LYRA

Maren helped me dress for the meeting with more care than usual. It was a deep blue gown that brought out my eyes, my hair arranged simply but elegantly, just enough powder to hide the dark circles under my eyes from lack of sleep. I looked composed and calm in the mirror even though my stomach was twisted in knots.

"You'll be wonderful, my lady," Maren said, adjusting my sleeve one last time. "Just be yourself."

Being myself was exactly what I couldn't do. But I smiled and thanked her ...