Elara's POV
I stood in front of the mirror in my chambers and stared at my reflection.
The woman looking back at me was a stranger. Pale. Tired. Dark circles under her eyes that no amount of powder could hide. But she was dressed now, the deep blue gown with silver threading, the crown sitting heavy on my head, the jewels at my throat that felt like weights pulling me down.
My stomach churned. The nausea had been with me all morning, same as every morning for weeks now. I pressed my hand against my middle, willing it to settle. Willing my body to cooperate for just a few hours. At least now I knew why I felt this way.
I needed to get through this. I needed to face Thorin. I needed to sign this treaty and watch him leave and pretend that everything was fine.
The door opened behind me. I did not turn around. I knew who it was.
