Kaillas smiled as Ophelia took a step forward. He was happy she was taking an interest in buying something for herself. Even if she ultimately decided on not to buy anything from Delilah, at least she looked. She was still warming up to the fact of spending money on herself, just herself. Nothing for her pets or friends or family. Just on Ophelia.
Delilah, smiled, bowing her head slightly before motioning for her to follow. She pulled out a couple of gowns. They were deep purple, with varying necklines and embroidery. "I have a dressing gown if you like to try them on." They might not fit perfectly but that was what the royal seamstress was available for. She had pulled gowns that looked about her size but each person was different and would need different alterations. Like the hem. Ophelia was a bit on the shorter side of the woman she catered too.
"Would you like to utilize them?" Delilah looked back at Kaillas, asking for permission. He nodded his head yes. he had blocked off the entire day for them o spend here. He had already decided on the different restaurants they would visit for lunch and dinner. He had paid more than enough for clearing out their patrons for the day.
Ophelia glances at the gowns, definitely interested in them. The deep purple fabric shimmers under the light, and the intricate embroidery makes her smile. While she has several lovely dresses, it will be nice to have some in the royal purple color. Right now she only has one in that shade.
"Yes, I would love to try them on," She agrees, having a feeling that she’s going to be buying a new dress. She looks at Kaillas, glad that he seems to be pleased with himself right now. She turns her attention to the dresses that have been picked out for her. Each looks lovely.
With a smile, she follows Delilah to the dressing room, feeling admittedly a little nervous. Its been awhile since she’s actually bought a dress. The seamstress back home knew her measurements so she would just be given dresses. She never actually picked them out.
Inside the dressing room, she slip into one of the gowns without a problem. As expected, it’s a little long for her smaller frame, but that was nothing the royal seamstress cant fix. She studies her reflection in the mirror, the gown hugging her curves and making her feel elegant.
“This is a beautiful gown,” She compliments Delilah, appreciating all of the small details. It really makes the gown special. “I would like to purchase something other than a dress as well but I would like to be….discreet about it.” She doesn’t want Kaillas to know yet.
Kaillas gave her another encouraging smile as she looked back at him. He nodded to her. Go, he seemed to say, Try some on. Even if she didn't purchase one he understood at least that it could be fun to try on clothes. Any time his sisters went shopping for new clothing, Kaillas was always dragged along for his opinion. Not that it was anything other than "that's nice," or, "that looks beautiful." But at least he understood the enjoyment.
Delilah showed Ophelia to the dressing room, pulling back the curtain for her to walk into. It was a spacious room with a small bench and a floor-length mirror. "Let me know if you need any help."
She wouldn't force herself into the room to help her dress. She had heard the two princesses complain more than enough about never getting any privacy. Maids for this, maids for that. Unless help was needed lacing up the gown, she would stay outside of the dressing room. She made sure the curtain was pulled tight and waited patiently outside of the room.
She turned as the curtain was opened and she smiled at the queen, bowing her head. "You look regal, Your Majesty." The gown was truly made of her, she could see that now. If Ophelia didn't want to buy it, she would give it to her. She couldn't see this gown on anyone else other than her.
"Of course, Your Majesty, how may I be of service?" Delilah was in direct contact with he king and the royal family. She knew how to be discrete.
Ophelia appreciates Delilah's respect for her privacy as she steps into the dressing room. Like Katya and Elora, she doesn’t enjoy the maids hovering over her constantly. They’re all very sweet and try to be helpful but she can get dressed on her own. It can be frustrating to have so many people trying to stuff her into a gown.
The dress she has is easily one of the most lovely she’s ever seen. The deep purple hues complement her complexion, and the elegant designs are very pleasing to the eye. Ophelia pulls back the curtain, revealing herself to Delilah with a big smile.
"This gown… it feels like a dream. I've never worn anything so exquisite before. You truly outdid yourself with this design," She tells her, absolutely amazed by how wonderful the gown is. Not only is it beautiful but it’s comfortable as well. That’s not something that many dress makers can achieve. It seems as though she’ll be buying a dress today.
