A horrible feeling

The following weeks passed excitedly after the royal pregnancy was announced. Unfortunately, Denah’s good mood was marred by whispers amongst the servants. Though Helen was keeping quiet, out of trouble, and out of Dixon's bed, people couldn’t notice how snug her clothes had gotten, even more snug than Denah’s. The King had decreed that no one was to discuss the circumstances of Helen’s return, but Dennah knew she had his favour. She seized her opportunity when she had another chance encounter with Helen.

“I noticed you are...withchild”

“Yes My Lady, it’s true.”

Denah quickly did the math in her head.
“You’re quite large… how far along are you?”

Helen knew she needed to be careful “Not too far My Lady, though the midwife suspects two babies.” Helen knew that would hurt Denah. The timing was just right to put the paternity in question.

“And who is the father?” Denah could sling dirt as well as she could take it.

“Why, my husband of course.” Helen replied with a smirk.

“Is that right?... Well, I wish you a safe pregnancy and easy birth."

“The same to you, My Lady” Helen bowed her head and stepped to the side to allow Denah to pass.

Denah took a few steps, then turned back to Helen.

"I do wonder...why would a man send his pregnant wife away?"

Helen kept her eyes on the floor and cooly replied

"That is something only the King will ever know."

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Both pregnancies progressed without complication, and the castle was buzzing with rumours and bets over the paternity of Helen’s child, and which of the King’s ladies would give birth first. Denah tried to ignore all of the terrible things she overheard, but she couldn’t help but worry. She confessed her fears to Danica, who was also pregnant again.

“What if it’s another girl? What if it’s two more girls? He’ll send me away!”

“Denah! Stay calm, you’ll upset the baby! He won’t send you away, The King and Queen love you too much.”

“And if that woman delivers first? I’m almost certain Dixon is the father, and if she has a son, guess where would that put my son?”

“It wouldn’t put your son anywhere, because any children that woman has will be bastards without claim to anything.”

“No, it would put my son’s succession in danger. Her son could claim first born rights!”

“And who would accept that bastard as their King? You are the favoured woman in this Denah, you need not worry.”

“I have a horrible feeling about all of it Danica.”

“Please Denah, lets talk about something light! Have you thought of names?”

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Next post!
Helen, the servant girl gives birth!