Hazel Moreau
The dining room was even more elaborate than usual. Crystal chandeliers cast warm light over the long table, and the finest china had been brought out for our royal guests. I sat beside Killian, trying to look composed while my stomach churned with nerves.
Killian was deep in conversation with King Alaric and Queen Saphira about territories and trade agreements. Their voices were low and serious, discussing things I knew nothing about. I would have preferred to stay quiet and invisible, but Elowen kept engaging me in conversation, and despite everything, I found myself genuinely feeling seen for the first time in a long while.
"This roasted lamb is absolutely divine," Elowen said, cutting another piece with obvious enjoyment. "And these spices, I've never tasted anything qu
