Faye let out a deep sigh of relief, grateful to know that Mielle had lied to Lena anytime she pressured her for information. She had the good sense to avoid a trap that could have led to her being hanged for treason.
As she patted the young maid's shoulder, Mielle looked up and met the kind blue eyes of the Duchess. However, the Duchess had a mischievous smirk on her face.
She complimented, "You did, well."
For the first time since Mielle had entered the bedchamber, she smiled, and her stiff posture relaxed.
——
At noon, there was a brief respite from the gloomy, overcast sky and rain. Faye noticed through the window that the sun had reached its highest point. A loud knock came from the bedchamber door. She watched as Mielle was swift to answer.
"BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!"
Faye knew it would be Lady Lena and her maid on the other side of the bedroom entrance.