Chapter 13

After Caulder declared that Brentley and Allera’s wedding would take place in four days’ time, the kingdom turned to planning the royal affair.

Meanwhile, I grew so heavy and awkward with pregnancy that every time I tried to help, someone would merely usher me to a chair so I could sit out of the way.

It was as humiliating as it was relieving. My ankles were so swollen it actually hurt to stand on them. Yet I craved involvement.

“Are you sure there isn’t anything I can do to help?” I nearly begged when the latest person—Allera—shooed me into a big, comfortable settee in the corner of the ballroom, where the reception after the wedding would take place.

“Yes, you can sit there and take a nap for me,” she instructed sternly.

I rolled my eyes. “Take your own nap.” My answer was as moody and insolent as I felt. “I want to do something.”

When Allera opened her mouth, no doubt to dash all my hopes and dreams, I rushed to add, “Certainly there’s something I can do from this chair. Addre