Nevara
“That was a contraction.”
The physician’s words changed the room instantly.
Thoren rose from beside me. Mom came closer. My father drew both boys against him while Drake and Kael exchanged a look that held none of their earlier humor.
“How far apart?” Thoren asked.
“That was the first one I noticed,” the physician said. “I need everyone except the king to leave.”
“No,” I said.
His attention shifted to me.
“My mother stays.”
Mom was already reaching for my hand.
The physician hesitated, then nodded. “The queen’s mother may remain. Everyone else, out.”
“I am not leaving,” Drake said.
“You are,” Kael told him quietly.
Drake looked at me. “Babes—”
“I need you to take the boys.”
His face tightened.
Noah clung to my father’s shirt while Jonas stared at the physician.
“Is
