A single tear fell, slowly, then another. The Grand Duchess immediately wiped them away with her thumb.
"I heard you two were friends," the Grand Duchess said, her voice understanding the weight of loss.
"Yes," Liv managed a bitter smile. "We grew up together, played together… even competed for the attention of others."
And the name hung heavily in the air:
Andrey.
The Grand Duchess exhaled softly.
"That is only human, Liv. There is nothing wrong with the past. But now…" she looked at Liv's belly tenderly, "…you cannot let grief consume you. You are carrying life. You must protect yourself."
Liv lowered her gaze, one hand slowly resting on her belly, a reflexive gesture heavy with meaning.
"I know… Thank you, Mother," her voice whispered, steadier than before.
The Grand Duchess nodded, gently smoothing Liv's hair.
"You are not alone, Liv. You have us. Whatever happens… you will be okay."
