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"Yes, Miss, can I help you?"
"I'm looking for a mackintosh."
"May I suggest the off-white cape, with a hood. These are very popular at the present time."
Amanda was on the rainwear floor of a major London store. She had just started in a new job and it was important that she looked at her best. Until now, she had owned a rather scruffy gaberdine raincoat,which had attracted only scornful looks from her friends.
The sales assistant brought out two capes and laid them on a chair.
"I'm not sure which is best. You're quite tall and this one might be a little short," said the assistant, indicating.
Amanda drew it over her shoulders and gave a small hiss of delight.
She had not expected this! This was exciting. This was different!
"You may wish to use the long mirror, Miss, to help you."
Amanda buttoned herself into the cape; it rustled softly as she reached down to connect the small tab button.
She brought the hood up over her head, securing it with a white button at the throat.
"You may wish to walk towards the door, Miss, to ensure it's a perfect fit."
What Amanda had been looking for had finally arrived. The soft caressing motion of her hands inside the rubber lining, the swish of the cape as she walked - this was quality and style. Pure pleasure.
But it was more than that. The cape enfolded her, enhanced her, protected her. Imagine the envy of her colleagues when she brought it to work - someone like Nicola, her best friend.
And right on cue, Nicola emerged from the lift onto the sales floor - a beautiful, slightly wilful, high-sprited girl, not easy to please.
"Amanda, you look wonderful! Is this what a mackintosh cape does for you?"
"Nicola, I just love it! And I'd always been told they were such drab affairs."
"Well, I'd better see what it does for me."
Ten minutes later, she wore the same smile of satisfaction as she moved her hands inside the cape and turned towards Amanda.
"You were right. It does something for me too. Something special....."
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