“I’d like to get some nightgowns,” She says lightly. “Some that aren’t quite as conservative as the ones I have now.” She knows that she won’t use them for awhile but it would still be nice to have them.
Delilah beamed as the queen complimented her. She lowered her head to try and hide the blush that spread across her cheeks and up to her ears. She had never had a queen try on her clothes, much less offer such kind words. She had been but a child the last time the late queen had come to visit Asura, Her father had been a dressmaker then, Delilah following in his footsteps. She had barely gotten a look at the late queen. She was just a year older than the king.
She remembered his first trip he had taken here as king. She remembered helping him try to reconnect with his sisters. The two of them had connected on his first trip back. They hadn't had relations since then but she figured it was better to keep that to herself. Unless Kaillas said a thing, she wouldn't mention anything. There was no reason to. She held no love for Kaillas other than him as her king.
"Hmm," she gave Ophelia a knowing look, "I have a few I can pull for you. Hang tight, I'll be right back." She gone for only a couple of minutes before she returned with a handful of nightgowns. "He didn't see a thing, so don't worry." And even if he had, she doubted he would have known what she was doing.
She was holding four nightgowns, each of varying lengths. One at the ankles, one at mid-calf, one at the knees, and one at mid-thigh. They were all sleeveless. They had straps holding up the gown instead. The first three had a sweetheart neckline which would give a glimpse of cleavage. And the last, and shortest, was a V-neck. It wouldn't leave too much to the imagination. They had bows and ties and buttons. They were less conservative the shorter they were. The two longest had a slit in it that went up to the thigh. She knew Kaillas would enjoy these. Any man would.
Ophelia truly means what she says. Everything she’s seen at the shop has been wonderful. She sees no reason why she shouldn’t offer praise. Everyone wants to be proud of their work and hear that other people enjoy it after all. Besides, she quite likes Delilah so she wants to make sure the woman knows how much her work is appreciated.
Hearing about Kaillas’s past romps isn’t something she enjoys so it’s truly for the best that his and Delilah’s interaction from a few years ago isn’t mentioned. Although she can’t hold it against either of them, it would certainly make things awkward for part of the trip.
She blushes a tad at the look given to her when she makes her request known. Normally she would be too embarrassed to ask for such a thing but she doesn’t know how to pick out anything like this. She needs a little help and it seems as though Delilah has a few ideas so she’s more than willing to let her take the lead.
Watching as Delilah disappears momentarily to fetch a selection of nightgowns, she wonders what the dressmaker has in mind. When the other woman returns with a handful of nightgowns, her curiosity piques. She cant help but notice the varying lengths and the absence of sleeves. “Thank you,” She says lightly when assured that Kaillas is unaware.
Taking the nightgowns from Delilah's hands, Ophelia examines each one, noting the different lengths and necklines. “I honestly have no idea which ones would be best,” She admits lightly. “What would you suggest?” They’re all lovely and there are certain elements about each that she really likes and thinks Kaillas will as well. She’s just not sure.
Delilah looked at the gowns as they were held up to Ophelia. They all looked like they would suit her just fine. It was up to Ophelia to decide what she was comfortable wearing.
She took a step back, humming to herself as she looked it over. "I think it's going to come down to what you're most comfortable wearing. Any one if these would have the king drooling for you. It's based on your preference." She reached forward and grabbed the shortest of them. "If you truly want him on his knees, this would be the one."
She tried not to think of Kaillas on his knees while in the presence of his wife. She woukd never dream of being so disrespectful to even imagine her time with the king. She cleared her throat as she tried to rid herself of these thoughts.
"You could always get a couple of them if you're not able to decide. And you'll be able to surprise the king more than once. Oh-" She held up a finger, signaling she'd be right back. She reappeared a moment later, holding lacy undergarments. "Now these, I don't advertise that I have. I keep them on the down low for certain people. But, I promise, if you wear these for the king, his head might explode."
“You have quite the collection here," Ophelia remarks, her voice laced with amusement. She studies the shortest nightgown, considering it. “I’ll take that one, one of the ones with a slit up the side, and one of your choosing.” She wants to get a few options to both test her comfort levels and to be able to surprise her husband more than once.
