Val shook his head. “I do not.”
“We have made several 18 karat gold watches over the years. We are the preeminent watch maker in London,” Mr. Bridle said proudly.
Val nodded. “I understand you cater to prominent families. Perhaps you can draw up a list of all the gold watches made in the last forty years.”
“Forty years?” Mr. Bridle looked shocked. “That will take time.”
Val nodded. “I understand. We will call for it in two days’ time.”
The man looked exasperated but acquiesced. “It will be ready.”
“Thank you.”
???
Val met with Peter Davies to finalize the paperwork for the house. He was excited that he had made the decision to purchase it. He made a good living with the Metropolitan Police and he had saved a significant amount of money over the years which enabled him to take this next step.
He was thrilled that not only had Caroline been able to see the house, but he could tell she found it pleasing as he did. It was everything a home should be and once the killer was brought to justice, he would take the next step.
He knew he was in love with her. It had not happened quickly; instead it had happened gradually as they had been thrown into each other’s path. He had been about to marry Aida whom he had cared for, but Caroline was something altogether different. He admired her tremendously and she was everything he wanted in a woman. She was intelligent, lovely and kind. She cared about bettering the lives of those around her and had made it a point to help them. That kind of selflessness struck a chord in him.
He knew very few women in his circle that would go out of their way to help those less fortunate. Some women organized charities and gave clothes and shoes to the poor, but Caroline was actually purchasing properties to renovate so people could have good, safe places to live. She had a giving and generous heart.
He went back to his small room and began to pack up his belongings. He wouldn’t take much from the room as he wanted to start fresh. He would take his books and clothes and that was it. He would choose new furnishings for his new home and knew his savings would be well spent. He whistled lightly as he packed up his belongings.
???
Val spent much of the next day moving his meager belongings into his new home in Westminster. He knew he would next have to furnish the home and he knew exactly who to ask for to help him.
He sent a card round to the Derry home and made an appointment to see Mrs. and Miss Derry that afternoon. Taking special care in his dress, he arrived just as the clock in the parlor was chiming the hour.
“Inspector,” Malvina Derry greeted him warmly as he settled into the couch in the parlor.
“Madam,” he said equally warmly. “Thank you for receiving me.”
“Caroline and I were so pleased to receive your card.” Malvina said smiling at him and at Caroline who was seated next to him.
He smiled. “I have a particular reason to request your time. I need to furnish my new house. I’m not sure if Miss Derry told you—“
“I did,” she smiled at him. “Congratulations.”
“Thank you. I need to furnish the house and have absolutely no idea what is in style and what would suit. I would like to ask that you, Mrs. Derry, and Miss Derry, aid me,” he finished smiling. “If you would be so kind,” he added.
“How delightful,” Malvina said. “I must admit I know of some charming places that carry very elegant pieces that would make your home quite stylish. I would be pleased to help you.”
Caroline nodded. “I will help in any way I can, Inspector.”
“You are both too kind. Perhaps we can meet tomorrow at Harrod’s?” He asked politely.
“Harrod’s it is,” Malvina nodded. “At eleven.”
Val took his departure and Malvina watched his retreating figure from the window and smiled widely.
“Hmmm,” she said returning to her needlework.
Caroline looked across at her grandmother. “Hmmm what?” She asked.
Malvina pulled the needle through the fabric and rolled her eyes. “It just seems like a young man is going through so much trouble. That’s all.”