EMILY'S POVThe hallway stretched before me, long and endless, lined with portraits of Cortez ancestors who had ruled before me. I felt like their eyes were following and judging me as I walked.I kept my head high, my steps steady and my hands still, but I still heard them. Whispers trailed behind me like smoke, curling around the corners, seeping through the cracks of the grand estate. The walls had ears, and the ears had mouths, and the mouths would not stop talking.“She should focus on producing an heir.” The words drifted from the sitting room as I passed. Elder Selena's voice was low but clear.“Stability comes through legacy,” another voice added, it was Elder Moretti. “A strong husband should lead during pregnancy, It's only natural.”“Of course.” Selena agreed. “The Othon line is powerful, an heir would solidify everything. The alliance, the future and even her place.”The word her place made me stop walking. I pressed my hands flat against the cold stone wall. My heart poun
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