The next day, word spread through the palace like wildfire that Lady Mari had been officially moved into the royal quarters. A nurse and maid had been assigned to her, and the court already whispered of the new heir on the way.
Far from the noise and gossip, Seraphina invited Portia to her sun-drenched drawing room for tea. The garden outside danced in late-morning light.
"Dear, how have you been?" Seraphina's voice was warm, with the soft gentleness she reserved only for her niece and nephew.
"I have been well, Your Highness," Portia replied, carefully.
Seraphina chuckled and waved her hand. "Call me Aunt Sera. There is no need for such formality with me."
Portia smiled. "Okay."
Seraphina sipped her tea, then looked over the rim of the cup. "Did you meet your mother-in-law lately?"
Portia shook her head. "Mother has been quite busy."
