The Duchess of York (Colin Bridgerton)

2) The ball (part 1)

The Duchess POV

It had taken me some time to fall asleep, what feels like 20 minutes later I was awoke again by Lilly. I felt groggy and underprepared for the night ahead of me.

Sat in front of the mirror I frowned at the tight gear being brought upon me. Lilly tried reassuring me that once the corset was on, I would be fine. It appears that it was half true. The deep blue dress was put on me and I felt somewhat empowered. A changed woman, with confidence. Someone I didn't recognise, someone I wasn't allowed to be. This daring colour may have been a little much. I found myself doubting my competence when Lady Danbury walked in styling a lavish red dress.

"Oh, Annabelle. You look rather lovely tonight" Her charming voice was raspier than usual.

"Lady Danbury, thank you. But you are the one who should be receiving all compliments tonight, that dress is astounding."

"Well I am the host after all my dear."

"If you are host, Lady Danbury. Shouldn't you be at Danbury house greeting your guests?" I queried.

"Now that wouldn't be fun, I want to be by your side when you enter the grand hall. I made a promise to your Father, I shall see to it that you marry but not just anyone." She smiled.

"Now come along, a grand entrance is what I desire, not a late one." I held onto her hand as we made our way to the carriage.

The ride was short, my nerves increasing as we got closer to the Danbury house. The roads seemed quiet which could only mean one thing. Everyone is at the ball.

Once again I found myself vacating a carriage. I made my way into the peaceful foyer and up the stairs that led to the balcony of the grand hall.

"Annabelle, I am afraid this is where we part ways. I am needed on the centre stage. Go shine your grace. Your Father would be proud." Lady Danbury left me.

Eyes where on me, the guards leading up to the room knew my identity. A mistake, perhaps this was. It took everything in me to not turn around and be on my way. I reached the door, palms somewhat wet and my chest un easy. Though that might have been partly my tight corset.

My head was held high as the grand tall white and gold doors opened, the string quartet still playing but no person was to be heard. My feet took action, guiding me down the stair case of royal carpet and leading me onward to the Duke and Duchess of Hastings.

I heard whispers as I made my entrance.

"That's the Duchess"

"Her Father died merely six months ago, surely she should not be here"

"Well perhaps we can try again next season"

I smiled once I had made eye contact with Simon. He slightly bowed his head as I put one foot behind the other curtseying for the Duke.

"Your Grace, I hadn't known of your arrival. Are you well?" Daphne spoke after her curtsy beside the Duke.

Once Daphne spoke the rest of the room seemed to fade away in the background.

"Please no formalities. Lady Annabelle shall be fine. I am quite well thank you Daphne, how about the both of you?"

"I am shocked to see you, I was sorry to hear about the death of your Father Annabelle. I just haven't had time to write." It was Simons turn to speak.

Daphne seemed shocked to hear the news of my Father but she must have known, she greeted me so formally. Simon had shocked me when I didn't receive a letter of condolence. He didn't show any interest in the funeral either. I had wondered if I had upset him in some way but thought perhaps he was busy with his new role as a Father himself. I am well aware of what the Duke is like.

"You needn't worry Simon, all is water under the bridge." I smiled.

"Very well. Shall I introduce you to the rest of the Bridgerton's?" Simon offered.

"Of course." Once again smiling, as a lady does.

We walked closer to a group consisting of three men and two women.

"Lady Bridgerton, may I introduce you to an old friend of mine, the Duchess of York. Lady Annabelle Rothwingham." The group immediately curtsied after my title was announced.

"What an honour it is to meet you, your grace." One of the men stepped forward and took my hand kissing my silk glove.

"Annabelle this is Lady Eloise, Daphne's younger sister and here we have Viscount Anthony Bridgerton, Benedict and Colin, Daphne's brothers. You might remember Anthony from when I came home from boarding school." Simon pointed as he introduced everyone.

"I believe I do remember you vaguely, what a pleasure it is to see you again my lord." I spoke softly.

"It is quite pleasing to see you again your grace, I see you have grown up some since we last met." I turned a slight crimson colour as he spoke.

"I see you are charming as ever." I nodded slightly.