“Shit,” I cursed as I rushed to Vera, not knowing what to do. “Are you hurt?”

She waved her other hand, still holding her nose as she said, “Oh, no. I'm fine. It’s just a little–It’s not serious.”

It was bleeding, blood dripping down her hand, and staining her gown so I was sure it was serious.

“Come, let’s get that cleaned up,” I said gently as I held her by the shoulder. But just as we were about to leave, Father came out of his study, a cigar between his lips, pinning his wife with a bored look. Vera stiffened as soon as she saw him, lowering her head....