As night fell, the venue was finally ready. The lights were dimmed, and the last of the decorations were in place.
Emily walked over carrying a small bowl of warm broth. She looked at Lyvana with concern.
"You need to eat something," Emily said softly. "You can't run this show on an empty stomach."
Lyvana took the bowl. Her stomach had been twisting with nerves and morning sickness all day, but the warm liquid smelled surprisingly good. She took a few slow sips, waiting for the familiar wave of nausea.
To her relief, it didn't come. She was able to finish the bowl and keep it down. For the first time since she arrived at the Meridian, she felt a small burst of real energy.
"Better?" Emily asked, taking the empty bowl.
"Much better," Lyvana said, wiping her lips. "You are my personal nurse."
She giggled. "Now, let's go home."
Elsewhere, Julian was driving home from an important meeting. The car was quiet until his phone rang, and the Bluetooth connected with a low hum.
