An uninvited guest

Venus was taken aback by Serena's unexpected revelation. Her eyes danced with disbelief, and her hands quivered uncontrollably. In an unforeseen moment, the teacup slipped from her grasp, the scalding tea staining her dress. The sound of shattering porcelain echoed ominously throughout the room, sending a wave of anxiety among the onlookers.

"Venus, are you alright?" Serena's voice was laced with worry as she hastily rose from her seat.

Venus, regaining her composure, stood up and reassured her, "I'm fine." However, the beads of perspiration on her forehead and the tremor in her hands betrayed her calm facade.

The maid, sensing the urgency, swiftly began to clear the broken shards of the cup, while the head maid gently admonished Venus to be more cautious.