A Very Victorian Courtship

Rhaenyra, knowing she had to do the right thing, invited Margaery for a supervised walk in the gardens. They strolled amidst the blooming flowers, the warm breeze rustling the leaves.

Margaery, ever flirtatious, tried to engage Rhaenyra in conversation, but Rhaenyra managed only a tight smile.

Finally, Rhaenyra cut to the chase. "Margaery, I can't continue to court you," she said. "You're an incredible girl, truly amazing, and I had every intention of proposing. But life has taken me in a different direction, and I can't deny where my heart truly lies."

Margaery smiled sadly, her eyes glistening. "I always knew there was someone else, Rhaenyra. I just hoped that maybe your old lover would stay in the past, and I could be your future."

Rhaenyra nodded, regret heavy in her heart. "I'm sorry, Margaery. But I can't deny my feelings any longer. This girl, she's everything to me, and it wouldn't be fair to you."

Margaery, with a bittersweet smile, asked the question she had suspected for a while. "Is it Alicent? I've seen the way you look at her at the balls."

Rhaenyra was surprised that her feelings had been so obvious, but she nodded in confirmation.

Margaery's smile grew warmer, more genuine. "Alicent seems like a sweet soul. You both deserve happiness together."

Rhaenyra wished her all the best, and Margaery, still smiling weakly, thanked her before turning and walking away, her heart heavy but with an understanding of the depth of Rhaenyra's feelings.

///

The day of Rhaenyra and Alicent's wedding was nothing short of a grand affair. The setting was a picturesque garden, with towering oak trees casting dappled shadows on the lush green grass. White roses, symbolizing purity and new beginnings, adorned every corner, weaving a fragrant tapestry throughout the venue. The breeze carried the soft scent of flowers, and birds serenaded the gathering with their melodic songs.

Alicent, in a gown of ethereal ivory silk, stood in a secluded chamber, her heart fluttering with nerves. She clutched a bouquet of white lilies, their delicate petals trembling like her fingers. Her family were there to support her, their eyes glistening with tears of joy.

Meanwhile, Rhaenyra, awaited her bride at the altar. Her excitement was palpable, her smile radiant as she exchanged teasing glances with Laenor, who stood by her side as the best man.

As the guests gathered and took their seats, the air buzzed with anticipation and excitement. Aemma, ever the stern presence, cast a withering glare at those who dared to whisper and gossip, swiftly silencing them with her regal authority.

Finally, the moment arrived. Alicent, her heart pounding in her chest, stepped out to the soft strains of a string quartet. Her eyes met Rhaenyra's, and the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in their shared moment of destiny.

The vows they exchanged were beautifully poignant, their voices filled with emotion.

Rhaenyra began, her voice steady but filled with love. "Alicent, from the moment I met you, my world shifted. You've shown me a kind of love I never thought possible. I vow to cherish you, to support you, and to stand by your side through all the trials and triumphs of life. I promise to protect your heart as my most treasured possession."

Alicent's voice trembled with emotion as she replied, "Rhaenyra, you are my heart's desire, my confidante, and my true love. I promise to stand by your side, to encourage your dreams, and to share in your joys and sorrows. I vow to love you unconditionally, to be your rock in times of need, and to make our home a place filled with laughter and warmth."

Their promises were sealed with a tender kiss, and the crowd erupted in applause and cheers. As they walked back up the aisle, hand in hand, the sun broke through the clouds, casting a golden glow over the newlyweds, as if the heavens themselves were bestowing their blessings on this union.

///

The spacious bedroom was bathed in soft, warm light as Alicent, heavily pregnant, sat on the edge of the bed, her face etched with nervousness. Rhaenyra, ever attentive, hovered nearby, her eyes filled with concern.

"Alicent, my love, you're going to be just fine," Rhaenyra assured her, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder.

Alicent nodded, her gaze fixed on the floor. "I know, Rhaenyra, but... what if something goes wrong? What if..."

Rhaenyra cut her off gently. "Shh, Alicent. We've been through so much together, and we'll get through this too. Our child will be born into a world filled with love and care."

Alicent looked up at Rhaenyra, her eyes filled with gratitude. "I love you, Rhaenyra. Thank you for being here for me."

Rhaenyra smiled warmly and knelt in front of Alicent, taking her hands in hers. "I love you too, more than words can express. And I promise I'll be by your side every step of the way. We're a team, remember?"

Alicent smiled through her nervousness, squeezing Rhaenyra's hands. "Yes, a team. I just... I can't wait to meet our baby."

Rhaenyra leaned in and kissed Alicent's forehead gently. "And they're going to be as incredible as their mother."

Alicent chuckled, feeling a bit more at ease. "You always know how to make me feel better."

"That's my job," Rhaenyra replied with a grin. "Now, let's get you comfortable. We've got a big day ahead of us."

The birthing chamber was filled with tension as Alicent labored to bring their child into the world. Rhaenyra stood anxiously by her side, holding her hand, while Alicent's mother watched with worry etched across her face. The grand maester, a man of considerable experience, was busy attending to Alicent.