As Delilah disappears to retrieve something else, her curiosity grows. When she returns with the lacy undergarments, Ophelia's eyes widen in surprise. Shes never seen anything like these before. She takes them delicately, her fingers grazing over the intricate lacework, wanting to get a better look.
"These are…..just….I don’t even have the word for it," She murmurs as she tries to process all of this. She can’t deny the thrill that courses through her veins at the thought of surprising Kaillas with such intimate attire. She’s never worn anything like these before. “I think I’ll take these as well.” It’s a little bold but she wants to give it a try. She’s never going to know what she does and doesn’t like unless she tries new things.
“Thank you for helping me. I have no idea what I’m doing,” She says softly. Without Delilah’s help on this she would have been clueless. Everything that’s been picked out is stunning but she’s not sure when she’ll get the courage to actually use them. They’ll likely stay tucked away in a drawer for awhile.
Delilah nodded her head, pulling the three gowns off the hangers and folding them up. She left the longest of the nightgowns there. She had hoped the queen wouldn't take it but had pulled it just in case that was what she wanted. She was going to package these carefully and hide them under the gown that Ophelia was currently wearing so Kaillas wouldn't see.
She had a small smirk etched on her lips as Ophelia took in the lacey undergarments she had grabbed. "I'll put my card in the bag as well, in case you would ever like to purchase some more of them," she said with a wink. "A woman needs options."
She folded up the garments and added them to the pile. "We'll, if you'd like to get dressed, meet me up at the front with the gown and I'll ring you up." She pulled the curtain shut.
She went up to the front counter, subtly wrapping the nightgowns and garment in tissue paper and putting them in a beg. She set the bag on the counter, keeping a watchful eye on Kaillas so he didn't spy what was in it.
"I never thought I'd see the day where you got married. I'm happy for you." She had a gentle smile on her face. She truly was happy for Kaillas. He needed something good in his life after everything he had been through.
Kaillas eyed the bag as he aporached but he knew better than to go through a woman's things. "Thank you, Delilah. I am happy. I never thought this would happen either but I'm glad it did."
Ophelia nods as Delilah gave her instructions. Once the woman has stepped out, she takes a few minutes to get out of the dress and into the one she came in. Her excitement grows as she anticipates the surprise she has in store for Kaillas. She hopes that he’ll like it. She carefully folds the gown she had tried on and carries it with her as she makes her way to the front counter.
Upon reaching the counter, she notices the bag with tissue paper, concealing her purchases. A slight blush creeps across her face. She can’t believe that she’s buying those. It’s a big step for her. She keeps her gaze away from Kaillas until the redness in her face dies down. She doesn’t want to give away the surprise.
"Thank you for all of your help today," Ophelia says lightly. "Your kind words mean a great deal to me. We're both grateful for your assistance." This shopping trip wouldn’t have been nearly as successful without Delilah’s help and she knows it. She’s definitely going to hang onto her card and come back.
Delilah folded and packed away the gown Ophelia was purchasing. She secured it with some tissue paper to hide what was beneath the gown. With a second bag, she put the trousers for Katya inside and rang up Kaillas separately for the gift. She added up Ophelia's total and took the payment from Ophelia. She caught the happy look on Kaillas face as the exchange was made. He had always liked giving.
Kaillas smiled as Ophelia purchased the gown. He had a small feeling that the gown was not that much but who was he to question the amounts of clothing. It might have very well been that much. But he decided on the smart choice of keeping his mouth shut. He did the smart thing and only grabbed the bags off the counter and held them in one hand and reach for his wife with the other.
"Thank you Delilah. It's been a pleasure to see you again." Kaillas smiled at the shopkeeper before turning and leading then out of the dress shop.
Delilah waved her hand at him. "Goodbye, Your Majesties. It was wonderful to see you." She winked at Ophelia discretly.
Ophelia hands over the gold coins, feeling rather pleased with her purchases. She didn’t expect to spend this much in one shop but she’s glad that she did. Though still uncomfortable with spending money, she feels like she can relax a little more now. It’s not as awful as she thought it would be.
She thanks Delilah once again before bidding her farewell. If they ever come to this town again, she’s going to want to visit the shop. It’s a charming little store but she mostly enjoys the dressmaker’s quick wit and friendly demeanor. Her shopping experience was only successful because of her.
