"By the sacred blood!"
Helena's free hand grasped a bar as Roberto's dagger clashed on the iron. She threw herself back, breaking free from his vengeful embrace. His weapon struck the floor with a sharp clatter as he clutched to save himself a fall.
"Who is it?" Doña Carlota demanded, her voice thick with sleep, shaken in terrific fright.
"I am closing the window, Aunt Carlota," Helena answered, in calm, assuring tone.