stephen wrapped his arms around her, wanting to bring her close as physically possible. there had always been something different about her, she had made him feel seen more than anyone else had been. that may have seemed strange considering he was a prince, but for so long he had felt like a puppet in this game, and with her he felt truly free. he wished he could leave this life behind, but he knew he could make a difference once he became king. he needed to at least true and bring these feuding kingdoms together. when she questioned that this was the end of their time together, he shook his head, his hands stroking up and down her back. " of course not , we will need to keep this quiet , my father must not find out that you are carrying my heir. i do not know what his reaction would be, but i fear it would not be a good one" he sighed. " once he is gone, it will all chance, i will see to it " although he had not admitted it , he loved the girl in front of him. " i will look after you, and our child, even if i have to do so secretly, but it won't always be this way" stephen promised her, his fingers moving up to stroke against her face. " is there someone you trust that you work with?"
