Theodora's cries calmed down a little after Zerith's multiple tries, yet she didn't let go of him. She knew that the only person who could put up a fight against her father for her sake was Zerith.
Bertha was physically and emotionally too weak to do that.
So Theodora clung on to her only hope desperately.
"Theodora, please don't be afraid. Father is here only to check the health of your baby. He is not going to do any harm to you. Please trust me and let him check upon you."
After five minutes, Theodora gave a nod yet kept holding onto Zerith. He sat beside her on the bed, holding her while Bertha watched with worry written on her face.
She didn't dare to look up at Ralph, not after she had to carry the signs of his previous punishment for all her life.
