Page 56 of Theirs to Corrupt
I feel as if I’ve stepped into fantasy land.
Of course, we’re offered champagne.
In the last twenty-four hours, I’ve consumed more bubbly than I have in my entire life put together. “Thank you. No.” If I drink any more, I’ll need to sleep for a week.
“Are you gentlemen staying?” she asks my future husbands.
“We are.” Link answers for both of them.
“Whiskey?” she offers. “Champagne? Beer?”
“Whiskey,” the two reply simultaneously.
“Of course. Please make yourselves comfortable.”
“We’ll be waiting,” Link says to me.
Eloise arranges for an assistant to show them to the far corner of the salon. Instead of the seating area being covered in a pinkish velvet fabric, chairs in that section are deep red and leather. A coffee table is stacked with magazines. But the area is still surrounded by mirrors, and there’s a platform to stand on.
Moments later, another assistant wheels over an elegant cart with several crystal decanters and glasses on the top.
Makes sense. Alcohol loosens inhibitions along with wallets, no doubt.
“Now, dear, let’s get you sorted out.” Once we’re alone, Eloise takes my hands.
This afternoon, there are only a few other people in the store, and it seems I have the owner’s undivided attention.
“What kind of dress have you always imagined yourself wearing?”
Suddenly, unexpectedly, a lump lodges in my throat.
As a little girl, I remember talking to mom about my fairy-princess wedding, including a tiara.
Eloise waves over a clerk and requests water for me.
Though I want to instinctively protest that I don’t need it, I’m grateful when the small, cold bottle is pressed into my hand. “Thank you.”
After a few sips, I recover enough to blink away the tears that are stinging my eyes.
I’ve learned to compartmentalize my losses and focus on what I have to do.
Today shouldn’t be any different.
“Would you like to browse? See if we can eliminate any styles.” With that, she guides me around the showroom.
The boutique is a sea of silk, lace, and tulle, with gowns more elaborate than anything I’ve ever seen up close.
The more I see, the more confused I get. “I’m lost.” Don’t most brides have the chance to browse online or look at magazines, maybe even watch a few TV shows to see what they like?
“I suggest we try several different styles to see what you prefer.”
Because I’m so confused, I seize on the suggestion. I’m more than happy to let the professionals do their job.
Before leaving me, she asks what size shoe I wear and if I have any preferences in styles. Pumps? Sandals?
Since I can’t decide on that either, she says she’ll bring back several for me to try on.
Finally I’m shown to a dressing room, and Eloise brings back several gowns along with a woman to help me dress.