Whispers Of Desires: A Sense Of Truth {Book 2}

𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚇𝙻𝚅𝙸: 𝙴𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚘𝚐𝚞𝚎

꧁༺ 𝙽𝚒𝚊 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙺𝚒𝚢𝚘𝚜𝚑𝚒 ༻꧂

The moon cast a soft, silver glow through the castle window, illuminating the canopy bed where Nia and Kiyoshi laid. Nia woke up first by gentle movement of her belly, signaling the baby's stirring. She smiled and gently and tried to move, when she realised Kiyoshi's arms were wrapped tightly around her.

"Good morning, Kiyoshi," she murmured, gently nudging his shoulder.

Kiyoshi opened his eyes almost instantly, a sleepy smile spreading across his face. "Good morning, love," he murmured, his voice still raspy from sleep. He leaned down and brushed a kiss against her cheek, the coolness of his touch sending a shiver down her spine.

Nia giggled softly as she leaned closer to Kiyoshi, her fingers tracing a pattern on his chest. "What are your plans for today?" she asked, her voice still gentle and sweet.

"Later this morning, I have a meeting scheduled with Captain Shale of Vortex," Kiyoshi said, sitting up, "There have been some developments with the border skirmishes, and we need to discuss a course of action."

Nia nodded and Kiyoshi asked, "What are your plans for the day, my Queen?"

"Just the usual, I suppose. Attending to the children, overseeing the day-to-day affairs of the castle, and oh yes, I do have a meeting with the ambassador from the other vampire kingdom, Nyxenar. We are discussing a potential charity event to foster better relations between our kingdoms." Nia paused for a moment, her gaze drifting out the window as she thought about the upcoming events. "I hope it is not too much for me, considering..." She trailed off, gesturing toward her growing belly.

Kiyoshi looked at her with concern. "Are you sure that is wise, my love? You know we can always reschedule."

"It is alright, Kiyoshi," Nia said with a soft smile. "I have been feeling well lately and I want to do my part in fostering better relations. Besides, it's not like I will be doing anything too strenuous, and I will have you there to support me."

Just then, a loud cry pierced the quiet morning. "Oh dear," she sighed, recognizing the sound instantly.

"Seems like my little princess is awake," Kiyoshi said, his tone amused.

Nia sighed playfully. "Looks like my duties are starting early today."

With a gentle sigh, she swung her legs out of bed and made her way to the nursery. Kiyoshi watched her go to the room beside their own.

Nia entered the nursery to find Niya, their one-year-old daughter, perched upright in her crib, her chubby arms reaching out for something. The baby's dark brown eyes were wide with excitement, her black hair a curly mess around her face. Nia smiled and gently picked her up, cradling her in her arms. "Hello, my little princess," she cooed, kissing her soft, cheek. "What do you think you will be doing today?"

"Mama!" she squealed, reaching out and grabbing a fistful of Nia's afro hair. The motion was both adorable and painful, but Nia didn't flinch. "Mama," she repeated, as if to make sure she had her full attention. Nia laughed and gently untangled her fingers from her hair, kissing her palm.

As Nia played with Niya, a deep chuckle rumbled from behind her. "You are a wonderful mother, Nia," Kiyoshi said, standing in the doorway. "Our little one is lucky to have you."

Nia blushed, turning to face him. "And you," she said softly, "are an amazing husband and father. I don't know what I would do without you." She looked down at their daughter, her eyes shining with love and pride. "You know, sometimes I cannot help but wonder if she takes after me more, or if she really does look just like you."