The Paper Wife’s Empire novel Chapter 67

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As Ramona’s fingers brushed the delicate tulle of the white dress, Mrs. Jordon spun her half a turn in front of the mirror. The older woman’s eyes lit up. “Look how well this cut suits you! The shoulders are just right, and if we take in the waist a little, it’ll be perfect. Oh, Ms. Jarrett, could I ask you for a favor?”

Ramona had barely nodded before Mrs. Jordon squeezed her hand gently. “My granddaughter-in-law is about your size, but she’s a bit shy.”

She gestured to the rack of dresses. “We’re both at a loss when it comes to what young people like these days. Would you mind trying these on for us? It’ll help us decide which one would suit her best.”

Mr. Jordon, standing by, added in his warm, genial tone, “Exactly, Ms. Jarrett. We’re both a little out of touch now. You’re young and have such a great sense of style. If you could help us pick, we’d feel much more confident. We’d hate to get the wrong thing and disappoint her.”

Ramona caught the hopeful look in their eyes and couldn’t help but soften. “Please, don’t mention it. I’m glad to help. I’ll try them on and you can check the details to see if they work.”

After six rounds of dress changes, Ramona’s forehead glistened with a faint sheen of sweat.

“Mrs. Jordon, why don’t you have a seat and rest for a moment? I’d hate for you to get too tired standing.”

That small gesture of thoughtfulness made Mrs. Jordon give her husband’s hand a gentle squeeze, her fondness for Ramona growing even deeper.

When Ramona tried on the white mermaid gown, glittering all over with tiny crystals, she paused in front of the mirror. The diamonds scattered light with every move, and for a fleeting second, she was reminded of her wedding day with Jotham.

Back then, the Holts disapproved of her background. They hadn’t even bothered to get her a proper wedding dress; she’d worn an old gown that Winnie had already used. Yet now, the woman in the mirror looked radiant, dazzling, and entirely her own.

“This one! Look at how those crystals shimmer, and how they set off Ramona’s skin. It’s like porcelain!” Mrs. Jordon clapped her hands in delight.

Mr. Jordon nodded in agreement. “The cut is wonderful. My granddaughter-in-law would look stunning in this too. Is there any dress here that you like? I’d be honored to give it to you.”

Ramona’s answer was sincere. “I’m just helping you try these on. I couldn’t possibly accept something so valuable. I really couldn’t.”