Читаем A Dangerous Fortune (1994) полностью

Edward had at first been her ally, but now even he refused to help her. "What Hugh is doing is for the best," he had said stupidly. "If word gets around that family members are trying to grab what they can, the syndicate could fall apart. They've been persuaded to put up money to avert a financial crisis, not to keep the Pilaster family in luxury." It was a long speech for Edward. A year ago it would have shaken her to the core to have her son go against her, but since his rebellion over the annulment he was no longer the sweet, biddable boy she loved. Clementine had turned against her too, supporting Hugh's plans to turn them all into paupers. It made her shake with rage when she thought about it. But they would not get away with it.

She looked up at the shop manager. "I'll take it," she said decisively.

"A wise choice, I have no doubt, Lady Whitehaven," he said.

"Send the bill to the bank."

"Very good, my lady. We will deliver the necklace to Whitehaven House."

"I'll take it with me," Augusta said. "I want to wear it tonight."

The manager looked as if he were in pain. "You put me in an impossible position, my lady."

"What on earth are you talking about? Wrap it up!"

"I fear I cannot release the jewelry until payment has been received."

"Don't be ridiculous. Do you know who I am?"

"Yes--but the newspapers say the bank has closed its doors."

"This is an insult."

"I am very, very sorry."

Augusta stood up and picked up the necklace. "I refuse to listen to this nonsense. I shall take it with me."

Perspiring, the manager moved between her and the door. "I beg you not to," he said.

She moved toward him but he stood his ground. "Get out of my way!" she blazed.

"I shall have to have the shop door locked and send for the police," he said.

It dawned on Augusta that although the man was practically gibbering with terror he had not conceded one inch. He was afraid of her, but he was more frightened of losing nine thousand pounds' worth of diamonds. She realized she was defeated. Enraged, she threw the necklace on the floor. The man scooped it up with no attempt at dignity. Augusta opened the door herself, stalked through the shop, and went out to where her carriage waited.

She held her head high but she was mortified. The man had practically accused her of stealing. A small voice in the back of her mind said that stealing was exactly what she had been trying to do, but she stifled it. She rode home in a rage.