The baroness jumped up, about to head toward the music room, but Danglars stopped her. "Leave it alone," he said.
She stared at him in shock. Monte Cristo seemed oblivious to the tension.
Albert entered looking handsome and upbeat. He bowed politely to the baroness, casually to Danglars, and warmly to Monte Cristo. Then, turning to the baroness, "May I ask how Miss Danglars is doing?"
"She's quite well," Danglars said quickly. "She's at the piano with Mr. Cavalcanti."
Albert kept his calm, indifferent expression. He might have felt annoyed inside, but he knew Monte Cristo was watching. "Mr. Cavalcanti has an excellent tenor voice," he said smoothly, "and Miss Eugénie has a magnificent soprano. Plus she plays piano like a virtuoso. Must be a delightful concert."
"They complement each other remarkably well," Danglars said pointedly.
Albert acted like he hadn't heard the rude comment, though Madame Danglars blushed at her husband's bluntness.
