Eew! Silvia had been raised by a Scottish nurse, then an English tutor, so was happy to indulge in this kind of stomach-churning practice. I would opt for eggs and bacon any day. Hallie’s face broke out in a smile when I came in. How glorious to give somebody such pleasure. ‘Auntie Carina!’ she shrieked. I was humbled by the intensity of her feeling. I hugged her fiercely. I loved her so much. She was such an open and friendly child, a reflection of her mother’s nature. That she oozed charm came from Conrad. She looked me over, disappointment plain on her face. ‘Why aren’t you in your uniform?’ ‘Well, princess,’ I began. Her eyes rolled at that. I grinned back. ‘I got a little messy, running around the roof garden chasing the bad guys, so I had a bath and a change of clothes.’ ‘Yes, but you’re wearing a dress!’ ‘It’s a very nice dress,’ I protested. Dark green silk, shot with gold and a gold belt, gold earrings and fine leather gold sandals.
