BACKFIRE

CLARA’S POV

“Oh, you look ill,” I hear the princess’s voice squeak. I slowly open my eyes, seeing her between the bars of my prison. As weak as I am, I struggle to sit up, using the chains around my wrists for assistance. My bones are brittle, my body light, my head heavy.

I was tempted to close my eyes and never wake up again, but I had to keep going. Just for a little bit longer. I lean up against the stone, eyes locking in on Athena.

“Look at you. Someone is about ready to give birth, isn’t that so?” Her voice is taunting. I feel the bump in my stomach. It has been growing so fast. I was sure that Henry would have found me by now, saved us, by now, but he never came. Athena’s appearance was shocking. I had heard about their nuptials before I was taken. I was sure Henry would make a great escape of some sort. It was he who I thought would come to the rocks beside the peaceful stream, but instead it was Mr. Grove and his league of barbarians.

I’ve been here ever since, losing