Anna stood in front of the mirror, staring at the intricate red gown before her. She frowned at the bags under her eyes and the lines around her mouth. Huffing through her nose, she gave the gown a twirl, watching the skirt moved this way and that way. The maid placed the gold crown on her head, curtseyed and left. Anna lifted her head high and forced her hand to leave the door handle on the way out. Her shoes padded along the carpet towards the grand staircase. Her heart clenched harder in her chest as she went closer and closer. Then she saw him resting on the banister, proudly overlooking his people and his friends. His golden hair shone in the candlelit chandeliers. As he turned towards her, his blue eyes sparkled with surprise and excitement. He held out his arm to her, holding her hand warmly as it rested gently on his tunic. Panic was beginning to set in as each foot descended on each step. The beating of her heart was loud in her ears and she breathed deeply to slow it down. Peter sensed this and he squeezed her hand with a smile.
"It's going to be okay," he said. "just stick with me."
People had gathered near the bottom of the staircase now; all eyes on the two royals. They were announced and everyone bowed. Anna's breath caught in her throat suddenly; it was overwhelming to see that many people bow for you. At least for now, she can focus on dancing.
The only thing that calmed her was that people smiled at her. They never did that when her father was king. They seemed very forgiving here in Narnia whereas her father's people were not. Her kingdom was gone, along with everything that came with it.
Peter led her to the dance floor and the music started. It flowed through her body and overtook her. She moved with the music. Every step, every twirl became effortless. She was aware of others joining in the dance one by one. Peter laughed, a genuine deep, golden laugh that separated them from everyone else for a moment. Anna laughed too.
Later, she laughed with other people. It was like a new start. Her heart felt light and she suddenly discovered that she didn't have to fake her interest in the politics and history of Narnia which she had not heard before now. Edmund explained a summary of its history to her and Anna asked if she could hear the whole story again sometime. Susan and Lucy had persuaded her to go on a tour with them around some of their favourite spots.
She felt herself being accepted into this new kingdom with her new husband and his family. His people were his family and they were about to become hers. Now she was excited to explore this new land. To become a Queen. A true Queen.