The echo of the front door closing softly behind Victoria was a sound of absolute finality. The sound of her carriage leaving the premises filled the room till it dissipated.
"Oh my goodness, we are doomed," Mrs. Pembroke whispered, the words a choked, horrified breath. Her strength gave out, and she sank to her knees on the floor, her hands covering her face as deep, racking sobs began to shake her entire body.
Evelin rushed to her side, trying to offer comfort, though her own face was pale with shock and fear.
George stood frozen, his eyes fixed on the empty doorway where the love of his life had just disappeared. The scent of the cooling stew, once so delicious now seemed to mock him. A fire of shame and rage began to burn in his gut. He turned, his gaze landing on Anne, who was still sitting calmly at the table, a silent, smug witness to the destruction she had caused.
