The Critchfield Locket by Sheila M. Rogers Read Free Book Online Page A

later, Rose walked down the stairs. She was careful to lift her skirt high enough so as to not get the heel of her shoe caught on the train. Her skirt and bodice were made from imported gold silk with burgundy ribbons, bows and beadwork. Rose may not have been confident with the dinner arrangements, but making beautiful gowns was the one task where she never doubted her abilities.
                  "My, my, my, what do we have here?" Edward's eyes were looking at her from head to toe before resting on her face.
                  Rose blushed as she giggled in response. "Do you like my dress? I finished it only yesterday."
                  "The dress is fine, but it is the beautiful woman wearing it that has caught my attention."
                  "Oh, Edward!" Rose's smile was wide and her cheeks a rosy red from blushing.
                  "Now, now, there is nothing amiss about a man who finds his wife attractive." His voice was soft husky as he drew her to him and planted a loving kiss upon her lips. He was careful to not ruffle her hair or wrinkle her dress within his embrace. Years of marriage had taught him that disturbing her appearance would only lead to slammed doors and exasperated words.
                  "You look handsome as well my love." Her eyes shined as she squeezed his hands and he took the liberty of kissing one before he let go. A knock on the front doors alerted them that their dinner guests were arriving.
     
    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
     
    Kate was nervously fidgeting as she dressed. This would be her first time in a formal setting since her "accident". That was the best word she could find to describe it. She took a deep breath in as Margaret finished lacing up her corset. She decided to wear the pale blue chiffon dress she had "arrived" in. Mrs. Thompson had sent it out to be cleaned and mended by the laundress. To Kate's delight, it looked brand new.
                  Margaret helped Kate pin up her hair. "You look so lovely Miss Katherine, I am sure you will be the envy of the other ladies."
                  "Thank you Margaret, you are being too kind, but I appreciate it."
                  "I am only being honest with you. Have yourself a good time and don't worry about Stormy, I will keep him with me again tonight. He's much better company than my brother Robert any day."
                  Kate walked ever so carefully down the grand staircase for she was determined to keep her dress looking fresh. She had just stepped into the entry way hall when she noticed Nicholas walking towards her. He was wearing a black tail coat with a white wing tip collar shirt, a scooped front black vest and a white bow tie. As he drew nearer, a wave of panic ran through her. What am I thinking? I can't do this!
                  "Ms. Dornacher, are you well?" her cheeks are flushed "Do you need to sit down?"
                  "Wha-, no, I am fine, it's just that... I do not know these people. I will not know or remember enough to comment on whatever conversational topics they choose. I am in no condition to be in mixed company." She stared at the floor, wishing she had more courage.
                  "Katherine," Nicholas's voice was gentle, yet authoritative as he lifted her chin so their eyes would meet, "You can and will do this. You have to move forward with your life. You have to go about things in a normal manner."
                  Kate's mind went blank for a moment as she stared into his eyes. The hand that lifted her chin, now closed around her own.
                  "I will never be far from you, and Mrs. Dickson has taken you into her favor. No doubt she will do her best to help secure your happiness this evening. Now, if you are feeling more composed, we should be on our way."
                  "Yes, of course." She realized she was