[2] The Queen Mother of Württemberg | A. Bridgerton

Chapter 4

The Mystery Diamond

There is nothing quite like the sweet-scented smell of success. But after taking in the scene from last night's festivities, it is clear the season won't be quite so fragrant for everyone.

The Viscount Bridgerton's own mama may have loudly declared his lofty intentions to marry, yet I cannot be the only one wondering if this former Capital-R Rake is, indeed, ready to flourish.

Perhaps the Viscount, like the rest of us, is simply waiting for the Queen to finally name her diamond.

Or perhaps this author should take matters into her own hands.

Buckingham House, London

The Queen of England and the Queen Mother of Württemberg reunited over for breakfast to discuss the first ball of the season. The meal is served with precision, a symphony of culinary delights presented by attentive staff. Delicate scones, fresh fruits, and exquisite pastries grace the table.

Though everything was going smoothly until Lady Whistledown Society Papers were delivered to the two Queens.

"I shall not be hustled into making my selection," she stated. "Not by anyone."

"Of course, Your Majesty," Brimsley nodded.

"Take this away," the Queen handed him her sheet. "And bring me a list of the peerage."

"Yes, Your Majesty," he bowed his head before going to do as he was told.

"I'm sure at tonight's Ball you will get your chance to choose your diamond, Mama," Charlotte said. "Given the fact that another family has joined the social season, now there will be more young debutants to impress you."

"You mean the Sharmas?" the Queen sighed. "I expect nothing from that family."

"Expect the unexpected, Mama," Charlotte lightly smiled. "Who knows? Perhaps this season will be even greater than the previous one."

ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ

Though, of the many purportedly well-trained and bred hothouse flowers on display this year, this author must wonder if a more surprising choice might still be in store.

Whichever darling miss receives such high esteem, let us hope there is a suitor available of only the sharpest wit, lest his dry musings leave a young lady wilting like a parched rose.

Bridgerton House, London

"Lady Goring was quite taken with Eloise's dress last night, Madame Delacroix. She would keep saying how well it complemented her complexion," the Dowager Viscountess informed the modiste and then looked at her daughter. "She said you reminded her of Daphne, dearest."

"I am not Daphne," Eloise stated, her eyes never leaving the book in her hand.

"This is the one," her mother selected a fabric.

"Ah. With pleasure, Lady Bridgerton," Madame Delacroix smiled and nodded at her assistant.

"You do know, Eloise, that you might enjoy the next ball if you, in fact, danced with someone," Violet said. "Meeting new people, it can be thrilling."

"Yes, it certainly seemed as though Anthony had a thrilling time," she said sarcastically. "Swept away by many a nimble-footed young lady, Brother?"

"I can still barely feel my toes," he stated. "I thought you ladies were taught to dance."