Eva's hand trembled as she gently touched her belly.
"I… I am pregnant," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
But doubt quickly crept in. She began pacing the room, her bare feet silent on the cold marble floor.
"No… I can't be sure yet. What if my monthly cycle is late for some other reason?"
She stopped near the door, heart racing.
"I need to see a physician."
She reached for the handle, then froze.
"No… I can't go to the royal physician. Eyan will find out immediately."
Her mind spun. She turned back into the room and hurried to her wardrobe, pulling out the dark, simple clothes she used when she needed to disappear — her thief's disguise.
"I have to go in secret. No one can know."
Quickly, she changed, tucking her long hair under the hood. She moved toward the window, ready to climb down, but stopped the moment her fingers touched the sill.
"No… I shouldn't risk jumping. Not now."
She gently placed a protective hand over her belly.
"I'll use the secret passage instead."
Without another word, she slipped out of her chamber—
And disappeared into the hidden passageways of the palace.
-----------------------------------------------------
Velmoria Market – Afternoon
(Physician's Clinic)
Eva sat on the worn wooden bench, her face hidden beneath the disguise spell. Several women waited around her, some chatting softly, others resting with hands on swollen bellies.
A kind-looking woman in her late twenties sat beside her and smiled warmly.
"Are you here for a check-up too?" the woman asked.
Eva nodded, offering a small smile. "Yes."
The woman gently rubbed her own round belly. "This is my third. Eight months along."
Eva's eyes softened. "I wish you a safe and healthy birth."
"Thank you," the woman beamed. "What about you? Is this your first?"
"No," Eva replied quietly. "I have a son. He's five and a half years old."
"That's wonderful," the woman said, then tilted her head curiously. "Are you here alone? What about your husband?"
Eva's fingers tightened in her lap. "My husband… doesn't know I'm here."
"Oh!" The woman's eyes widened with understanding and a hint of excitement. "So if the physician confirms it, you can surprise him! I'm sure he'll be overjoyed."
Eva forced a smile, even as panic clawed at her chest.
Just then, the physician's assistant called out, "Next, please!"
Eva stood up quickly. "It's me."
She stepped into the examination room, heart hammering.
-------------------------------------------------------
(Fifteen minutes later)
Eva sat stiffly in the chair across from the physician, her feet tapping nervously against the wooden floor, hands clutching the fabric of her dress tightly.
The middle-aged woman physician finished reviewing the reports, then looked up with a gentle smile.
"Congratulations, my lady… you are with child."
For a moment, the world went completely silent.
Eva's breath caught. Slowly, she placed her trembling hands over her belly.
Tears welled up and spilled down her cheeks.
Hic… sob… sob…
Soft, broken sounds escaped her as she tried to hold them back, but the tears kept falling.
The physician stood up, worried, and placed a comforting hand on Eva's shoulder.
"My lady, why are you crying? You should be happy. The goddess has blessed you with another child."
Eva's voice cracked through her tears, "I am happy… that's why I'm crying…"
The physician smiled kindly. "Ah, overwhelmed by the news. It happens, especially with the second one. But please, don't cry too much. It's not good for the little one."
Eva quickly wiped her tears with the back of her hand, trying to compose herself.
The physician returned to her seat and continued in a calm, professional tone:
"From now on, you must eat healthy food — fresh fruits, vegetables, milk, and nuts. In the early months, you may experience morning sickness or dizziness. That's normal, but rest when you feel faint. I'll write down some tonics that will help strengthen both you and the baby."
She scribbled on a piece of parchment and handed it to Eva.
"Please come back next month for a follow-up check. And next time, remember to bring your husband. The child belongs to both of you. It's good for him to be involved."
Eva forced another smile. "I… I will bring him."
The physician nodded warmly.
--------------------------------------------------------
(Velmoria Market – Later)
Eva walked slowly through the market. A bag of tonics in her hand.
Her steps felt heavy. Her mind… heavier.
A heavy sigh escaped her lips.
