“In the Balkans they do—all the time. And what about that train buried in an avalanche? They didn’t dig them out for days.” She looked at me, then burst out laughing. “Why the somber face? You’re going to have topping fun.”

“When I’m not suffocating in an avalanche or being attacked by brigands or wolves.”

“And Transylvania is part of Romania these days, isn’t it?” Belinda was warming to her subject. “You might meet a vampire.”

“Oh, come on, Belinda. There are no vampires.”

“Think how intriguing that would be. I understand it is utter ecstasy to be bitten on the neck. Even more of a rush than sex. Of course, I believe one then becomes one of the undead, but it would be worth it just for the experience.”

“I have no wish to become undead, thank you,” I said, laughing uneasily.

“Come to think of it, I’m sure Matty told us that their ancestral home was actually in the mountains of Transylvania, so there you are. Vampires everywhere. How I envy you the experience. I do wish I were coming with you.” Suddenly she sat up straight, nearly knocking over the little tea table. “I have a brilliant idea. Why don’t I come along as your maid?”

I stared at her and started to laugh. “Belinda. Don’t be absurd,” I said. “Why on earth would you want to be my maid?”

“Because you’re invited to a royal wedding in Transylvania and I’m not and I’m bored and it sounds as if it could be loads of laughs and I’m dying to meet a vampire.”

“Some maid you’d be.” I was still grinning. “You don’t even know how to make tea.”

“Ah, but I know how to press things, thanks to my clothes design business. That’s the important part, isn’t it? I could press and dress you. And in case you have forgotten, I played the part of your maid once before and I did it jolly well,” she said. “So why not? I’m itching for an adventure and you’re providing one. You wouldn’t even have to pay me.”

I have to admit I was sorely tempted. It would be fun to be in a strange country with Belinda beside me.

“In other circumstances I’d take you up on your offer like a shot,” I said, “and it would be a lot of fun, but you’ve overlooked one small detail—Matty would recognize you instantly.”

“Nonsense,” Belinda said. “Nobody looks twice at servants. I’d be in your room or in the servants’ quarters. Her Highness and I would never have to meet. Come on. Do be a sport and say yes.”