Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me by Barbara Devlin

Author:Barbara Devlin [Devlin, Barbara]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Published: 2017-01-09T18:00:00+00:00

HOLD ME, THRILL ME, KISS ME

CHAPTER FOUR

The shops at Portsmouth bustled with patrons carrying brightly wrapped parcels, amid fresh snowfall, and Nicholas ushered Almira into a local designer’s establishment. Given the drastic change in her style, after Daphne’s initial handiwork, which evoked cherished memories of fonder times, he resolved to buy his sweet girl a new wardrobe to suit her old but familiar self.

“Oh, Nicholas, this is too much, and I could not possibly accept such a lavish gift.” Biting her bottom lip, she stared at a pale green silk creation, in a Grecian style, and bounced on her heels. “But that is the loveliest gown I have ever seen.”

“It suits your complexion.” A short but immaculately garbed woman emerged from behind a drape. “Will you not try it on, Madame?”

“Dare I?” Sparks lit Almira’s blue eyes, and she squealed when he nodded the affirmative. “All right.”

“I am Eléontine, and welcome to my humble boutique.” The grey-haired woman smiled. “If you will have a seat, sir. We will be right with you.”

“Darling, let me hold your packages.” From Mira, he collected various purchases, which he set on the floor. As he relaxed in a comfortable chair, he surveyed the store, which featured an array of ladies fashions. In the front window, he spied a luxurious ermine lined pelisse done in expensive, plush blue velvet, and he pulled it from the display.

“Monsieur, your wife is ready.” Holding aside the curtain, the seamstress ushered him to the changing room, where Almira, bedecked in eau de nil, stood before a long mirror. “Your bride is beautiful, is she not?”

In that instant, Almira blushed and bowed her head. “But I am—”

“She is stunning.” When Mira faced him, he took her hands in his and kissed her fingertips. “My dear, you are a goddess, and I am your undeserving servant.” About her shoulders, he situated the sumptuous pelisse. “We will take this, too, as it is quite chilly outside, Eléontine.”

“Nicholas.” Despite her expression of shock, Almira caressed the extravagant fur.

“Very good, sir.” The shopkeeper nodded once. “Is there anything else with which I might tempt you, and where should I send the bill?”

“We are currently guests at Courtenay Hall.” He extended his card. “And what have you in daywear?”

“My lord, you should have told me I hosted such distinguished patrons.” The seamstress gushed. “Perhaps I can show you a special pair of gloves, which match the pelisse.” From a table, she drew the accessories. “I trimmed the cuffs, myself, and they are cut from the finest kid skin.”

“We will take those, too.” As Almira made to protest, he claimed a quick kiss in full view of the seamstress. “Now, try on that burgundy dress, as it will be perfect for the Christmas ball.”

Approximately two hours later, Nicholas and Almira emerged from the shop, and he flagged his footman to retrieve the selections ready for wear, while the remainder was scheduled for delivery just prior to the holiday.

“How am I ever going to repay you for all the clothes?” Shimmering, with a pronounced skip in her step, Almira clung to his arm.

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