“But this could be leverage,” Miranda suggested. “Perhaps he could be persuaded to spend time with you in order to save you from the attentions of Sir Roger. But then, the more you spend time together, the more he will become attracted to you.”
Charlotte was unconvinced, but Felicity nodded. “Hence the new dresses you mentioned, Charlotte. Are you still planning to visit that new modiste, Madam Baptiste?”
“Yes. Mother has been raving about her, but thankfully Adeline’s coming with me. We want to keep it tasteful but step out of my usual style. Something that makes me feel confident.”
“Good,” Miranda stated. “Confidence is half the battle. Dress in a way that highlights your best features, and stand tall. If you act like you’re worthy of notice, he might start noticing.”
Charlotte gave her a weak grin. “I hope so. I’m no beauty, but maybe the right gown could help.”
Miranda shook her head. “You underrate yourself. Let’s not forget those big soft eyes and that perfect posture. Trust me; some gentle tailoring, maybe a color that flatters you, and the duke will think you’re radiant.”
Genevieve clapped her hands together. “I’m excited to see the transformation. I’ve heard Madam Baptiste has a knack for subtle drama.”
Felicity nodded again. “Subtle drama is exactly what Charlotte needs.”
Looking around at her friends’ encouraging expressions, Charlotte took a breath and stood, glancing at Adeline. “Shall we head to Madam Baptiste now, before she closes for the afternoon?”
Adeline agreed readily, smoothing her skirts. “Yes, let’s go. I’m curious to see her shop for myself.”
Felicity rose as well and walked them to the door with Genevieve and Miranda trailing behind.
“Keep me updated,” Felicity whispered. “The sooner we know you have your invitation, the calmer I’ll feel.”
Miranda adjusted her spectacles. “And do let us know if you want any assistance persuading William. I could offer logical arguments if it’d help.”
Charlotte smiled wryly. “Thank you, but I suspect William might respond better to sentiment. I’ll speak to him this evening.”
They parted with warm goodbyes and stepped into Adeline’s carriage.
The ride was swift, weaving through Mayfair’s streets until they halted in front of a small modiste’s shop. The sign read: “Madam Baptiste, Designs for the Discerning.” A tasteful window display showcased a pale blue gown with delicate embroidery. It was lovely, Charlotte thought; something that she could easily imagine herself wearing.
Stepping inside, Charlotte heard the hum of hushed conversations and the rustle of fabrics. Bolts of cloth stood in tidy rows, and a couple of mannequins were positioned in the corner wearing half-finished dresses. Behind a polished wooden counter, a young woman with dark hair arranged in a sleek twist was conferring with an assistant.
She noticed Charlotte and Adeline at once, smiling as she approached. “Good afternoon. I’m Madam Baptiste. How may I be of service?”
Charlotte exchanged a glance with Adeline before speaking. “I was told you create gowns that are… fashionable. I need something tasteful but distinct; something to stand out without appearing garish.”
Madam Baptiste’s eyes sparkled. “You’ve come to the right place. May I have your name, my lady?”
“Charlotte Fitzgerald,” she said, suddenly aware of the slight trembling in her fingers. She had never taken much interest in her dresses before, allowing Lady Fitzgerald to take care of their designs. “This is my friend, Miss Claremont.”
Adeline dipped her head in greeting. “I’m only here for hand-holding and perhaps to order a small piece myself if I’m tempted.”
Madam Baptiste gestured them toward a space where a riot of colored fabrics were neatly stacked. “I pride myself on balance: a classic silhouette, unexpected flourishes. Would you like to see some new shipments?” She produced a bolt of soft gray silk, then a second of a pale dusty blue. “Both these tones flatter fair complexions. I also have deeper colors if you wish to make more of a statement.”
Charlotte studied the fabrics, running fingertips over the sheen. “I’m thinking something refined, so no gaudy prints, no heavy ruffles. But a detail or two that sets it apart. Maybe a sash or some delicate embroidery?”
“Precisely,” the modiste said. “And do you prefer the Empire waist, or shall we gently lower it for a more modern line?”
A flicker of apprehension crossed Charlotte’s face. “I’ve always worn Empire waists, but I’m willing to try something new if it isn’t too daring.”
Adeline put in, “We want her to feel confident—like she’s stepping just beyond what’s comfortable for her, but not diving off a cliff.”
Madam Baptiste nodded sagely. “Then a small shift. A graceful slope, a well-fitted bodice. We can incorporate subtle embroidery along the neckline and maybe a ribbon accent at the waist.”
Charlotte pointed to the dusty-blue silk. “That color is lovely. Perhaps something in that for an evening gown. And maybe the gray for a day dress, with a hint of silver thread? Just a slight sparkle,” she added quickly, feeling incredibly daring.
Madam Baptiste’s lips curved in delight. “Excellent choices. Let’s take your measurements. Then we’ll finalize the design.”
