Mara's Pov

I forced a smile, though my lips felt like they were made of dry parchment. I reached up and wiped the lingering dampness from my cheeks with the back of my hand, a quick, jerky motion.

"I’m fine, Margaret," I said, my voice sounding thin and hollow even to my own ears. "Something just... something flew into my eye."

"Are you sure, ma’am? You look very pale. Perhaps I should brew you some ginger tea? It helps with the shock."

"No," I snapped, then immediately softened my tone. "No, thank you. I just need to lie down. It’s been a very long night."

I didn't wait for her...