Page 102 of A Whisper at Midnight

They waited a few minutes outside before Beryl came toward them in the company of two constables, having exited from a different door. She appeared tired, her clothing creased.

Hadrian gave her a warm smile. “Beryl, you look well.”

“I do not,” she said crossly and then exhaled. “Forgive me, I am quite ready to leave this place and hopefully never return.”

“Of course,” Hadrian said. “My coach is just there.” He indicated where Leach was standing.

“Thank you.” Her expression was filled with gratitude as she made her way to the coachman.

Leach helped her inside, and she took the forward-facing seat. Tilda climbed in next and sat opposite her. Hadrian settled beside Tilda, and they were shortly on their way.

Beryl looked at Hadrian and seemed puzzled. Was that because he’d chosen to sit with Tilda?

“I can hardly believe Mrs. Pollard sought to blame me for Louis’s murder.” Beryl clucked her tongue. “I am glad she will be charged with the crime. And with pushing poor Martha. It’s all so shocking.”

“Indeed, it is,” Tilda murmured.

They were silent a few moments. Beryl looked at them warily. Finally, she said, “I know you are aware of Oliver and me, and that you probably think poorly of that … situation.”

“It is not our place to judge,” Tilda said evenly.

Hadrian was glad she’d spoken for him too since he felt the same. He also rather liked being included in her sentiments. It showed they were close partners and friends.

Beryl sniffed. “I was very unhappy with Louis. This marriage was not what I’d hoped it would be.” She flicked a glance at Hadrian.

“I can’t imagine it was,” Hadrian said. He didn’t think she knew the truth about why Louis had married her—as revenge against Hadrian, and he wasn’t going to tell her. Perhaps she would find out at some point, but not from him.

“Thank you both again for your help.” Beryl’s gaze fell on Tilda. “What of my missing jewelry? I know my brooch was found with Martha’s things, and I’ll have it back soon, and that my pearl pieces were apparently sold.” She frowned sadly. “But will you continue to look for the others?”

Tilda exchanged an uncertain look with Hadrian. “I learned that Louis gave your rubies to his mistress. He showed them to friends at his club. I’m sorry.”

Beryl gaped. “The bastard! Have you no idea who she is?”

“I’m afraid not,” Tilda said with a faint grimace. “And I doubt I can find your other missing pieces—not unless someone comes forward.”

A lone whimper sounded from Beryl’s throat. “What am I to do now? I wanted my jewelry back because it belongs to me and many of the items are heirlooms. But now I suppose I must sell them to live. Oliver says Louis had debts and that his quarterly income must pay for them. He says it will take years to satisfy them in full.” She sent a forlorn look toward Hadrian.

Was she expecting him to offer assistance? He would not. “Perhaps you ought to write to your parents.”

She crossed her arms over her chest. “I doubt they would help me.”

They rode the rest of the way to Beryl’s house in an awkward silence. Hadrian’s head still ached, but it was mild now. Nevertheless, he looked forward to going home.

“Let us walk you inside, Beryl,” Tilda offered, sending Hadrian a look that said this was important.

As they approached the front door, Oswald opened it. He blinked at Beryl. “Mrs. Chambers, you’ve returned.” He appeared surprised, and perhaps not in a positive way. At least, he wasn’t smiling.

“Finally,” Beryl said as she walked into the entrance hall. “I require a bath and tea.”

“Right away, Mrs. Chambers.” The butler took himself off.

Beryl removed her hat and gloves. She looked at Tilda and Hadrian, her expression morose. “I don’t suppose you need to stay. Thank you for bringing me home.”

A knock on the door prompted them all to divert their attention. In the absence of Oswald, Hadrian answered.

Mrs. Styles-Rowdon stood outside. She was not wearing a hat or gloves and appeared somewhat harried. “My housekeeper said she saw Beryl arrive.”

Hadrian opened the door wider to reveal Beryl.