She picked up the latest pattern books from Viyella and looked at them, barely giving the latest fashion of hobble skirts a second look before throwing the books back on the desk; she just couldn’t settle. She decided to take a walk through the store, which usually made her feel more relaxed and ready to take on her duties. She’d go and see how Bert was getting on with Jane, down in the warehouse, after visiting each department.

‘Morning, Mrs Fox.’ The waitress quickly curtsied and then went about her business as she served the demanding visitors in the upstairs tea-room.

‘Morning, Grace.’ Isabelle prided herself that she knew every one of her staff and always made a point of remembering their names. Heads turned as she walked around her welcoming tea-room. She spoke to the people she knew, and watched as they ate delicately cut sandwiches or fancies and cream cakes while chatting to their friends and neighbours. Atkinson’s was the place to be seen, and the clientele reflected this, with only the best-dressed people and the highly reputable eating there.

‘Isabelle, my dear, how lovely to see you. I trust you are keeping well?’ Lady Crofts caught her by the wrist.

‘Yes, thank you, extremely well. And you?’ Isabelle smiled at the round-figured elderly woman, who was known by everyone and was a terrible gossip.

‘Yes, I’m fine, dear. Just enjoying some of your delicious cakes with my friends. We were all hoping to catch a glimpse of that husband of yours – he’s a dashing fellow and such a charmer.’ Lady Crofts smiled and looked round at the group of ladies, who hung on her every word.

‘I’m afraid he is in Leeds today, at our shop in the Queens Arcade, along with my new seamstress. They won’t be back until much later.’ Isabelle smiled and looked around at the wealthily dressed group, most of whom were clad in her designs.

‘That’s such a pity, my dear, but still we have enjoyed spending a moment with you. And we just needed an excuse to visit your store and catch up with any news over a nice cup of tea.’ Lady Crofts picked up her teacup and took a long sip, before turning her back on Isabelle, putting an end to their conversation.

Isabelle walked away and made for the doorway before looking back at the group, who were intent on gossiping. She noticed that they were all looking at her as she left the busy tea-room, and she smiled. If they were talking about her, then at least they were leaving someone else alone. And what they didn’t know they made up, she thought, as she made her way down to the warehouse.