Page 112 of A Whisper and a Curse

“Excellent investigative work, Miss Wren.”

“Ellen said there is a bottle of prussic acid in Mrs. Griswold’s bedchamber,” Tilda added. “The maid was most helpful to the investigation.”

“Indeed.” Teague instructed the remaining constables to search the medium’s bedchamber, and they immediately left the parlor. He looked to Tilda once more. “Ellen is safe at Scotland Yard and currently giving evidence.”

“I’m glad you were able to come so quickly,” Tilda said.

“As am I,” Teague said. “I’m more glad that no one else was hurt.” He met Tilda’s gaze with a warm gratitude that filled her with pride. “Thank you again for your assistance. Truly.”

Tilda could see he genuinely meant it. Whilst she may never be a member of the Metropolitan Police or recognized for her contributions, knowing that she aided justice gave her immense satisfaction. How she wished her father could see it.

After assuring Teague they would visit Scotland Yard to deliver their official statements, they returned to the coach where Leach was waiting, his eyes bright with anticipation. “Did everything turn out well?”

“Indeed it has,” Hadrian replied. “One half of the Levitation Killer has been arrested, and the other half—Mrs. Griswold’s accomplice—will be shortly apprehended, we hope.” At Leach’s expression of confusion, he added, “There is another person at large, but we trust the police will find him in Cadogan Place.”

“I’m glad to hear it,” Leach said. “That poor maid I took to Scotland Yard was in a dither.”

Hadrian addressed Leach as the coachman opened the door for Tilda. “We need to go to Scotland Yard, but first we must visit Woodbridge Street in Clerkenwell. You remember the house?”

“I do indeed.” Leach held the door for Tilda, and she climbed inside.

Hadrian sat beside her, and she was glad. Though they hadn’t been in real danger with Mrs. Griswold, the encounter had beenfraught for a few moments. His proximity contributed to her sense of security.

“Captain Vale will be delighted that the case has been solved,” Hadrian remarked as the coach started moving. “He was right that his son was not guilty.”

“True, but his son is guilty of other crimes and must pay for them.”

“I don’t think he’ll quarrel with that,” Hadrian said.

They were quiet a moment, and Tilda reviewed the events of the case in her mind. “I think I might call on Clement after we attend to matters at Scotland Yard. I’d like him to know the case is resolved.”

“Are you of a mind to reward him with this information since he was helpful?”

Tilda lifted a shoulder. “I don’t think it can hurt. Who knows when he might provide assistance in the future? We also need to speak with your mother.”

Hadrian wiped his hand down the side of his face. “Yes, of course. I can do that after we call on Clement.”

“You want to accompany me to Fleet Street?” Tilda asked.

“Certainly. We are partners, and I’m eager to help with all aspects of the case, including the conclusion.”

“I feel the same,” Tilda said. “Which means I must join you in speaking with your mother. But not just because we are partners. Your mother hired me, and I must deliver the final results of our investigation.”

Hadrian’s expression became beleaguered. “How do we tell her the mediums absolutely do not speak with the dead? She will point to the memory of the snow fort that was shared at Mrs. Griswold’s séance as proof that they do. I can’t contradict that without explaining the truth about my ability.”

“Actually, you can.” Tilda wasn’t sure how Hadrian would react to her suggestion, but she was going to make it anyway.“You can explain thatMalloryhas a secret ability. You don’t have to tell her that you possess it too. That way, when you decide to confide in her someday, the foundation is already laid.” She watched Hadrian’s nostrils flare and the muscles in his neck tighten.

“You assume I will tell her,” Hadrian said darkly.

“I think you will. Perhaps not now, but you will find a way to overcome your fear that she will somehow disdain you.” At least Tilda hoped he would.

“Or that she won’t believe me.”

“You can find a way to prove it,” Tilda said softly. “I’ve never questioned your ability, not after what I’ve seen you do. And I’d like to think your mother cares about you even more than I do.” Of course she did. She was his mother, whilst Tilda was merely his … friend.

Who cared for him a great deal.

Hadrian looked out the window. “I’ll consider it.” A moment later, he said, “Would you mind not delivering your investigative conclusions today?”