a stranger examining her when she feels so poorly. She appreciates Kaillas's presence by her side, his touch soothing her in this uncertain moment. His thumb's caress against her forehead offers a sense of security.

When physician steps back and delivers his unexpected revelation, her eyes widen, mirroring Kaillas's astonishment. She takes a moment to process the news, and her hand instinctively moves to her abdomen. A rush of emotions and questions floods her. How is this possible? They’re always so careful. She’s never missed a dose of the tonic. Not once. Uncertain, she steals a glance at Kaillas, worried about what he thinks. She knows that he wanted to wait on starting a family.

(I know I did. I like causing pain)

Kaillas didn't know what to think. For the first time in his life, he froze. Even when he received the news of his parent's death, his initial thought had always been to fight. To pick a fight, to go in head first. Never had he actually froze. But he did this time. He froze. His hand paused its stroking and he was staring at the physician. Child.

The word kept bouncing around in his head. Child, child, child. She was with with child. It could only be confirmed on whether or not she had missed any of her monthly bleeding but that wasn't something he kept up with. He felt like he couldn't breathe.

A child. What did this mean for them? It wasn't that he never wanted to have a child with her, it was just that he had wanted more time with her. he wanted more time to enjoy their marriage without a child. He wanted her to enjoy her youth and find herself before becoming with child. He wanted to enjoy himself and find himself before having a child. They were both still so young. He had thought they would have had years before a child would have been brought into their lives.

Finally, he said, "Thank you, doctor." A polite dismissal. He waited until the man left before turning to Ophelia, crouching beside her. He didn't think his knees could hold him up for much longer. He reached for hand, kissing the knuckles. He didn't know what to say. What could he say?

(Me too. And this is definitely gonna do it)

Ophelia's eyes reveal her own shock and bewilderment at the revelation. The silence that hangs between them is heavy with the weight of unexpected news that has the power to reshape their future. She can sense the turmoil in Kaillas's thoughts and emotions, and she's well aware of his desire for more time before taking on the responsibility of parenthood.

As the physician departs, her trembling hand seeks Kaillas's for support. His kiss on her knuckles sends a shiver of comfort through her, and she feels the need to offer reassurance in return. But like her husband, she struggles to find the right words amidst the overwhelming reality of the situation.

She didn’t think that this would happen. Not so soon and certainly while they’ve been trying so hard to prevent it. When Kaillas first told her he wanted to wait a few years for children, she had been a little sadden but she quickly grew to agree with him. She didn’t get to enjoy her childhood so she’s been taking this time to let loose and have fun. But now…..she just doesn’t know what to think. And Kaillas’ silence makes her nervous.

While this may be unexpected and they may be young, she knows that she wants this baby. None of this was planned but that won’t stop her from loving this baby with every fiber of her being. She glances over to Kaillas, hoping that he feels the same.

Kaillas looked up at Ophelia, finally looking into her eyes. He was terrified. He was terrified and unsure and unsteady. He didn't know what to do. He didn't have a plan. He always had a plan. He always had a line of action. But this, he had nothing for this. He was caught unaware and unprepared. What would he do?

What would she do? That was the better question to be asking. The minutes ticked by, silence filling the room and yet he could only look at her. What was she going to do? He knew his wife. He knew her answer was likely to keep it. But, there were always other options. Ways to get rid of unwanted pregnancies. No one need know, if she chose that course of action. Though she likely would not.

And that would mean they were having a child. She was carrying his child, their child. He didn't think he was ready to be a parent. He knew he wasn't ready to be a parent. But when was anyone ever truly ready?

He finally spoke, "What would you like to do, Ophelia?" His voice was calm, steady, so unlike the raging emotions beneath he surface. He needed to be collected for them. He needed to be strong.

Ophelia can feel the weight of the silence in the room, the unspoken tension hanging heavily between them. She watches Kaillas closely, aware that he is grappling with emotions and thoughts that are as overwhelming for him as they are for her. This is an unprecedented situation, and there's no script to follow.

His question feels like an anchor, grounding them in the reality of the moment. She draws in a deep breath, her eyes filled with a mix of fear, determination, and vulnerability. She knows that their love, though young, is strong and has weathered challenges before.