Rhaenyra leaned in closer to the grand maester and spoke in a hushed tone, "Is everything going as it should, Grand Maester?"

The old man looked up from his work, his expression grim. "I'm afraid not, Your Grace. The baby is in distress, and Alicent's condition is deteriorating. We may have to make a difficult choice."

Rhaenyra's heart sank, and she clutched Alicent's hand tighter. "What do you mean, a difficult choice?"

The grand maester sighed deeply. "It appears that we may have to choose between saving the baby or saving Alicent. The strain of the labor is taking a toll on her, and we might not be able to save both."

Rhaenyra's eyes welled up with tears, and she looked down at Alicent, her voice trembling. "We can't... we can't lose Alicent. Please, there must be something you can do."

Alicent's mother stepped forward, her voice firm but filled with worry. "Do whatever it takes to save my daughter. She's the priority."

The grand maester nodded gravely, his hands moving with urgency. "I will do my best, but it's a perilous situation. We need to prepare for the possibility that..."

Rhaenyra cut him off, her voice determined. "No. We are not giving up on either of them. There has to be another way."

The grand maester paused, his gaze shifting between Alicent and Rhaenyra. "Your Grace, I understand your emotions, but we must be prepared for all outcomes. I will do everything within my power to ensure both mother and child survive, but it's a delicate balance."

Rhaenyra's eyes never left Alicent's pale face. "We're in this together, Alicent. You're the love of my life, and I won't let anything happen to you."

The room filled with the sounds of medical instruments and the whispered prayers of those in attendance. Rhaenyra held Alicent's hand tightly, silently praying for a miracle and the safe arrival of their child.

As the tension in the birthing chamber reached its peak, a moment of respite finally arrived. Alicent had given her all, and with one final push, their baby was born. The room seemed to hold its breath as the newborn's cries filled the air.

The grand maester, exhausted from the intense labor, gently cradled the infant, his wrinkled face breaking into a smile. "It's a healthy boy, Your Grace. A strong and healthy boy."

Rhaenyra's eyes filled with tears of relief as she gazed at their son. "Alicent, look. He's perfect."

Alicent, still catching her breath, managed a weak but joyful smile. "Our son... Jace."

Alicent's mother, who had been pacing anxiously, rushed to her daughter's side, her eyes brimming with tears. "Oh, Alicent, he's beautiful."

The grand maester carefully placed the newborn in Alicent's arms, allowing mother and child to share their first precious moments together. Alicent's tears flowed freely as she cradled Jace against her chest.

"He's perfect, Alicent," Rhaenyra whispered, leaning in to place a gentle kiss on her wife's forehead.

Alicent nodded, her voice filled with awe. "Our little miracle."

As the birthing chamber buzzed with the joyous news of the baby's safe arrival, the relieved and elated parents held their son close, knowing that their love had brought forth new life into the world.

///

The first few weeks with their newborn son, Jace, were a mixture of pure joy and intense worry for Alicent. She couldn't bear to let him out of her sight, even for a moment. Jace was healthy, but he was smaller than most infants his age, and he struggled with feeding.

Alicent had heard stories of babies not thriving, and she couldn't shake the fear that something might happen to their precious son. So, she slept with Jace nestled against her chest, her hand protectively cradling his tiny body.

Rhaenyra had grown increasingly concerned about Alicent's well-being. She understood her mate's worries, but she also knew that Alicent needed rest and recovery after the difficult birth.

She decided to confide in Alicent's mother, hoping to find a solution that would ease Alicent's anxiety.

One evening, as they sat together in the nursery, Rhaenyra broached the subject. "I'm worried about Alicent. She won't let Jace out of her sight, even when she's asleep. She's hardly sleeping herself, and she's already so tired from the birth."

Alicent's mother nodded, her expression filled with understanding. "I've noticed it too, dear. Alicent is a first-time mother, and she's understandably anxious. But we need to find a way to reassure her that Jace is safe and healthy."

Rhaenyra sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I've tried talking to her, but she's adamant about keeping Jace close. I'm worried that she's not getting the rest she needs."

Alicent's mother placed a comforting hand on Rhaenyra's shoulder. "Perhaps we could speak to the grand maester. He might have some advice on how to ensure Jace's health while also allowing Alicent to get some rest."

Rhaenyra's eyes brightened at the suggestion. "That's a good idea. Let's do that. I just want Alicent to be well, and I want Jace to thrive."

With a plan in mind, Rhaenyra and Alicent's mother resolved to seek the grand maester's guidance in helping Alicent find a balance between her understandable worry for Jace and her need for much-needed rest.

///

The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden glow through the nursery window. Rhaenyra had carefully prepared a small tub of warm water for Jace's bath, wanting to take care of this task herself. She believed it would be a small way to give Alicent a break and some much-needed rest.

