Tuppy straightened himself and replied, every inch the Harley Street doctor. ‘The prince was stricken by convulsions, accompanied by difficulty in breathing. He collapsed, as you see. A massive heart attack. There was nothing anyone could do to prevent his death.’
‘His face looks very … pink.’ Zinia voice was almost accusing. She peered again at the body. ‘Can you assure me that he’s perfectly dead?’
‘He is, indeed, madam. You have my commiserations. And my assurance that we did everything we could.’
‘His father went in just the same way,’ she said calmly. ‘No warning. It runs in the family. He fell off his horse in the forest, miles from the nearest doctor. Gustavus was fortunate indeed to have help at his side when his time came.’
‘Madam, I am most dreadfully sorry … Dr Thomas Tenby at your service. My card.’
‘Thank you, doctor. I am grateful for your efforts.’ Zinia was recovering her haughty demeanour. Still held firmly by Lily, she stared down at the body again.
Joe scrutinized her closely as he murmured his condolences, and then at last he turned his attention to Lily. His eyes said: No. This isn’t the woman.
He saw the relief with which Lily released Zinia’s hand. And was intrigued to note that the Russian instantly seized Lily’s back again and held on, her body beginning to tremble.
‘Why don’t you take a seat, madam?’ he said, taking in at last the girl’s emotional exhaustion and dishevelled state. ‘You’ve had a frightful shock.’ He led her over to a chair away from the table, then whispered in Lily’s ear: ‘Tate. Leave this and get him in here, will you? He’s needed.’
The scene of crime photograph. Lily didn’t have to search for Cyril. He was standing, equipment in hand, just outside the folding doors, arguing with a footman. She pulled him inside.