Grosvenor Square, 1813. Dearest reader, the time has come to place our bets for the upcoming social season. Consider the household of the Baron Featherington. Three misses foisted upon the marriage market like sorrowful sows by their tasteless... tactless mama. Far better odds might exist in the household of the widowed Viscountess Bridgerton. A shockingly prolific family, noted for its bounty of perfectly handsome sons and perfectly beautiful daughters. How very perfect, indeed!

Today is the most important day, and for some a terrifying one, for today is the day London's marriage-minded misses are presented to Her Majesty the Queen. My God have mercy on their souls.

It is only the queen's eye that matters today. A glimmer of displeasure... and a young lady's value plummets to unthinkable depths. But as we know, the brighter a lady shines, the faster she may burn.

It has been said that, 'Of all bitches dead or alive, a scribbling woman is the most canine'. If that should be true, then this author would like to show you her teeth. My name is Lady Whistledown. You do not know me, and rest assured, you never shall. But be forward, dear reader, I certainly know you.

Lady Whistledown,1813.

The Marquess and his six children lived in elegance and radiated class. Their stunning home outshone the others on Grosvenor Square. Lush vines climbed in the pristine white bricks, reaching towards the intricate trim. The front garden was meticulously maintained, showcasing vibrant rose bushes in shades of red, pink, and white.

Yet, no house, not even the Blackwoods', could quite compare to the exquisite beauty of the Bridgerton home, which was directly across the square from the Blackwoods.

Estelle's heels clinked loudly on the dark wooden floors, though the sound was muffled by the piano music. She made her way to the drawing room, drawn by the captivating music.

Expensive paintings adorned the white walls of each hall, while antique vases were carefully displayed on stone pedestals.

The whole family was gathered in the room. Edwin sat next to their father at the far end, engrossed in a book, while Emmett and Elijah sat upright on the edge of their seats, engaged in a game of chess. Elliot and Esme were at the piano, playing beautifully. Their musical abilities had noticeably improved since Estelle last heard them play.

Edwin, aged nine and twenty, is the eldest sibling in the Blackwood family and is set to inherit the title of Marquess. He is handsome, charming, and wealthy, making him a highly desirable match.

Estelle, aged five and twenty, the second child and first daughter of the Blackwood family, was known for her exceptional intellectual curiosity and strong work ethic. She constantly excelled in her classes.

Emmett Blackwood, aged twenty, the third child and second son in the Blackwood family is known for his clumsiness, often dropping and tripping over things. He is also described as reclusive, quiet, and insecure, but he is kind-hearted, compassionate, and caring towards others.

Elijah Blackwood, aged eight and ten, the fourth child and third son in the family, is a loyal, brave, and strong individual with a humorous side, though at times he could be immature and insensitive. His sardonic and wisecracking sense of humor often brought laughter and relaxation to his friends. However, Estelle noted that his humor could be hurtful, even if unintentionally.

The twins, Elliot and Esme, aged fifteen, were best friends and partners in crime, as close as twins can be. They did everything together, finishing each other's sentences and speaking in a way that could confuse others at times.

Estelle picked up her copy of 'Gulliver's Travels' from the nearby table and settled by the window. She resumed reading where she had left off, enjoying the sounds of the bustling streets outside and the chatter of her siblings in the room.

"Did you hear? Lady Whistledown has declared Lady Daphne Bridgerton to be the Incomparable of the season. She has termed the young Bridgerton a 'diamond of the first water'. How utterly delightful!" Arthur spoke, gaining the family's attention.

"Hmm, one cannot help but ponder what her response would have been upon Elle's grand introduction to society." Elijah mused, glancing briefly at his older sister by the window before resuming to his chess game.

Estelle only rolled her eyes.

"Lady Whistledown isn't even a real person." Edwin said, his eyes fixed on his book. "Yet, were she to exist, she would verily have penned magnificent praises of our sister, extolling her character, beauty, and esteemed education."

Elijah chuckled. "What beauty? She has graced society for four long years and yet remains unwed. One cannot help but ponder..."

"That is enough!" The Marquees demanded, silencing his son.

Estelle slammed her book shut in frustration. "My success of the marriage mart influences all of your prospects, especially Esme. We will all need to find love one day. Indeed, a love as pure as what Mama and Papa once shared, if we are so fortunate."

"At least you won't end up like Mary Edgecombe, now the Countess of Fulton, apparently spent the last year living in a cottage hundred of miles away from her earl. She is miserable, something you will not be." Esme said from the piano beside her twin brother.

"Anyways, does not Lady Danbury host a grand ball this very evening? I assume that you two have yet to select your coats for the occasion?" Estelle questioned, glancing between her brothers who were in an intense game of chess.

Emmett lifted his gaze from the chessboard to his sister. "Indeed, I have procured a coat of fine design."

"I have not." Elijah muttered under his breath.

