A Traveler's Curse

Chapter 9- Nocturnal Ties

The commotion drew the attention of my ladies, who anxiously burst into my bedchamber, desperate to understand the source of the chaos and my piercing screams. I repeat the horrifying episode of my husband attempting to harm me in his sleep, lost in the world of a war-induced nightmare. They immediately begin to shower me with care and concern.

"Thank the heavens for your presence, Sir Rowan," Sila expresses with relief, tenderly draping a blanket over my trembling form and placing her hand gently upon my small bump.

"I am only doing my duty." His response is humble, yet his troubled eyes betray the weight of the situation. What if he hadn't heard my cries and entered the room? Would Kieran's episode have resulted in the death of both myself and my unborn child? The thought sends a chill down my spine, causing me to rest my head upon Sila's comforting shoulder, finding ease in her embrace.

The following day, while I am preparing for the day ahead, Kieran enters our bed chambers. Without any remorse for his previous night's actions, he simply states, "I think it's best if I sleep in my own bedchambers from now on," before turning and leaving. It was clear that he cares little for my pregnancy, even though he believes the child to be his own, as he rarely acknowledges it or my presence in general.

Although I am relieved to have him out of my bed at night, no longer having to endure the stench of alcohol or fear for my safety and that of my unborn child, I can't help but feel miserable due to this inflicted sobriety. After moving to Everbay he made sure I had no access to alcohol, seemingly determined to make my life as depressing as possible.

I decide to spend the day with Sila, Keana, and Caitir, we opt for a walk along the beach. As we kick off our shoes and let the waves wash over our bare legs, our dresses dampening with each splash, I notice Rowan positioned against a wall, keeping an attentive eye on us.

Sometime later, as we sat on the sandy shore, witnessing the sunset, Caitir announces, "So, I am to be married." Surprised, Sila, Keana, and I turn to her, curious to know more.

"To whom?" I inquire, intrigued by her announcement, while Sila and Keana echo my curiosity.

"Lord Baeryn of Eldoria," Caitir confesses. "The King arranged the marriage just a few days ago. I have never met him, nor do I have any idea what he looks like, other than the fact that he is a quiet few years older than me."

"May he be a kind and caring man who treats you well," Sila says warmly, grabbing and squeezing her hand.

We all agree with her and head back to the castle as a group.

Caitir's upcoming marriage to Lord Baeryn of Eldoria became the focal point of our conversations, woven with curiosity and speculation. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, we cling to the threads of optimism, hoping that this marriage would bring joy to Caitir's heart.

Finally, she meets Lord Baeryn, he indeed is several years older, a chubby and short man with sparkling blue eyes. He is kind and he and Caitir have endless things in common and he already wants to take her to travel the world with him. I am glad that she is happy.

As months unfold like the passage of seasons, my pregnancy flourishes, and the bond between my unborn child and me grows stronger. Kieran remains distant and I am grateful for that. He never has anything nice to say to me. My ladies are there for me every step of the way and even though I rarely find any time alone with Rowan, he is always watching us.

I find myself on the journey towards motherhood uncomfortable, my belly swelling with life, six months into my pregnancy. The rhythmic kicks of my unborn child serve as a constant reminder of the 'miracle' unfolding within me. It is a strange feeling, nurturing a tiny being whose appearance remains a mystery. Would my baby inherit my fiery red hair or would Rowan's rich brown locks dominate? Would my emerald green eyes be mirrored in my child's gaze or would he inherit the warm brown hues of his father? The anticipation and curiosity consume me.