A Royal Season

An evening of firsts

Princess Nora stood before the ornate mirror in her suite, her heart fluttering with a mix of nerves and excitement. Tonight was the night she had dreamed about ever since she'd arrived in London, and as the evening unfolded before her, she wanted to make sure she looked perfect. Her maid, Amira, expertly fastened the delicate pearl buttons of her gown and adjusted the lace on her shoulders, ensuring every detail was just right.

"You look breathtaking, Your Highness," Amira said softly, stepping back to admire her work.

Nora glanced at her reflection, hardly recognizing the girl staring back at her. The gown from Modiste fit her like a glove, the ivory silk shimmering under the chandelier's light. Her dark hair was swept up into an elegant chignon, with a few loose curls framing her face, and the lightest touch of rouge on her cheeks brought out the warmth in her complexion.

"Thank you, Amira," Nora replied, her voice filled with anticipation. She took a deep breath, smoothing down the front of her gown. "I suppose it's time."

With a nod from Amira, Nora turned and made her way to the living room where her mother awaited. Princess Yamina was seated near the fireplace, but as Nora entered, she stood, her eyes widening with admiration.

"Nora, my darling," Yamina breathed, her voice thick with emotion. "You look absolutely stunning. The gown suits you perfectly—you are the epitome of grace and beauty."

Nora felt a flush of pride under her mother's gaze. "Thank you, Mother. I wanted to make a good impression tonight."

Princess Yamina stepped forward and gently placed a hand on Nora's cheek. "You will, my dear. Remember, you are not just representing yourself, but our family and our country. Be confident, and trust in who you are."

With a final, reassuring smile, Yamina took Nora's arm, and together, they left their suite, ready to face the evening that awaited them.

The carriage ride to the ball was filled with a quiet, tense anticipation. Nora gazed out the window, watching as the lights of London flickered past, her mind racing with thoughts of what lay ahead. By the time they arrived at Buckingham House, the grand residence of Queen Charlotte, the air was electric with the excitement of the evening. As they stepped out of the carriage and into the grand foyer, all eyes seemed to turn towards them. Nora could feel the weight of the gazes upon her—curious, admiring, perhaps even a bit envious.

Holding her head high, Nora walked gracefully beside her mother, drawing upon the confidence she had felt when she first put on her gown. She quickly scanned the room, her eyes landing on a familiar sight—the Bridgerton family, standing together in a small cluster, their presence unmistakable amidst the sea of guests.

"Mother," Nora whispered, leaning slightly towards Princess Yamina, "I see Eloise and her family. I'd like to go and meet her."

Yamina smiled warmly. "Of course, my dear. I shall go and pay my respects to Queen Charlotte. We shall meet later."

Nora nodded, feeling a surge of excitement as she made her way across the ballroom. The sight of Eloise Bridgerton, her childhood penfriend, standing there in person for the first time was almost surreal. As she approached, Eloise spotted her and broke into a wide grin.

"Nora!" Eloise exclaimed, stepping forward to greet her.

Nora's heart swelled with joy as the two friends embraced, the years of letters and shared confidences culminating in this long-awaited moment.