This may not have been what they planned for but this is still their baby. She knows that Kaillas is just wanting her to weigh the options but she’s a little hurt that he’s even asking. There’s no way she could get rid of their baby. As much as she wishes that this would have happened later in their lives, she still wants to go through with this.

"Kaillas, I want to keep our baby," she says firmly, her grip on his hand tightening. "I know it's terrifying, and we weren't prepared for this, but it’s still ours.” Her other hand rests lightly on her stomach, hoping that he’ll agree.

Kaillas released a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. His head bowed until his forehead touched the mattress. He took a breath, then another, before raising his head. His eyes left her face to look down at her stomach. To where their child grew growing in her womb.

He reached out his other hand until it rested over her own on her stomach. Their child lay growing in there. One day, her stomach would be swell and their baby would be in there kicking and just waiting to get out. He hoped it was a girl.

"We're having a baby." Saying it out loud finally made it feel real. "We're having a baby." He let out a quiet laugh before looking up at her only to kiss her gently. "Rest now. I will have the kitchen make you some soup and see if the physician can give you anything to aid in your discomforts." He kissed her lips once more.

"Shall I run a bath for you? To help lower your fever." If she thought he was overprotective before, just wait and see. He was debating if he should even let her out of his sight. He wanted to be there for anything she might need, her and the baby.

Ophelia's heart swells as she watches Kaillas's reaction. His relief, his acceptance, and the realization that they're going to be parents wash over him. She sees the emotional weight lifted off his shoulders, and it fills her with a sense of reassurance. The initial reaction he had had her worried half to death. She feels as though she can finally start to relax now that he seems happy. Had he not had a change of heart……she doesn’t know what she would have done.

His hand on her stomach, covering her own, brings a sense of connection to the tiny life growing within her. She smiles, feeling the significance of this shared touch. She can sense his hopes and dreams for their child, even as they both navigate this unexpected journey together. Their baby is going to have the best father. She just knows it. Even know she can picture it in her head: him cradling their tiny infant daughter and doting on her. The image being a smile to her face.

As he speaks, confirming their new reality, her heart flutters with a mixture of emotions. The joy in Kaillas's laughter is infectious, and she meets his gentle kiss, truly happy. This isn’t how she thought their lives would turn out but she’s excited for this new chapter.

"Thank you, Kaillas," she whispers, her eyes shining with gratitude. "A bath sounds wonderful. And I appreciate your thoughtfulness, but please don't worry too much." She reaches up to caress his cheek, seeking to reassure him and ease his protectiveness, knowing that he'll be a devoted and loving father in time.

(I swear, sometimes I'm the best at replying and then the brain juices leave and then I have nothing for like days ughh)

If she thought he was bad, wait until she saw him now. Kaillas would be watching her every move now, making sure she was comfortable and safe. He was already planning who he would put on her guard, doubling it from what it was now. She carried his child. And not just his child but the future of this kingdom. They both needed to be protected.

He wanted to keep this between them for now, until they were prepared to spread the news. As joyous as it was. it put them both in a vulnerable state. And with the worry of another attack, he wasn't going to risk her life because he wasn't prepared for it. A week would be all he needed to make the right preparations and get them going. And then he couldn't wait to tell he world they were with child.

"I'll be right back," he kissed her forehead before standing up and walking to the bathroom. He ran the water luke warm, intent on brining down her temperature. While he fever wasn't terrible, he would risk it by drawing her a hot bath. But he didn't want to make her uncomfortable by drawing her a cool one either.

When he came back to the bedroom, he swept her up in his arms to carry her to the bathroom. HE helped her strip her clothing and placed her gently in the bath. Then he climbed in behind her and hugged her to his chest.

(Don't worry about it, I get it! This was my test week with the dogs anyways so I was hella busy lol)

Ophelia's heart is heavy knowing that they're going to have to keep this secret from everyone. She knows that the political landscape is treacherous, and the kingdom is a powder keg of tension and uncertainty. Between how things have been in the kingdom and her parents……she can't take any risks. Not yet. The threats that hover like storm clouds over the kingdom have only intensify her determination to keep this secret. The last thing she wants is to make her unborn child a pawn in the dangerous game of power that plays out within the palace walls.

