Of Night and Dark Obscurity

Inside one case was La Cyropedie, which had once belonged to the royal library of King Edward VI of England, son of the infamous Henry the Eighth. The leather binding was sixteenth century English calf with Edward’s arms painted in gold.

“It’s beautiful,” Caroline breathed out as she saw the cover of the 300-year-old book, her fingers lightly touching the glass.

He agreed. “It is.”

There were other books that were equally striking in their intricate cover designs, and Caroline enjoyed seeing them and the other drawings in the Slade collection. They were walking into another room when someone called her name.

Caroline turned to see Lady Victoria Lyttleton and her daughter Rachel coming towards them. She groaned inwardly. She shouldn’t be here with Inspector Pierce, and to anyone seeing them together, it would seem like they were out together.

“Caroline, my dear. How are you? Enjoying the exhibit? You remember my daughter Rachel. Rachel this is Caroline Derry.”

“Yes, Lady Lyttleton. I am enjoying the exhibit very much. Please let me introduce you to—“ she stopped suddenly. What should she call him? Inspector? Mister?

“Caroline?” Victoria was looking at her oddly as was Val.

“I’m sorry. Lady Lyttleton this is Inspector Pierce. Inspector Pierce, Lady Lyttleton, Rachel Lyttleton.”

Lady Lyttleton looked over the young man, then at Caroline and then back to Val.

“Are you the Earl of Banham’s youngest son?” Victoria asked.

“I am Lady Lyttleton.”

“I thought it interesting when I heard Abram’s youngest son had gone into police work,” she noted.

“Well as the youngest son I must make my way in the world.” He said charmingly.

“Indeed. And how do you know our dear Caroline?” She asked him.

“I’m investigating the death of Irene.” He confirmed.

“Poor girl. But this is a conflict of interest wouldn’t you say? You can’t be investigating the death of Irene and walking out with Caroline, can you?” She mused.

“We’re not walking out,” Caroline said almost stammering. “We’re here to see the exhibit that’s all.”

“I’m afraid I rather bullied Miss Derry into coming to the exhibit,” Val said smoothly. “Good company is always a pleasure and I’m afraid she didn’t want to.”

Lady Lyttleton smiled. “Of course, that I can understand. Caroline is delightful company. And your Guild?” She directed to her. “How goes it?”

“We’re about to finalize the paperwork for the building with my father and then the workers will start their part.” She told her benefactress.

“And the tenants?” She pressed. “Have you decided how you’ll select them, my dear?” Lady Lyttleton asked.

Caroline nodded and out of the corner of her eye she saw Rachel eyeing Val covetously before she returned her gaze to Lady Lyttleton. “I’ve drawn up a list of requirements that I believe they should meet before entering the housing.”

Lady Lyttleton gave a curt nod in agreement. “You must share those ideas at the next meeting. I’ll try to attend, but my charities…“ she smiled.

“Of course. You don’t need to come to any meeting. I’ll keep you abreast,” Caroline assured her.

“I know you will, my dear.”

“Your support is very important to me,” Caroline told her sincerely. “This isn’t meant to make money so your return will be minimal but in the long run—“

“Caroline, dear. Rest easy. You’ve no need to explain. I proudly support your work. Ah! Look who’s joined us!”

Caroline turned to see Victoria’s son and heir, Charles Lyttleton walking toward them. He was tall and blonde and looked like a Greek god. He was wearing light colored pants, a dark jacket and a red waistcoat. She had met him several times when she had visited Lady Lyttleton, but other than that their paths didn’t cross. She found him harmless and a bit of a Mummy’s boy. She knew he liked to be admired and was a flashy dresser.

“Caro!” He said, his smile widening as he took her form. “What a sight you are!”