"You look exhausted. Work was a lot?" Evie asked.
"Yes, a lot of preparations required for the welcoming of the envoys from Astonville," he said, and then stiffened. "The empress is going to come back to the palace. I should have consulted with you first before deciding anything," he said, his voice getting smaller and smaller. "At least now, so she could help plan her sister's wedding. You don't have to forgive her or anything, so don't worry," he said, rambling on and on.
"It is okay," Evie said. "She would have to return to the palace at some point, so I have no issue," she added.
"Thank you," he whispered. "How are you feeling today? Did the baby kick? How many times?" he asked excitedly, putting his hand on her stomach. "Come on, baby, kick for your father," he said, and then the room went quiet, but nothing. "Please?" he said, and then nothing again. "You see? I was right. The baby hates me," he said, looking at Evie disappointedly.