Gossip and rumors spread like wildfire in the court, and she has seen firsthand how quickly a whispered word can spark chaos. If word were to get out that she was carrying the future heir to the throne, she fears it would only exacerbate the already unstable situation. The enemy is always on the lookout for any weakness to exploit, and her pregnancy could be seen as just that – a weakness to be targeted.

With a heavy sigh, she rubs the side of her head and looks over as Kaillas re-enters the room. She leans against him as he scoops her up and carries her into the bathroom. After allowing him to undress her, she sinks into the water and takes a moment to relax. The warmth of the water gradually eased her discomfort, and she relaxed against him, resting her head on his chest.

(I swear, I try. I don't know if it's school, seasonal depression, or still trying to recover from working so much over the summer. My brain feels fried like all the time.)

Kaillas settled in the tub behind her, tucking her head under his chin. His hands settled on her stomach, his thumbs absentmindedly stroking the skin as they sat there in silence. A baby. Their baby was growing inside there. Even if it was no more than the size of a pea, one day it would grow to be a wonderful baby girl. He already knew it would be a girl. It had to be. His life wouldn't be fulfilled until his home was overwhelmed with all of girls. his sisters, his wife, his daughters.

Of course healthy and happy were the most important things. As long as his wife and baby were healthy, it didn't matter what their baby was. But he still knew it would be a baby girl. He could already imagine Ophelia, belly round with their child. Their baby kicking his hands as he touched her stomach.

Kaillas finally reached forward and grabbed a rag, wetting it. He dragged it against her skin, wiping the sweat that had accumulated on her brow. He hoped the water was soothing and cool without being uncomfortable. But he needed to bring her fever down.

(I’m sorry that you’re feeling so burned out!! This time of year is definitely rough. Hopefully you’ll get the chance to relax and recover a bit)

Ophelia finds comfort in Kaillas's presence as they sit in the bath together. She leans back into him, feeling the warmth of his embrace and his hands gently resting on her stomach. The silent moments allow her to reflect on the new life they're creating together, the small miracle taking root within her. She can feel his thumbs stroking her skin, a comforting and loving gesture that fills her with a sense of peace.

As she nestles into him, she can't help but share in his dreams and hopes for their child. She smiles to herself as she imagined Kaillas cradling their tiny baby in his arms. A little girl would be perfect. A girl would be theirs and only theirs. They wouldn’t have to worry about her parents trying to swoop in and try anything and Kaillas would be the perfect girl dad.

When Kaillas reaches for the wet rag, she appreciates the cool touch on her forehead. “Your sisters are going to be so excited,” She murmurs, breaking the silence. While she hopes that they won’t have to share this news just yet, she does worry that the information will spread before they have a chance to contain it. Gossip with the servants is unavoidable. All it will take is for the wrong person to learn about this and then everyone knows.

Kaillas dropped a kiss on the top of her head, smiling at the idea of his sisters. And what they would have to say. "They will be. You're going to dote on you until the baby is born. And then after that, good luck getting our baby back. They're going to try to hoard her." His arms tightened around her ever so slightly.

He was still debating if he would allow them to see her after she had given birth. Of course, it was ultimately up to Ophelia, but he didn't want his sisters to bombard her. He had every intention of being there during the birth, even if it wasn't done. There was no way he was going to let her suffer without him. He wanted to be there for every minute of it.

He placed the rag to the side and relaxed against the back of the tub, allowing Ophelia to lie back against him. He would stay in here with her as long as she needed. Everything else could wait. Nothing was as important as this.

Ophelia can't help but smile at the thought of Kaillas's sisters and their inevitable enthusiasm. "Her? Rather confident that we're having a girl, aren't you?" She asks, more than happy to tease him about this. Though she's going to be happy either way, she does hope that he's right. The thought of Kaillas and a little baby girl…..it's absolutely adorable to her.

The actual birth is the furthest thing on her mind right now. She's barely managed to wrap her head around the fact that they're having a baby. The one thing she knows for sure is that she wants Kaillas with her if he'll agree. It will be greatly frowned upon but she doesn't care. There's no one better to support her in such a vulnerable time than him.

Closing her eyes, she takes a moment to clear her head. They have at least a few months before any decisions need to be made so there's no need to stress out about any of this so soon.

