Tasha gave a ghastly grin.
‘This ward?’ said Konrad politely.
Mrs. Usova faltered, but made a recover. ‘Yes, this one. She…’ Trailing off, she gazed doubtfully upon Tasha, who looked at that moment like anybody’s worst nightmare, and took a step back.
‘You shouldn’t have run,’ said Tasha. ‘And you really shouldn’t have thrown me into your cellar.’
Konrad watched the woman’s face, marvelling. He had seen real fury there, and a deep fear, but only momentarily. Now she was transformed: a good, respectable woman, outraged and appalled by indecent treatment, seeking refuge with the police. As any good, respectable citizen would do.
‘I know you’ll help me,’ she said warmly to Konrad, somehow managing to seem both motherly and appalled in one.
‘He is not the police,’ said Tasha, with a reli
