Having put the conversation into a tight spot, Eleanor cleared her throat.
"I didn't mean to get all sentimental," she said, removing any emotion from her voice.
Emma answered sincerely, "It's completely fine, your highness."
"You're a part of the family now, there's no need for the honorifics any longer," Eleanor said.
Emma gaped. This was not what she had wanted. Yes, she had wanted to be accepted, but for herself, not the child she was carrying.
She wondered how'd Eleanor treat her months later, but she kept it at the back of her mind, putting up a fake smile.
"Call me Eleanor," Eleanor said with a genuine smile, something that creeped both Emma and James out.
"Right. Eleanor," Emma replied.
James then stepped in, "Mother, if you'll excuse us, we have somewhere to go."
"But there's so much-"
"We have plans," James said coldly.