She returns Delilah's wink with a subtle smile, appreciating the shopkeeper's playful demeanor. She knows that the dressmaker had gone above and beyond to make their visit memorable and enjoyable. As she and Kaillas walk away from the shop, she lets out a happy hum.
What makes her nervous is that Kaillas is carrying the bag. Though she doubts that he would peak, she doesn’t want him to spot what she’s got in there. She glances anxiously at the bag before forcing herself to look forward so she doesn’t seem suspicious.
As they walk hand in hand, Ophelia leans closer to Kaillas. “Where to now?” She asks curiously, wondering what more he’s got planned for them today. She doesn’t doubt that it’s something wonderful.
Kaillas didn't peak inside the bag. Whatever she was hiding, and he could tell she was hiding something, he would let her keep a secret. He squeezed her hand and looked down at her.
"I'm glad you like Delilah. We don't get to see her often but she's a good friend." One of the only true friends he's ever had. She's never been after his money or status. She had her own money and job and she was happy with it. Other than their very brief fling when they first met, they had been nothing more than good friends.
He looked around the square. "Well, we still need to find Elora some fabrics. Luckily, I still remember the shop she adored last time we were here." Granted, it was a couple years ago but they would still carry more mature fabrics than what she had preferred then.
The store was just a little ways down the street. It gave them a chance to look at the town, even if there were heads poking out if every window watching them. The adults were more subtle but the children were not, their head hanging out and waving enthusiastically. He only smiled at their antics and kept walking.
He soon came to the fabric shop and stepped in after Ophelia. "She's looking for soemthung more mature, more adult. You know fabrics better than I, what do you think would fit?"
Ophelia smiles as Kaillas mentions being friends with Delilah. She appreciates that he has genuine connection with her and how she is a true friend to him, unaffected by his status or wealth. It was a rare and precious thing to find such a friendship.
As they continues walking towards the fabric shop, she observes the townspeople's reactions to their presence. The curiosity and excitement of the children is endearing, and she can’t help but wave back with a gentle smile. She would feel bad just ignoring them when they’re so happy and excited.
Upon entering the fabric shop, her eyes scan the array of fabrics displayed. She considers Kaillas's question, her fingers lightly brushing against different materials as she assesses their texture and appearance.
"For a more mature and adult look, I believe fabrics with rich colors and subtle patterns would be fitting," She suggests, her gaze focuses on a deep purple fabric with a delicate floral design. "Something like this," she continues, holding it up for Kaillas to see. "It has an elegant appeal and would suit Elora's evolving taste."
She continues to browse the fabrics, looking for other options that might align with Elora's desired style. Her fingers graze over a navy blue fabric with a subtle sheen. "Or perhaps something like this. It exudes sophistication and can be paired with a variety of colors for versatility."
Kaillas stepped closer to Ophelia as she looked through the fabrics. He reached hand out, thumbing the material before dropping his hand. As long as the fabric wasn't itchy there wasn't much input he could give.
He listened as Ophelia spoke, pulling a couple of fabrics. But instead of looking at it, he looked at Ophelia instead with a gentle smile. "And this is why I brought you along, dear wife," he said with a teasing smile. There was certianly more reason to bringing her than just this.
"Pick whatever fabric she might like. Pick two if you can't choose. Elora will be happy with whatever we bring her." At least this time, he'd bring her back soemthunf she would use.
"And if you see anything you'd like for yourself, don't hesitate to grab it for yourself." All he woukd do was throw it out there. He wouldn't push her to buy something like he had at the first store. She had done good. And he only wanted to push her outside of her comfort zone so much.
Ophelia shakes her head in amusement at his teasing. “You are very lucky to have me,” She informs him playfully, giving his shoulder a light nudge with her own. She enjoys playing around with him like this.
“Let’s get the purple fabric and the blue fabric. That way she has another option if she doesn’t like one.” She has only known Elora for a little over a week so she isn’t too confident about her tastes. She’s just trying to pick out something that’s mature and feminine. These two fabrics ought to do the trick.
