Chapter 22

Amelia shook her head, the weight of her failure pressing down on her. "The doctors say there's nothing wrong with Niko, which means the problem lies with me. I'm considering stepping aside, letting him divorce me so he can marry someone who can actually give him an heir." She glanced at Keira, suddenly ashamed of burdening her with this. "I know they’re hopeful Alexei will fill the void. But after meeting you, how can I put that pressure on you? I was born into this life and knowing I would one day marry the future King but you... It just wouldn't be right."

"No," Keira said sharply. "Amelia, you can't—"

"Can't what? Can't face reality?" Tears filled Amelia's eyes, threatening to spill over. "I married him knowing my primary duty was to produce the next generation. I've failed at the one thing that mattered most."

Keira grabbed her hands, squeezing tight. "That's not the only thing that matters. What about love? What about the partnership you've built together?"