Chapter 99 - Blindsided (1/2)
Sigmund was furious when he stormed back to his quarters. How? How could he have been completely blindsided by his brother like this?
All this time he had operated under the assumption that Franz was trying to become the crown prince by making himself seem like the better candidate. He never would have guessed he was trying to get more representatives on his side in the court.
This had to be Katie's idea; that blasted woman! Franz wasn't smart enough to come up with something like this on his own.
He knew he had promised to keep her alive for Charles' sake but she was too dangerous. As long as she was capable of thinking and speaking, she was a threat. There were so many better women out there—Charles would forgive him eventually.
Even if he didn't, he was a single aide whose loyalty would remain to the crown. Which Sigmund would wear at all costs.
”ROSENIAAAA!” he roared as he threw open the door to her private drawing room.
She was lounging on a chaise eating chocolate covered strawberries and hardly looked up at the commotion. Seeing her so nonchalant when her position was in every bit as much danger as his was infuriated him even more.
”What is it?” his wife asked impatiently. ”You have not purposely sought me out in weeks.”
Rosenia was a breathtakingly beautiful woman but right now the very sight of her disgusted Sigmund. This was her fault. If she hadn't spent all of her time avoiding him and living the high life by using his title to her benefit he would have an heir already.
”Franz had a victory in court today,” he said through gritted teeth. ”And his child is due in a matter of weeks. If you wish to keep your position I would recommend doing the one thing that is expected of you aside from being a beautiful room ornament.”
She sat up in a huff. ”For heaven's sake, Sigmund. Do not try to pin the blame on me when your spy network was unable to dig anything up. This is the result of your own inadequacy.”
Blinded by fury, he seized her by the wrist. Fear briefly shone in her eyes but was quickly replaced by a defiant expression. She had no intention of taking her words back.
”My inadequacy? What about yours? Your primary duty as crown princess is to bear me a son. Four years and you have not been pregnant even once! Do I need to replace you?” Sigmund snarled.
”You would not dare—”
”There is nothing I would not dare to do with my position in danger. So either you stop hiding yourself away eating sweets all day or go back to Rowenhilde in shame. I am sure your brother the king would be thrilled.”