Grace lifted Amelia’s hands into her own. “I could not be more pleased. It is a blessing of the best kind to have you joining my family. I am proud to call you my niece.” She squeezed gently before she released Amelia’s hands.
“There will be time enough for that after the ceremony. Right now we need to get her ready.” Lady Sarah motioned Amelia toward Edna, who stood near a pile of fabric.
Amelia sashayed over, then removed her wrapper before Edna started piling on the petticoats. She moved her gaze over the gown Grace had commissioned for her. It hung against the wardrobe, a tranquil waterfall of silk and organdy. Hand-sewn pearls dotted the fabric while lace trimmed the bodice, sleeves, and hem.
“The gown is stunning, Your Grace, thank you.” Amelia grinned at her as Edna adjusted the final petticoat.
“You will appear every bit a duchess in it.” Lady Sarah positioned herself near the vanity.
“You have no need to thank me, dear. It was my pleasure. I am simply relieved the seamstress was able to complete it on such short notice.” Grace nodded.
“I would not have believed it possible if the proof weren’t hanging in front of me.” Lady Sarah placed a hand on her hip. “An entire gown in less than forty-eight hours--it is quite the feat.”
“Are you ready?” Edna held out the wedding gown.
Amelia glanced at her friends before turning her attention to Edna. “I have never been more ready.”
A swoosh of silk and organdy glided over her body, encasing her in splendor. Edna fastened the tiny buttons down her back while Lady Sarah smoothed the skirts. Once secured in the gown, Amelia stepped into a pair of ornate slippers. Last of all, Edna pulled her white lace gloves into place.
Grace rested her hand on her chest, tears glistening in her eyes. “My dear, you are a vision. Turn and let me see the back.”
Amelia moved so her back faced the duchess. “It is the most beautiful gown I have ever worn.”
“Let us get your hair styled so we can see the full effect.” Grace settled into a chair, placing her hands in her lap.
Amelia moved to the vanity and carefully positioned herself on the stool, trying not to wrinkle the gown. Edna went to work plaiting, twisting, and curling Amelia’s locks.
Lady Sarah approached and placed a diamond and pearl tiara with orange blossoms woven through it on the vanity. “The Duke of Goldstone asked that I give this to you on his behalf.”
Amelia turned to Sarah. “It is magnificent.” She reached out a hand and cautiously feathered her fingers across it.
Grace laughed. “You will not break it. They’re stronger than they seem.” She stood, sauntered to the vanity, and lifted the tiara into her hands. “May I?”
Amelia nodded as Edna released the last curl from the hot iron.
Grace placed the tiara onto her head. Once Edna secured the tiara in place and attached the fine linen veil, Amelia stood, facing her friends.
“The duke will be breathless when he sees you moving down the aisle,” Lady Sarah brushed her hand down Amelia’s veil.
Grace tipped her head to one side. “Indeed, he will.”
Edna sat down the comb she held in her hand. “Is there anything else you require?”
“A light snack?” Amelia glanced at Lady Sarah. “Is there time?”
Sarah nodded. “Yes, we have about twenty minutes to spare.”
“Bring up some cheese and berries,” Grace instructed.
Edna curtsied then left to retrieve the requested items.
“Have you any idea where you are going after the wedding?” Sarah asked.
Amelia walked to the window and gazed out at the street below. “He did not say. Wherever it is will be perfect. So long as we are together, I know I will be happy.”
“My dear husband surprised me with a wedding trip to Paris. I will always cherish the memories of our first weeks together as husband and wife.” Grace dabbed at the moisture pooling in her eyes. “You know it is rare for the groom to tell anyone other than his best man where he intends to take his bride.”
Edna carried in a tray laden with sliced cheese and berries. She placed it on the table, then curtsied and took her leave.
