'Since I've laid my eyes on you' | BRIDGETON

season's diamond

'See those delightful flowers over there, mother?' Celestia exclaimed as she gazed at the nature around the park's lake.

'They truly are, darling.' Catherine replied Celestia pulled her arm towards the lake.
'Florence, you haven't spoken a word since breakfast.'

'It is nothing, mama.'

'I can tell when you're lying.' Catherine suspiciously raised her brows.

'I cannot find a way how to stop worrying about Whistledown's article. It is bearded in my mind as we speak.' Florence spilled all of her thoughts at once which left her mother speechless.
'I'll always be aware of the fact that I should have been more careful with that man.'

'It is my responsibility to keep you safe and happy. We will find you a suitable husband this season and you'll never have to worry about our reputation again.' Catherine took her daughter's hands into hers. Her mother misunderstood the fact Florence wasn't waiting for a husband to save her. She wished to be free and capable herself.

'People are giving us looks.'

'They aren't. I spoke with lady Danbury and she has said there is a great deal or adequate suitors for you hands. I believe it is the desperate women talking poorly about our family.'

'Do tell, mother.' Celestia became interested in the conversation again.

'Lady Danbury mentioned the Bridgerton brothers.'

'They appear to be truly handsome gentlemen.' Celestia dreamed about their splendid faces for a moment, looking down.

'Don't be fooled by appearance, sister.' Florence added as she remembered Raymond Bridgerton.

'Don't be so judgemental, sister.' Florence imagined her sister marrying one of the Bridgertons and only the thought of being apart of their family made her feel sick in the stomach. If Raymond Bridgerton had no proper upbringing his brothers couldn't have been any better.

'I am certain we will see at tomorrow's ball.'

'We will see Albert's cerise face when Lottie will enter the room.' Celestia giggled, making Florence join her. Their mother said nothing, she suppressed a smile though.

They were headed into Ms. Delacroix's shop. It wasn't exactly full. However, she was just being overwhelmed by Mrs. Featherington's demands as they walked in.

'I would be able to read a whole book and even that wouldn't be enough time for her.' Eloise Bridgerton complained to her friend Penelope which Florence happened to hear.
'Oh, you must be Florence Everleigh.' She spoke as Florence gazed at her.

'Indeed. It seems everybody has figured that out since Lady Whistledown's new print.'

'Perhaps. I assumed that based on meeting you here at this very moment. All of our neighbours are aware Mrs. Featherington comes in here at this hour.' She explained, looking at her watch.

'What are you here for then?' Florence assumed it was gossip.

'Penelope.' She glanced to the right side at her smiling ginger friend.
'We were just discussing Whistledown actually.'

'Penelope Featherington. Nice to meet you.' The ginger grinned at Florence, arms over her belly.

'Oh, I almost forgot to introduce myself. Eloise Bridgerton.' She chuckled awkwardly.

'All she can think about is Lady Whistledown. She's been trying to figure out her identity since last season.' Penelope said.

'You're a fan?' Florence frowned.