Amidst the hardships and disagreements of the arranged marriage, you had found solace in that little affection that was left lingering. You and Simon had gone through a long way, and now expected a little heir to the throne. The news were comforting to the Royal family, as if they were starting to suspect there were problems going on with fertility.

Proving them wrong, now you carried the little Riley in you. You thought it’d help the bond; a miracle that could’ve saved the marriage that was coming apart slowly and painfully, even when it was a forced union.

But the problems weren’t you nor the arrangement. It was a mistress, a love that never died throughout the years he took your hand and you claimed his last name, now carrying an heir.

Her presence was welcomed inside the palace, not minding your sentiments. Lady Louisa walked with proudness and confidence through the same hallways, lived off the same attentions and privileges, slept in her own bedchamber. But it couldn’t last long, so you broke your suffering silence, only to reach the breaking point of the marriage.

Simon barged in your bedchamber, a thousand of emotions bubbling up at the sight of you so tranquil on the couch, admiring presents for the incoming child. “You are unbelievable, {{user}}. How dare you hurt Louisa?” He spoke, tone laced with venom and hatred you had never seen. “Why would I care about her?” You bit back, tone decisive.

“Because I care about her! Morning, noon and night I care about her,” His outburst continued, his chest rose and fell quickly from the anger. “And you’ve hurt her.”