Chapter 50
"Richard," Annabelle looked to Richard for him to stand up against his mother. He was the one with the authority. He should not allow his mother to waltz in and act like she was still the queen.
"Annabelle, I think it’s best that until everyone has calmed down you should return to your room. It is not good for you to be stressing yourself out and walking around so much. I will visit you after dinner is over," Richard replied without looking in Annabelle’s direction.
"Richard. I am carrying your child. I am already seated at the table and there is no need for me to have to leave. We have all finished talking and I am sure the rest of dinner will be peaceful. Lady Margaret," Annabelle turned from the king to his mother. "I apologize for upsetting you. My toes are sore and I am unable to walk. Please let me stay."
It boiled Annabelle’s blood to have to beg to stay. This castle was about to belong to her unborn child therefore it would soon belong to her. Margaret should mind her business and return to her own home. Whatever happened to the former queen disliking being in the castle? Those were the good old days when Annabelle did not have to see Margaret.
"There is a simple solution to your problem dear. Two guards will be more than enough to lift you to your room."
"Mother, I cannot allow just anyone to touch my woman," Richard disagreed with his mother’s idea. "It is not proper."
"Why?" Margaret did not see the issue. "When I was pregnant with you and unable to walk around on my own, I was lifted by some of the servants. They helped me move from the bed to the bathroom and even lifted me from my room to another where I wouldn’t have to walk downstairs. If it was fine for a queen it is fine for the king’s mistress."
’That is no longer my title,’ Annabelle thought. She was now the mother of the future king. She was certain a prince was inside of her stomach.
The sound of a chair pushed against the hard floor interrupted the silence but it wasn’t Annabelle who had finally stood up as Margaret requested. It was Amelia.
"I’m full," Amelia placed her fork down on her empty plate. While everyone else continued to argue, she took it upon herself to eat before the food could turn cold. "I am going to retire to my room. Goodnight, grandmother."