It nearly slipped her notice that someone had addressed her. There had only been a ringing in her ears, the violent beating of her heart. It was the feeling of eyes upon her that drew her focus. Too many years of certain deception and betrayal, she had learned to spot those that watched her intently, if only to guard herself from possible attack.

But the face of the stranger was kindly and gentle, something that she was only used to from her children. Elizabeth stopped and stared at the seat offered, not recognizing at first the chivalric gesture made for her behalf.

When at last her mind sputtered to life, she nodded her head in thanks, collapsing onto the seat as her legs gave out. "My thanks," she whispered, her voice hoarse from emotion. "I never knew dreams could be so exhausting."