Genevieve scanned the area frantically, but Bella had vanished. Panic crept across her features as sweat beaded on her brow.
Crowds surged around them in every direction.
Mildred stepped closer, shielding her mistress from the jostling masses. "Madam, perhaps we should head inside. This chaos isn't safe for you."
The festival square teemed with all manner of people—some respectable, others far less so.
A single rough shove could spell disaster for Genevieve's fragile condition.
"But Bella's disappeared." Genevieve stretched upward, searching desperately. "She only has Penny with her. What if something terrible happens?"
"She should have informed you before wandering off." Mildred's tone carried clear irritation. "If she truly cared about your wellbeing, she wouldn't cause such worry. Stop fretting over her."
Having served as Genevieve's personal maid since her wedding day, Mildred enjoyed the privilege of speaking so candidly.
