"Thank you." I sat down across from her.
"Here, I already ordered tea. Their Earl Grey is divine, and their scones with clotted cream and jam are to die for!"
A server brought tea service and a tiered stand. The three-level silver stand was laden with exquisite treats—finger sandwiches, macarons, fruit tarts, chocolate mousse... Each looked like a work of art.
"It looks incredible." I marveled.
"Right!" Isabella smiled proudly. "I told you this place was worth it. Try this smoked salmon sandwich—it's heavenly!"
The fresh salmon with cucumber and cream cheese had complex, rich flavors. It really was delicious.
"How is it?" She looked at me expectantly.
"Divine!" I nodded. "Isabella, you always pick the most wonderful places."
"Of course!" She poured me tea. "I heard you're helping Mrs. Anastasia organize her collection?"
I nodded. "The family has some Imperial Russian pieces that need re-cataloging."
"Sounds so sophisticated! What kind of things?"
"Faberge eggs, antique jewelry, paintings..." I said. "Each piece is priceless."
"My God!" She gasped. "Aren't you nervous handling all that?"
"At first," I admitted. "I'm used to it now. Every piece has its own story. It's fascinating."
"You're incredible." She said sincerely. "If she's trusting you with something so important, she must truly believe in you."
"Perhaps."
We chatted while enjoying the tea service, the atmosphere light and pleasant.
"Oh, did you see Valentino's show last week?" Isabella said excitedly. "That feathered gown collection was absolutely stunning!"
"I did." I smiled. "But I think it's too dramatic for everyday wear."
"Oh come on, gowns are supposed to be dramatic!" she said. "Those simple everyday pieces are so dull."
"But I like simple."
"Your taste..." She shook her head helplessly. "You could be so much more dazzling."
"Dazzling isn't always wise," I said honestly. "I prefer to keep things low-key."
"Speaking of keeping things quiet," she lowered her voice, eyes sparkling with gossip, "the O'Connell heiress broke up with her fiancé!"
"What happened? I thought they were blissfully happy?"
"Turns out he was cheating! Guess what? She threw her engagement ring right in his face and stormed out!"
"Good for her!"
"Exactly! That's how you deal with cheating bastards!"
We chatted about more society gossip and fashion, time flying by in pleasant conversation.
Checking my watch, it was almost three. "Weren't we going shopping? Should we head out now?"
