Chapter 52

I was going about my daily tasks when I was unexpectedly faced with a shocking revelation. Astrid, a woman from Ryder's past whom I believed was long gone, appeared at the palace cradling a baby in her arms.

Confusion and disorientation swept over me as I tried to comprehend why she was here. However, as she approached and introduced herself, memories flooded back, revealing the truth of their past relationship. I had assumed it had ended amicably, that she had moved on. But seeing her with a baby shattered that illusion.

I was really devastated and hurt!

When Ryder returned to the palace, I sensed a shift in the atmosphere. My husband's demeanor was different, and there was a palpable tension lingering in the air.

Concerned, I couldn't help but voice my worries. "What's wrong?" I asked, trying to decipher the emotions etched on his face.

Tears welled up in my eyes as Nova's voice trembled with emotion. "I found out about the baby," she confessed, h