Alicent Hightower | HOTD

Chapter 24 Family Problems

Alynla stood at the window of her chambers in Kretelum, her thoughts drifting as she gazed out at the serene landscape beyond. The lush gardens and winding pathways seemed to beckon her, offering a temporary escape from the turmoil that churned within her.

As she stood lost in thought, the door to her chambers creaked open, and Alynla turned to see her stepmother, Ireyne, entering the room. Alynla's heart sank at the sight of her, a reminder of the new family dynamic that had been thrust upon her since her father's marriage.

"Good afternoon, Alynla," Ireyne greeted with a warm smile, her hand resting gently on the swell of her belly. "I hope I am not intruding. I simply wanted to check in on you and see how you are settling in."

Alynla forced a polite smile, though inwardly she bristled at the intrusion. "I am managing, thank you," she replied curtly, her voice betraying the tension that simmered beneath the surface.

Ireyne's smile faltered slightly at Alynla's response, but she pressed on, determined to make an effort to connect with her stepdaughter. "I understand that this must be a difficult adjustment for you," she said gently. "Losing your mother and gaining a new family all at once... it's a lot to take in."

Alynla's jaw tightened at the mention of her mother, her heart aching with the pain of her loss. "My mother will never be replaced in my heart," she said firmly, her voice trembling with emotion. "No matter how hard you try, you will never be her."

Ireyne's expression softened with understanding, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "I would never dream of trying to replace your mother, Alynla," she said softly. "But I hope that in time, we can find a way to coexist peacefully, as a family."

Alynla said nothing in response, her gaze fixed on the floor as she struggled to contain the storm of emotions that raged within her. She couldn't bring herself to trust Ireyne, couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over her whenever she was in her presence.

Sensing that she had overstayed her welcome, Ireyne offered Alynla a small nod before turning to leave the room. "I will leave you to your thoughts, then," she said quietly. "But please know that I am here if you ever need someone to talk to."

As the door closed behind Ireyne, Alynla let out a long breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. She felt a sense of relief wash over her at the woman's departure, grateful to be alone once more with her thoughts.

But even as she stood alone in her chambers, the weight of her mother's absence pressed heavily upon her, a constant reminder of the void that could never be filled. With a heavy heart, Alynla turned back to the window, seeking solace in the quiet beauty of the world outside, even as turmoil raged within her soul.

As the night settled over the castle, Elaena quietly entered Princess Naela's chambers, her steps light and deliberate. The princess was already dressed in her nightgown, her white curls spilling over the pillows as she lay in bed, her eyes heavy with sleep.

"Good evening, Your Highness," Elaena greeted softly, crossing the room to stand by Naela's bedside. "It's time for you to retire for the evening."

Naela stirred from her slumber, blinking sleepily up at her lady-in-waiting. "Elaena," she murmured, her voice thick with drowsiness. "Is it time already?"

Elaena smiled gently, helping Naela to settle beneath the covers. "Yes, Your Highness," she replied. "You need your rest."

With practiced efficiency, Elaena tucked the blankets around Naela, ensuring her comfort before bidding her goodnight. As she turned to leave the room, however, a thought crossed her mind – the king's office.