“Here now, look at this wool.”Mistress Ross’s high-pitched voice broke the moment as she presented a bolt of deep blue fabric. “Fine enough for a lady, but sturdy enough for Highland winters.” She laid it next to a rich emerald green fabric. “Which pleases ye more, lass?”
Gabriella’s fingershovered uncertainly over both fabrics. “They’re both lovely,” she murmured, clearly unaccustomed to such choices.
“The blue one for everyday wear,”Hector decided, noting how the color complemented her fair skin. “And the green one for formal occasions.”
Relief flickeredacross Gabriella’s face at having the decision made for her.
The pattern continuedas Mistress Ross presented linens for summer dresses, displaying various embroidery styles and lace trimmings. Each time, Gabriella would hesitate, and Hector would step in with a firm decision.
“Two ridin’habits,” he instructed when the seamstress brought forth heavier fabrics. “One in brown, one in gray. Proper split skirts for safety.”
Mistress Ross’seyes gleamed as she scribbled notes. “And nightclothes? Shall I show ye the fine linen we imported from Edinburgh last month? Perfect for chemises.”
Gabriella’s face flamed,but Hector maintained his businesslike demeanor. “Whatever is appropriate for a lady stayin’ at Castle McCulloch.”
The seamstress’sexcitement mounted with each addition to the order. “And for the Beltane celebration next month? Every lass needs a special gown for the festivities.”
Gabriella looked up sharply.“I’ll be gone by then,” she said quietly. “To France.”
The words struckHector like a physical blow. Of course she would. That had been their agreement. A month of keeping Erica out of trouble in exchange for passage to France. Yet, somehow, in the daily routine of riding lessons and shared meals, he’d forgotten about it.
“Nevertheless,”he said gruffly, “she needs a formal gown. Burgundy silk, if ye have it.”
The list grew longer:day dresses, aprons, warm cloaks, and shawls for cool evenings. Gabriella’s eyes widened with each addition, her fingers twisting anxiously in her skirts.
When Mistress Rossbegan describing undergarments in detail, Hector noticed Gabriella’s discomfort reaching its peak.
“I thinkMiss Patterson could use some fresh air,” he announced, cutting off the seamstress’s enthusiastic description of corset styles. “The measurements are complete, are they nae?”
“Aye, Me Laird,”Mistress Ross confirmed. “I have everythin’ I need for now.”
“Step outside for a moment, Gabriella,”Hector said, softening his voice. “I have some final business with Mistress Ross.”
Gabriella nodded gratefully,clearly eager to escape the overwhelming attention. “Will Noah be there?”
“He’ll be watchin’the door. Dinnae wander far,” Hector cautioned. “The crowds can be thick on days like this.”
Once the bellabove the door signaled Gabriella’s exit, Hector turned back to the seamstress, his expression serious.
“There’s more I require—Ididnae wish to discuss it before the lass.”
Mistress Ross raisedher eyebrows expectantly.
“Accessories,”Hector continued. “Proper ones. Hair ribbons and gloves for different occasions. Whatever a lady might need that comes from ye shop.”
“Of course, Me Laird.”The seamstress smiled knowingly. “And perhaps some jewelry? I have a cousin who crafts the finest silver pieces.”
“Simple but elegant.”Hector was unwilling to encourage her speculation about his motives. “Nothin’ ostentatious.”
Mistress Ross nodded,making additional notes. “This is a substantial order, Me Laird. I can have the first items ready by the week’s end, with the ones ye require adjusted sent to the castle today.”
“Good,”Hector interrupted. “The lass has little more than what she’s wearin’.”
Hector pulled out his purse.He counted out ten gold coins. It was enough to cover both the ready-made garments and the rest of the order. “This should suffice as a deposit.”
Mistress Ross’seyes widened at the pile of coins. “More than sufficient, Me Laird! I’ll have me apprentice begin alterations immediately. The three dresses can be ready within the hour.”
Hector nodded,satisfied. “Have them wrapped and sent to Castle McCulloch when ready. The remainder of the order?”
