The Duchess of York (Colin Bridgerton)

1) The Duchess

The Duchess' POV

My Father told me of the importance of my marriage before his death. I was told that love was of little significance. My marriage was to be for York. To find a suitor able to carry the weight of the work that must be done. I hadn't envisioned on marrying so young but with my father's death and my mother having died in child birth, I am left with no choice but to become a wife.

Having missed the presentation day, Lady Danbury wrote a letter to the Queen on my behalf to ensure that I could still participate in this years season. To my surprise the Queen ever so nicely accepted.

The carriage ride seemed to last far too long and my tiredness exceeded my expectations. I hadn't visited London since visiting my good friend Simon before his wedding. My Father and Lady Danbury used to be good friends, so we grew up rather close. I was most impressed when the word of Daphne and the Duke came out, she was most beautiful like a breath of fresh air, someone whom could tame the Duke. I had taken a liking to Daphne from the moment I found out about there little ordeal, pretending to be smitten when in actual fact it was for show. The two should have known better than to play with fire. Although I have only met the Duchess of several occasions, she has always been most welcoming and I am told by Simon that she is a great mother and a loyal wife. She is all I hope to be.

Looking through gap in the carriage I could see buildings and began to hear voices, trees and the smell of bakery's. I had arrived in London at last. We came to a halt, and my workers brought the step down, ready for me to vacate. I held onto the hand of the man waiting for me and took in deep breath of the city air.

"Welcome your Grace, we have been expecting your arrival for quite some hours now." I could recognise that voice anywhere.

"Now, Lady Danbury. There is such little need for the formalities. Annabelle Rothwingham is my name. You may call me just that." I smiled as she came closer taking a hold of my arm.

"Oh Annabelle, do tell me are you well?" Lady Danbury asked leading me towards what used to be my family home when in London.

"My Papa is missed everyday, but I am through the grief and onto my future as a Duchess. As you know, I hadn't hoped to marry, not for at least another two seasons. Though I have now found myself without a choice. I need to find a Duke for York. I need to know that for if I was to die someone would be able to take control and look after York and all the residences." I spoke with some pain in my voice.

"Do sit down, Annabelle. You needn't worry. You will find a suitor, I assure you of that. The first ball is tonight. Your dress has been delivered and you will be most delighted to Hear of the Duke and Duchess of Hasting's return."

I looked up from my position sat in the coffee lounge.

"Really Simon and Daphne are here?" I was delighted with the news.

"Yes, however no one is aware of your arrival, I have taken it upon myself to escort you tonight. Shall you need any firmer assistance I am sure that Simon would suit fit." Lady Danbury had a way with words.

"How ever am I going to thank you, Lady Danbury. You have never shown me anything but kindness."

"By allowing me to help you find a suitor of course" A slight pause was taking before she gave me a sly wink, "See you tonight, your grace". Lady Danbury left the building.

I had known about tonight's ball, I had felt anxious for the two months when pondering about it. For this was my first event without my father. No one was to know I was coming and I had made that clear to Lady Danbury. I didn't want anyone to start making assumptions that I was desperate. Which indeed I was but only for a Duke of course. Not a husband. I am anxious about having to fend of any man who seeks something other than my wishes. This world is a scary place for women. I must take all precautions to keep myself safe.

"Lilly." I spoke a little louder hoping my maid had heard me.

"Yes your grace" She had speedily walked into the room.

"May I prepare for a nap before the ball tonight, but do ensure I wake up with more than enough time to prepare myself. I'm finding the next Duke of York tonight" I expressed with a slight grin on my face.

"Of course your grace".

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I somehow managed to binge watch Bridgerton in a day. Anyone else?

I was hesitant at first with how they had modernised a show set in the 1800's as I love all tradition periodic shows and films. However I am thankful for this one I am completely obsessed and looking forward to season 2.

Let me know what you think so far. Larger chapters are coming.

K x