“I’m perfectly happy with the gown I bought. I don’t need anything else,” She assures him lightly. Between the gown, the nightgowns, and those lacey undergarments, she’s already purchased more than enough for herself.
Having made the decision on the fabrics quickly, she sets up to the counter to purchase them. “We still need to find a gift for Catalina,” She reminds him, worried that they won’t find anything if they wait until they last minute. It needs to be something special.
Kaillas grinned down at her at their jesting. He placed his hand on her waist briefly, squeezing, before taking a step back. "Or she'll just have two new fabrics to make gowns out of." He was confident she woukd like them both.
He signaled to the shopkeeper to pull both of the fabrics and ring them up. He was pleased that this shop went fairly quickly. The sun was rising in the sky and he was starting to get an appetite for lunch. And he has the perfect place picked out for them.
The shopkeeper rang then up and he paid and they were on their way. "Don't worry, darling, we have all day. We'll find soemthung before the day's end. But for now, how does lunch sound. Something light and easy." They had a heavy breakfast with those stacks of pancakes and their dinner out be heavier as well.
Ophelia smiles when he squeezes her waist. She knows that he doesn’t like being affectionate in public so that little display means a lot to her. “I certainly hope so.” The fabrics are beautiful in her opinion but that doesn’t mean that Elora will agree with her. She just hopes that she will.
The shopkeeper appears very quickly to ring them up. She makes sure to thank him, appreciating how quickly they’re able to get out of this shop. Once they pay the man, she leads the way back out into the midst of the market. “I know that we have time but I prefer to have everything sorted at the beginning so we don’t have to stress later.”
“Lunch sounds nice. What did you have in mind?” She has no doubt in her mind that Kaillas has something planned. So far everything he’s set up has been great so she’s happy to go along with everything that he suggests.
"She'll love it. Both of my sisters will. Try not to fret." If Kaillas knew one thing about his sisters, it's that they were grateful for the things given to them. He had raised them to be humble and not to take things for granted. The death of their family had helped to instill that in them.
He hadn't known how to raise girls, he still didn't, but he knew how to keep them from being spoiled brats. And he knew how to do that without using what he'd learned in the army. It had taken time but they had worked out their kinks and dynamics. It most flowed now but they still had their bumps.
Kaillas took her hand again as they walked outside. "Something easy on the stomach," was all he said. They walked a few blocks in silence. Kaillas was enjoying the quiet. Well, as quiet as it could be with the few people shouting from their homes. It was a sunny day, warm and comfortable, and he had a beauotful woman by his sjde. He couldn't ask for more.
They came upon a white building with lavender accents. There was a sign that read The Lavender House. They had specialty teas and soups and sandwiches. It was a popular luncheon spot. He knew his sisters quite enjoyed visiting here. He only hoped that Ophelia would.
He held the door open for her, following after her. Having known this was his next spit, a few guards were already inside, taking up position. The owner was at the front to greet them. "Your Majestsies, welcome. We have your table ready for you."
Their table was in a private room in the back if the restaurant. There were no windows and two exit points should they need to make a quick get away. No one was counting on trouble bit they jad to be prepared. They were the king and queen.
Ophelia hums quietly to herself as Kaillas holds her hand and leads her towards their next destination. She appreciates the peaceful walk and the warmth of the sun on her skin. It is a welcome respite from all of life’s worries.
As they approach the restaurant, she notices the guards already inside, discreetly taking up their positions. It is a painful reminder of the constant need for security that comes with their positions. She understands the necessity but cant help but feel a twinge of sadness at the loss of normalcy.
Entering The Lavender House, She takes in the cozy atmosphere and the delightful aroma of teas and food. The restaurant is adorable and charming. She already loves it. When the owner comes over to greet them, she happily greets them in response and compliments how lovely this place is.
Following the owner to the private room, she settles into her seat and glances around the enclosed space. It feels intimate and safe, allowing her to relax a little. The guards are posted just outside of the room so it’s just them in here. She does enjoy that.
Kaillas pulled out the chair for Ophelia to sit before sitting across from her. He had his back to the wall and was facing the door. And old habit from the army he never could quite lose. He always had to have the door in his sight.
