Viola awoke well before the first bells. She could barely restrain her excitement. Today was the day. She couldn’t help herself. The young woman leapt out of her bed, and gave a small cheer. Today was the day! Viola danced in her nightgown, pirouetted across the silk rugs, and was reclined in the chair before her maid burst through the door. “Countess! I heard a noise and…” The maid stopped, and turned away. It was […]