Season's Feather

Chapter One

It was silent. Delilah didn't know how to speak, and Anthony didn't know if he could reply. But the conversation couldn't be pushed back. The deal was on, and Delilah was in denial.

"I don't want to marry him," Delilah whispered.

Anthony took a breath before clasping his hand over hers, "I know."

"What are we going to do Anthony?" Delilah asked.

"We are going to fight it."

Delilah nodded her head. She leaned against his shoulder, closing her eyes and taking in a deep breath.

"Lady Silvester." A soft voice peaked out. She opened her eyes, her head still perched on Anthony's shoulder and looked up at one of the house staff.

"Yes?" She asked.

"It's the Viscountess Lady Bridgerton, she is requesting you and Lord Bridgerton's presence. She says Eloise is panicking about her debut."

Delilah looked up to Anthony before they both scrambled up and began to walk to where a carriage was waiting. "Dear lord, I forgot she was having her debut this season."

"Delilah, we do not have to go-"

"No!" Delilah all but yelled, "No, I need something to do with myself. And, let's be very honest, I need to get out of this house."

Anthony nodded his head, "It's okay dear, we shall be there just in time."

— & —

A short ride later and the couple was running through the door of the Bridgerton estate. Anthony and Delilah found the family gathered in front of Eloise's door. All of them debating just going in and seeing if she was ready.

"Oh goodness has she come out yet?" Delilah asked, coming around.

"No, you haven't missed much." Daphne chuckled, turning around. Delilah's eyes widened before she drew her best friend into a hug. It had been a long while since she had seen her.

Daphne looked down at her best friend and frowned, there were bags around her eyes and she seemed pale. So, so pale. Daphne frowned, "Are you okay, 'Lilah?"

"Later, Daphne, please."

Her friend nodded, Delilah quickly tuned in to the conversation.

"Let her come out on her own." Violet whispered.

Delilah scoffed and walked up to group of Bridgerton's, "Is that the plan?"

Violet laid eyes on her and sighed, "Thank goodness you are here."

"She has requested time," Benedict answered.

Delilah laughed slightly, "We do not have time. Stand back-"

However, Anthony grabbed onto her waist and drew her back, "No offense, my love, but you are probably one of the last people she would like to see. And," He lowered his voice, "You need to take care of yourself right now."

Delilah frowned, "What does that mean?"

Hyacinth straightened her stance, "Are we sure she's in there?"

"Of course she's in there," Violet sighed.

"Climbed through the window," Benedict offered, "Escaped through the chimney-"

Violet gave a look to her son, "Quiet! She may hear you."

Delilah looked to her best friend, "This is what you left your husband and child at home for 'Daph."

"I told everyone this would happen," Anthony said, "Now we're late for the queen."

Francesca shushed the family and there was chatter behind the door. Everyone leaned in close and Delilah felt Anthony get impatient beside her. She was about to stop him from opening the door, but it opened in front of them.

Three maids came out, then Eloise. She was beautiful. In her own way. Eloise was simply beautiful. A gorgeous debutante.

"If one of you utters a single word.." She said, then picked up her skirts and bounded down the stairs, "Let's get this over with!"

In the carriage, Delilah sat with all the Bridgerton females attempting to coax Eloise for her debut.

"Just remember to remain composed," Daphne advised, "And control your emotions."

Delilah nodded, "Her majesty does not take kindly to any hint of hysterics. A small smile works best when trying to appear open and approachable and yet not too eager."

"Now, let us see it," Daphne added.

Eloise looked at her sister and sneered, "No."

"She's practically melting," Hyacinth exclaimed.

Francescea leaned over for the fan, "Here. Allow me."

"And your curtsy my dearest." Violet smiled. She then turned to the two girls still wrapped in a side hug, "Delilah, Daphne, tell your sister how you two managed such balance."

Daphne gave a smile, "Simply locate a stationary object and keep your eyes set."

"I used a painting nearby." Delilah chuckled, "I had to practice though, of course."

Eloise took in a whimper and Delilah brought a hand to her shoulder looking concerned, "Several times." She smiled pitifully.

"You have natural gifts-" Daphne tried to compliment.

"Do not patronize me." Eloise glared. Then she looked at the fan in Francesca's hand and snatched it, "Give me that!"