Validus (Book Two Part One Of The White Witch Of A Stór Series)

Eagla (Fears)

Anna

I woke to a husband that is wide awake. 

"Did you sleep?" I asked as I stretched.

"I don't feel as if I need to sleep again." He kissed my head.  "I was just counting our blessings." He said.

"I know you didn't rest much today and that is vital to your recovery," I said as my head laid on his chest.

"How can I sleep when I've just learned God has given us his greatest blessing, I have three Kingdom's to rule and his grace's masterpiece is asleep in my arms?" He asked.

I looked up at him.  "Maybe you are his greatest masterpiece.  Your compassion and intelligence amaze me after the upbringing you endured, now the torture and confinement." I said.

"You see me differently than the man that lies underneath.  I have sinned and not always held so much compassion." He ran his fingers through his hair.  "I may never be a great man like your father but I hope to be a great king, husband, and father."

I stretched my neck and pecked his lips.  "You already are a great man, King, and father."

He grasped my face and gave me a real kiss and that is when my breathing once again changed.  I want my husband and we are finally alone and he has strength.

Of course, there was a knock on the door and Liam growled.  "For the sake of God himself, this better be of great importance!" I couldn't help but giggle as he yelled in frustration and the door opened exposing my sweet lady Callie.  She bowed when she stepped inside.

"Please forgive me Your Majesties, the Queen's father, King George has sent for you.  He said nourishment is needed by his daughter and there will be a feast tonight.  I must help the Queen prepare." She said.

He let out a breath.  "He is correct, the Queen will be ready for you shortly.  You may return in a few moments." He said and she bowed again and left.

"What is her name?" He asked.

"She is Callie and has sacrificed a great deal for my lord.  Her husband offered you aid and was put to death for it.  She is carrying his only child."

He nodded.  "I believe I remember the man, she will be cared for by this crown.  A proper husband must be found." He said and I sat up.

"She may not be ready as she deeply loved her husband.  I would not want another marriage after losing you." I said and he sat up. 

"You must, if anything happened to me I would need you well cared for.  It is what her husband would want for her, she cannot raise that child on her own, it deserves a proper father." He said.

"Ours would have a proper grandfather and uncles," I said.

"Does her child?  She would depend on charity if something happened to this crown." He said.

I shrugged my shoulders. 

"I will address it with Lord Sheridan at council.  Her husband sacrificed his life for me and I owe it to the man." He slowly got out of bed. 

"I will never welcome another marriage." I'm not sure why the subject angers me.

"Why are you so upset all the sudden?" He asked.

"I lost one husband and almost lost another, I can't bear the thought again." I cried.

He walked over to me and clasped my face to make me look at him.  "I plan a long and happy marriage and reign.  I won't be going anywhere and I'm sorry for bringing it up." I looked up into his eyes and see compassion and love.

"I'm sorry, the thought scares me." I cried and he wrapped his arms around me and I feel sick.

"My only place is at my Queen's side."  He rested his head against mine.  "I promise."

"Thank you." I sniffled.

"We need to get ready because I cannot have you fainting again." He said then kissed me before leaving.

When I first lost Liam the thought of carrying his child made me happy up until the day I killed King Samuel.  I fear my sin left a stain on my child.  Then I met Callie and hearing of her loss scares me.  I can't imagine losing Liam after already losing Daniel.  Granted, our greatest enemy is now dead but there is still a claim to the throne and also his stepmother to fear. 

My ladies came and dressed me for dinner, although again I dread celebrating at a feast.  I haven't felt well and my emotions have proven to be quite sorrowful.  My dress is white with gold trim and I find the corset more suffocating than ever.  My hair was pinned up and I was ready before Liam came to my door. 

"You are glowing." He said before he took my hand.

"I am suffocating in this dress," I said and he chuckled. 

"I will be as glad as you when I remove it tonight." He kissed my temple then we walked with his groomsmen, my ladies and our guards to dinner.  He uses me for strength which I don't mind but again I feel confined and uncomfortable.

We were announced as King Charles II and Queen Annalise when we arrived.  We gave our formal greetings and took our seats between my father and brother. 

We were served our wine then Liam was announced.

"Please listen as the King has an announcement!" The crowd quieted.

"I have not had the pleasure of meeting most of you as my recovery had me in confinement but I assure you, your King is gaining strength daily.  I would like to thank Your Mejesty, Queen Annalise, for her dilegence, loyaly, strength and her leadership during the hardest of times.  I would also like to thank our allies, King George and Prince Colum of A Stór for their alliance and dilegence in freeing us all from the grasp of evil.  Many changes are coming, we hope to restore this Kingdom to it's previous glory and the celtic traditions we all hold dear." Everyong applauded and he raised his hand.  "There is more glorious news for you all." He motioned for me to stand with him.  "Your Queen, Annalise, daughter of A Stór and God's grace is with child.  The next heir is in existence and God's light has been shined upon us.  Please pray for a healthy pregnancy and delivery as our Queen carries our prince or princess within her womb." He bowed at me.  "To Queen Annalise."

"To Queen Annalise!  Long live the King!"