"Alicent," Rhaenyra began gently, "I think it's time for Jace's bath. I'll take care of it. You should get some rest." She reached out to gently touch Alicent's shoulder.

Alicent, who had been cradling Jace in her arms while humming a lullaby, looked up at Rhaenyra with a flash of panic in her eyes. "No," she said firmly, her voice edged with exhaustion. "I can't let him out of my sight. What if something happens to him?"

Rhaenyra understood Alicent's worries, but she also knew that her mate needed to rest. She spoke with a calm and soothing tone. "Alicent, I promise I'll be right here with him. I won't let anything happen. You need sleep, love. You're exhausted, and it's not good for either of you."

Alicent's exhaustion and anxiety, however, had reached a breaking point. She snapped, her voice rising, "No, Rhaenyra! I can't rest, not when he's so small and fragile. I won't risk it."

Rhaenyra took a step back, surprised by the sharpness of Alicent's tone. She knew it was coming from a place of love and fear, but she couldn't ignore that Alicent needed rest. "Alicent," she said softly, "I understand your worries, but I'm here with you. I won't leave his side. Please, just lie down for a little while. I promise we'll be fine."

Alicent's eyes welled up with tears, a mix of exhaustion and frustration. She clutched Jace even closer to her chest. "I just can't, Rhaenyra. I can't."

Rhaenyra sighed, feeling torn between her mate's distress and her own concern for both Alicent and their child. She knew she needed to find a way to reassure Alicent without pushing her further. "Alright, love," she said gently, "I won't insist. But promise me that when you start feeling too tired, you'll wake me, and I'll take over. You don't have to do this alone."

Alicent nodded, her shoulders trembling with emotion. "Thank you, Rhaenyra," she whispered. "I'm sorry for snapping at you. I'm just so scared."

Rhaenyra leaned in and kissed Alicent's forehead. "There's nothing to apologize for, my love. We're in this together, remember? Now, try to rest for a little while, okay?"

Alicent nodded, finally allowing herself to close her eyes, still holding Jace close, while Rhaenyra watched over them both, determined to protect and care for her family.

///

The next morning, Rhaenyra decided that it would be good for Alicent to get some fresh air. She knew how challenging the past few weeks had been for her, with her anxiety about Jace's health and her determination to keep him close. Rhaenyra gently approached Alicent, who was sitting by the nursery window, looking out at the garden.

"Love," Rhaenyra began softly, "I thought it might be nice for you to get some fresh air. Aemma is more than capable of looking after Jace while we take a short walk."

Alicent turned her head to look at Rhaenyra, and to her surprise, there was a coldness in her gaze that she hadn't expected. "I don't need a walk," Alicent replied curtly, her tone laced with irritation.

Rhaenyra frowned, taken aback by Alicent's sudden change in demeanor. "Alicent, it's not just about you. It's about both of us. We've been cooped up in here for days, and some fresh air would do us good. Please, just for a little while?"

Alicent's jaw clenched, and she turned her gaze back to the window, her voice now edged with bitterness. "I don't see why you're so insistent on this. You seem to want to get away from me and Jace as often as you can."

Rhaenyra was hurt by Alicent's words, and she couldn't understand where this sudden hostility was coming from. She knelt down beside Alicent, placing a hand gently on her arm. "Alicent, that's not true. I love both you and Jace more than anything. I just thought it would be good for us to have a change of scenery, to enjoy a moment together."

Alicent pulled her arm away from Rhaenyra's touch, her tone icy. "Well, I don't need your charity, Rhaenyra. I can take care of myself and Jace just fine."

Rhaenyra was hurt, but she refused to let the tension between them escalate. She rose to her feet, trying to keep her voice steady. "Alright, Alicent. I won't push you. If you change your mind, I'll be here."

Alicent didn't respond, and Rhaenyra left the room with a heavy heart, wondering what had caused this sudden rift between them.

///

Alicent's request for a separate bedroom caught the servants by surprise, but they did as she asked, preparing a room adjacent to the nursery for her and Jace. Rhaenyra overheard the preparations and couldn't help but feel a pang of hurt and confusion. She had been doing her best to support Alicent during this challenging time, and now it seemed Alicent wanted to distance herself.

Unable to contain her concern any longer, Rhaenyra entered the room where Alicent was overseeing the preparations. "Alicent," she began tentatively, "what is the meaning of this? Why do you want a separate bedroom?"

Alicent turned to face her, her expression guarded. "I need space, Rhaenyra. Space from your constant pitying looks and your incessant hovering. I need some independence, especially now with Jace."

Rhaenyra felt a sinking feeling in her chest. She had been trying to be there for Alicent, to offer her support, but it seemed her efforts were only pushing Alicent further away. "I didn't realize my concern was bothering you," she said softly, her voice tinged with hurt.

Alicent's gaze softened, and she reached out to touch Rhaenyra's arm gently. "It's not just that," she admitted. "It's also about me needing to be a mother to Jace on my terms. I feel like I've been suffocated lately, and I need some space to breathe."

