Emma was still lost in thought when she heard Charlotte's cheerful voice from the hallway.
"Father, let's go and see Mother."
"Alright." Brandon's voice came closer. "Where is Mother?"
"She's in the living chamber."
"Then let's go and see her."
Emma's heart jumped.
She quickly wiped the tears from her cheeks and glanced toward the door. Her eyes were still red, and there was no way Brandon would miss it if he saw her like this. She hurried to her chamber, closed the door behind her, and turned the lock just as she heard Charlotte's small footsteps approaching.
A moment later, there was a soft knock.
"Mother?" Charlotte called through the door. "Are you inside?"
Emma pressed her hand over her mouth and held her breath, trying to steady herself before answering.
Another knock followed, this time from Brandon.
"Emma?"
