FALLEN PETALS

CHAPTER 8: DELICATE ALLIANCES

As the first rays of dawn peeked through the window, Storm stirred from his slumber, his eyes slowly adjusting to the dim light, but what surprised him the most was the sight of Revna sleeping soundly in their bed, her lips still attached to Lanecea's breast. Storm couldn't help but smile at the scene before him, knowing how much Revna needed Lanecea's nurturing and love. He knew that their relationship was unconventional, but he also knew that it was built on a deep and unbreakable bond.

Quietly, Storm got out of bed and made his way to the window, taking in the peacefulness of the morning. As he watched the sunrise, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the family they had created, and as he turned back to look at Revna and Lanecea, he knew that no matter what challenges they faced, they would always have each other's love and support. And that was all that mattered.

As the days went by, Lanecea continued to breastfeed Revna along with her own babies, creating a bond between them that went beyond words, and when Storm gave his permission for Revna and her older brother, Thorson, to help themselves to Lanecea's breasts whenever they needed nurture or were hungry, the family only grew closer. Thorson and Revna were grateful for Lanecea's love and care, and they eagerly accepted her offer. Lanecea, in turn, found joy in nurturing not just her own children, but also Thorson and Revna, who had become a part of her family. As they all sat together, sharing in the nourishment and love that Lanecea provided, Storm couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. His mistress and his children had formed a bond that he knew would only grow stronger with time and in that moment, he knew that they were all exactly where they were meant to be.

****

In the year 1547, in the bustling city of Paris, Lanecea and her family had to be careful. In a predominantly Catholic society, they still honored the old ways and gods, and Lanecea knew that they could easily attract unwanted attention.

Even at the orphanage, Lanecea was cautious not to draw any suspicion. She had warned her children, Thorson and Revna, to only breastfeed in the privacy of their manor, but as Revna watched Lanecea nurse the orphanage babies, she couldn't resist the urge to suckle on her breasts.

Revna's desire for her mother's milk was strong, and she found comfort and solace in the act, but she also knew the risks, and she made sure to be discreet, Lanecea and Revna sharing a bond that went beyond blood or words.

Catherine, who had never been blessed with children of her own, walked into the orphan nursery and was met with a surprising sight. At first, Catherine was taken aback by the scene, but as she watched the tender exchange between mother and daughter, she couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and love. She had always admired Lanecea for her nurturing nature since they met and now she saw it in full display. Lanecea and Catherine's eyes met before Catherine quietly left the room, not wanting to disturb the moment between Lanecea and Revna.

As Catherine walked away from the nursery, her mind was filled with conflicting emotions. The scene she had just witnessed between Lanecea and Revna stirred something within her. Being married to the churchwarden, Catherine knew that she couldn't entertain such thoughts, but in that moment, she couldn't help but feel a sense of desire and longing. She had always been drawn to Lanecea, admiring her strength and kindness, but now she saw her in a different light. Catherine quickly pushed those thoughts aside, knowing that they were forbidden and could never come to fruition. She took a deep breath and reminded herself of her duty to the church and her husband, and with a heavy heart, she continued on with her day, trying to push away the feelings that had stirred within her.

****

Lanecea found a moment to speak privately with Catherine away from the hustle and bustle of the orphanage. As Lanecea fastened her bodice, she confided in Catherine, explaining that Thorson and Revna were not her biological children, but the bond between them was just as strong. Catherine listened with understanding, having worked with orphans for many years. She knew the power of love and connection, and she could see it radiating between Lanecea and the children she cared for.

As they spoke, Catherine couldn't help but notice the way Lanecea's bodice hugged her curves, accentuating her figure and without thinking, she helped Lanecea lace up her bodice. Lanecea didn't seem to mind, and a small smile graced her lips as she appreciated the gentle touch. In that moment, Lanecea and Catherine shared a quiet understanding, a bond of their own that went beyond words. As Catherine finished fastening the bodice, they both knew that they had each other's support and understanding, no matter what challenges they faced. Catherine leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on Lanecea's breast, right above her heart. It was a gesture of trust and understanding, a promise to keep Lanecea's secret safe.

Lanecea's heart swelled with gratitude and affection for Catherine, knowing that she had someone she could confide in and trust now and in that moment, they both knew that their bond had deepened, and they would always have each other's backs. With a sense of peace and comfort, Lanecea and Catherine parted ways, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that they had each other's support and understanding.

****

In the dimly lit study of the grand estate, Lanecea found a rare moment of quiet to confide in Storm. She leaned closer to him, her voice a hushed whisper.

"Storm, there's something I need to discuss with you," Lanecea began, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and determination.

Storm, ever the attentive listener, nodded for her to continue. "What is it, Lani?"

"Earlier today, Revna came to me, troubled about Madeleine. She sees her as a rival for Gabriel's affection. Catherine overheard our conversation and assured Revna that Madeleine plans to join a convent. But there's more to it. Catherine walked in on me feeding Revna earlier today. I don't think she will use it against me but I can't be certain, of course. That look in her eyes...and her lingering touch afterwards, I do worry that if her conscious bothers her later, she could turn her feelings into resentment. I think she can be trusted to keep the secret and it won't negatively affect our operation in France, but I do worry about blackmail and think I should perhaps re-think my strategy. Spending so much time at the orphanage, although it gave me a chance to observe, might not be ideal now."

Storm's brow furrowed slightly. "And you believe Catherine won't use this information against us?"

Lanecea sighed, her strategic mind weighing the possibilities. "I'm not entirely sure, but Catherine's loyalty could benefit us. Her husband is a merchant, and his connections could be valuable. We must tread carefully, though." She paused, her gaze distant as she contemplated the broader implications. "I intend to focus on our mission and wait. If Catherine betrays us, it could endanger everything that I've been building, but if she remains loyal, it could strengthen our position."

Storm placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We will watch and wait. In the meantime, we'll continue our work and be vigilant. Whatever happens, we'll face it together. Carry on as you have been, but keep a careful eye on Catherine. I believe the future of our mission may depend on it."