Rhaenyra nodded slowly, her heart heavy with disappointment. "Alright, Alicent. If that's what you need, then I won't stand in your way. But know that I'm always here for you, and I love you both more than anything."

Alicent gave her a small, grateful smile. "I know, Rhaenyra. And I love you too. This is just something I need to do for myself right now."

As Rhaenyra left the room, she couldn't help but feel a sense of loss. She had envisioned their life together as a family, sharing a bedroom and waking up to each other's smiles. Now, that vision seemed to be slipping away, and she didn't know how to regain it.

///

Rhaenyra had been dealing with the growing distance between her and Alicent, trying her best to respect her mate's need for space. It weighed heavily on her heart, and as she visited her son Aegon at Talisa's home, her emotions threatened to overflow.

Talisa noticed the sadness in Rhaenyra's eyes and gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Rhaenyra, what's been troubling you lately?" she asked in a soft, caring tone.

Rhaenyra couldn't hold back her tears any longer. She turned to Talisa and whispered, "Alicent… she's been so distant since Jace was born. She asked for her own bedroom, and I can't help but feel like I've done something wrong."

Talisa's heart ached for Rhaenyra. She led her to a quiet corner of the room and embraced her platonically, offering her a comforting presence. "You've done nothing wrong, Rhaenyra," Talisa assured her. "Becoming a parent is a challenging and emotional journey, and sometimes, people need space to find their footing. It doesn't mean she loves you any less."

Rhaenyra had tears streaming down her cheeks. "I just miss her so much, Talisa," she admitted. "I want things to go back to the way they were, but I don't know how to bridge this gap."

Talisa continued to hold Rhaenyra, soothing her with gentle strokes on her back. "Give it time," she said softly. "Sometimes, these things take time to heal. Keep showing Alicent that you love her and that you're there for her. She'll come around."

As Rhaenyra and Talisa shared this moment of vulnerability and comfort, a nearby servant who had been observing their embrace narrowed her eyes suspiciously. Such closeness between a Targaryen Duchess and a commoner like Talisa was sure to spark rumors and trouble.

She discreetly began to spread whispers among the other nobles, sowing seeds of doubt and scandal that would soon reach the ears of those in power.

///

Dany burst into the duchess's house, her face pale with urgency. "Alicent," she exclaimed breathlessly, "you won't believe what I've just heard. Rhaenyra has been seen in the company of Talisa. They were intimately touching one another, kissing and enrapped in eachother's arms. I've paid off the servant who heard this but Alicent, this is detrimental to your image, to our family's image as well."

Alicent's heart sank, and her hands trembled with a mixture of emotions. She couldn't deny the pain that surged through her at the thought of Rhaenyra and Talisa together, especially in the midst of their own struggles. "What?" she whispered, her voice quivering. "Are you sure about this, Dany?"

Dany nodded, her eyes wide with concern. "Yes, this servant is one I trust fully. Alicent, we need to do something about this. We can't let them tarnish your reputation."

Alicent's initial shock quickly gave way to anger and determination. She clenched her fists, her jaw set with resolve. "No, we won't," she declared, her voice firm. "I won't let Rhaenyra make a mockery of me."

Dany could see the fiery determination in her sister's eyes and nodded in agreement. "What do you plan to do"

Alicent took a deep breath, her mind already formulating a plan. "Talisa needs to leave. And Rhaenyra...I..I can't believe she would betray our love like this but..but we are mated and there is little to do here. We need to get creative."

Dany watched as her sister's anger fueled her determination. She knew that when Alicent set her mind to something, she could be relentless. "I'll help you in any way I can," Dany promised.

As the two sisters hatched their plan to uncover the truth about Rhaenyra and Talisa, they were united by a shared sense of betrayal and a desire for justice.

///

The atmosphere in their home was heavy with tension as Rhaenyra returned from her outing. She approached Alicent with the intention of a warm embrace and a loving kiss, but she was met with unexpected coolness.

Alicent swiftly turned her head when Rhaenyra leaned in to kiss her cheek, avoiding any contact with her lips. Rhaenyra's brows furrowed in confusion, and she could sense something was amiss.

"What's wrong, my love?" Rhaenyra asked, her voice tinged with concern as she watched Alicent closely.

Alicent, however, remained guarded and unresponsive. She took a deep breath and subtly sniffed the air, causing Rhaenyra's anxiety to heighten. She knew exactly what Alicent was checking for – Talisa's scent.

The tension between them only escalated when Rhaenyra questioned, "Is something bothering you today, Alicent?"

Alicent didn't meet Rhaenyra's gaze and simply replied with a curt, "No."

Desperate to break through the wall of silence, Rhaenyra attempted to engage Alicent in light conversation, but her efforts were met with cold indifference. She couldn't bear the distance growing between them and pleaded, "Alicent, please talk to me. I can't stand it when you're like this."

Alicent, still focused on her self-imposed silence, began to undress her top half to prepare for breastfeeding Jace. The gesture felt like a stark rejection to Rhaenyra, who wanted nothing more than to understand what had caused this rift between them.

