Robespierre reached for her hand. “We reward loyalty where it is due. And we are grateful for your assistance in finding those who would breed unrest amongst us. We see it is not just the aristos whose political leanings must be purged.”

Claire beamed with joy. She clasped her hands together in front of her with supreme happiness. And then she took her seat.

“But we have been interrupted. LaFevre, if you could leave us now, we must finish our business here.”

The man glanced curiously at Scarlet, but when no one offered explanation or introduction, he turned and left the room.

“So now, my dear. I hear your talents are not limited to just these supremely hidden stitches.”

Scarlet shook her head. She wanted this to be over as quickly as possible. “I have also devised a clever way to conceal a weapon, a knife for example, within the sleeve of one’s jacket or within the folds of a skirt.”

Robespierre’s eyes sharpened. “Who else knows of this talent?”

Claire leaned closer to him. “No one. We have been careful that only the two of us, and now you, are made aware.”

“Good. Tell no one else. This skill, though genius, could be harmful as well as helpful.”

Scarlet nodded.

“Might I ask, could I be the first to receive of your gift? Would you create such a clever little pocket in my own jacket before anyone else’s?”

Scarlet cleared her throat. “Of course. If you would have your jacket delivered to my room, I will make it my first priority.”

“Oh, no need for the wait. Please, take this one.” He removed his coat and held it out for her to take.

She reached for it and felt his loathsome body heat on it, imagining his body odor still identifying it. She folded it carefully, away from her body, and then draped it over one arm. “Very well. I will have it ready tomorrow.”

“So soon?”

“Yes, I plan to start work on it this very night so it is ready.”

Robespierre reached for her hand and held it in his own two. “You take such care. It is a rare and valuable quality. I thank you.”

Scarlet nodded, her throat making a weak attempt to swallow. She needed to leave this man’s presence. Her ability to maintain character was currently tested to its fullest.

Thankfully, he released her hand and turned to Claire. “We must plan, you and I. The shop owners who abhor us must be identified and denounced. We cannot have so strong an aversion to our party. France’s security relies upon it.”

She sat higher in her chair and began panting in anticipation. “Yes, of course. We can take care of that.”