P. A. Featherington

(13) Gen's Escape

Pen had submitted some of Gen's work to a reverend house of dressmakers in France. So she was extremely surprised when she met with a designer Miss Marie Odette who admired her work. She had even nearly finished making one of Genevieve's designs.

"Bonjour Madame, I am so glad you have decided to join us. In truth Lady Penelope has submitted your work nearly a year ago. So I am overjoyed"

"The honour is entirely mine Miss Odette"

"Please call me, Marie. I have something to show you"

Gen walked into a large room surrounded by different fabrics. There on her right was one of her deigns. She stood in shook "This is..."

"Indeed, this is one of the first designs to make. Have the measurements and textures made your approval"

Gen let a tear fall "Oh no, are you disappointed with the shade... "

"No. no, it is exactly how I envisioned it"

"I'm glad. These three" she placed three of Gen's illustrations "Intrigued me the most. I would be most honoured if we can use them in the next season"

Gen walked slowly next to the dress, smoothing down the fabric. If only her family could see her now. They could see that her dreams had come true. Just as they always told her they would if she just believed it enough.

"This is such a surprise" Gen held her chest.

"There is more Genevieve"

Gen turned back around.

"The Viscountess Josephine de Beauharnais has already asked to be fitted with one of your designs"

Gen's mouth dropped "I beg your pardon. Please can you repeat that" she had to hold back the lingering tremble in her voice.

"The Viscountess de Beauharnais has been fitted with one of your designs, and we have your cut"

"My cut?" She let out a small gasp.

"I hope you don't truly believe, you get nothing from this arrangement"

Marie passed her a large envelope. Gen looked inside. Internally gasping. "She is a most generous Lady, indeed"

"It is fortunate that The Viscountess has heard your name in the wind, as it seems. Something else you can thank your friend Lady Penelope for, to be sure"

Gen smiled to herself. How Miss Penelope Featherington had managed to steal some of her work before she departed without her knowledge was intriguing. She must have taken a few at a time so not to raise suspicion. What a terrific mind she has, to be sure. She planned all of this. For a year. She knew she wanted to help me the moment I told her of my designs.

What a good soul she is. Always seeing the best in a person. Even if that person can not see it themselves. Now she was receiving the highest praise, how odd that the moment your largest dream comes true. You fear it may be taken at any moment.

Gen sat alone in an exquisite tea shop. Best enjoy some of the fresh pastries and tea that France has to offer before returning home to her normal life.

The tea shop, was designed with beautiful pattern, Gen saw similar patterns on the fabrics in the creative room.
Gen sat at the round table outside the shop. Watching as people walked past, enjoying the sunshine and beauty, one of the greatest cities in the world has to offer. The city was welcoming and warm. She would see couples smile as they walk past. She could get used to a place like this. Genevieve had always promised herself that when she would one day retire. She would like to make her way to France. Now that she already made a friend within the business. Perhaps, she can do that sooner other than later.

The Modiste

On returning home. Gen could not help but feel a new sense of pride. This shop was her crowning glory. It was where she had started, and she could not forget those roots.

She would go back to business as usual, but she had made a plan, that when she had made more designs, she would visit Paris once more. Maria had given her, her personal address to send any more designs.

She was excited to be able to tell her customers of her adventure, not all the details though. She would hate for people to know about Miss Featherington.

Illford House, Galway

Pen was reading while walking, which wasn't very self aware of her. She tripped a little on a rug and had to steady herself. A letter caught her eye. It must have slipped a little under the rug. Pen recognised the familiar ladies writing and took at to the table.

My Dearest Penelope Featherington.

You have done well for yourself. Congratulations! I look forward to reading your novels. It is well deserved and I have never been prouder. In truth, I am still in shock from my visit to Paris. I don't know how I can write such gratitude for the kindness you have shown. A Viscountess, in France has bought one of my designs and I am floating on a cloud at this moment. I don't know how you have done so, but you have made this wound up woman, the most happiest in all of London. Thank You Miss Penelope from the bottom of my heart.

Your Truly

Genevieve Delacroix

Penelope was feeling excited for Madame Delacroix's news. She was glad that the world could finally see her talent. Well, France anyway, but everyone needs to start somewhere. Hopefully word has got to Mayfair and her business can grow to new heights. It is well deserved achievement indeed. In truth, when I submitted her designs and sent word out to the most influential houses in Paris, I had hoped for the best. Nothing compared to what praise she had received.

Perhaps, she would return to Mayfair, one day. Discreetly. For a celebratory drink with Gen. The thought of seeing her family or worse the Bridgertons, was just too much to bear still.