The Prison-Made Queen novel Chapter 424

In the darkness, Leilani’s eyes remained clear and determined. She had one week. In one week, she would neutralize the poison in Payton’s body. And then, she would uncover the whole truth.

...

Meanwhile, at the Sherwood estate.

Ever since Tamara had drugged Milford and slept with him, she had been feeling unwell. Lately, she felt nauseous whenever it was time to eat.

At first, Tamara thought she was sick and even considered telling Gloria to see a doctor. But realization soon dawned on her. Loss of appetite, nausea at the sight of food... and most importantly, she had missed her period this month.

Tamara’s cycle had always been punctual, never varying by more than a couple of days. It had now been two weeks since she was due.

The realization hit her: she was likely pregnant.

Remembering the cold attitude displayed by Gloria, Fitch, and Milford toward her since the wedding, Tamara’s initial joy was quickly replaced by a chilling fear. Given the family's ruthlessness, if they found out she was pregnant with Milford’s child—especially under the circumstances—they would undoubtedly force her to abort it.

Tamara couldn't let that happen. This child was her last remaining leverage. She tried to act as if nothing was wrong, but the symptoms of early pregnancy were difficult to mask.

That morning, Tamara sat at the dining table, staring at the steaming pastries and exquisite cakes before her. The breakfast gave off a rich aroma, but to her, it smelled like grease. Her throat tightened, and waves of nausea rolled through her stomach. She gripped her napkin tightly, her knuckles turning white as she fought back the urge to gag, tears welling in the corners of her eyes.

Tamara slumped over the toilet, vomiting violently until tears streamed down her face. She hadn't eaten anything that morning, so the dry heaving left her stomach feeling hollow and agonizingly cramped. Pale and trembling, she leaned weakly against the porcelain.

Footsteps hurried in behind her.

Della rushed in, panic on her face, and gently patted Tamara’s back. "Madam! What's happening? Why are you throwing up like this?"

Tamara was shaking, her mind in chaos. She absolutely could not let Della figure this out. Della had worked for the Sherwood family for over a decade. While she was kind to Tamara and occasionally put in a good word for her, Tamara knew where Della’s loyalties ultimately lay.