Page 18 of Always a Princess

“Where? Why?”

“Because I plan to stay in London and a hotel does not offer the privacy I now require.”

“So, you want an estate in London?”

“Yes. Perhaps another in the country in time.”

“That’s going to cost you a pretty penny.”

“Good thing I am obscenely wealthy by English standards.”

“Truly?”

“Of course, Hudson.”

“And here I thought, Russian princes were as common as wildflowers.”

“We are. That doesn’t make us any less rich.”

“You’re going to need a solicitor and a land agent.”

“Excellent. Where do I get those?”

“I will have my brother make an introduction.”

“Perfect. Thank you, Hudson. Let’s celebrate with a good cigar.”

“You want to torment Carlton again at the club, don’t you?”

“Only he can torment himself.”

Hudson laughed. “You’re a wily one.”

“Not wily. Russian.”

“I heard she was of no particular interest to him whatsoever. He is ingratiating himself with British society, dancing with all the respectable matrons. I think Christianna would make him a beautiful wife. Both blond and perfect. Can you just picture the wedding?”

From where she waited with Sophia and Louisa in a private room at the dressmaker, Thea knew she was the topic of conversation. Or rather, Prince Alexander was.

Her uncle had said nothing about the matter of her dancing when she saw him for brief moments in the breakfast room before he left for some male pursuit.

Their conversation had stressed his impatience with neither girl receiving an offer yet.

“Take them back to the dressmaker and get something new made for them. Clearly, their wardrobe is lacking. Yours as well. We must not waste this opportunity. I prefer never to have to do this again.”

So, here they were, accommodated on short notice by the very enterprising Madam Celine. Thea had to wonder if the gossip had something to do with that.

Madam Celine came into the room with two assistants and shut the curtains behind them.

“Now, I understand we are making somewhat bolder creations for the three of you—and in a rush.”

“Does that mean I can have colors?”

“Pastels, bolder cut, my lady,” said Madam Celine. “Perhaps a few with patterns. Maybe a silver,” she said to Sophia. “Lilac and sunshine for you, my lady. Pure white as well.” This was directed at Louisa. Then she turned to Thea. “And for you, Miss Templebourne. Midnight silk, gold, a ruby, and jade. I know exactly what we are doing.” She clapped. “Measurements first, and I will show you sketches.”

She proceeded to direct the assistants and adjust the tape herself, calling out numbers and notes.

“For her, draw the attention lower. Men cannot resist. Demurer for this one. The innocence draws them in like a moth to a flame.”