With a heavy heart, Rhaenyra made one last appeal for communication. "Alicent, I love you, and I hate to see you like this. Please, let me in. Tell me what's wrong."

Alicent, however, remained resolute in her silence, leaving Rhaenyra standing there, heartbroken and frustrated. As she turned and walked away, Rhaenyra couldn't shake the feeling that something significant had come between them, and she was determined to uncover the truth.

///

Later in the night, Rhaenyra heard a gentle knock at her door. She could smell that it was Alicent.

“Come in,” Rhaenyra said lightly, as she continued tying up her sleep shirt for bed.

Alicent comes into the room in a sheer thin nightgown, loosely tied together by a modest thick robe to keep her from getting a chill.

Rhaenyra turns to her. “Alicent, is everything okay? Is Jace-”

“He is asleep.” Alicent says quietly. She moves toward Rhaenyra’s bed and undoes the ties of her robe, allowing it to fall to the floor. Her nightgown is only remaining and leaves very little to the imagination.

“Alicent..” Rhaenyra says slowly, quite confused. They have not been intimate since before Jace was born and Alicent has been so cold to her.

“I would like to spend the night with you.” Alicent’s voice is firm but nervous.

Rhaenyra smiles wide and nods. “Very well,” she says simply, trying to hide the hope and excitement in her voice that her old Alicent has returned to her.

Rhaenyra approaches Alicent and kisses her sweetly. Alicent cannot help but melt into the kiss a bit, but is conflicted as she knows Rhaenyra has been unfaithful to her. But still, she wants to try her hardest to rekindle what they once shared, something she knows she willingly pushed away in the haze of the trauma of Jace’s arrival into the world.

Rhaenyra cups her cheeks and pulls Alicent in close, her hands slowly roaming the limited expanse of skin available to her. “This must come off.” Rhaenyra mumbles passionately in between kisses, gently undoing the final ties of Alicent’s nightgown.

Alicent sighs warmly into the kiss as she feels herself now bare in front of Rhaenyra. Pressed up so tightly to her mate, she can feel Rhaenyra’s length hardening for her and it brings a mixture of emotions to her.

Rhaenyra makes haste to lead Alicent to the bed and settle on top of her. She palms expertly at Alicent’s breasts and nipples and Alicent begins to feel overwhelmed at the sensation.

Alicent moans ever so slightly, still so shy with the sounds that Rhaenyra’s touch evokes from her. She knows Rhaenyra loves to her the sounds she makes but she is so shy about being loud with her pleasure.

“I want to hear you.” Rhaenyra says firmly and Alicent looks up at her with big, wanting eyes and nods.

Rhaenyra’s fingers wander down Alicent’s body before moving lazily and teasingly around her mate’s clit. Alicent struggles to hold back her noises of pleasure as Rhaenyra continues her ministrations.

Alicent pulls at Rhaenyra’s sleep shirt and her alpha tugs it over her head quickly. They both say so little but their bodies fall into a natural rhythm.

Rhaenyra pulls off and kicks off her boxers quickly. She resettles on top of Alicent and angles to push in.

“Is this good?” Rhaenyra mumbles inbetween sucking on Alicent’s neck. Alicent nods firmly and Rhaenyra quickly pushes in.

Alicent gasps at the quickness as Rhaenyra falls into a fast paced, desperate momentum with her thrusts.

Rhaenyra knows she should savor this moment, it’s all she has wanted since Jace was born. She just wants to be close to Alicent again. But she cannot help herself. Her alpha is needy and whiny for release.

Rhaenyra clutches at the bedframe as she thrusts roughly into Alicent. Alicent moans loudly, feeling pleasantly overwhelmed by the passion in Rhaenyra’s swiftness.

“Should I pull out?” Rhaenyra groans out, sweaty and on the edge of orgasm. Alicent, now more well versed in the meaning of sex and it’s potential consequences, briefly considers her options.

Despite Jace’s birth scare, she does want more children. And the sooner the better, considering Talisa’s everlasting grip on Rhaenyra. Not to mention, her omega is swooning and begging for Rhaenyra to finish inside her.

“No,” Alicent says simply, locking her legs around Rhaenyra’s lower side, keeping her firmly sheathed inside her.

That movement is all it takes for Rhaenyra to go mad with ecstasy, tensing as she comes.

Rhaenyra lays atop Alicent for some time after sex before pulling out. She lays behind Alicent, cuddling into her and hugging her tight. She is too afraid to say anything and to break this reverie they are in. Instead, she opts to kiss Alicent’s shoulder lovingly as they drift off into sleep, unaware of what the remainder of the night will unfold.

///

Under the veil of night, Alicent met Dany outside their house, the air thick with tension. She handed Dany an envelope filled with money, and as Dany took it, her expression grew uncertain.

Dany hesitated for a moment before speaking, her voice soft and filled with concern. "Are you sure about this, Alicent? Once we do this, there's no turning back. You know that, right?"

