It has been four months since I saw him. One hundred and twenty nights since I found him in the arms of another woman.

I stand here now on the great dias wearing my golden crown as Queen of the Mark. As I watch our guests bringing gifts and bestowing their good wishes. Outwardly I am the picture of serenity. A false smile on my lips and my head held high. Inside my heart aches.

When I arrived in the land of my husband I had high expectations of the life I was about to lead. Consort to a noble King and wife of a great man. Our courtship had certainly been passionate despite the many miles between us. Our wedding a joyful occasion. I had lived in ignorant bliss for the first few months of our marriage. Little did I know that the man I held above all others and had given my most intimate virtue to, was the one that would bring me the most terrible unhappiness?

I knew some men did it. However I naively thought Eomer never would. Certainly not so early on in our marriage. In my mind I had given him no reason to stray. Fulfilling my duty every night he wished and mostly when I desired it too. To this day I have no indication of whom she is nor where she hails from. Though her slight figure and euphoric laughter will remain with me for always.

Had I not gone away to the south for those four months, I know in my heart I would have succumb to complete despair. The pain turned to nausea for some time soon after though. The bitter bile spilling out more every day. The unfortunate truth eventually coming to light and announcing my return to Edoras. So here I stand, Lothiriel Queen, wife of Eomer King. Mother to his unborn heir. I care too much to let it show and therefore faithfully I will remain.

It has been four months since I saw him. One hundred and twenty nights since I found him in the arms of another woman. Some things are lost and others are gained in living everyday.

~o0o~

Authors Note: I was listening to "Both sides now" by Joni Mitchell the other day. This is where I got the idea for this story. I've enjoyed making Lothiriel and Eomer more "real". With genuine flaws and misfortunes. I hope you like it too. R+R of any kind welcome! Mrs-E x