My dearest Millerna,
Thank you for your charming letters. They have been a constant source of joy for me and I only wish I could write to you more often. I will try my best but when you know why I have been indisposed, I think you will forgive me.
I miss you terribly too. You were so concerned about me in your last letter and I love you for it, but let me assure you that you needn't worry about me, my dear sister, for I am very happy, happier than you can even imagine.
In fact, I have some good news: you will soon be an aunt!
I am with child and I am due to begin my confinement soon. I am so very happy, and I know that you and Eries will be pleased too. Our family is growing and I could not be prouder.
My husband the Duke is overjoyed with the news that he is to have an heir and I am glad that he is pleased. While you are right that he can be quite serious, I assure you that he does make me smile, every day. Perhaps I did not love him at the beginning but I do love him now so very dearly and I know that he loves me. So I count myself as very lucky indeed and I can only wish that you and Eries will be just as happy someday.
And I'm sure even father will be pleased at this news though I do not know if he is very eager to be a grandfather. Can you imagine him a grandfather? That thought should make you smile, I think.
So, as you can imagine, there are so many preparations to be made before the baby arrives and I am determined to be as ready as I can be for his coming. I know that you have all been very busy in Asturia but I am hoping that you can all come and visit us here in Freid for the birth of my child. We will have a grand celebration and I will make sure to serve all your favorite food as well as some Freidian delicacies that I know you will like.
I am ever so grateful knowing that my darling child will come into the world to a doting father and two devoted aunts.
With warmest affection,
Marlene