“Of course. Let’s get you comfortable.” Zaria links her arm in mine.
We step back inside, where Kian and Tristan are waiting by the doors.
“You ladies, okay?” Kian asks, eyeing us suspiciously.
“I’m heading back to my room.”
“Already?” Tristan frowns.
“Yes, is that okay with you?” I snap, whipping my head in his direction.
Tristan raises an eyebrow at me in question, and I close my eyes, breathing through a cramp. This tight dress really wasn’t helping. I also wasn't sure what I could use for the bleeding, and Zaria had already left earlier, so I have ripped up a small towel for now.
I cling onto Zaria’s arm and once the cramp has passed, I open my eyes and look at Tristan.
“Sorry, but I’m done for the night. Once you escort me back, you can come back to the festivities if you wish.”
Kian and Tristan share a look. But Zaria and I don’t wait for them before making our way toward Maxon’s chambers.
“Can we come in?” Kian asks, as Zaria is about to close the door.
“No.” Zaria and I speak at the same time.
Closing the door, Zaria turns to me and smiles softly. “Let’s get you out of that dress.”
“Please!” I groan.
A sheen of sweat forms on my skin as the cramps ramp up their intensity.
The pain is so intense that I double over, clutching my stomach. “Motherfucker,” I grit, my breathing turning heavy.
Zaria places a comforting hand on my back. “Has it always been this bad?”
“Yes, always.”
“Let's get this dress off, and I’ll get you some herbal tea.”
I nod and stand straight so she can unlace the dress.
‘Stóirín is everything okay? Tristan just informed me you are turning in for the night?’
‘A chroí, I’m fine. I am in our room. Please enjoy your night.’
‘I will be there soon.’
‘No. You have just been crowned king. Stay. Your people need to see you.’
I can feel his hesitation, his need to see I’m okay.
So I close my eyes and send my love and affection through the bond.‘I’ll be here when you return. I promise.’
‘Okay, my love.’
A wave of adoration washes over me, momentarily easing the pain.
“There.” Zaria tugs the dress down, and I step out of it and settle myself on the comfortablebed.
Zaria disappears and returns with a stack of clothes and lady items. Thank the goddess. I head to the bathroom and shower, pulling on the clothes Zaria gave me. They must be Maxon’s, as huge as they are on me, but as I lift them to my nose and smell, a wave of peace moves through me, relaxing my tense muscles.
