Chapter 317.2
“Now that I think about it,” she said, “I never felt like I was ever protected by His Holiness. Whenever I struggled, he never offered realistic help. He just told me to believe in God and be patient. What was the point of having all the privileges Anikas have if my heart was imprisoned?”
Eugene knew about Katie’s childhood and her abusive parents. She understood.
“I was in despair when I had that child,” Katie said. “He didn’t look like a king’s child. No one believed me. I understood Tea’s desperation all too late.” She glanced at the door. “I resented that child. I couldn’t care for him. But then he grew up to be so kind. I was a terrible mother to both him and the Fourth King.”
Eugene reached out to hold her hand. “You didn’t run,” she said, “You did your best. There aren’t a lot of people who would have made the same choices you did.” She tried her best to hold in the tears she could feel building up. She didn’t want Katie to think she pitied her. Who was she to pity someone?
“Don’t ever let Sang-je know,” Eugene said sternly. “Even though I can’t tell you everything, you must know that we have to be careful around him.”
Katie nodded solemnly.
“And I want to tell Kasser about this.”
“No,” Katie said, shaking her head. “What’s the point? I was never his mother. I only ran to save myself. I still have shame.”
“Mother,” Eugene said suddenly, tightening her grip on Katie’s hands. The older woman looked at her in surprise. “Please let me tell him. Not for you but for him. He’s still very hurt by you. Even though he understands your situation, he resents you for it. If he knew the whole truth, it would help him move on.”