Second wife, Second chance
Elowen looked at Rowan and saw, beneath his honesty, the same fear she’d felt since the woods: the fear of consequences, the fear of losing control.
“Say it,” she demanded, because she needed the last piece even if it tore her apart. “What do you want from me tonight?”
Rowan’s face tightened, and for the first time he looked young - like the first love he’d spoken about had been a boy’s promise made before he understood what promises cost.
“I want you to stand beside me at the ceremony,” he said. “As second wife.”
Elowen’s breath stopped.
“And,” he added, voice rough, “I want you to give the position of first wife to the woman carrying my heir - so that when the realm recognizes our bond, it