"What should I do now…?"
Her steps slowed.
"If Eyan finds out about the child… I'm sure he'll be furious. He already said he doesn't want us to have another child...."
She stopped near a quiet corner, gently touching her belly.
"What if I tell him… and he says he doesn't want to keep it?"
Fear coiled tightly around her heart.
"No… I can't let that happen. This is our child. I need to protect it."
She stood there for a long moment, then made her decision, her voice barely a whisper:
"I'll keep it a secret from everyone. Once the child is big enough… Eyan won't have a choice but to accept it."
"Yes… that's what I'll do."
With newfound resolve — mixed with deep anxiety — Eva adjusted the hood of her disguise and continued walking through the crowded market, the small bag of tonics pressed protectively against her chest.
--------------------------------------------------------
(Royal Palace – Velmoria)
(Secret Passage)
Eva moved quietly through the dimly lit secret passage. Just as she was about to step back into the main palace corridors, she paused and looked down at the small bag of tonics clutched in her hand.
"I should hide this here for now," she whispered. "I'll come back tonight when everyone is asleep to take it."
She carefully tucked the bag into a small alcove behind a loose stone, making sure it was completely out of sight. Satisfied, she continued forward.
-------------------------------------------------------
(Eva's Chamber)
Eva slipped back into her chamber without a single soul noticing. She quickly changed into one of her usual elegant gowns, then collapsed onto the large bed.
She lay there with her arms spread out, staring up at the ornate ceiling for a long moment. Slowly, her hand drifted down to rest gently on her belly.
A soft, tender smile bloomed on her face.
"So… you are the result of that passionate night," she murmured, a light laugh escaping her lips. "Your father really is very impressive…"
She let out a quiet, affectionate chuckle.
"Now my Leo will have a little sibling too. I wonder if you'll be a little sister or a little brother… It doesn't matter. Whether you're a boy or a girl, your mother and father will love you with our whole hearts."
Eva continued to gently stroke her belly in slow, soothing circles.
"Looks like Aranel and I got pregnant almost at the same time… I wonder who will give birth first."
A shadow of sadness crossed her face.
"Aranel ran to me so excitedly to tell me about her child… and here I am, hiding mine from her. She'll be furious if she ever finds out…"
She stayed there, lost in thought, her hand never leaving her belly. Slowly, her eyelids grew heavy.
"Why am I feeling so sleepy already…?"
She yawned softly.
"I should sleep a little…"
-------------------------------------------------------
(Eva's Chamber – Evening)
Eva had been sleeping for hours when she began to stir. A familiar, comforting warmth surrounded her. She felt strong arms holding her close.
Slowly, she opened her eyes… and froze.
Eyan was lying beside her, wide awake, his intense gaze fixed on her face. His arms were wrapped tightly around her waist, keeping her body pressed gently against his.
"Honey…" Eva breathed.
Eyan smiled softly and reached up to brush a few stray strands of hair away from her face.
"Are you awake?" he asked, his voice low and warm.
Eva sat up quickly, pulling herself free from his embrace.
"I… I fell asleep. I'm sorry."
Eyan tilted his head, studying her. "Why are you apologizing for resting?"
"It's just…" Eva trailed off, panic flickering in her eyes.
Eyan reached out again, his fingers aiming to caress her face. Eva flinched before she could stop herself.
Eyan froze instantly, his expression shifting from affection to sharp worry.
"Eva… what's wrong?" His voice dropped, laced with quiet alarm. "Tell me."
"Nothing," she answered too quickly, her voice nervous.
He placed the back of his hand on her forehead, checking for fever.
"You don't have a fever. Are you feeling unwell?"
Eva forced a bright smile. "No, I'm perfectly fine."
Eyan continued to search her face, his sharp eyes missing nothing.
"Don't lie to me, Eva....You know I can tell when something is troubling you."
"I'm not lying," she insisted, though guilt twisted in her chest. "Why would I lie to you? I told you — I'm fine."
