A week had passed since Charles returned, and there was still no sign of Benjamin. He was becoming restless.
Felix tried to reassure him. "Don't worry too much, Charles. Wren and Benjamin are likely just sightseeing. There are many interesting places on the route back."
"Benjamin can protect himself," Calix added. "You know that. You're just overly worried."
Charles shook his head and sat down, burying his face in his hands. "He's pregnant."
The room went silent. "Come again?" Calix asked, stunned.
"You heard me," Charles said.
Felix and Calix exchanged shocked looks, unable to speak for a moment. Finally, Felix asked softly, "When did you find out?"
"Ben told me the night before the ball. But… he said he might not keep it."
Both men nodded. They understood it was Benjamin's choice.
"Do you want the child?" Calix asked.
"I do," Charles said, pacing the room anxiously. "But it's Ben's decision. I'll do anything he wants. I will support him regardless. Only when he's ready, we'll have children."
"Charles... We're sorry you're going through this. Not being able to see Benjamin at a time like this must be hard for you," Felix said. "Is there anything we can do to help?"
"The Imperial engagement," Charles said. "There might be a way out of it."
"Charles, be careful," Calix warned. "When were at Amara, Felix was with Benjamin the whole time, so he didn't notice... Shirin's guards followed you everywhere. Your private hallway was the only place they couldn't reach.
"I also spoke to some of the guards and staff who work for her. Most were too afraid to talk, but a few did. One told me that Shirin can be terrifying. She apologized for saying too much and ran off. If I were you, I wouldn't get on her wrong side. You have to handle this tactfully."
"Thank you, Calix," Charles said. "But I've thought this through. I know what I'm doing. I would give up everything for Benjamin."
While Charles and his friends were discussing their plans, far from Aster, Benjamin had just woken up. He felt groggy and disoriented. As his eyes adjusted, he realized he didn't recognize his surroundings.
Benjamin shook himself, trying to orient himself, but nothing looked familiar. He was in a spacious room, but it was nearly empty. There was a desk, a chair, and a couch, but not much else.
He walked to the window. It was barred from the outside. Beyond the bars, he saw a beautiful landscape of green trees and high mountains. He had never seen this place before.
Confused, he explored the room and found a door that led to a small bathroom. There were clothes and towels neatly laid out. After freshening up, Benjamin walked to the main door and turned the handle. It was locked from the outside.
His heart nearly stopped. He tried to remember how he had gotten there, but his memory was blank. He began to panic, and felt himself starting to hyperventilate.
He sat down with his back against the door. Calm down, he told himself, forcing himself to slow his breathing. Think. What happened?