Chapter 7 – An Emerald Contract
Summary - AU set in 19th century Europe. Darcy is the mistress and Jane her ladies maid.
"You need to squeeze just that little bit tighter if you want me to look my best Jane."
"I am miss, I'm pulling as hard as I can" Jane's voice strained as she pulled hard on the straps, numb fingers losing grip. Wrapping the cords around her hands she defiantly lifted her knee and stuck it straight in the small of her mistresses back.
"Ooof!"
The increased purchase and leverage worked a treat; quickly she tied up the cords and tucked them in the bodice.
"There you go miss, Tidy little waist now, just as you wanted. Just perfect for that beautiful French ball gown."
Her mistress, still holding on tightly to the gilded dressing chair, nodded her assent. Her breaths were shallow as she acclimatised to the restricted underwear.
Jane smoothly lifted the weighty green gown and pooled it beside the chair. She held her hands out, assisting her mistress as she balanced and then gathered the dress upwards. The delicate lacework flowed over her smooth, voluptuous frame.
"Careful Jane, don't catch the embroidery. This dress was a gift from Loki and I must ensure he gets full value."
"Yes miss. Anything else miss?"
Jane stepped back, dipping her head, waiting for extra instructions. She was fully aware, as were all the old staff, what was left of them, how important this meeting with the Prince was. Her mistress had suffered the loss of her father and was legally obliged to marry, and soon, lest she should lose her family's estate to her younger cousin.
"No, thank you Jane. I shall wear my mother's necklace I think, the emeralds will match perfectly."
"A perfect match miss, much like yourself and the Prince"
"I hope so Jane, I do hope so."
