12 Chapter 12

"Fraulein Schaeffer, hello."

The minute the gentleman came her way, she could tell by the gleam in his gaze that he appreciated the way she looked in the form-fitting gown-an emerald-green taffeta, strapless, backless, and with a slit up the side. As the British ambassador to France, Wilfred Kendall held a very distinguished post here as well as the title of "Sir Wilfred" back home. Of medium height and a bit on the portly side, he possessed rosy features, slate-blue eyes and a shock of snow white hair. Tonight, he wore an impeccable tuxedo with tails and a white silk handkerchief in the breast pocket.

"Ah, Ambassador Kendall, what a pleasure; but I would love it if you would call me Ilsa."

The older man graciously scooped up her hand and deposited a kiss on the top. Her diamond bracelet--part of the matching set of necklace and stud earrings--shimmered in the light of the drawing room's multi-tiered chandelier.