I stood before the mirror, stunned by my reflection. The room shimmered around me, lit with golden hues as soft music drifted in from beyond the velvet drapes. I barely recognized the woman who stared back at me. My skin was luminous, dusted with gold shimmer that complimented the tiara of pure gold resting delicately on my head. Tiny diamonds sparkled like stars, woven into the intricate braid of my hair. The dress I wore was the most luxurious thing I’d ever touched—ivory silk that clung gently to my figure, trimmed with silver embroidery that traced the swell of my belly. I had never looked this regal in my entire life.
I ran my fingers gently over the bodice, then down to my rounded stomach. “You did this,” I whispered softly, tears prickling behind my eyes. “You brought me back to li
