Chapter 41 -Hard times

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Stefania

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"Are you ready?" Paris asks, brushing my hair out of my face, and I nod as he pulls me into the hug. The elders are at the door waiting to check if I have done what I’m here to do, and I find myself afraid. I have always been so sure that I would give Paris an heir, but during the last few days I found myself not so sure, and if I weren’t afraid of making the gods mad right now when I need them to help me see this through, I would have gone to a fertility clinic to make sure.

I close my eyes, snuggling more into his arms, as memories of last night flood in. It was difficult for Paris at first. I had to take charge, but once he pulled himself together, it was magical. He was gentle and caring, and he made me feel like the most beautiful woman in the world, and I started feeling things I shouldn’t have—things that will break my heart all over again. We linger in the hug for a while before he pulls back and places a kiss on my forehead. I give h