Ava's expression flickered, caught off guard by the directness of Vivienne's question. For a moment, a veil of vulnerability clouded her features before she met Vivienne's gaze with a steady resolve.

"Yes, Vivienne," Ava admitted softly, her voice carrying a weight that bespoke the depth of her fears. "The physicians have expressed their concerns, and... I couldn't bear the thought of leaving my child without a mother."

The room seemed to hold its breath as their eyes locked, the unspoken bond of friendship and shared understanding bridging the gap between them. At that moment, Vivienne's perspective shifted, and her own internal struggles paled in comparison to the selflessness before her.

"Ava," Vivienne's voice was unwavering, a testament to the depth of her commitment, "I am ready to take on the role of your child's guardian, should anything happen to you or the crown prince."

With a sense of determination, Vivienne retrieved a carefully prepared letter, its significance weighing heavily in her hands. Swiftly, she affixed her signature to the document, a tangible testament to her promise. She extended the letter to Ava, a silent invitation for her to add her own signature, solidifying their shared understanding and mutual trust.

Tears glistened in Ava's eyes, a poignant reflection of the emotions swirling within her. "Thank you, Vivienne," she whispered, a mixture of relief and gratitude in her voice.

As they shared this intimate moment, Vivienne felt a profound sense of purpose settle within her. The decision she had made carried an even greater weight now, but she knew that her commitment to Ava and her child was unshakable.

In the wake of Vivienne and Ava's agreement, a new chapter unfolded, one marked by Vivienne's consistent presence at the palace over the span of nine months. Her visits to Ava became a steady rhythm, a routine woven into the fabric of their lives. Amid the preparations and growing anticipation, the bond between them deepened, solidifying the promise they had made.

However, the newfound responsibilities came with their own set of adjustments. As Vivienne devoted her time to supporting Ava, her interactions with Milo became less frequent. Yet, whenever their paths did cross within the palace's corridors, they managed to steal brief moments for conversation, a testament to the enduring connection they shared.

Time danced by in a whirlwind, and before they knew it, nine months had come and gone. The palace, once a backdrop to their laughter and shared secrets, now stood as a silent witness to the impending arrival. The moment of truth had arrived, and Ava's labor had begun.

The air was charged with both excitement and apprehension, the weight of the situation palpable. As Ava's strength waned and the room buzzed with activity, Vivienne stood by her side, her determination unwavering. The specter of Ava's earlier fears now cast a long shadow over the room.

Vivienne's gaze shifted between Ava, who lay unconscious, and the doctors working tirelessly to safeguard her life. The gravity of the situation was not lost on her – Ava's well-being hung in the balance, a reminder of the fragility of life itself.

Amidst the chaos, Vivienne cradled the newborn baby in her arms, a symbol of the future they had all been eagerly awaiting. The child's innocent gaze met Vivienne's, a silent reminder of the bond that had brought them all together. As she gazed down at the baby, a sense of responsibility and determination welled within her, a promise to protect and nurture the life that now rested in her care.

Back to the Present...

The passing days felt like an eternity, each moment weighted with anticipation and uncertainty. 'When will Ava awaken?' the question echoed in Vivienne's mind, a persistent reminder of the passage of time. A full week had elapsed since Ava's labor, yet her consciousness remained elusive.

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