The hand holding the dagger

Anne Mary accepted to come after I wrote to her that we would be alone. I also convinced Shannon.

In the end, with two chatty ladies, my Duke allowed me some time alone with my friends.

He ordered two knights to never leave me out of sight, and he also assigned the maid to follow me wherever.

Everything proceeds according to the plan.

I walk to the Lady's office and turn back.

«I need to take some books from here. I promised my friend, so I can't appear empty-handed,» I explain to the knights.

They look at each other, communicating something with their eyes.

«You're men, so you can't get in. Please, just wait outside here. In case I need help,» I shrug. «It will take a single minute!»

The maid follows me in silence, especially careful. I haven't asked for her name yet. I'll have to, sooner or later.

It's impolite to call someone that saved your life with: «Hey, you!»