Paralyzed

Chapter Three

The next morning, I awoke feeling more alive than ever. Last night was unforgettable — the duke was unforgettable.Once my maid had me dressed, I made my way downstairs to find my family in the piano room.

"There's our little diamond." My mother smiled with pure happiness. "Tell us all about last night. You fell right asleep the moment Lady Danbury brought you home."

I laughed. "I suppose I was quite tired."

"Tell us all about the duke!" Lucy ran over to me and sat on my lap as I took a seat on the couch.

"He was very kind and..."

"Very handsome" My mother finished.

"Mother!" I laughed.

My sister continued to beg. "Tell us more. Did you kiss him?"

"Now Lucy, you know it is improper for a lady to kiss a man without being married to him."

"Exactly" I lied. "There's not much to say about last night. The duke and I danced, I socialized as much as possible, and then I came home."

"Boring" Victor sighed.

We all went silent for a moment until I decided to question my mother. "I should like to promenade with Mr Bridgerton this morning, mama?"

"I suppose after last nights events, that should be all right."

"Thank you." I raced to grab my coat and headed out the door to the Bridgerton estate.

I knocked on their door until little Hyacinth opened the door. "Alice!" She hugged my legs as she was still very short.

"Hyacinth!" I kneeled down to hugged her back. When we pulled away I asked, "Do you know where your brother, Benedict, is?"

"I'm right here" He interrupted as he joined by my side, adjusting his coat. "Sorry I'm late."

"Can I join you two?" Hyacinth begged.

Benedict and I looked at each other before he explained, "Maybe another time."

    He and I made our way to the park. It was an exquisite morning. A light breeze that danced around and the warmth of the shining sun. The scent of fresh lavender lingered in the air and blended perfectly with the small of the fresh grass.

"You left the soirée early last night" I explained.

He laughed. "My brother thought it best if we left early to leave Daphne's suitor's wanting more."

I shook my head. "The Viscount is to ruin every chance of marriage for her."

"Daphne and my mother are beginning to see the same thing."

I decided to then change the subject as I was sick of talking of Daphne and Anthony. "So, tell me Benedict, how goes your search for love?"

He shook his head and laughed. "Why does it matter? I am not the diamond of the season."

"Yes, but you are a very handsome and talent man who deserves someone." I explained.

"You're too kind, Miss Sinclair." He thanked. "I will admit, there is one girl who has caught my eye for a while."

I became very exited. "Do tell"

"In good time, my dear."

"So secretive" I sighed.

    When night fell, I returned with Benedict to his home as tonight his family was to host dinner. My family was already at the household when we had returned, but another was seated at the table as well — Simon.