Chapter 24: The Crown’s Shadow

"Genevieve, join us for tea. We have a lot to discuss." Elara said one afternoon, after some weeks following the marketplace incident. Genevieve had become a familiar presence in the royal household.

To her, the opulent foyers of the palace were a sharp contrast to the modest home she came from. Elara and Mirabelle had grown fond of her, often inviting her to join their daily activities and social gatherings. She would follow them to events and the market, seamlessly blending into their social circle. Genevieve's charm quickly endeared her to them. Unknown to them, they all had the same motive.

As they sat in the sunlit garden, Mirabelle leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "We were thinking, Genevieve. Our brother, Prince Rian, needs a child. Since his wife, Alina, cannot bear children, perhaps you could..."

Genevieve's heart skipped a beat. Knowing what she wanted all along, she didn't wait for Mirabelle to finish, "Are you suggesting that I..."