In Bed With Her Shithead Boss (By Ellie Wynters) novel Chapter 390

"I'm trying to protect him—"

"From what? From having a choice?" Keira's voice grew stronger. "You're deciding what's best for Niko without asking him what he wants. That's not protection, that's control."

Amelia stared at her, startled by the blunt assessment.

"Look, I get it. The pressure is overwhelming, and you feel like you're failing at the one thing everyone expects from you. But you're more than a baby-making machine, and if Niko can't see that, then maybe he doesn't deserve you."

"You don't understand—"

"I understand more than you think." Keira's tone softened. "I've spent the last two years watching Alexei struggle with duty versus what he actually wants. The weight of expectations can crush you if you let it. But the only way through is together."

They sat in silence until Amelia whispered, "What if he agrees that we should divorce?"

"Then at least you'll know the truth instead of torturing yourself. But what if he doesn't? What if he tells you that he'd rather have you and no children than children with someone else?"

"I don't know if I can take that risk. I think the truth could crush me."

"Give him the chance to fight for you, Amelia. Give yourself the chance to be fought for."

Before Amelia could respond, footsteps crunched on the gravel path. She looked up to see Niko and Alexei approaching, their meeting with Theodore apparently concluded. Amelia hastily wiped her tears, trying to compose herself.

"There you are," Niko said, his eyes immediately finding her tear-stained face. Concern flooded his expression. "Amelia? What's wrong?"

"Nothing," she lied, forcing a smile. "Just... girl talk."

But Niko wasn't fooled. He moved to her side immediately, his hand gentle on her shoulder. "Amelia?"

She stood abruptly, unable to face him with Keira's words still echoing in her mind. "We should head back. It's getting late."

Niko looked like he wanted to press further, but he simply offered his arm. "Of course."

As they walked back toward the palace, Amelia could feel Niko's worried gaze on her. His arm tightened protectively around her waist, and she allowed herself to lean into him, drawing strength from his presence.

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