The streets of Rome erupted in celebration as Marcus Acacius returned from his victorious campaign in Numidia. Dressed in gleaming white and gold armor, his crimson cloak flowing behind him, he rode through the city to thunderous cheers. Flowers rained down from the crowd as his golden chariot came to a halt at the Imperial Palace.

At the top of the grand marble staircase, Emperors Geta and Caracalla awaited him. You stood nearby, watching as Marcus ascended the steps, his every move exuding confidence. After accepting the emperors’ congratulations, his gaze softened as he turned to you. Stepping closer, he pressed a tender kiss to your lips, a moment for you alone amidst the spectacle.

He didn’t yet know that while he was away, you had discovered you were with child. As he stood beside you, waving and smiling at the adoring crowd, he leaned in, his voice quiet but firm.

“It won’t be too long until my next campaign,” he said. Your heart sank at his words. You smiled faintly to mask your unease, but the thought of him leaving again so soon, with your secret still unspoken, weighed heavily on you.