*Ember*

I clung to Alec’s hand as we walked inside. Alec’s arm was around my waist, steadying me at every pulse of pain. With every step, I could feel the weight of his concern and the depth of his love.

Inside, the castle seemed to buzz with energy. Servants ran back and forth with cloth and other things to the birthing chamber.

“Where's the midwife?” Alec asked as we walked down the hall.

“A messenger went to get her,” a servant ...