Page 68 of Inventing Vivian

“That way, I can be hidden before the men arrive and operate the camera during their exchange,” Miss Kirby said.

Benedict felt a burst of alarm. She apparently intended to not only set up the camera but remain during the exchange.

Inspector Graham was shaking his head. “I see no need for you ladies to go. We’ll send constables in your place. They’re trained for this sort of operation.”

“I told you, sir. No police.” Mr. Barnaby’s expression was tight, his voice a warning.

“Besides, I am the only one who can operate the camera,” Miss Kirby said.

“Perhaps you could teach one of us,” Benedict said, trying to speak calmly.

“Would you really risk it?” Miss Kirby asked. “Do you trust anyone else to mix the chemicals precisely or to become proficient in photography in only a few hours?” She looked between the men. “We cannot allow your antiquated ideas of male chivalry to interfere—not when it might mean the difference between life or death for Mr. Li.”

Benedict was surprised by the vehemence in her voice. He wanted to argue, but he stopped. There was more than sheer stubbornness in Miss Kirby’s face. She’d given up her chance to prove herself at the exhibition. For years, she’d been denied the chance to show what she could do. She’d been dismissed so often that one more rejection would defeat her. She needed to do this. He could see it in her eyes, a pleading that came from somewhere so deep inside her, he felt as if he’d caught a glimpse of her very soul.

“You’re right,” he said.

Miss Kirby blinked.

The others turned to stare at him.

Inspector Graham glared.

“I do have one request though,” he said, turning to Lady Sophronia. “My lady, with your permission, I should like to take your place.”

She shook her head, folding her arms and looked ready to bludgeon Benedict with a lecture on the capabilities of women that would crush him. But she paused. She glanced at Miss Kirby and then back at Benedict, and her eyes grew thoughtful. “I think it is a good idea, my lord.”

Inspector Graham’s mouth fell open as he looked at his fiancée. He must have been expecting an outburst as well.

“If Vivian agrees to it,” Lady Sophronia said.

Miss Kirby nodded. She gave Benedict that soft smile that hinted of shyness.

The relief that flowed over him made him want to lie down and take a nap.

Inspector Graham closed his eyes and let out a breath.

Mr. Barnaby nodded his approval.

Benedict sent for luncheon, and the group discussed details in the dining room as they ate. The plan felt tenuous, with endless ways it could unravel. In the end he realized they could try to prepare for every possible scenario, but when it came down to it, they could not foresee what would happen, and many of the decisions would be made at the scene.

“Our time grows near,” Benedict said, glancing at the clock. If he and Miss Kirby were to enact their part of the plan, they needed to leave within the hour.

Mr. Barnaby patted his belly as the group made ready to depart. “I thank ye, Yer Lordship. Finest meal I’ve had in years.”

Benedict shook the man’s hand. “I’ll see you soon, sir. And thank you again. Your assistance has been invaluable.”

“Oh, I hope a bit o’ value can be attached to it.”

Benedict gave a nod, showing he understood. He hadn’t assumed the man’s assistance would come for free.

Miss Kirby excused herself and went to the drawing room to fetch her concealed camera.

Once Mr. Barnaby and Devon had departed, Benedict turned to Inspector Graham and Lady Sophronia. “I thank you, my lady, for trusting me to take your place.”

“You’ll watch over Vivian, won’t you?” she asked, and just for an instant, he saw worry in her eyes.

“I will.”

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