A Troubled Romantic <<Bridgerton>>

Chapter One: Returns

It was after the royal wedding of Queen Charlotte and King George, the Abernathy family was welcomed as the newest members of the ton. Their title was merited given their royal African ancestry and riches.

Three decades later, Gabriel Abernathy got married to Giselle, the most beautiful flower of Alindouar; an African Empire. She soon gave birth to magnificent children; a son, followed by a daughter. Gabriel was the happiest man and father alive. Unfortunately, Giselle passed away leaving behind her beloved husband and her most precious children.

It was a sad moment that encouraged Gabriel to move back to his homeland with his daughter to mourn. His son, since birth could not adapt to society and got sent to an institution that could deal with it better than he could. It was a painful moment and their comrades from the ton supported them in all ways they could. The Abernathys are an exemplary family that never saw their difference as an obstacle in the British society. They are admired and wealthy and thus are loved by all, especially the Bridgertons, with whom they had a strong friendship.

Edmund Bridgerton taught the ropes of society to Gabriel and helped him integrate with the ton in his younger days. Later on, he helped Anthony get on his feet after Edmund passed away. During the time Gabriel spent with the Bridgertons, Gregory and Lucy forged a great friendship at their tender age. They basically grew up together until Lucy had to move away after her mother's death. Gregory could understand the pain of losing a loved one as he also experienced his family's grief after their father's passing.

Sorrows.. Prayers...

A few years later, on one busy morning at the Bridgerton home, a dainty ball was being hosted. A black carriage with golden ornaments stopped in front of the mansion. As Lucinda's feet touched the ground, she deeply inhaled to fill her lungs with the air she hadn't breathed in a long time. It felt like forever when she left for her hometown due to her mother's passing. She was thrilled to be back, and most delighted at the stop by the house where she spent most of her childhood.

Lucinda stormed off into the mansion, and no one, not even the footmen noticed her presence. The main hall was hectic as the servants were hurried up and down due to the preparations. Lucinda looked around in awe, realising how nothing had changed, deeply hoping that was the case with her longtime friend Gregory.

They did not exchange many letters due to the massive distance.. and.. well.. Lucy did not feel eager to communicate when she was in grief.

Lucy quickly snapped out when she felt a heavy load on her chest as a servant handed her what seems like a mountain of fabric. She was so confused and realised she might have been mistaken for a servant. Well.. she did not exactly dressed according to her status.

Violet was making her way to the hall to oversee the preparations when she saw a little girl standing in the middle of the hall, looking disoriented. As she approached, she realised it was

"LUCY! Heavens! is that you?!"

Lucy quickly turned to the voice and warmly smiled to the site of Lady Bridgerton. Violet signed a servant who quickly came to pick up the stack of fabric that was left in Lucy's care. Violet gave Lucy a warm embrace

"Your visit is unexpected. I had no knowledge of you being back to Mayfair.

Lucy answered with the broadest smile
"We just arrived and my father thought it wise to greet you".

"That is lovely" Violet responded. She was rejoiced to see Lucy did not loose her brightness due to her loss.

A few paces behind, Gabriel made his entrance and greeted Violet.

"Mother, have the guests already arrived?" Kate asked in a distance.

"I guess introductions are in order. This is Gabriel Abernathy and his daughter Miss Lucinda Abernathy"