The sun had barely dipped below the horizon when the first of the messengers arrived. The rebellion camp was unusually quiet, with most of the forces now scattered across the land, gathering allies for the coming war. Only a few rebels remained behind, securing the camp, ensuring their position was prepared for whatever Harold might throw at them. Evelynn sat at the edge of the campfire, the crackling flames the only sound in the otherwise still evening.
Her thoughts were heavy, and every moment felt weighed down by a secret that grew inside her. She had known, of course, since the bond between her and Eric had been fully completed, but she had yet to find a way to reveal it to him.
Her hand brushed against her abdomen, the subtle curve of her belly a constant reminder of the child she c
