A Wallflower's Discoveren

Chapter 2 - Calling Hours

The Bridgerton family's dining hall was abuzz with the usual chatter and clattering of silver on china. The second Bridgerton son, Benedict, was enthusiastically recounting one of his recent adventurous exploits to their youngest siblings when Anthony strode in, drawing the attention of all present.

"Well, don't you look refreshed this morning, dearest?" The dowager Viscountess Violet Bridgerton remarked with an arched brow, taking in Anthony's newly barbered appearance. His dark locks were neatly trimmed, and his strong jaw was cleanly shaven - quite the transformation from his usual slightly rumpled visage.

Anthony offered his mother a tight smile as he took his seat at the head of the table. "I have... affairs to attend to after breakfast. It's only best I present myself properly."

His siblings traded curious looks, for it was unlike the Viscount to be conscientious about his grooming unless an important societal function was imminent. Anthony Bridgerton just waved off their silent inquiries as he tucked into his meal with uncharacteristic haste.

True to form, his insatiably inquisitive and teasing brother Benedict could not resist prodding. "Just what pressing 'affair' has you primping like a prospective groom this fine morning, brother?"

Anthony leveled his younger brother with a look that could feel lesser men. "I will be going out to call on a lady after breaking my fast. It is only proper I make an effort, though I don't expect you to understand such niceties. Given you do not declare any plans of settling down anytime soon."

A hush fell over the breakfast table as Anthony subtly announced his intention for marriage. Violet, keeping to herself the delight and excitement on the news, posed the question on everyone's minds; just which lady had captured Anthony's sudden interest.

"Now dearest, who is this fortunate lady you intend to call upon, my son?" Violet gives a conspiratorial smile.

Before Anthony could respond, however, Eloise's puckish voice piped up from down the table. "Fortunate? I dare say unlucky is more fitting for whichever poor woman has found herself the target of Anthony's mercurial affections."

Anthony simply shook his head with a fond but exasperated look. Leave it to Eloise to gleefully puncture any romantic notions with her characteristically blunt barbs. "Now, now, no need to frighten the poor girl off before I've even begun my suit." He knew his family meant well, but their teasing could be relentless.

"Oh come now, surely you can tell your own mother!" Violet cajoled. "We are all just delighted to see you finally taking an interest in this season."

Benedict chimed in slyly. "Yes, do enlighten us brother. Unless the lady in question is a potential source of scandal?" He quirked an amused brow.

Squaring his shoulders, Anthony replied evenly. "I assure you, the lady's reputation is above reproach. She's intelligent and kind, just perfect for the role of Viscountess." His gaze drifted momentarily as he thought of his interaction with Penelope, her gentle smile, her soft voice and her beautiful crystal sky blue eyes. "She is the very picture of grace and propriety."

Eloise caught the oddly wistful tone in her brother's voice and her protective instincts kicked in. There are only a few among the ladies of the ton who can be considered intelligent. But before she could probe further, Anthony excused himself. "I'm afraid I must now attend to this matter. I have a visit to the florist that needs to be done. It would not be good to come calling on the lady's house empty-handed, wouldn't it? We'll have to continue this inquisition another time."

Without awaiting a response, Anthony swept from the room, the rhythmic click of his boot heels fading down the hall. Benedict watched him go, bemused skepticism written across his features.