startled

Zeme emphasized that the bear in this case appeared confused and startled, not predatory.

“Svetlana! My goodness, you startled me! That is to say . . . good morning.”

Penelope sat in her armchair; the girl jumped in her lap and curled up in a protective ball, like a startled hedgehog.

“Ahwoooooo!” the children howled, for they were equally startled to find themselves in a near collision with what appeared to be the ghost of Lady Constance.

Penelope startled awake to behold a most unexpected scene, in which all three Incorrigibles played prominent roles.