Cordell?

Mrudula ran toward me and hold me tightly. Saving me from falling because I am pregnant.

My hand winds into her hair and tugs the black strands by the roots.

"You will never say that again!" I scream at her. "I

love him! I love him more than you could ever love anyone— He is King of Barbarian."

I'm yanked away by Evalyn and Mrudula. who try to calm me down. Arlena and Camellia just watch Ivona cry on the floor, holding an old rag to her nose to stop the bleeding.

They give her a disgusted look. This war is making me go mad. I rush out of the room and down the hallway, tears running down my cheeks.

"I can't do it," I cry softly. Cesar is gone. Black Bear is gone. The war is raging. Bellechester will try and assassinate me, I know it. They are known for their exotic poisons and skilled assassins. My baby kicks inside of my stomach. I cradle my

growing belly in my hands and lean against the wall in the hallway.

I'm tired. I'm so tired.

I felt two hands hold me and hugged me tightly. I