The morning sun cast a warm glow over the sprawling castle grounds, where the royal family stirred to life. In the grand kitchen, Hadrain worked tirelessly, his hands moving with precision. The sweet aroma of caramelized plantains, freshly baked pastries, and spiced porridge filled the air. He wanted everything to be perfect—this breakfast was his way of showing his gratitude and skill to the royal family.
Servants darted around, but none dared interrupt Hadrain as he meticulously placed each dish onto polished silver platters. He added a delicate touch of honey to the roasted plantains and sprinkled crushed almonds over the pastries. For the porridge, he included a hint of ginger for flavor, unknowingly setting the stage for a disaster.
By the time the family gathered in the opulent dining hall, the table was laden with an array of dishes that looked almost too beautiful to eat. The high ceiling of the hall, painted with murals of the royal lineage, added a sense of grandeur. Sunlight streamed through the tall, arched windows, reflecting off the gleaming gold accents on the tableware.
Prince Aiden and his wife, Morven, were the first to arrive, their two children, Callum and Ayla, trailing behind. Aiden's commanding presence filled the room, while Morven exuded a calm elegance. Callum and Ayla, though young, carried an air of mischief as they whispered and exchanged knowing glances.
Douglas, the second son, arrived with his wife, Lindsay. Despite her inability to bear children, Lindsay's kind demeanor had earned her the love and respect of the family. Douglas, ever the devoted husband, sat beside her, his hand lightly resting on hers.
The sound of footsteps echoed through the hall as Lamia entered with Catherine on his arm. Catherine was radiant in a gown of shimmering emerald, her delicate features framed by soft curls. Lamia, with his flowing red hair and piercing midnight blue eyes, looked every bit the part of a prince. The two of them drew the attention of everyone in the room, their bond evident in their every glance and gesture.
"Good morning," Queen Fiona greeted, her regal voice commanding respect. She was seated at the head of the table, her silver crown catching the morning light. "Let us begin."
As the family settled into their seats, the breakfast commenced. Servants moved gracefully, pouring tea and serving the dishes that Hadrain had prepared with such care.
"This is remarkable," Queen Fiona said, her gaze sweeping over the spread. "Hadrain, you have truly outdone yourself."
Hadrain, standing at a respectful distance, bowed his head. "Thank you, Your Majesty."
Lamia smiled at him. "It's not every day we get a feast like this. Well done, Hadrain."
Feeling a surge of pride, Hadrain watched as the family began eating. The air was filled with the clinking of silverware and soft murmurs of appreciation. Callum and Ayla, however, exchanged another glance, their lips curling into smirks as they reached for their food.
Catherine took a small bite of the porridge plantain, savoring the sweetness. But moments later, her expression changed. A violent cough escaped her lips, and she clutched her throat, her eyes wide with panic.
"Cathy!" Lamia's voice rang out as he dropped his fork and rushed to her side. Hadrain followed, his heart pounding.
Catherine's coughing grew worse, her body trembling as she struggled to breathe. Blood trickled from the corner of her mouth, staining her napkin.
"Someone get a physician!" Queen Fiona's voice was sharp and commanding. The room descended into chaos as servants scattered, their footsteps echoing in the halls.
The physician arrived quickly, his bag in hand. He examined Catherine with practiced urgency, his face grave. After a tense silence, he turned to the family.
"She's having a severe allergic reaction," he said. "Ginger was used in the preparation of the food, and it's clear she cannot tolerate it."
Hadrain's stomach dropped. His mind raced as he recalled adding the ginger to the porridge. He had no idea Catherine was allergic.
"The baby," Queen Fiona whispered, her face pale. "Will this affect the baby?"
The physician hesitated before shaking his head. "The exposure was minimal. The child is unharmed, but this could have been catastrophic."
Lamia's eyes blazed with fury as he turned on Hadrain. "How could you let this happen?" he demanded, his voice trembling with anger. "Your carelessness could have cost Cathy her life—and our child's!"
"I—I didn't know," Hadrain stammered, his face pale.
"You didn't know?" Lamia's voice was cold and venomous. "That's not good enough! If anything had happened to Cathy or the baby, you'd have paid dearly for it."
Catherine, still weak but conscious, reached out to Lamia. "Please, stop," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "It was a mistake."
Lamia's anger softened as he knelt beside her, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "I'm sorry, my love," he murmured. "I just can't bear the thought of losing you."
Meanwhile, Callum and Ayla sat quietly, their faces masks of innocence. But beneath the table, their hands brushed as they silently celebrated their success. Their plan to cause discord within the family had worked perfectly.
Hadrain, overwhelmed by shame and regret, left the dining hall. He retreated to his chambers, closing the door behind him. The weight of his mistake pressed heavily on his chest, suffocating him. He sank onto his bed, his head in his hands, tears threatening to spill.
Back in the hall, Queen Fiona stood and raised her glass. "Despite this unfortunate incident, we have cause for celebration," she announced. "Catherine is expecting twins—the future of this family."
A ripple of surprise spread through the room. Callum and Ayla's smirks faltered for a moment before they composed themselves.
"We will hold a grand celebration tomorrow," Fiona continued, "to honor Lamia's return and to welcome this joyous news."
As the family dispersed, Lamia stayed by Catherine's side in her chamber, a sprawling room adorned with elegant tapestries and a bed draped in silk. He held her hand as she rested, his heart heavy with guilt and worry.
In the shadows of the castle, Callum and Ayla whispered their next plan. Their goal was clear: to ensure Lamia was unfit for the throne, no matter the cost.
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