Eyan sighed softly and pulled her back into his arms, hugging her tightly against his chest.
"I know you wouldn't lie to me…" he murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.
Please forgive me, Eyan… but I can't tell you. I can't tell you that you're going to be a father again....I have to hide it even from you.
Eyan eventually pulled back and looked at her with gentle affection.
"Come. Dinner is almost ready."
Eva nodded silently. She took the hand he offered and walked out of the chamber with him, her secret weighing heavily in her heart.
-------------------------------------------------------
(Royal Palace – Velmoria)
Grand Dining Hall – Evening
The long dining table was filled with warmth and chatter.
Eyan sat at the head regal and relaxed. Eva sat on his right side, with little Leo beside her, swinging his legs. Across from them sat the twins — Nolan and Nayra — who were excitedly waiting for their father to feed their mother.
Luca sat next to Aranel, fussing over her like a worried hen.
"Come on, Aranel, just one more bite," Luca urged, holding a spoonful of soup to Aranel's lips.
Aranel leaned back, waving her hands. "Luca, no! I already ate three bowls. I'm going to burst!"
"Nonsense," Luca said firmly but lovingly, gently pushing the spoon forward. "You're carrying our child. You need strength. Open up."
Aranel groaned dramatically but opened her mouth, accepting the bite with a pout. "You're worse than a mother hen. I'm pregnant, not starving!"
On the other side, Nolan clapped his hands.
"Father, feed mother more!"
Nayra nodded eagerly.
"Yes! Mother needs to eat for the baby!"
Eyan watched the scene with an amused smile, his eyes soft with affection.
Eva glanced at Eyan. He was smiling warmly at Luca and Aranel, clearly enjoying their playful bickering.
A sharp pang of guilt twisted in her chest.
If only he knew about our child… he would probably be doing the same thing — forcing me to eat, taking care of me so tenderly.
She looked back at Luca, who was now cutting more meat for Aranel despite her protests, and felt a sudden wave of jealousy wash over her.
I'm feeling jealous….
A few minutes later, Aranel suddenly clamped both hands over her mouth, her face turning pale.
Luca immediately set the spoon down.
"Aranel? What happened? Are you alright?"
Before Aranel could answer, she pushed her chair back and bolted toward the side door leading to the private washroom.
"Aranel!" Luca called, jumping up and running after her. "Wait for me!"
The moment Aranel ran out, the familiar smell of the rich food hit Eva differently. Her stomach churned violently.
A wave of nausea rose up her throat so fast she had to slap her hand over her mouth.
Oh no… not now! Not here!
Her face went pale. She tried to breathe through her nose, but the nausea only grew stronger.
Eyan turned to her instantly, worry flashing across his face.
"Eva? Are you okay?"
Eva shook her head quickly, still covering her mouth. Her voice came out muffled and panicked.
"I—I'm fine—"
But her stomach betrayed her. She felt another strong heave coming.
No, no, no! Please stay down!
She stood up abruptly, chair scraping loudly against the floor.
"I… I need some air!" she mumbled through her fingers and dashed toward the door leading to their her chambers, moving faster than she intended.
"Eva!" Eyan called out, immediately rising from his seat. "Wait!"
He hurried after her, long strides eating up the distance.
Behind them, little Leo looked confused. "Mother? Where are you going?"
Nolan tilted his head.
"Is Aunty Eva also sick like mother?"
Nayra giggled despite the chaos. "Maybe she ate too much soup too!"
Eyan caught up to Eva just as she reached the corridor. He gently grabbed her arm, concern etched deep in his voice.
"Eva, Are you feeling ill? Let me help you."
Eva kept one hand firmly over her mouth, eyes wide with panic. "Eyan… I think… I'm going to—"
She didn't finish the sentence. Instead, she broke into a faster run toward their chamber, with Eyan right behind her, looking more worried than ever.
