Alayna nodded to the religious man and graciously accepted the piece of paper. The man did talk quite a bit, but she found herself not bothered by it. She probably didn't mind him because he put Lord Byron in his place time after time. The next thing the lord said Alayna found off. Just what was he implying? She saw him look at Lady Mayfair when he finished talking. Obviously the statement was for her. It might be tied to what happened last night. Alayna had a feeling it did. She really was becoming disgusted with the lord's behavior, but was good at hiding it.
She was about to reply when Margaret showed up and seemed to be rushing towards the table. She looked worried about something too and Alayna wondered what was wrong. She expected her to go to Lady Mayfair or even Lord Mayfair; instead, the maid went to her.
"Is something wrong Margaret?" Alayna asked her.
"Begging your pardon ma'am, but this note just arrived at it's for you. It's urgent." the maid said.
Puzzled, Alayna opened the note and it read,
Lady Renoldi,
I am sorry to tell you this, but last night there was a fire in the manor on the west wing area. Luckily no one was there so no one was hurt. I've sent a letter to the local law enforcement and hope to have someone arrive soon. I hate to ask this of you but would you be so kind as to return home for now until we figure out what has happened?
Your faithful servant,
Carruthers.
Carruthers was Alayna's butler. After reading the note, Alayna did her best to keep her composure.
She looked at Lady Mayfair and replied, "My lady, I am sorry but I must return home. There's been an emergency and it needs my attention. I shall return when all things are settled. Thank you for your hospitality."
With that, she left the table and nearly rushed back inside to ger some of her things together. She was allowed to use a carriage and with luck she get home in less than 3 hours. She packed light and within thirty minutes was dressed in travel clothes before getting into a carriage and traveling home, praying things would be okay.