The Viscount Who Loved Me | Anthony Bridgerton

Chapter Twelve

The morning sun streamed through the tall windows of Windsor Manor, casting a warm glow on the drawing room where Katherine Windsor, the Dowager Duchess of Windsor, sat with her mother, Countess Eleanor Arlington, and Dowager Viscountess Violet Bridgerton. The room buzzed with the excitement of their grand endeavor: planning the Windsor ball, an exclusive event that would mark Katherine's triumphant return to society.

Katherine, ever the picture of poise, held a list in her hands, her eyes scanning the names meticulously. "Mother, Violet, thank you both for joining me today. We have a monumental task ahead, but I am confident that with your assistance, this ball will be the talk of the season."

Countess Eleanor Arlington, her elegant features reflecting a mixture of pride and determination, nodded. "Of course, Katherine. It is time for society to remember the grace and grandeur of Windsor Manor. We shall leave no stone unturned."

Violet Bridgerton, her eyes twinkling with enthusiasm, added, "It has been far too long since I have been involved in such a grand affair. I am delighted to lend my expertise."

Katherine smiled warmly at the two women, feeling a surge of gratitude. "Thank you both. Let us begin with the guest list. This ball is to be an exclusive event, so we must choose our attendees with the utmost care."

As the trio settled into their discussion, the atmosphere was a blend of camaraderie and purpose. Katherine, with her keen sense of social dynamics, led the conversation. "Mother, I believe we should start with the most prominent families. The Queen, naturally, will be among our first invites."

Countess Eleanor nodded in agreement. "Yes, also the Bridgertons and the Featheringtons as well. Their presence is always a topic of conversation."

Violet interjected, "We must not forget the Sharmas. Miss Edwina is quite the diamond this season, and her sister, Kate, has made a considerable impression."

Katherine's thoughts briefly wandered to Kate and Henry, but she refocused on the task at hand. "Absolutely. Their presence will add a touch of charm and intrigue."

As they continued to discuss names, the room filled with the gentle hum of their voices, each suggestion carefully considered and debated.
With the guest list taking shape, the next step was crafting the perfect invitations. Katherine turned to Violet, knowing her reputation for impeccable taste. "Violet, your eye for detail is unparalleled. I would be honored if you could oversee the design of the invitations."

Violet smiled graciously. "I would be delighted, Katherine. I have a wonderful calligrapher in mind who will ensure that each invitation is a work of art."

Countess Eleanor added, "And we must ensure that the invitations are hand-delivered. It adds a personal touch and conveys the exclusivity of the event."

Katherine agreed. "Precisely. We shall have our finest footmen deliver them. The invitations must be as grand as the ball itself."

With the guest list and invitations underway, the focus shifted to the venue and arrangements. The grand ballroom of Windsor Manor, with its crystal chandeliers and marble floors, would be the perfect setting for the ball. Katherine envisioned an evening of elegance and splendor, and she shared her ideas with her mother and Violet.

"The ballroom needs to be transformed into a wonderland," Katherine began, her eyes alight with excitement. "I was thinking of a floral theme, with cascading arrangements of roses and lilies. It should feel like stepping into an enchanted garden."

Countess Eleanor's face lit up. "That sounds divine, Katherine. We can enlist the help of Mr. Hopkins, the finest florist in London. His arrangements are always breathtaking."