CHAPTER FIVERobina arrived back at Trentham House with barely half an hour to spare.
She ran into the house in time to see her stepmother descending the staircase, dressed in one of her finest gowns and festooned with so many jewels that she glittered like a chandelier.
“Just why are you so late?” she snapped, as Robina drew level with her on the stairs. “Go upstairs at once and dress in your very best gown. And I want you to wear the diamonds I have had Molly put out for you – hurry, she is waiting to dress you.”
“But only Nanny helps me dress – ”
“Nanny is too old. If she is to be your companion, it is another matter entirely. No, Molly will see to it.”
“But I don’t want Molly – ”
“There is to be no argument – we do not have the time!” cried her stepmother.
Robina became upset by
