Dread began to collect in her lower belly, further provoking her latent nausea. There were only two possible alternatives — Renz either didn't know about the stillbirth, or he knew, and was devastated.

And if the latter, Lena knew he was likely also furious that the grave information hadn't come from either Karl or herself.

The nervous tension between them was momentarily disrupted by the sudden arrival of Ava's handmaiden.

"Fräulein Odette is now fast asleep. How is Frau? May I see her?" Greta asked softly. It was obvious to Lena that Greta also felt a special, personal fondness for her lady, for the concern in her eyes was unmistakable....