“I didn’t mean for anything to happen to Mom,” I tell my brother through our link.

“Are you certain you’re safe here?” He asks again, pulling me close as though shielding me from something.

“They won’t harm me while I’m carrying the heir,” I reply, trying my best to reassure him. I realize how outlandish this must sound coming from me. “Prince Jorlan will protect me. He’s earned my trust.”

“If you want to leave, just say the ...