Chapter 94 Side Story. Chapter 1

Chapter 94 Side Story. Chapter 1
It was the height of summer, the sweet fragrances of flowers floated through the sunlit corridors, seeping into the grand chambers of the king. Maya, dressed in her finest garments, settled in front of her vanity, the warm sunlight casting a gentle glow upon her reflection. Her handmaids bustled around her, carefully selecting beautiful jewelry to complement her dress, and a soft smile adorned her face. The past few months had been a glorious time for the royal family. The war that once wreaked havoc upon their kingdom was now a faded memory, defeated by their unwavering determination and success. In its wake, peace embraced the land, offering solace to its inhabitants. Maya's heart overflowed with happiness, her only wish being the perpetuation of this blissful existence. However, beneath her radiant exterior, an unspoken yearning tugged at her innermost being, hinting at a lingering void within her.

Without thinking, Maya's hands drifted to her belly, caressing it gently. Rosa, one of her handmaids, noticed the gesture and paused, watching the queen through the mirror. Maya was lost in her thoughts and didn't notice Rosa's gaze.

"Is everything all right, my Queen?" Rosa asked softly, concern evident in her voice.

Startled, Maya snapped out of her reverie and forced a gentle smile. "Everything is fine. Why do you ask?"

"You seemed lost in thought for a while, Your Majesty. Is there something wrong with the dress?" Rosa inquired, her eyes filled with genuine care.

Maya shook her head but soon let out a sigh. "I would like to be alone, please. Rosa, please stay," she said firmly. The other handmaids glanced at her momentarily, then bowed and left the room, leaving Rosa alone with the queen.

"What's troubling you, my Queen?" Rosa asked as they stood together in the quiet chamber.

Maya fidgeted with her fingers, her lips bitten with uncertainty. Finally, she mustered the courage to speak. "I still haven't been able to conceive the king's child."

Upon hearing this, Rosa offered a small, comforting smile and gently patted the queen's back. "An heir will come in due time, Your Majesty. There's no need to worry."

"I've been telling myself that for a while, but... What if it doesn't happen?" Maya whispered, her voice tinged with desperation.

Rosa's smile faded upon hearing the queen's words, prompting her to draw closer in concern. "Is there something more, Your Majesty?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine worry.

"I-I was pregnant once," Maya confessed, her lips losing their color. Rosa gasped softly in response.

"You were?"

Maya nodded, a solemn expression settling upon her face. "But I lost the baby. It happened during the kingdom's attack."

"I'm deeply sorry, my Queen," Rosa murmured sympathetically.

"It's been some time, so I should be over it," Maya continued, her voice trembling. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, gathering her resolve. When she spoke again, her voice carried more strength. "But I can't help dwelling on it. And now..." Her voice trailed off, her anxiety palpable. After another deep breath, she opened her eyes and continued, "And now, I fear that I may be unable to conceive a child for the king."

"Don't entertain such thoughts, my Queen!" Rosa chided, her voice firm and resolute. "You are more than capable of carrying the king's child. You must give yourself time and be patient."

"I don't want people to start gossiping. Everything is going so well, and it won't be long before they expect me to bear a child for the king. You know what happens if I fail to do so," Maya confessed, her apprehension evident.

"Have you discussed this with the king?" Rosa inquired gently, her voice laced with concern.

"He doesn't know this yet. We haven't had the time to talk." Maya said, worrying her lower lip. "He's been really busy. Besides I don't want him to know. That's why I'm telling you."

Rosa held Maya hands, squeezing it reassuringly. "You will carry the king's child. You've done it before. You will do it again and this time, you will give birth to it. But if it worries you so..." Rosa trailed off, looking away. "I know a few things, some herbs that I can give. But you have to give me time my queen." Rosa said and Maya nodded her head, a look of relief crossing her face.

"Of course! Take all the time you need. Thank you for listening to me, Rosa." She said, her voice laced with sincerity.

"I'm always here my queen. Let me know if there's anything else."

"That would be all for now." Maya said, pulling her hands away from Rosa's.

"In that case. I will take my leave " Rosa said, straightening to her full height. With a short bow, she took the rest of her things and left the king's chambers, leaving the Queen alone. Maya did her best to push the conversation to the back of her mind, standing up to attend her duties.
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The day dragged on, stretching its weary limbs until nightfall cast its shadow. As always, Maya retired to the comforting embrace of the king's chambers, preparing herself for slumber. Rosa had informed her that it would take some time to gather the necessary herbs and treatments, leaving Maya with no choice but to wait. Perhaps she would discuss her concerns with Dexter once he returned.

However, Dexter did not return as swiftly as she had hoped. Exhausted and on the verge of dozing off, Maya sat upon the bed, her heavy eyelids fighting to stay open. Finally, she stirred from her drowsiness when she heard Dexter enter the chambers. Rubbing her sleepy eyes, she watched as he shed his regal attire, donning only a simple tunic. If he noticed her wakefulness and observation, he made no indication until he finished changing and joined her in bed. With gentle movements, he pulled her close, pressing tender kisses upon her shoulder blades while enveloping her in his arms.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice tinged with weariness. "I was occupied throughout the day," he murmured, his lips brushing against her earlobe. Maya smiled, turning to face him and delicately running her fingers through his curls.

"It's okay," she whispered in response. "You're the king, after all. It would be strange if you had endless free time."

Dexter caressed her chin, drawing her nearer so he could kiss her. Their lips met in a tender exchange and Maya let out a soft sigh when he pulled away.

"I will make it up to you. After all, it is summer, and we are meant to have time together. I will clear my schedule and ensure we have moments for ourselves, I promise," Dexter vowed, his eyes conveying sincerity