For a moment, she forgot to take the offered hand. Something about the woman felt familiar, though she was certain they had never met before. Her lips parted as if to speak, but no words came out. She quickly recovered herself and shook the woman's hand.
"Welcome, Maelis Marchant," she said, her voice slightly unsteady.
"Thank you, Princess."
Elara continued looking at her. Up close, the woman appeared to be in her mid-forties, tall and elegant, with kind eyes and a calm confidence that drew attention without effort.
"Are you mated?" Elara suddenly asked.
Maelis nodded.
"I was."
The answer only sharpened Elara's curiosity.
"What happened?"
"My mate died twenty winters ago."
A shadow crossed Maelis's eyes, but it disappeared as quickly as it came.
"Did you rematch?" Elara pressed.
"No."
"Why not?"
Maelis laughed softly and shook her head.
"Honey, you should be resting instead of questioning me."
