~ Elara’s POV Rufus and I were swamped with work, running around to meet his rich clients. Thankfully, they were all really pleasant to deal with, a breath of fresh air compared to Ashley. And speaking of Ashley, I was glad she hadn't caused any more trouble for either of us. What surprised me most, though, was listening to these wealthy clients. Despite all their money, they all seemed to have their own problems. Some struggled with family issues or personal challenges. It made me realize that money doesn't solve everything. Everyone has their own battles to fight, rich or poor.Rufus turned out to be an amazing teacher. He patiently showed me how to make all sorts of natural remedies. He even taught me some first aid basics, like CPR and how to bandage a wound. It was incredibly helpful stuff to know. The most incredible thing, though, was how his feelings for me never wavered, even though I didn't feel the same way romantically. He was a true friend, always there for me. As my

~ Elara’s POVWas I being too demanding? Taking advantage of his good nature? I thought to myself while I was in Rufus’s back. But then I looked up at Rufus' face. His expression was pure joy, his eyes sparkling with mischief. He wasn't straining, he wasn't annoyed. He just seemed genuinely happy to be taking care of me. Maybe, I thought, letting myself relax completely against him, that was part of love too. Accepting that someone wants to take care of you, even when it feels a little strange. So I snuggled in a bit closer, a contented sigh escaping my lips, and enjoyed the ride.We finally reached home, laden with bags from our shopping trip. As I started unloading groceries, Rufus stopped me with a gentle hand. "Wait a sec," he said, a mischievous glint in his eye. He reached for another bag, the one he had mysteriously appeared with earlier. My heart thumped with a mix of excitement and curiosity. What could possibly be in that bag? He carefully handed it to me, and as I peeke

~ Hazel’s POV Relief washed over me. I had managed to convince everyone, even Rayel, that I was pregnant. It was a complete lie, but a necessary one. When I heard Dolph lost the battle and surrendered, I knew I had to act. Dolph was reckless and power-hungry. Losing the war he started made him even more unpredictable. The last thing I wanted was to be tied to a loser. If he knew I wasn't pregnant, he might try to take me away by force and the worst would happen. The secret meetings we had before the war would be exposed. Feigning pregnancy was a perfect way to keep him away and protect my reputation. News of a royal pregnancy would travel fast, and I knew it wouldn't be long before Dolph heard about it.Elated with my successful performance in front of Rayel, I left his chambers and headed back to my room. As I walked down the hallway, every maid and guard I passed offered their congratulations. Their smiles seemed genuine, filled with joy for the upcoming royal baby. I thanked them

~ Elara’s POVPanic surged through me as I lurched forward, a gasp escaping my lips. My stomach, swollen with my precious baby, felt like a water balloon that had just burst. A warm gush spread down my legs, and my eyes widened in realization. The baby was coming! The playful mood evaporated instantly, replaced by a primal urgency. I forgot all about the whisper, my focus laser-sharp on my child. "Rufus!" I roared, my voice laced with a mixture of fear and excitement. Thankfully, the clatter from the kitchen abruptly stopped, replaced by the sound of hurried footsteps. Rufus burst through the doorway, his face etched with concern. "What's wrong?" he exclaimed, rushing to my side. I pointed at your legs, the unmistakable wetness a clear sign. Relief washed over his features, replaced by a determined glint. "It's time!" he declared, his voice calm despite the urgency in his eyes. He quickly helped me sit down, his movements efficient and practiced. "Don't worry," he soothed, his

~ Rufus’s POVStaring out the window, the gloomy sky felt like a giant, grey frown. It hit me then that it wasn't just bad weather. Somehow, it felt linked to Elara's labor. Like a weird message from the universe saying things were about to get...different. Panic jolted me awake, and I raced back inside, the pieces clicking into place. I saw Elara and her face was etched with pain, sweat beading on her forehead compared to how I left her earlier. It was clear she was still in the thick of it, struggling to bring the little one into the world.Elara's pulse hammered like a drum solo in my ears. Her voice, usually so strong, was barely a whisper. "Did you figure it out?" she rasped, worry etched on her face. I hurried to her side, squeezing her hand. "Hey, hey," I soothed, forcing a calm I didn't quite feel. "It's okay, we'll get through this together. Listen, I think I understand what's going on. Your labor...it's not exactly typical."Elara's eyes widened for a moment, surprise flick