The tiny alcove seemed to grow even quieter once Elara’s question dropped into the air. Rowan didn’t rush to fill the silence. He just kept his arm around her, his thumb tracing slow, careful circles on her shoulder, like he was worried she might completely fall apart if he moved too fast.
Elara kept her eyes locked on the glowing thread tying their wrists together. Its faint silver light made the small space feel softer, a little safer, but her mind wouldn't stop circling back to the exact same terrifying thought.
"What happens if... if I really am pregnant?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. "In a place like this. After... everything."
Rowan let out a slow, heavy breath, clearly picking his words with care. "The laws are different, depending entirely on who claims the child. Alph
