Zoe's face betrayed panic as she urgently tried to get Cosmo to leave through the window. But the more hurried she became, the more chaotic her actions.

Cosmo, faced with the prospect of descending from such a high rooftop window, evidently felt some fear.

Footsteps outside were drawing nearer. Even if Cosmo managed to leave, there was no way Zoe could tidy up the chair and rope in time. It was inevitable that whoever entered would see them.

She tightened her grip, finally catching hold of Cosmo's arm. "Cos, it's too late. Come down, put the chair back, and pull the curtains shut."

Her words spoken in a hushed tone,...