Startling off her chair at the knock, Joséphine let her heart beat return to normal, before moving to the door. She pinched her cheeks a few times as she caught her reflection in the small gilded mirror that hung beside the door frame. As color returned to her pale skin, Joséphine slid over to the door and grasped the crystal knob, turning it slowly, she peered out onto the landing and smiled softly.
Stepping back, she left room for Antoine to pass by her as she greeted him. "Bonsoir."