Elena’s POV.
Christmas morning arrived with a familiar, sour turn in my throat. I sat on the edge of the bed, resting my palms against my knees until the wave of nausea settled. I had a busy day ahead, so I swallowed past the discomfort, drew a steady breath, and stood up to prepare for the day.
I pulled out the burgundy winter gown Ramona had made for me to wear for Christmas dinner. It was beautiful. The velvet felt light and soft between my fingers, fitted neatly through the bodice with a modest V-neckline and long sleeves that kept out the winter draft. It also had a full skirt that swept down to the floor in simple, understated folds. It was rich enough to fit the occasion without looking as though I were competing for attention. I gathered my hair, pinned it back out of my face wit
