Page 24 of Orin

Ignoring me, Grace directed her words to Rekna. “Is she in labor?”

Rekna didn’t answer and continued to examine Olivia.

I felt beads of sweat forming on my forehead as I rubbed it in frustration. My breathing quickened, mirroring the rapid rhythm of my pounding heart.

“Why don’t you wait outside,” Queen Grace suggested, her eyes piercing into mine, her voice carrying a comforting yet unwavering tone.

My jaw set. I would remain by Olivia’s side, refusing to be swayed. “I will stay.” She was not just my mate; she was my fated mate. Our connection meant more to me than obeying the commands of Alara’s Queen.

Rekna showed no interest in me as the large scanner came to a halt and hovered above my mate’s cot. He gave a nod and walked towards a nearby table positioned next to one of the cabinets. He pulled open a drawer, retrieved a hypo-syringe, and filled it with a yellow liquid.

Seconds later, he administered a shot to Olivia.

“Although there are internal injuries, they are treatable. Your youngling is in some distress. I am going to give you something to help both of you,” he said to Olivia.

“Save my baby, Rekna...Please,” she sobbed.

Rekna patted her arm.

“Is that to relieve pain?” I asked while keeping my eyes on him. I felt sweat starting to trickle down my back. My hands trembled.

Frustrated, I sighed and raked my fingers through my hair. The medic didn’t respond.Why does he hide what's happening from me?

The anticipation made my stomach twist as I waited for news on Olivia and her youngling.

In a matter of moments, my K'sha's breathing steadied and a peaceful aura surrounded her. She had a gentle expression as she closed her eyes. A relieved sigh left my lips as I watched.

I stayed immobile, my hands falling lifelessly by my side as I was unable to look away from her. She had a halo of curls around her head, and her lips held a subtle pout.

Despite her condition, she remained beautiful.

Queen Grace and Rekna moved aside from the bed, and I moved closer to Olivia brushing the back of my fingers against her cheek. Her skin felt as soft as the finest Alaran silk, and I could feel the tingles of electric energy skitter across my skin.

I heard Grace and the medic speaking my name. Pushing my shoulders back, I stated, “I will not leave unless she asks me to.”

I glanced to my right to see Rekna’s gaze on me. He had a look of understanding on his face. “You may stay. But do not get in the way.” The medic pursed his lips before adding, “she had initial signs of going into labor, but now everything has quieted down.”

I nodded my head to show that I understood.

“I have administered a painkiller and a relaxation agent to her. Olivia has a few bruised ribs. She has cuts on her knees and hands from falling. However, both she and the youngling are fine....they will be okay.”

He took a quick look at Olivia before putting his hands in his pockets. “I will keep her here for the next rotation so I can monitor her.”

Rekna turned away to continue his work.

Queen Grace walked over to me, her face filled with disappointment. “I need to talk to you in the hall.” She walked out of the infirmary without waiting for my response.

13

Orin

I HOPED WHATEVER QUEENGrace had to say would not take long. I disliked leaving Olivia’s bedside. My hands fisted at my sides as I waited.

With her hands on her hips, Queen Grace narrowed her eyes at me.

“Your grace? Is something wrong?”

She ejected a tight-lipped huff. “I’m upset with you.”

---