The Season's Debut

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"Introducing, Lady Estoria Ledger," the announcer proclaimed.

Violet and the rest of the Bridgerton family turned their heads toward the newest member of society. A hush fell over the room as every eye sought out the mysterious debutante.

"Estoria?" Prince Ambrose's mood instantly shifted from boredom to keen interest. He usually avoided these social gatherings, but his mother had insisted he participate in the season's wife hunt. Although she would never admit it, he was her favorite, and she secretly hoped he would find a match that would make him happy, royal status be damned.

"Accompanied by her mother," the announcer continued, then paused, glancing again at the introduction card with visible surprise, "Lady Danbury."

Gasps reverberated through the hall.

Violet Bridgerton would have collapsed if Anthony had not caught her, her shock mirrored by the collective astonishment of the room.

Even the Queen seemed taken aback, her regal composure slipping for a moment as she processed the unexpected revelation.

All eyes turned to the latest scandal in their midst, but what they found was a vision of grace and beauty. Lady Estoria was stunning, her presence commanding the room in an entirely different manner than her unconventional introduction had suggested.

Then she smiled.

A smile that could thaw the coldest hearts, a smile that promised secrets and whispered of stories untold. Prince Ambrose found himself captivated.





Earlier that Day

"I don't think I'm ready to be out in society, Mother," Estoria said softly, her gaze pleading. "I just got here, and I thought we could spend some time together."

Over the years, Estoria had blossomed not only in beauty but also in intelligence and grace.

Keeping to their promise, Estoria was kept out of the limelight. She had been brought to the castle on rare occasions when she was younger, until her mother discovered her friendship. Instead of explaining to Estoria why it was best to stay away from the royals, they simply stopped bringing her back to the ton.

She spent most of her time with her father. While her mother had to maintain appearances in the Ton, she came and went. Despite the challenges, she remained true to her promise of being the best mother she could be under the circumstances. Every three weeks, she returned to the French manor for two weeks, ensuring Estoria knew she was loved through letters and tokens of affection. Estoria, in turn, sent her drawings and flower crowns, while her mother crafted paper rings and her father sent paper crowns with each letter. Her mother treasured every item they sent, cherishing her little family deeply.

Though she felt guilty for loving Estoria more than her other children, she couldn't deny the love she shared with Edgar. Despite Lord Danbury's desires, which resulted in four additional children, she found solace in her bond with Edgar. It was too late to repair her relationships with her other children, but she vowed not to repeat her mistakes with Estoria.


Sadly, Lord Ledger passed away when Estoria was thirteen. Both Estoria and Agatha were devastated. Estoria had lost her lifeline, while Agatha mourned her first love.

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