Ever After (Unfinished Fairy Tales #3)(37)

Father glares at me. “You will do no such thing. The problem lies not with Katriona Bradshaw, but you. Clearly, you haven’t been making an effort to produce an heir. Tell me, Edward, is this marriage ever consummated?”

I look away. “I can only tell you the affirmative with Kat.”

“Well, she’s gone now, so you might as well settle…”

“She’s not.” I interrupt, unable to say that Kat is gone. “She survived her illness. I saw her.”

Father’s eyes bulge. “Are you saying that other woman, Katherine Wilson, has recovered? You told me she had an incurable disease.”

“I did not believe it could happen…but it’s true. She’s alive and well.”

Father groans and rests his head on his right arm. “What are we to do now?”

“Simple. I divorce Katriona Bradshaw and marry Kat. There would be no question of an heir.”

“That is out of question. If you wish, you may take Katherine Wilson as a mistress. You can make discreet visits to Katherine Wilson. But I will not hear of a divorce; the public will not accept it. Remember, Edward, that adultery is a lesser sin than divorce.”

I stand up. “I am sorry, but you know Katriona Bradshaw is not fit to be princess. Even if she were, I have no feelings for her. If you are so concerned about maintaining the image, imagine what would happen if we can no longer stand each other. Not everything can be manipulated at will.”

He also stands up. “I did not bring you up to be so liberal with your feelings. You have duties to this kingdom.”

“My duties do not extend to my private life.” I exert every effort to restrain the urge to raise my voice. “Kat is the only woman I wish to marry. If you cannot accept…”

Someone knocks on the door. A maid pokes her head inside. “The queen is asking for a word with His Highness.”

Father and I look at each other. We do not speak, but both of us understand there is little point continuing the conversation. Neither of us is willing to concede to the other’s stance on this matter.

“Very well.” Father strides to the door. “One last thing, Edward. Is Katherine Wilson a commoner?”

“Yes.”

“Then your marriage to her will not be recognized. She cannot live in the palace as princess, and your children will not bear your name. Is that what you want?”

“No,” I admit. “But it will be vastly preferable than a life with Katriona Bradshaw.”

“You fool.” Father looks like he wants to say more, but a second later he shakes his head and quits the room. I shut my eyes for a second, frustrated at myself. Even when Father and I used to disagree, I had never spoken to him in such a direct manner.

Mother enters the office. “Why are you talking to your father about marriage to Kat?”

I explain to her that Kat has returned, alive and well. There is no need to conceal it from Mother, and it is likely Father will tell her later.

“Truly?” She stares at me, her eyes wide. “The goblins have found a spell that allowed her to live in Athelia in her own body?”

“The fairies, actually. I’ve arranged for her to stay with Mary. Until the time when I am free to marry.” I take a deep breath. “You have heard Father’s disapproval. Forgive me, Mother, but my heart is set on Kat. Whatever it takes to bring her back, I will do it.”

“And to think that you have a reputation of being indifferent to women,” Mother says, sitting across me. “But how will you achieve this? Legally you are married to Katriona Bradshaw.”

“That is what I am going to figure out,” I say. It seems impossible to divorce her, but it is not going to stop me from making the attempt. “I am used to insurmountable obstacles when it comes to Kat. This is merely another one we will eventually overcome.”

“Stubborn like your father, despite your different perspectives on certain matters.” Mother’s gaze falls briefly on Kat’s desk. “Is that where she used to work with you?”

“Yes.” I cannot help but smile at the memory of her striding into my office, Bertram in tow. “She was concerned for my lack of sleep, and volunteered to help my work.”

“Only a woman from Bartlett’s world is capable of doing that.” Mother folds her hands. “I believe you have been wondering why I came to your office. I thought of summoning you, but since you are at work I could not talk to you until later. And this is an idea I wish to convey to you as soon as possible.”

“Pray enlighten me.”

“Have you considered looking into Katriona’s past?”

“What led you make this suggestion?”

“I had invited her to tea a few times, as I did with Kat. When I asked her how she survived in Moryn as a poor, helpless girl, she was evasive in answering. I did not pry further; she could have had unpleasant memories before she returned to our country. I do not know if it will be of use, but you could attempt an inquiry.”

It is as if a light has appeared in a deep, dark tunnel. “I shall write to Henry immediately.”

Mother rises. “I understand that you are eager to have Kat return. However, Edward, do not forget to consider Katriona Bradshaw’s situation. She ought not be used as a pawn.”

Kat had once told me I rarely do things by halves; either I am ice-cold to a person (such as strangers) or overwhelmingly passionate to loved ones (such as her). That is one of the many reasons why I consider myself fortunate to have her. Kat makes me a better person.