A Gentlewoman's Predicament (4 page)
“Of course, my dear. I’ll be happy to help.” I still her hands with mine, then reach into my reticule for my card case. “Why not come to this address at around three p.m. tomorrow? I’m sure that my associates and I can provide you with all the answers—and the therapy—that you need.”
“Associates?” She looks doubtful.
“Don’t be concerned. They’re the most trusted of professionals. You’ll be safe in their hands.”
She smiles. Her spirits seem to be lifting already and her eyes are brighter.
“Thank you so much. I’ll be there.” She almost seems about to kiss me in gratitude. “Bless you, Madame Chamfleur. I knew I could rely on you.”
As she turns away, and begins to discuss cross-stitch with another of our number, I glance down at the top card in my little case.
Mme. Sofia Chamfleur, Intimate Advice to the Gentlewoman
, it proclaims in a very handsome copperplate script, followed by an address in Hampstead, and the words
Consultations By Appointment
.
I smile, happy anew every time I think of my plan, the way I invested some of my fortune, and the delicious arrangements I made. Beneath my skirts, my body warms as if readying itself for the attentions of my beloved Ambrose.
You see, I
did
decide to marry, after all.
If you liked this story
, look for Portia Da Costa’s next story of Victorian sensuality,
A Gentlewoman’s Ravishment
, the second installment of the Ladies’ Sewing Circle series, on sale June 2010.
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ISBN: 978-1-4268-5146-9
A Gentlewoman’s Predicament
Copyright © 2010 by Portia Da Costa
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