The two parts of her life came to mind. Charing Cross Hospital on Agar Street, where she went in the mornings. Where she did the volunteer work of which her mother approved. And along Whitehall Street, the Old Admiralty Building. Where she brought very different skills to the aid of the navy. Where she did the work of which her father approved.

Her parents disagreed about so little. How had she managed to get caught in the middle of one of their few arguments?

A minute later, the parade grounds were before them, and then Daddy was navigating around the building, to the rear entrance she always used. Out of sight of anyone who might recognize her. He pulled the car up to the curb, where Admiral Hall himself opened her door for her. No doubt because he needed her and Daddy out so he and his driver could get in.

Still, he greeted her with a warm smile and a few rapid blinks. “Lilian. I appreciate your coming in on such short notice.”

“My pleasure, sir.” She put her hand in his so he could help her out. “Daddy says there are instructions awaiting me?”

Hall nodded. “If you have any questions, just send a note up to Commander James. He’s been briefed on the project.”

“I will. Thank you.”

“We’ll see you at dinner tonight.” With a tip of his cap, he slid into the seat she’d just vacated.

Daddy had gotten out too, and Hall’s driver had taken the wheel. Apparently, they really had no time to waste; it was unusual for her father’s friend to be so quick in his greetings. But when one was the Director of the Intelligence Division, sometimes one’s time was not one’s own.

She smiled and waved as they pulled away again, stepping to her father’s side. “I take it he and Mrs. Hall are among the guests tonight?”

“Mm. As well as a few young officers, of course, to entertain you and Ivy Green.” He gave her an indulgent smile.

Lily put one of her own in its proper place. She knew he was trying to help, trying to see that she and Ivy were cared for. That they would have a future full of security and family. She never had the heart to tell him that she couldn’t let herself think of the future quite yet. Not when it took so much effort just to navigate today.

He didn’t understand how hard it was for her to keep this part of her life from Mama. When she’d mentioned it once, years ago, he’d just waved her off and insisted she would get used to it. He, after all, had been keeping secrets from her mother throughout their entire marriage. It was necessary when one had a job like his.