--------------------------------------------------------
(Eva's Chamber)
Eva burst into the chamber and ran straight to the attached bathroom, her hand still clamped tightly over her mouth. The moment she reached the basin, she bent over and began vomiting violently.
"Ugh… bleh… haa…"
The sound echoed in the marble bathroom as her stomach emptied itself.
Eyan rushed in right behind her, worry clear on his face. He immediately moved to her side and gently gathered her long hair, holding it back with one hand while his other hand rubbed soothing circles on her back.
"Eva… Easy… I've got you," he murmured.
Between heaves, Eva gasped, "Eyan… go away… don't see this…"
She tried to push him weakly with one hand, embarrassed and panicked.
Eyan shook his head firmly, refusing to move. "I'm not going anywhere. Just breathe."
Eva retched again, her body shaking. "It's… disgusting… please leave…"
"Not happening," Eyan replied calmly, his voice steady and full of concern. "I'm staying right here."
After a few more painful heaves, Eva finally stopped. She leaned heavily against the basin, breathing hard, face pale and sweaty.
Eyan didn't waste a second. He scooped her up into his arms, carrying her out of the bathroom and gently laying her down on the large bed.
He quickly poured a glass of water from the bedside pitcher and helped her sit up slightly, holding the glass to her lips.
"Here, drink slowly."
Eva took small sips, her hands trembling. The cool water soothed her raw throat.
Eyan set the glass aside and brushed damp strands of hair from her forehead.
"Eva...stay here...I'm going to call the royal physician."
Eva's eyes widened in panic. She shot up and grabbed his hand tightly.
"No! Don't call the physician… I'm fine, Honey."
Eyan frowned, clearly unconvinced. "You just vomited out of nowhere and you're saying you're fine? No. Let the physician check you properly."
He turned toward the door, determined.
"Eyan, wait!" Eva cried, her voice rising with fear.
She quickly thought of a lie.
"It's… it's because of my monthly cycle."
Eyan stopped at the door and turned back to her, brows furrowed. "Your monthly cycle?"
"Yes," Eva said quickly, forcing her voice to sound steady. "It arrived today. That's why My stomach feels strange… and I felt nauseous because of it."
Eyan walked back to the bed, his expression softening with understanding. He sat on the edge and gently touched her face, his thumb stroking her cheek.
"So that's why you've been looking so unwell all evening…" he said softly, concern still lingering in his eyes.
Eva nodded, avoiding his gaze. "Yes… that's all it is."
For a moment—
He just looked at her...
Then his expression shifted—his brows drawing together slightly.
"Why didn't you tell me?" he asked quietly.
Eva blinked.
He leaned a little closer, his voice lower now, touched with concern.
"If your monthly cycle started today… you should have told me earlier."
Eva looked away. "I didn't think it was important…"
Eyan's jaw tightened just a little.
"Not important?" he repeated softly.
His hand moved from her cheek to her shoulder, holding her gently—but firmly enough to make her look at him again.
"Eva… you were sitting there, feeling unwell… and you didn't say a word."
There was no anger in his voice. Only worry.
"You ran out of the hall and got sick…" he continued, quieter now. "And I didn't even know why."
Eva's fingers curled slightly into the bedsheet.
Eyan exhaled slowly, his tone softening further.
"I'm your husband," he said. "If something is wrong, please!..tell me...I don't like seeing you like this and not knowing how to help."
Eva's eyes flickered with guilt.
"…I'm sorry."
Eyan's expression eased instantly at her apology.
"Don't apologize," he said softly. "Just don't hide things like this from me."
Eyan sighed and carefully helped her lie down again, pulling the soft blanket over her. He stroked her hair in slow, soothing motions, his touch full of love and worry.
"Rest now, I'll tell the maid to bring some herbal tea for you. It should help with the cramps and make you feel better."
Eva gave him a weak smile. "Okay…"
Eyan leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, lingering for a moment.
"I'll be right back."
With one last concerned glance, he stood up and walked out of the chamber, closing the door quietly behind him.
.
.
To be continued—