Clara stood among the ladies, her expression anxious, as though she were waiting for something or perhaps someone.
Those beside her, however, appeared openly delighted. After months steeped in grief since the entourage's return from the capital, this gathering was the first event to bring a glimmer of joy to Gerhard's castle amid their long endurance of devastation.
"Are you all right, Dame Verns?" Rosalie asked gently, having noticed the knightess's unease.
Clara turned to the chief maid and offered a faint, restrained smile.
"Honestly… I can't say that I am."
"Of course she isn't," Athillia chimed in with a teasing lilt. "Who would be calm in her position? If I were her, I'd be trembling with nerves."
Rosalie reached out and held Clara's hand reassuringly.
"Don't worry. We're all here for you, aren't we? Sir Navin even asked my husband and me to come to Gerhard specifically to help with this occasion. Every detail has been carefully arranged. It will turn out well."
