Chapter 104

"Stay here." Michael told Louisa.

"But…"

"No. Stay here!" Michael didn't know what was really happening, but he had an idea. And the last thing he wanted was for his pregnant wife to see something that could cause her harm, or to their baby. Also, he was afraid that Benjamin might be out of his mind.

Louisa didn't discuss it. She sat on the chair nearby and waited.

Michael went upstairs, running up the stairs and he saw all the staff had their heads down. Someone must have died. Was it Fanny? Was it the baby?

Benjamin was on the floor, near the crib. Michael saw that there was someone under the covers in bed. And adult. Probably Fanny. And if he was also crying near the crib…

"Dankworth?" Michael called, but no response. "Benjamin?" He called again and this time, he touched the man's shoulder.

Benjamin, who had his eyes frozen, finally moved and looked up at Michael.

"She.. she's gone." he said. "They are gone."