Alicent's gaze remained cold and determined as she replied curtly, "Yes, Dany, I'm sure. I need my wife back, and as long as Talisa is in the picture, that will never happen."

Dany nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of the situation. She knew that this decision could have far-reaching consequences, and she couldn't help but worry about her sister. But she also saw the pain and determination in Alicent's eyes and knew that she needed to support her.

With a heavy sigh, Dany tucked the envelope of money away and said, "Alright, Alicent. I'll do it. But remember, we're crossing a line here, and there may be no going back."

Alicent simply nodded, her mind set on the path she had chosen, no matter the cost.

///

In the dimly lit room above the dress shop, Dany met with Talisa's husband, a man of simple means who had no idea why a noblewoman like her wanted to see him. His eyes bore a mixture of curiosity and suspicion.

Dany, her voice hushed, passed an envelope filled with a substantial amount of cash to him. "You're going to leave," she said firmly. "You'll sell this shop to a talented dressmaker I know. She's looking for a place to make her mark in this area. You'll take this money and go, with Talisa and the children."

He stared at the envelope, then back at Dany, his face a mixture of shock and anger. "Why?" he demanded.

Dany's expression remained resolute. "You know why," she replied, her voice unwavering. "Don't push it."

In frustration, he slammed his fists onto the table, causing Dany to startle. His anger and suspicion boiled over as he asked, "Is this Rhaenyra's doing?"

Dany shook her head firmly. "No, this has nothing to do with her. And it needs to stay that way."

He let out a bitter laugh, acknowledging the audacity of the new Duchess's wife. Without another word, he took the envelope of cash and left the room, leaving behind a sense of finality in the air.

///

Tension hung heavy in the air as Rhaenyra stormed into the house, her anger palpable. Alicent, feeding Jace in the cozy corner of the room, couldn't help but feel the storm of emotions radiating from her mate. Still, she remained focused on their child, determined to keep the peace, at least for the moment.

Rhaenyra didn't utter a single word as she stormed past Alicent and headed upstairs. Her footsteps echoed with frustration and anger, leaving Alicent with a heavy sense of unease. She continued to cradle Jace in her arms, trying to maintain a sense of normalcy, but her heart ached with the growing distance between her and Rhaenyra.

Alicent climbed the stairs, her heart heavy with the knowledge of what awaited her. Rhaenyra's anger was a palpable force, and she feared the confrontation that was about to unfold.

As she entered their room, Rhaenyra wasted no time in sharing her frustrations. "Talisa is leaving," she declared, her voice laced with fury, "and she's taking Aegon with her. Her idiotic alpha husband sold the shop without even consulting her. And since he's the alpha, he has the right to make such decisions."

Alicent widened her eyes in mock surprise, her acting skills coming to the forefront. "That's absolutely horrible," she exclaimed, her tone reflecting her feigned shock and sympathy.

Rhaenyra, however, wasn't buying it. She could see through the facade. "Don't pretend, Alicent, I am your mate. I can feel your emotions and I know you are not being genuine right now," she snapped, her frustration evident.

Alicent tried to remain composed. "I am. I know what Aegon means to you. Perhaps, we can visit them every few months," she suggested, her voice gentle.

But Rhaenyra's response shattered any illusions of resolution. "He's not just leaving the city," she said through gritted teeth, her eyes burning with anger. "That man is taking them across the sea to the New World."

Alicent's feigned understanding crumbled, and her silence spoke volumes. Rhaenyra, frustrated and hurt, stormed out of the room, leaving Alicent alone with her guilt and a sense of dread that their relationship might be slipping through her fingers.

///

Rhaenyra was wrestling with a storm of emotions, and she couldn't keep it bottled up any longer. She found herself in her mother's presence, seeking guidance or perhaps just a listening ear.

"I think marrying Alicent was a mistake," she confessed, her voice heavy with regret. "Ever since she had Jace, she's become unrecognizable."

Aemma looked at her daughter with sympathy. "You must be patient with her, Rhaenyra," she advised. "Becoming a mother can be a profound change, and it takes time to adjust."

Rhaenyra couldn't hold back her worries any longer. "What about Aegon?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Aemma's expression darkened. "We should not speak of such things," she cautioned.

Rhaenyra, feeling a sense of helplessness, declared, "Talisa is leaving."

Aemma's response surprised her daughter, for she simply said, "It's probably for the best."

The lack of vehement protest from her mother caught Rhaenyra off guard. "You don't care?" she questioned, her voice strained.

Aemma sighed deeply. "That's not fair," she replied. "Of course, I care."

Rhaenyra couldn't help but express her frustration. "You never once visited Aegon or asked to meet him."

Aemma explained, "It was a scandal, Rhaenyra, and for his protection, I couldn't get involved. My presence would have made matters worse. But I ensured that Talisa's shop was not boycotted, and I made sure everyone let the gossip be."

Rhaenyra's surprise was evident. "I didn't know that," she admitted.

