Beloved Maraya,
Trust Ayan as our personal courier. Please burn this after you read it, and send him back with a response.
I am lonesome away from our family. Do you feel the same?
The duke loves me, and I him. If he thinks I am forlorn, the sun may set on his happiness. That cannot happen! Perhaps the child will bring me joy. It is too early to say anything, so I whisper it only to you.
Write to me often. I am comforted to know you are near.
From my heart,
Almandine
