Page 66 of The Ambiguous Enigma of the Hunted Lady
“I do not enjoy having a woman killed, I think it is immoral and wrong, yet sometimes it can be necessary. Are you with me?”
She nodded, pale faced. No doubt she understood exactly who he was to Riphook, and no doubt that terrified her.
“So, you're going to disappear, do you understand? It won't do me any good to have my nephew distraught over his mistress' murder, but I can easily console him if he is abandoned by her. Make no mistake, I could kill you here and now, but I will not. I will let you go, because you understand the way the world works. You know that a story about a Lord running a criminal empire won't mean shit out of the mouth of a lone, low-life woman. You know the slander would only hurt poor Kenneth more. You know that the only thing left for you to do, is leave. Because if you don't, or if you pop up in the Netherlands with a tall tale, you will be killed, alas, I believe you know that already.”
He stared down into her piercing eyes as he delivered his terms. He had no true intention of letting her live; he knew that she would be smart enough to run away, and smart enough to keep her mouth shut, but he would send people after her. He couldn't take the long-term risk of exposure, but he was confident that he had just purchased plenty of short-term coverage.
Now he had to be off to London, to get a message to that idiot of a crime boss, Riphook.How did he let her just slip through his fingers? He has never been the careful type.
“Do we have an accord?” he hissed quietly.
“We do.” she managed the words out.
“Good.” He promptly turned back to his brandy glass and walked to the decanter. “Now go on, Miss Benson, get out of my sight.”
She turned and dashed through the door, letting it swing open behind her. Cornelius saw Kenneth watch her go by with a worried expression.
“What did you say to her?” he seemed cross as he burst into the study.
“Relax, Kenneth, take a breath.” Cornelius was an expert at talking Kenneth down. “She's had a bit of indigestion this evening, don't fret about it. That's why she was so quiet at supper. I only told her, there's no shame in lying down for a spell, rest until you are well, go on! So, there you have it, she had to make a run for the pillow.” Cornelius waved his hand as if it were nonsense that Kenneth would have suggested otherwise.
“Oh.” Kenneth's sails had been abruptly put in irons. “I had not thought of that.”
“You must always think of every possible reason for something to happen.” Cornelius poured another drink for the two of them. “If you are ever to take my place, you must become more aware of other people's motivations.”
“You still have much to teach, Uncle.” Kenneth smiled, and toasted.
“And perhaps I will until the end of time.” Cornelius put down the glass. “When will Miss Benson be returning to the city?”
“Perhaps later this week.” Kenneth sighed. “I could not convince her to stay.”
“It is nothing to cry over.” Cornelius patted Kenneth on the shoulder. “You will see her yet. Do you know what I shall do?”
“What shall you do?”
“Write me when you know of her departure. Give to her your coach, and have the driver meet me around the corner from our office. I shall see that she is well adjusted, and comfortable.”
“You would do so?” Kenneth was radiating joy.
“I would and I will.” Cornelius grinned.I expect her to run away, but it is best to have all possibilities accounted for.
“Thank you, Uncle, it is so much appreciated.”
“Oh, it is no bother, truly.” Cornelius suddenly checked his time piece. “Dear me, I must be off then.”
“Off? But you've only just arrived!” Kenneth protested.
“I know I am dreadful in that respect.” Cornelius yawned. “But business never sleeps, despite what you may think. I have promised you dinner, and so I have given it.”
“Of course, I understand,” Kenneth sounded disappointed. “I am sorry you had the misfortune to join us when Miss Benson was not at her most well.”
“Another time then, surely.” Cornelius began to make ready to depart and sent a nearby footman off for his coach. “The body will play us for a fool when it is least convenient. Bear it no mind.”
“Then I suppose you are away.” Kenneth surrendered.
“Do not forget to write me, Kenneth.” Cornelius clasped Kenneth's hand briefly, and left the room.
Cornelius made for the front door, catching Juliet quickly in the den to bid her a fair evening. She was cross at him leaving, just as she was cross at him arriving, but nevertheless they bid each other a fine farewell.
