For a moment, my heart skipped a beat.
Of course, I was always concerned when it came to my niece.
Any mention of her made me alert — Ruby was too precious to me to remain indifferent.
And so, when Madame Glover so suddenly expressed a desire to speak with me alone, I couldn't help but tense up.
"Ruby?" I frowned, trying not to betray my growing concern. "Has something happened?"
"No, no," the governess shook her head hastily. "Nothing dangerous or alarming, milady. I assure you."
She paused, as if gathering her courage, and only then added:
"But... there is one matter that I believe I should discuss with you."
I felt the tension ease a little, but I remained wary.
"Go on," I said more evenly, gesturing with my hand.
Madame Glover nodded and straightened up. Her posture always reminded me of a straight string, and even now she carried herself with a certain teacherly solemnity.
"The fact is, Lady Rubiella and I have been working together for four months now," she began.
