The Black Swan Author:Victoria Holt I got into bed. I could not sleep; and suddenly I was alert, for I heard a faint noise outside my room. I sat up, startled. Someone was on the other side of the door. — Silently, I leaped out of bed. I went to the door. Slowly the handle turned. I stood leaning against the door. I could hear the sound of breathing on the other side. I knew who wa... more »s there and I was trembling with fear. Belinda would have spoken, demandng to be let in. Moreover it was late. She would have come earlier.
I knew who was there. It was Jean Pascal, and he was trying to surprise me in my sleep. I waited. I heard the frustrated sigh...and then the sound of retreating footsteps. He had gone.
I leaned against the door, still shaking. I thought of him, angry and frustrated, beating the swan. Had I not locked the door he would have been in the room. The thought of that filled me with horror. I must get away. I could not stay here another night. Tomorrow I must take action.« less