Aemma's next words took Rhaenyra by surprise. "If I were a worse person, I would have paid Talisa and her husband off to leave."

Rhaenyra's realization was swift and cutting. She didn't hesitate to express her suspicions. "I think Alicent is capable of doing just that," she replied, her voice laced with bitterness.

Aemma, shocked by the accusation, asked, "Do you really believe Alicent would do such a thing?"

Rhaenyra, her emotions raw, replied through gritted teeth, "Yes," before storming out of the room, leaving her mother to grapple with the weight of the revelation.

///

The confrontation between Rhaenyra and Talisa's husband was tense and volatile. They had never met before, but the accusation hanging in the air was enough to ignite a fierce clash. The second Rhaenyra approached Talisa's husband, she was met with immediate violence. 

He struck Rhaenyra in the face, again and again, until he grew tired of the assault. Her face bruised and bloodied, Rhaenyra refused to back down.

Gasping for breath, she pressed him once more, her voice unwavering. "Tell me the truth," she urged.

He responded with a kick, his anger boiling over. "You should know, Lady Rhaenyra, that your secret is not safe," he spat. "I know Aegon is not my son. You are the sire." And with that, he turned and walked away, leaving Rhaenyra to grapple with the harsh reality of the situation.

Talisa's husband's voice trembled with anger and resentment as he confronted Rhaenyra. "You made a mockery of me," he seethed. "Every day, I had to endure the whispers and sneers of this town, thinking me a weak alpha who let the Duchess Rhaenyra invade my home.” His voice trailed off, but the bitterness in his eyes spoke volumes.

Rhaenyra, though battered and bruised, couldn't deny the truth in his words. She had unwittingly caused immense pain and humiliation to this man, and the weight of her actions hung heavily upon her.

Talisa's husband's voice was filled with a mixture of sorrow and determination as he continued to speak. "I endured this emotional turmoil for as long as I could, all because I knew Talisa was a good woman, and I loved my son, even if he wasn't truly mine by blood. I allowed those weekly visits, I let you into our lives, and I turned a blind eye for the sake of peace."

He paused, taking a deep breath before adding, "But now, with enough money to start anew, I plan to leave behind the toxicity of the Targaryen line. In the New World, nobody will care about Targaryen blood or the significance of that blonde-white hair. I'll give my son a chance at a life free from this tangled mess."

Rhaenyra stood there, absorbing his words, realizing the extent of the pain and sacrifice he had endured for the sake of his family, even if it meant keeping her secret. Guilt weighed heavily upon her, and she found herself at a loss for words, unable to undo the damage she had inadvertently caused.

Rhaenyra's voice wavered with emotion as she spoke, her heart torn between her maternal instincts and the realization of the mess she had created. "But he is my son, my blood.” she said, her voice trembling. "I appreciate everything you've done to protect our secret, and I'm sorry for the turmoil this has caused you. But I can't just let you take him away."

Talisa's husband watched her closely, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and resignation. "He may be your blood," he said, his voice heavy with the weight of his decision, "but he's my son in every way that matters. I won't let him grow up in a place where he'll be a constant reminder of the pain and shame this town has brought upon me."

Rhaenyra's eyes filled with tears as she listened to Tallia's husband's harsh words. She knew he was right; she had been unable to change the circumstances of their son's birth or provide him with the life he deserved. Her hands clenched into fists as she fought to find the right words.

"I know I can't offer him the life of a legitimate child," she admitted, her voice breaking. "But he's still my son, and I can't bear the thought of losing him. I've made so many mistakes, but I want to be a part of his life, to watch him grow and be there for him. Please, can't we find some way to work this out?"

Talisa's husband responded with a bitter laugh, "What can you truly offer him, except the life of being a bastard? And even then, you've had three years to clean up my mess around him, and you have not. He will have no land from you, no money from you. You only have shame for being born out of wedlock. So what is it that keeps him here except your own pride?"

Rhaenyra felt a crushing weight of guilt and frustration as she struggled to respond. She knew the truth in his words, and it tore at her heart.

Rhaenyra, with a sense of urgency in her voice, said, "Listen carefully. I have significant influence at court. I can orchestrate a divorce for Talisa, ensuring you still can have a fresh start in the New World and this time, without the burden of a bastard child and a wife branded as unfaithful. I can secure my son's future without unraveling your life…and this new opportunity."

Talisa's husband listened to Rhaenyra’s offer with a mixture of surprise and skepticism. The idea of a divorce and the promise of a substantial sum of money were tempting, but he was unsure. 

"Let me consider my options." Talisa's husband says firmly. Rhaenyra nods and starts to walk away before turning back around slightly.

"Did my lady wife pay you off to leave?" Rhaenyra asks calmly, there was a storm behind her eyes. In response, Talisa's laughs bitterly and mockingly.

"Now you shall know what a wife's betrayal feels like." Talisa's husband says simply before closing the door in Rhaenyra's face.