In the dimly lit chamber, King William and Queen Charlotte sit on their thrones, dead silence hanging between them. The room is shrouded in shadows, and the flickering candles cast eerie, dancing lights upon their faces as they await the arrival of their spy.

A cloaked figure, loyal to their nefarious schemes, steps forth with a message, bowing deeply before revealing the news. "Your Majesties," the spy whispers with a hint of satisfaction, "Your plan has succeeded. Your daughter is with child."

King William's lips curl into a sly smile, while Queen Charlotte's eyes sparkle with malevolent glee. The news of their daughter's pregnancy is not a cause for celebration in their hearts, but rather a calculated step in their pursuit of power and control over the kingdom.

The two have a handful of people in Vaeril that are listening in on all of the hushed whispers in the palace, reporting back to them. During their visit all of those months ago, they paid one of their minions a handsome sum to switch out the tonic in their daughter's nightstand with a powerful fertility drug. It seems as though it worked.

"The future of the kingdom," Queen Charlotte purrs, her voice dripping with cunning, "is now firmly within our grasp."

(……)
(I'm scared.)

Kaillas grinned down at her, nodding his head. "That I am. It's going to be a girl. Our little girl." He was practically glowing at the thought, almost as if it was he with child and not her. He was filled with glee at the thought of having a little girl .

While the worries and stress would likely come later, he was going to enjoy this now. He had felt a lot of emotions in a short amount of time and hadn't had really any time to process them. Not that it would turn him away from her and their child, but he would need to time process things and wrap his head around everything. And perhaps a little obsessively double her guard. It wouldn't be very subtle and likely questions would follow but he wasn't taking any chances.

His fingers stroke the skin of her skin, his chin resting on the top of her head. he sighed softly, relaxing in the bath despite the cooling water. He could stay in there all afternoon as long as he was with her.

(You should be. Shit is gonna hit the fan)

Ophelia can feel the joy radiating from Kaillas, and it's infectious. His anticipation and the sheer happiness in his eyes help to soothe her own uncertainties. She turns her head to nuzzle against his chest, her voice soft and filled with affection.

"Our little girl," she repeats, her words tinged with the wonder of the idea. She knows that her husband has an incredible capacity for love, and she can't help but imagine the warmth and joy he'll bring to their daughter's life. The thought fills her with a sense of contentment, even amidst the unpredictability of their circumstances.

As Kaillas's fingers stroke her skin and his chin rests atop her head, she feels a sense of serenity settle over them. She knows that challenges lie ahead, but this moment of shared intimacy in the bath, with the cooling water, she feels truly at peace. Although she would love to stay here with him all day, the water is turning cold and her skin is starting to prune.

(…….)

Kaillas beamed at the words. Their little girl. He couldn't wait. He was ready to spoil another little girl in his life. Whatever she wanted, all she had to do was ask. He'd buy her finest gowns and the best tiaras money could buy.

As their skin began to wrinkle, he reached forward to pull the plug and let the water drain from the tub. He maneuvered around Ophelia so not to disturb her too much as he got out of the tub to grab a towel. He wrapped it around his waist before helping Ophelia out and wrapping a towel around her, drying her off. He told her to stay put while he grabbed a shirt for her to wear from the closet.

He helped her slip it over her head, kissing her head after the shirt was settled. "Let's get you back to bed." He picked her up, taking her to the bedroom to tuck her back into bed. "I'll be right back. I'm going to send for some soup for you, love."

( 😇 )

Ophelia's heart swells at the enthusiasm in Kaillas's eyes. She knows that their little girl is already cherished beyond measure, and the thought of her husband spoiling their daughter brings a smile to her lips.

As the water drains from the tub, she watches Kaillas with affectionate eyes. His care and tenderness are a constant source of comfort, and she appreciates his efforts to ensure her comfort. Being wrapped in a towel, she allows herself to be pampered, feeling grateful for his presence.

As he helps her into a shirt and carries her back to bed, she sighs softly, feeling a sense of security in his arms. She nods in agreement as he mentions the soup, definitely appreciating the amount of pampering she’s receiving.. "Thank you, Kaillas. I'll be waiting." With that, she settles into bed, looking forward to a quiet moment of rest and reflection while he tends to her needs.