Reflections of the choices

Chapter thirty

"This time

Don't need another perfect lie

Don't care if critics ever jump in line

I'm gonna give all my secrets away"

"Secrets" by One Republic

Violet sat in her chair, gazing thoughtfully out of the window. The thoughts of Colin, who had recently left for his estate in the countryside, no longer troubled her. When she discovered who Agatha truly was, her worries somewhat eased. Of course, Violet still dreamed that Colin would have a full family, like her other children, but knowing that he hadn't been alone all this time warmed her heart.

"What are you thinking about, grandmother?" asked Belinda as she quietly sat down beside her. A flicker of concern crossed her face.

"Oh, just my own thoughts," Violet smiled at her granddaughter, shaking herself out of her reverie. "How was your walk with the marquess? You look quite content, so I assume everything went well?"

Belinda tensed slightly and lowered her eyes, her fingers unconsciously playing with the hem of her dress.

"We didn't go for a walk today," she replied. "I was simply reading a book in the park."

Violet, noticing the change in her mood, cast a questioning glance at Daphne, who, growing concerned, looked at her daughter.

"Did something happen between you?" Daphne leaned forward slightly, trying to catch Belinda's eye.

"No," Belinda sighed, shrugging her shoulders. "We've just decided to remain good friends."

"Are you sure, darling?" Violet gently asked, taking her granddaughter's hand. Daphne, supporting her, took Belinda's other hand, squeezing it softly.

"You can tell us if something has happened," Daphne added, her voice filled with care.

Belinda smiled at the worry on their faces.

"Nothing happened," she replied with a gentle smile, though there was a hint of sadness in her voice. "Well, almost nothing. Oliver's heart belongs to someone else. And he never planned to court me. We walked together once, only because he wanted to be polite."

"Oh, dear... I'm so sorry," Violet looked at her granddaughter with sincere sympathy.

"Really, there's no need, mother," Belinda turned to Daphne. "You know, I've noticed that both Oliver and the prince have a different look in their eyes when they speak of those they love. And I realized that Agatha was right — my aim was misguided. I don't want to marry the most titled and wealthy gentleman. I want to experience what they do. I want someone to speak of me the way they speak of their loved ones."

"You're speaking of love?" Daphne asked with an understanding smile.

"Exactly," Belinda nodded. "And it doesn't matter if I have to wait a little longer than I planned. For now, I can enjoy the balls and trying on new gowns."

Violet couldn't help but smile, looking at her granddaughter with pride.

"You are a clever girl," she said warmly. "Not just beautiful, but wise as well. A true diamond."

"In honor of this revelation, I suggest we visit the modiste and pick out some new dresses for the upcoming balls," Daphne cheerfully proposed as she stood and took her daughter's arm. Together, they left the room.

Violet watched them go, satisfied that yet another problem had been resolved. However, her thoughts were interrupted when Anthony entered the room with a frown. He had been in a dark mood ever since learning about Eloise. Violet shared his concern, but she understood that any rash actions could lead to scandal. And she wished to avoid that, for both Eloise and Penelope, especially so close to the royal wedding. Not to mention how it might affect the pregnancies.