Silas chuckled. “Yes, we wouldnotwant that.”
She tilted her head to the side. “Why do you think Father had it in the first place?”
He shrugged. “He must have found it in the course of his investigations, or perhaps it was simply his interest in history that led to it. According to legend, the diadem was buried for many years in a crypt.”
Helena shivered theatrically. “That is not difficult to believe. There’s something about it that simply radiates coldness.”
Silas gathered her close, rubbing her shoulder and arm.
“Don’t worry,” he whispered, “I shall keep you warm.”
When Benedict drew up to the front door of Highcliff in his carriage, Silas was surprised to see that he was accompanied by his mistress, Miss Cassandra Evans.
“Oh, Amelia’s heart will be broken,” he murmured to Helena.
She gave him a sidelong look. “As if you’re not pleased as punch about that.”
He smiled. “I am not, but you’re right. It would be good for her to face reality.”
As if summoned by her name, Amelia came trotting down the stairs, accompanied by Charlie.
“We’re ready,” she said and then came to an abrupt stop as she caught sight of Benedict helping his mistress from the carriage.
“Who is that?” she asked.
Silas exchanged glances with Helena. “That is Benedict’s lover. Now that he is here, we can get going. The women can ride in the carriage while the men go on horseback. Are we in agreement?”
Helena widened her eyes at him but he just grinned, and offered her his arm. They walked down the stairs where Benedict and Cassandra were waiting.
Silas bowed at Cassandra. “Miss Evans, always a pleasure,” he said. “May I introduce my wife, the Duchess of Highcliff.”
Cassandra curtsied prettily. “Very pleased to make your acquaintance, Your Grace.”
Helena blushed, looking around awkwardly. “Oh, please just call me Helena.” She dropped her voice, “Otherwise it is going to be a very long trip.”
Silas bit his lip to keep from laughing.
“And I am Cassandra,” she replied, and they smiled at each other pleasantly.
Silas and Benedict exchanged glances. The stomping of Amelia’s feet was audible as she came up behind them. Silas was not surprised to see her stormy face when he glanced in her direction.
“Amelia, have you met Miss Evans yet?” Helena asked.
Amelia’s eyes narrowed. “No, I have not.”
“Well then, Amelia, meet Miss Cassandra Evans. Cassandra, this is my sister-in-law, Amelia.”
“That’sLadyAmelia to you, Miss Evans,” she said coldly. “A pleasure, I’m sure.”
Helena bit her bottom lip to keep from laughing before sending a glare to Silas.
He felt a twinge of guilt for making her ride with the two ladies all the way to St. Margaret’s. He had a feeling it would be terriblyawkward. But he did note that she was completely distracted from her nervousness.
A silver lining.
He went to the carriage door and opened it, helping first Helena and then Amelia into it. Finally, Benedict handed his mistress into the carriage and closed the door. They turned to face each other with long sighs.
“It is for the best.” Benedict said with a shrug as he headed for his horse.
