Hearing a sudden noise in the garden, all the ladies present at the tea party instantly jumped up from their seats.
Teacups rattled on porcelain saucers, and spoons, not yet touching their lips, froze in midair.
The conservatory, previously filled with the soft hum of women's voices discussing the latest gossip from high society, suddenly fell silent.
"Oh my God... what was that?" muttered one of the ladies, hastily getting up.
"It's coming from the garden!" replied another.
"We must check immediately!" said Countess Rowan, rising decisively. There was no panic in her voice, only the cold alarm of someone accustomed to taking responsibility.
She was the first to head for the exit, her skirts rustling across the floor, and the other ladies followed her like a flock of frightened birds.
I got up with the others, feeling my heart beating anxiously somewhere in my chest.
Ruby.
Thoughts flashed instantly — only about her. If something had happened to her...
