Sudden news (1)

"Lady Cecilia, my lord awaits for your grace by the carriage," a middle-aged maid with light hair pinned back whom she had never seen before, announced the arrival of her escort.

Rising from her seat, the thought of Lady Ivalyn forgotten, Cecilia took one more look in the mirror only to see the fine dark blue velvet embracing her body. Pleased with what she saw there, she turned to the maid. "Lead the way then."

"Of course, my lady," she bowed, taking her to her companion.