Chapter 157: Teatime With The Queen
"The doctor will arrive tomorrow right before breakfast, Your Highness. Make sure you are ready for his visit," the Queen said, taking a small sip from her porcelain teacup. "Do you feel different from how you were before? Any signs of discomfort, headaches, slight fever, maybe?"
Melania offered the Queen an awkward smile, her hand slightly trembling as she picked up her own cup. This morning, right after breakfast, the princess received a sudden invitation from her mother-in-law to have some morning tea with her in her quarters.
At first, the young woman thought that Fleaur wanted to discuss her recently spiked social activity since she started venturing out of the Royal Palace more frequently. However, as soon as she took a seat beside her, it became clear that the Queen only had one topic she wanted to discuss: whether or not Melania was pregnant.
"I feel fine, Your Majesty. I do not think my body is undergoing any changes. And even if it were... I think it is far too early to expect good news."
Fleur smiled as well and shrugged her shoulders.
"Nevertheless, it is still better to check whether you are in good health, Your Highness. It is a lot easier to carry a child when your body is prepared for it."
The princess decided to refrain from answering, hiding her discomfort behind the cup that was touching her lips.
The Queen’s condescending tone and emotionless approach to the matter made her feel less than human; she felt like a pig whose only purpose in life was to give birth to more piglets. Piglets that were still destined for inevitable slaughter.
Despite her irritation with the current subject of discussion, Melania still could not help but feel frightened and anxious. Prince Yanad and she still had not slept together.