There were two guards posted in the room and the rest were outside and scattered in the rest of the restaurant. It was irritating but something Kaillas had come to ignore. After so many years, he had begun to get used to it. And it was still elss than what he would have if he were back at the palace.
There were two menus in front of them but Kaillas already knew what he was going to order. There two glasses of water in front of them and two empty teacups should they wish for tea. It wasn't his favorite but should Ophelia wish for some he would gladly indulge.
They were guevn a minute before their waitress approached them. "Good afternoon," she said, almost squeaking. She was young. This must be her first time working here since he had come to visit. "What can I get you both started with to drink, Your Magesties?" She had dipped into a small curtsy, looking at the table rather than either of them.
Thanking Kaillas, she takes her seat. She takes a moment to lean back and relax a little in her seat. She offers a small smile, watching as he joins her at the table. The reasoning of where he's sitting is lost on her. She's lived a pretty sheltered life so she wouldn't even think about needing to face the door for safety measures.
She's admittedly annoyed that the guards have to stay in the room with them but she won't say anything. Their presence is necessary to keep them safe but it means that they rarely get a chance alone. She turns her attention to the menu, not wanting to think about that right now. There's no need to ruin the good mood by getting all up in her head about the guards when they're just doing their job.
Turning her attention to the waitress, she offers a light smile. The poor girl looks nervous. It seems like she's pretty new to the job. "I'd love a cup of peppermint tea, please," She requests lightly before looking over to Kaillas to see what he wants. As for food, she'll likely get a cucumber sandiwich. It'll be light and refreshing, the perfect meal after such a heavy breakfast.
Wanting to make things easy for the girl, Kaillas said, "I'll have the same." She offered them a small smile before scurrying off. He shook his head, waiting until the door clicked shut.
"I cannot fathom who thought it would be a good idea to have young and inexperienced waitress care of us." He wasn't irritated because someone so young was taking care of them. He was upset at how nervous she seemed. He didn't want to make the poor girl uncomfortable and ultimately mess up because of how nervous she was. He made a mental note to tip her well.
He had handed the bags all off to a guard vefore they had entered who, in turn, had hurried to take it back to their vacation home. This way he wouldn't be carrying around a bunch if bags all day. This freed up his hands for more things.
He reached across the table to take Ophelia's hand. He smiled gently as he squeezed ut. "Have you decided what you like to have for lunch, darling?"
"I have no idea why they would do this to that poor girl," Ophelia says with a light frown. She has no doubt that the waitress is doing her best but it just isn't fair that they expect her to do this. Hopefully they won't prove to be challenging customers for her. She wants to make this as easy as possible for the waitress so she doesn't get too stressed out or overwhelmed.
When the guards approach to take the bags, she's offers a nod of thanks. It'll be easier for them to walk around and enjoy themselves if they don't have to worry about keeping up with their purchases.
She intertwines her fingers with his, smiling softly at him. "I think I'm going to get the cucumber sandwich. It sounds light and refreshing. What are you going to get?"
She doesn't think she's ever going to get tired of hearing him call her such sweet and affectionate names. It's something simple but it means a lot to her. She strokes the top of his hand lightly as she lets her mind wander. Things have been so perfect lately. It's all felt like a wonderful dream. She doesn't want it to end.
Kaillas smiled as he felt her fingers stroking the top of his skin on his hand. It was a small gesture that he would be comfortable with. Even with only guards in their presence he didn't feel quite comfortable showing much affections. He viewed it as something that should be done only in privacy.
He nodded his head at her choice. "I think I'll get the bisque soup. I had it last time and I quite enjoyed it." And he liked to eat things he knew he already liked. He didn't like trying new things if it wasn't necessary. He was a simple man and like simple things. And it had been very good last time.
The waitress entered the room once more and he pulled his hand back, placing it in his lap. She poured the peppermint tea into both of their teacups and placed a sugar caddy and honey on the table should they so desire it.
She cleared her throat. "Were you both ready to order did you need just a few more minutes?" Though she was still timid, she sounded more steady. There was no quiver in her voice this time.
Kaillas looked at Ophelia before smiling up at the waitress. "I think we are ready. Darling, would you like to start?"
