Page 4 of A Whiskey River Princess

Kenzie looked over at Gabriella and smiled wickedly. “Bring us champagne. The best you have!”

The waiter smiled, bowing slightly. “As you wish.”

“Why champagne?” Gabriella asked, amused.

Kenzie shrugged. “Why not? We’re celebrating!”

Gabriella narrowed her eyes cautiously. “And what are we celebrating?”

“Freedom! Adventure! Take your pick.” Kenzie beamed, her broad smile touching her eyes.

Gabriella laughed. Kenzie’s excitement was catchy. “So, what brings you out west?”

Kenzie smiled, bubbling over with excitement. “I’m heading west to open a dress shop.” She shook out her napkin and smoothed it over her lap.

“Oh? You make dresses?” Gabriella asked, clearly intrigued.

Kenzie nodded, leaning in conspiratorially. “I’ve been designing and making dresses in New York for a while now and decided that I needed a change.”

Gabriella admired the young woman for knowing what she wanted, and for working hard enough to get it. “Did you make the dress you’re wearing?”

Kenzie sat up straighter. “As a matter of fact, I did,” she stated proudly in her British brogue. “I make all of my dresses.”

Gabriella smiled. “Are you from England?”

Kenzie nodded. “Yes, but originally my family was from Ireland. My parents moved to London after they were married, and I was born there. That’s where I learned my trade, but I moved to America in search of a new life.”

A crease formed between Gabriella’s eyes. “Then, why are you moving out west, away from New York? I mean, isn’t New York the fashion hub of America?”

Kenzie shrugged. “Yes, but I want to open my own shop. I’ve learned more of my trade in New York, and I loved it, but the competition is very steep. Besides, I fancy the adventure! Going west on my own!” She let out an excited breath.

Gabriella laughed, enjoying her enthusiasm. As she listened to Kenzie, she became caught up in her excitement, as well. The only real talent Gabriella had was singing. But, being a member of the Royal Family, her singing had been limited to a voice coach and private balls, the only place a dignified young lady could perform and not be looked down upon by other members of society.

“So, where would you like to open your shop?” Gabriella asked, intrigued.

“Well….” Kenzie leaned in conspiratorially. “I have a backer, Mr. Charles Whitfield. Have you heard of him?”

Gabriella shook her head, her eyes wide, listening intently.

“He’s a billionaire.” Kenzie shrugged. “Anyway, I met him through a friend, and he told me of an up-and-coming town in Wyoming called Whiskey River. He’s already helped a few of the businesses get started there. When he heard I was a dress designer and interested in opening my own shop, he offered to help. He said that there wasn’t a dress shop there yet. Only a general store and a restaurant. There’s a seamstress there butshe’s retiring soon, and the women in town who don’t know how to sew are up in arms.” Her broad, cheerful smile returned. “I thought that it was as good a place as any to start. Who knows? Once word of my designs spreads, women and buyers might come from Laramie or as far as California to buy my dresses.”

“Have you brought inventory with you?” Gabriella asked, intrigued.

Kenzie smiled. “A whole trunkful, but they’re only samples. I also design dresses and whole wardrobes for individuals, too… for the right price.” Kenzie winked causing Gabriella to giggle.

“Here you go, ladies,” the waiter said as he approached, momentarily ending the conversation. He placed two glasses of champagne in tall, fluted crystal glasses on the table. The waiter smiled proudly. “What would you like for dinner?”

Gabriella glanced over at Kenzie and then smiled at the waiter. “Surprise us.”

The waiter smiled. “I’ll be back with the first course momentarily.”

“Thank you,” Gabriella and Kenzie replied in unison, and both laughed.

“So….” Kenzie took a sip of her champagne. “What brings you on this grand adventure to the wilds of the west? Are you from France?”

Gabriella shrugged. “Somewhere near there.”

“Ah. Playing coy, are we?” Kenzie joked, wagging her eyebrows.

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