Pairs
Battling my thoughts in bed, I couldn't shake these doubtful feelings, even if I wanted to. I woke in the middle of the night, covered in sweat. Something is happening, and I have no idea what effects it will have on Troy. I dreamed of a large pile of wood and soldiers hoarding it. Was it a dream, or perhaps a premonition from the gods? I glance over at Helen, sleeping next to me, and I feel a knot forming in my stomach.
Father always told me that I was chosen by the gods; I was the special gift, not Hector. I gently rest my hand on the small bump that's emerging on Helen's belly, a tiny life growing within, my prince or princess. A wave of pride washes over me, filling me with a sense of purpose. My heart races at the thought of protecting both her and our little one at all costs. it has become my greatest mission.
I hear a knock at the door, and I know it's not my brother the King because he would just interrupt his way in. "Paris," I hear Briseis's little quiet voice. She has been different since returning home. I know it's because she's in love. In love with Achilles, which will never sit well with anyone in the kingdom.
My feet pounded against the ground as I raced to open the door. When I finally swung it open, I was met with a sight that sent a chill down my spine. She looked terrified, her forehead lined with worry, and her body trembled with fear.
"Please bring me to Achilles," she whispered.
"What?" I felt my face turning cold. I love her, but I could never do this.
"I think... I... am pregnant," she struggled to say the words.
"By him?" I could feel the sweat pouring down my forehead.
She nodded, her eyes widening in shock.
"You need to think about that baby. You are a princess here, and nothing in his world. He will never be accepted in our court. You are carrying the enemy of Troy."
"Paris, I love him."
"I know. But you need to be with someone here. Tell them it's their baby. Briseis, it's what's best for your baby."
I could see the tears forming in her eyes.
I gently press my lips to her forehead, sealing my Friendship with a tender kiss. Deep down, I know he loves her, but my thoughts are a tangled mess. I can't afford to risk anything more for love. Not when so much is already at stake. Troy is in danger, and it's because of love.
"We'll talk about it more tomorrow," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. She nods and turns away from me, her long white nightgown swirling around her like a ghost drifting through the graveyard of fallen kings.
"Promise me, Briseis, tell no one."