information and perhaps offer a tour of their pottery. He might even tell you some of the obstacles he’s had to overcome since taking over.” She hesitated a moment. “When I prepared the seating list for supper, I placed you next to him, but I can change the arrangement if you’d prefer something else.”
“No. Oh, Laura, that’s absolutely perfect.” Rose rushed forward and wrapped her sister-in-law in a crushing hug. “You think of everything.” A slight groan caused Rose to release her hold. She stepped back and looked into Laura’s eyes. “I’m sorry. Did I hurt you?”
Laura massaged her side. “Only a few broken ribs.” She chuckled when Rose clasped a hand to her lips. “Don’t worry. I’m fine. I’m truly delighted you’re pleased by my choice of your dinner partner.” She gestured toward the kitchen. “I do need to check on preparations, but no doubt you’d rather be off doing something else.” She arched her brows. “Perhaps trying on your gown one last time?”
Rose smiled and nodded. While there might be time for a final fitting of her own dress, she was more intent upon finalizing her plans with Beatrice, who had taken Rose’s advice and selected the yellow silk. Though Rose was certain it would be a perfect fit, Beatrice had worried the bodice might be too tight. Rose once again thanked Laura before she hurried upstairs. She’d take the dress to the nursery and care for Tessa while Beatrice tried it on. If it didn’t fit, there wouldn’t be time for alterations. They’d have to change their selection.
Careful to avoid stepping on the hem, Rose trundled upstairs to the nursery. Tessa sat at a small table and chairs with a book. Craning her neck around the billowing dress, Rose smiled at the little girl. “Good morning, Tessa.”
The little girl waved, then pointed to her book. “Want to read?”
“Let me help Beatrice and then we’ll read.” Rose turned toward the nanny. “Is this a good time for a fitting?”
Beatrice beamed at her. “Aye.” Her eyes shone with delight, and she traced her fingers down the yellow silk. “’Tis like setting me eyes upon a field of sunflowers.” Rose placed the dress across Beatrice’s extended arms.
While Beatrice stepped into the adjoining room that served as her bedchamber, Rose sat down beside Tessa, but the girl quickly picked up the book and moved to Rose’s lap. Tessa snuggled against Rose as she opened the book and began to read.
A short time later, Beatrice reappeared. Though her hair remained in an unfashionable knot and there was no jewelry to accent the neckline of the gown, she made a striking appearance. The gown fit as though it had been made for her.
She grasped a handful of fabric in each hand and performed a mock curtsy. “Thank you, Rose. It’s truly beautiful, and the fit is good, don’t you agree?”
Rose nodded. “Perfect. I have a necklace that is ideal with the gown. You can wear it this evening. Every young man at the dance will take notice of you. They’ll be begging to write their name on your dance card.”
Beatrice’s smile faded. “I did not think about the dancin’. I don’t know any of the fancy steps.” She grimaced. “I’ll be makin’ a fool of myself if I try to fit in with the fancy folks. You know what they say, Rose. You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.”
Rose lifted Tessa onto her chair and then stood. “Don’t say such a thing. You’ll fit in just fine. I can show you a few basic steps, and when someone asks you to dance, tell him the truth: You’d be pleased to accept, but you’ve not mastered the art of dancing just yet. You’re so lovely, the fellows won’t mind if you step on their feet.”
When she finally departed the nursery, Rose was sure Beatrice would be the most sought after young woman at the dance. The thought pleased her. It would be great fun seeing someone else enjoy the party.
Rose had barely completed her toilette when the guests