Emily flushed, Natalie’s words breaking her out of her reverie. “I do not think it would be a good idea.”
“Why ever not? You would look simply radiant! No one would be able to keep their eyes off you.” Natalie ran her fingers across the fabric. “And it feels so luxurious.”
“It would be far too much. It is extravagant and bold.” Emily moved away from the fabrics, feeling as though she were moving away from danger.
“You say that like it is a bad thing? If this match with Lord Baine is really your last chance, then surely it would be best to dress to the nines.” Natalie gave Emily an imploring look.
“It could make me seem vain. Or perhaps like I was trying too hard to impress.” Emily shook her head, but could not bring herself to completely look away from the fabric. “I do not think I have ever owned a dress that would be as eye-catching as what these would make.”
I could never have afforded such fine fabrics. Or at least, our family could not, but things have changed now.She could not bring herself to admit this to Natalie though. Not in such a public place, anyway. The last thing she wanted was for her friend to pity her.
“Then it is all the more reason you should own such a dress. It is high time you spoil yourself in my opinion.” Natalie gestured towards the fabric. “At least see how they would look against you. If you look horrendous, I shall drop the matter at once.”
“Very well.” Emily conceded and allowed her friend to hold the fabrics against her.
Her stomach flipped over ,and she gasped. The shades seemed to have been made just for her. Instead of looking sickly, it leant her a healthy dose of colour, highlighting her dark hair and bringing out the colour of her eyes.
Her mind began to race with all the things she could do to add to the dress. But years of budget-conscious shopping brought her imaginings to a screeching halt.It is too much to ask.
Natalie let out a triumphant whoop. “Emily, you need a dress made of these fabrics.”
Emily wanted to disagree, but she could not tear her gaze from her reflection. Of course, she had plenty of dresses that she looked good in – her mother would scarcely allow her in public if that were not the case. But a dress like this, it was the kind of thing she had dreamed of, but never thought to own.
Until that moment. Blue eyes flashed in her mind and she dropped the fabric, stepping away as though burned.
“Let us look at something else.” Emily began to walk away and as she did so church bells sounded.
She glanced up and at Natalie.Had it already been a half hour?
Natalie frowned. “Marie has been gone rather some time, do you think we should look for her?”
Emily felt a stab of guilt and worry. “Perhaps she has already returned, and we have missed her?”
They glanced around the modiste but saw no signs of Natalie’s sister. They exchanged worried looks.
“I am sure she will not be far.” Emily gave Natalie’s hand a reassuring squeeze. “But we should look for her regardless.”
Before either of them could make a move to leave, the bell chimed above the door of the modiste and Marie walked in caught up in conversation with Lord Baine. A moment later, Luke appeared.
A wave of relief washed over her, followed by a knot of excitement.
“There you are!” Natalie exclaimed, marching towards her sister. “You worried us!”
“I am sorry. I got distracted talking to Lord Baine and Duke Warren.” Marie made an apologetic gesture to her sister. “Lord Baine found my book, and we got to talking, and then well, they insisted they escort me back to the pair of you.”
“Miss Pembleton, Lady Natalie.” Luke murmured, his eyes briefly flitting towards them before he swept into a bow. “A pleasure to see you.”
“And you, Duke Warren.” Emily replied, curtseying. “And of course, Lord Baine.”
“Thank you for returning my sister to us.” Natalie gave her a look.
“Think nothing of it, I am more glad we were able to return the book to its rightful owner.” Lord Baine beamed at Marie. “It was a pleasure to talk to you, Lady Marie.”
“And you, Lord Baine.” Marie smiled.
“We should be on our way.” Luke cleared his throat and gestured to the door.
“Oh, yes, of course. Good day, ladies.” Lord Baine moved towards the door.