"Why are we not permitted to attend the ball?" Elliot implored, gesturing between himself and his twin sister. "You all are granted the pleasure of revelry whilst we remain within, confined to the company of the maids."

"You will next season, Brother. Esme shall make her debut come the next Season, and thus thou shalt have the most ample opportunity to seek a bride." Edwin calmly stated as he looked up from his book. He closed the book, placed it on the table, and sat upright with his hands clasped in his lap.

"Father, why does Elle boss us around? She is not the eldest among us." Elijah inquired, turning to regard their sire.

Marquess Arthur lowered the gossip sheet and arched his brows. "Would you prefer that I assume this task instead?"

The Blackwood siblings were well acquainted with their father's benevolent and gracious disposition, yet his temper, akin to that of dear Estelle, was easily roused and echoed throughout the residence. Should they probe deeper into the Marquess's choice of favorite progeny, the entire neighborhood would be aware.

Elijah's eyes widened as he looked at Emmett, who sported a small smirk.

"No, Father."

"Very well, now prepare yourselves for the evening's ball, both of you," Arthur proclaimed, bestowing a warm smile upon his sons as he sipped his tea. Without a moment's delay, Emmett and Elijah rose from their places and hurried from the drawing room. He cast a glance at his eldest daughter, who was pacing back and forth in the room with an annoyed expression. "You are aware that your mother did not hold the esteemed title of the Diamond of the season. Yet, she remains the most resplendent woman I have ever beheld."

Estelle gazed at her father, her brown eyes flickering slightly before settling into a calm, content expression. "Really?"

"And it does not matter what they say, what matters is what you and your future husband believe."

"And what, pray tell, is that, Father?"

"That thou art the fairest maiden in any assembly."

••••

"I daresay my dance card shall remain unfilled this eve." Estelle said with a grimace, glancing at her reflection in the mirror where Bella, the lady's maid, stood behind her.

"What is the reason, my Lady?"

"None would desire me as their bride." Estelle simply replied, eliciting a laugh from Bella, who looked up from styling the Blackwood girls' hair to respond to her statement.

"I can indeed assure you, dear Lady, it shall be quite the spectacle this evening. You are positively exquisite."

"Indeed, she speaks with a truth most evident."

The sound of a man's voice quickly disrupted between the two women in the room. Estelle observed Bella straighten up and shift her focus to the man standing in the doorway, while she simply rolled her eyes and continued to stare at her reflection.

"I do declare, Father, that it is but proper to rap upon the door."

Estelle heard a soft chuckle followed her remark as the slow footsteps of Arthur Blackwood was heard as he made his way into his daughter's bedroom.

"Forgive me." Arthur apologized, glancing between Bella and his eldest daughter, who had just turned around in her seat to face him. "I merely wished to see how you were getting along."

"Quite well, my lord." Bella replied, her hands modestly clasped behind her back as she cast a fleeting glance at the Blackwood girl by the vanity.

"I do not wish to press unduly, yet Stanley prepares the carriage, and I am loath to arrive tardily." The Marquess informed them with measured grace as he took his leave of the room.

"That doth sound exceedingly akin to hastening, Papa." Estelle mused, arching an eyebrow. Her father shook his head and emitted yet another chuckle. "Pray, do indulge me, Bella, for you must surely harbor thoughts of my wild nature." Estelle declared to her maid, a fleeting chuckle gracing her voice. "I assure you, it is not with intent that I am so willfully defiant."

Bella smiled softly. "Not at all, my Lady."

"There is no need for such formalities." Estelle replied with a playful toss of her head.

"Pardon?" Bella inquired, freezing in place, and giving her a curious look.

"Simply Estelle or Elle shall suffice." Estelle declared, a subtle smile gracing her visage.

Estelle glanced at the reflection of the woman standing behind her and noticed a small smile on her face at the gesture.

"Pray, allow me to resume." Bella commenced, her attentions returning to the matter of coiffing the lady's locks. "It would be most prudent for you to look forward to the Danbury Ball, Elle."

"I don't know." Estelle said honestly, a small sigh leaving her lips.

"Pray tell, are you beset by nerves?"

"I fear I am. It has been four seasons, yet I remain unwed. My brother urges me forth, whilst my father counsels me to heed my heart. I find myself in a most perplexing quandary."

"What of Lord Benedict Bridgerton?"

"Benedict? What on him, may I inquire?"

"The servants do whisper." Bella confessed as she pinned the brunette's hair. "It is the general consensus that he harbors affections for you, my La- Elle. The manner in which he gazes upon you, speaks of you, and smiles in your direction, speaks volumes."

Estelle sat upright, looking down at her clasped hands in her lap, fumbling with the gold bangle around her left wrist that had belonged to her mother. She and Benedict had known each other since infancy, so it was natural for him to look at her, speak to her, and smile at her. They were the best of friends.

