“May I have my money, please?” He extended a hand, offering her the money. She reached for it. He closed his hand around the coins. “Once you give me the gown.” “What?” “If I pay you for your work, it’s only fair that I get the gown.” “For what purpose?” He shrugged. “I haven’t decided. I could donate it to a home for pensioned opera dancers. Sink it to the bottom of the Thames for the eels to enjoy. Hang it over the front door to ward off evil spirits. There are so many choices.” “I . . . Your Grace, I can have it delivered tomorrow. But I must have the money today.” He tsked. “That would be
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