///

As Rhaenyra retreated to the bedroom, Alicent couldn't help but feel a growing rift between them. She assumed it was the impending departure of Talisa that had cast a gloomy shadow over her mate. Little did she know the secret negotiations Rhaenyra had undertaken in the dead of night, a choice that would forever alter the course of their lives.

As Rhaenyra walks into the house, Alicent, concerned, asks, "Where have you been?"

Rhaenyra, avoiding eye contact, replies, "Just out, don't worry about it. I'm going to bed."

Alicent, thinking Rhaenyra is just feeling down because Talisa is leaving, decides not to press further.

Rhaenyra goes to visit Thalía the next day. Talisa's slap stings Rhaenyra, but she stands her ground, her expression resolute.

"Talisa," she begins, "I understand your concerns, but you deserve to choose your life, not be dragged away from the shop you put your blood, sweat and tears into. And as for Aegon, he is my son by blood, and I cannot stand by and watch him go. I will ensure he is cared for, and one day, he may want to know his true origins."

Talisa's anger begins to fade into a mix of frustration and sadness. "Rhaenyra, you don't understand. It's not just about Aegon. It's about the people in this town, the gossip, the judgment. If I take your offer, it’ll be a scandal, a disgrace."

Rhaenyra's voice softens. "Talisa, you deserve happiness. I can help you get a divorce discreetly, and you can leave without any unnecessary attention.”

Talisa hesitates, her emotions warring within her. She knows Rhaenyra means well, but the fear of scandal and the uncertainty of the future weigh heavily on her.

Talisa's voice quivered with a mix of anger and sadness. "Why did you interfere with my husband's business, Rhaenyra? This isn't your concern."

Rhaenyra sighed, her eyes filled with a complex mixture of regret and determination. "Talisa, I couldn't just stand by and let you leave with Aegon. He's my son, by blood, and I'll do anything to ensure he stays here in this town."

Talisa's eyes welled up with tears, her voice shaking as she replied, "He might be your son by blood, but he's not truly yours where it counts. Even if he shares your blood, I can't bear the scandal of leaving my husband. Where would I go? To live with a duchess and her new duchess consort? The town would never stop talking."

Rhaenyra's heart ached for Talisa, understanding the difficult position she was in. "Talisa, I'm here to help you, as discreetly as you’d like. But please, do not take my son away. I will do anything.”

"Rhaenyra, I need to tell you something. I suspect that Dany might have had something to do with it, especially considering what you've just told me about Alicent's behavior." Talisa says with a heavy heart. She knows this is Alicent’s doing and she knows Rhaenyra knows that too, even if she’s in denial.

Rhaenyra sighed heavily, running a hand through her hair. "Yes, your husband confirmed Alicent's part in this." Rhaenyra says angrily. "She's changed so much since the baby was born. At first, it was just her obsession with Jace, and I understood that. But then it turned into snappiness, and soon she was outright yelling at me. We had a night together, and I thought maybe we were getting back on track, but now I realize it was just a distraction."

Talisa nodded in sympathy and held out her hand. Rhaenyra took it and smiled sadly.

///

Rhaenyra's voice was trembling with anger as she confronted Alicent, her eyes locked onto her mate's. "Did you truly think I wouldn't find out about the money, Alicent?"

Alicent initially feigned confusion, but Rhaenyra wasn't easily deterred. She pressed Alicent relentlessly until the truth came spilling out. "Yes, I did it!" Alicent finally yelled. "I know about you and Talisa having an affair again. A servant saw you. I had to do something to salvage whatever was left of our marriage!"

Rhaenyra's face contorted with fury as she yelled back, her alpha instincts surging. For the first time, Alicent heard her mate scream in anger, and it was overwhelming. "You know that's not true, Alicent! I never touched Talisa, not since we conceived Aegon!" Rhaenyra sighs before continuing. "I know that mothers sometimes experience emotions they can't explain after childbirth, and I was trying to give you time to cope with that. All I ever did was visit my son, and if gossip started because of that, well, that's the way this town has always been. Instead of resorting to such extreme measures, you should have talked to me. You sent my child away to a whole different world across the sea, where he could die on the treacherous journey. Adults often don't survive the arduous, disease-ridden journey to the New World, let alone a child. He will be gone of my life forever. I'll never forgive you for this."

Rhaenyra's eyes blazed with hurt and anger as she glared at Alicent before storming out of the house, leaving Alicent with a tumult of emotions and a broken bond between them.

Alicent collapsed onto the floor, tears streaming down her face. The weight of her actions bore down on her, and the realization hit her like a tidal wave.

She had destroyed the love Rhaenyra had for her, shattered the beautiful trust they'd built over years. She couldn't explain why she'd been acting this way, overwhelmed by insecurity, sadness, and anxiety ever since that near-death experience during their son's birth. Now, as she watched the door slam shut behind her mate, she knew she'd pushed Rhaenyra so far away that she might never find her way back into her arms, and she could feel the painful echo of a love once vibrant, now teetering on the brink of collapse.