Tangled Betrayals by Lynn Wolfe

brother had never mentioned her middle name or where she worked.    
    “Did you make this gown, Hope?”
    “ Yes,” Mary replied. She didn’t realize Americans were so inquisitive about everything. Most English women would not linger in such conversation, especially with a seamstress.
    Susannah stepped up beside Mary to help pull the gown over Anna’s head and to straighten out the skirt. Mary could smell their lovely and expensive perfume. She could never afford such a luxury.
    Susannah was much shorter than Mary but showed a confidence that made Mary think she was a strong and knowledgeable person. Mary tried not to feel jealous, but she did. For the emerald rings glittered and Mary noticed they were absolutely flawless. She bit her lip hard and was relieved Susannah was now addressing her sister.
    “Anna, the gown is perfect. Look at the back of the dress in the mirror as you turn. I think you have found exactly what you’ve been looking for. This is the perfect gown for you. In fact, it’s by far the loveliest wedding dress I’ve ever seen, anywhere,” Susannah said in awe.
    “ Hope, I think the dress might need to be taken in at the bust. What do you think?” Anna suggested as she tried to tighten the top of the dress closer to her bosom.
    Mary had fought hard not to allow any of her tears to escape, yet a couple had. She could feel her face becoming flushed. She noticed both women were now staring at her with concern and waiting for her to respond.
    “Forgive me, I ’m so sorry. I always get a little weepy looking at the beautiful brides.” Mary said and hoped she’d covered herself. Mary was pleased how the dress looked on Anna. In fact, it was amazing. Mary knew any other time she would have been bursting with pleasure to be given such wonderful compliments.
    For a brief moment , Mary pictured herself wearing the dress. That had been her downfall and she became very weepy. Yet, after a moment, she again found herself composed. She knew she had to get these women out of the shop.
    “ Yes, I think a little tuck here would fix the problem. The dress is perfect for you.”
    “Thank you, you ’re very kind. I’m thrilled with this dress. If you could send the bill to the Fairchild Hotel, addressed to Mr. Thomas Ball, he’ll make the payment arrangements. Is it possible for the dress to be sent to the hotel once the account is paid in full and the alterations completed? I believe there might be other purchases made. Isn’t that right, Susannah?”
    “Oh my, yes. I ’ve found some lovely ball gowns I’d like to try. I fear I didn’t get the long legs my sister was blessed with, but my mother will be able to make the alterations once I have our baby. I’m so glad we came to this shop and thank you for showing us this dress. I think Thomas will be speechless when he sees you wearing it, Anna.”
    “I hope not, I want him to be able to say his vows!” Anna said laughing and relieved she had found the perfect gown. “You see, Hope, we’re being wed on my brother-in-laws ship, The Emerald, before we set sail to America, on Friday.”
    Mary knew she had to make a reply. What could she possibly say? Her heart was breaking. Why did they have to talk so much? Why did the wedding have to be on The Emerald , where she would have been married on Friday?
    With a quivering voice she finally got out, “How lovely, now I must attend to some other work that is pressing, Miss Minnie or Alice can make the necessary alterations for your other dress choices and they can tally your total purchases and send the bills according to your wishes. I hope you enjoy your stay while in London. I’m sure your wedding will be lovely.” Mary turned and opened the door for them to leave and said a quick prayer they would say nothing further to her, ever again. She closed the door as the tears ran down her cheeks.
    She knew in her heart she’d done the right thing. She knew she was never going to wear the dress. But that