The Royal Contract

31

Ten years later, the kingdom of Concordia was flourishing. Their son had grown into a bright and spirited young boy, adored by the people and cherished by his parents.

However, despite the kingdom's prosperity and the joy Benji brought to the royal family, murmurs had begun to circulate within the royal court. Courtiers and nobles whispered among themselves, speculating why there had not been another child born to the king and queen. Some speculated about the health of the royal couple, while others questioned their commitment to securing the future of the kingdom with additional heirs.

One sunny afternoon, Ben and Miranda were in the royal gardens, watching Benji practice his archery a pastime he enjoyed.  His laughter echoed through the air, a sound that always brought a smile to their faces. But today, a hint of worry clouded Miranda's usually bright eyes.

"You have been my wife for 11 years and yet I still have not mastered the art of reading your thoughts." Ben spoke up "So pray tell what consumes your mind."

"Well" Miranda began softly, her gaze fixed on their son, "I've been hearing the whispers. The court is starting to question why we haven't had another child."

Ben sighed, his expression growing serious. "I know," he admitted, "I've heard them too. But we cannot let their gossip dictate our lives."

Miranda turned to face her husband, her concern evident. "But what if they see it as a sign of weakness? What if they question our ability to secure the future of Concordia?"

Ben shook his head, his grip on her hand tightening reassuringly. "We have given them a strong and capable prince in Benji. He is our legacy, and he will be a great king one day."

"You forget your own agreement, Concordia has no heir. Benji is the heir to Lumnia. My Father is going to enact birthright law and ascend Benji to the throne. And if that happens when there is no one to take Concordia's throne. The Warren family name will be in danger."

"My love, do not fret." He tried to comfort her but his words did little to calm the storm within her mind.

She traced her fingers absently over the delicate embroidery of her gown, her mind consumed with questions and uncertainty.

"What if there's something wrong with me?" she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. "What if I'm not meant to bear another child?

Ben's heart ached at the sound of her distress. He pulled her into his arms, holding her close and stroking her hair soothingly. "Miranda, my love, listen to me," he said gently. "There is nothing wrong with you. You are strong and healthy, and you have already given me the greatest gift of all in our son, Benji."

Miranda's eyes welled with tears, her insecurities laid bare before him. "But your parents chose me because they believed I would be good for childbearing," she whispered, her voice laced with anguish. "What if I've failed them?"

He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "Okay yes, part of the reason you were chosen to be my wife was because my parents believed you would be a good mother and produce heirs. But they also chose you because with your intelligence, compassion, and strength they saw so much potential in you. You bring so much to our marriage, Miranda, and I love you for all of it."

"I've read countless medical books, hoping to find an explanation," she confessed. "But none of them offer any insight into why we haven't been able to conceive again."

Ben reached out and took her hand, his touch gentle and reassuring. "Miranda, sometimes these things are beyond our understanding," he said softly. "Perhaps it's simply not meant to be. Or perhaps there's a reason that will reveal itself in time."