••••

The season's opening ball at Danbury House is a most highly sought-after invitation, indeed, for every darling debutante from Park Lane to Regent Street will be on display. Titled, chaste, and innocent, this is what they have been raised and trained for since birth. Tonight, we shall discover which young ladies might succeed at securing a match, thereby avoiding the dreadful, dismal condition known as 'the spinster'.

Estelle breathed nervously as she sat on the smooth seat of the horse-drawn carriage, toying with the expensive fabric of her newest blue dress.

It wasn't long when the coachman slowly opened the carriage door, exposing her to Landy Danbury estate. With a deep breath, Estelle held the coachman's outstretched arm, helping her out of the carriage. She sent him a gracious nod.

Momentarily, she stared up at the beauty of the Danbury home before walking up the stairs where the enchanting music of the instruments could be heard from the entrance.

Upon arriving at the ball, Estelle was escorted inside by her father and accompanied by Edwin, Emmett and Elijah, who acted more like bodyguards.

The ballroom was enchanting, with crystal chandeliers casting an orange flow from the numerous candles. Guests mingled, chatting and dancing to the lively and romantic music.

The women in the room were elegant and refined, wearing beautifully intricate dresses and sparking jewels, their captivating smiles drawing the attention of eager suitors seeking for companionship.

"You are most exquisite, my dear child." Marquess Blackwood told his daughter.

"Pray, before we embark upon this evening's festivities, might I inquire if there exists any particular Lord you wish me to become acquainted with?" Estelle pondered.

"No, my sweet, the choice is yours." Arthur responded, placing a tender kiss upon her temple. "I must confer with certain colleagues. Sons, might you kindly escort your sister?"

"Certainly." Emmett, Edwin and Elijah replied in unison.

"Splendid." The marquess declared before he disappeared amongst the crowd, leaving the siblings in solitude.

"On guard." Elijah said pointedly. His head didn't move, but his eyes flicked off to the left.

Estelle followed his line of vision to see Lady Danbury marching slowly towards them. She carried a cane, but Estelle swallowed nervously and steeled her shoulders. Lady Danbury's often cutting wit was legendary among the ton. Estelle had always suspected that a sentimental heart beat under her acerbic exterior, but still, it was always terrifying when Lady Danbury pressed one into conversation.

"No escape." Lady Danbury said. Estelle heard one of her brothers groan. She shushed him and offered the old lady a hesitant smile. Lady Danbury raised a brow as she stood just four feet away from the group of Blackwoods. "Don't pretend you don't see me!"

This was followed by a thump of the cane so loud that Estelle jumped back just enough to trample Elijah's toe.

"Euf." Elijah said.

Lady Danbury, an old family friend, had assisted the Marquess in educating his children on societal norms, a lesson they applied daily. A wealthy widow, she flaunted her riches through impeccable attire and extravagant parties.

Tonight, she dazzled in a large diamond necklace, a regal crown, and a sparkling light violet gown.

The Blackwood brothers have appeared to have gone temporarily mute (except for Elijah, of course, but Estelle didn't think that grunts of pain counted as intelligible speech).

Estelle swallowed. "I hope I did not give that impression, Lady Danbury, for-"

"Not you." Lady Danbury said imperiously. She jabbed her cane into the air, making a perfectly horizontal line that ended preciously close to Emmett's stomach. "Them. Nevertheless, my esteemed Estelle, how are you?"

"Exquisite, my Lady."

"Pray tell, wherefore is your father?"

"My father desired to discuss matters of commerce." Estelle explained.

Lady Danbury chortled. "Arthur and his mercantile affairs."

The Blackwoods elegantly moved through the ballroom, with Estelle's deep blue dress trailing behind her. The gems on her dress sparkled in the dim candlelight, catching the eye of numerous admirers.

Daphne Bridgerton's arrival drew coveted and envious glances from the attendees, all eyes fixed on her beauty. Lady Whistledown was corrected, she was a diamond of the first water, adorned with a glistening gemstone necklace that outshone her sweeping white gown. Daphne exuded elegance and grace, truly the season's incomparable. She was accompanied by her older brother, Anthony and her mother.

Estelle and her brothers continued around the room, occasionally stopping to chat with intrigued men. They exchanged pleasantries before Estelle moved on. None of the men she spoke to captured her interest or charmed her. While many were handsome, they appeared dull and pretentious.

She left her brothers and made her way to the refreshment table, hoping a cold glass of lemonade would help. She stood apart from the fashionable crowd, content with her solitude.

Estelle was considering slinking into the ladies' retiring room when a familiar voice stopped her in her tracks.

"I say, Elle, what are you doing all the way over here?"

Estelle looked up to see her younger brother making his way towards her.

"Emmett." She said, trying to decide if she was pleased to see him or annoyed that he might be coming over to meddle in her affairs. "Why are you here?"

"Edwin." He said grimly. No other words were necessary.

"Ah." Estelle said with a sympathetic nod. "Say no more. I understand completely."

"He even made a list of potential brides." Emmett said, shooting his sister a beleaguered look. "We do love him, don't we?"

Estelle chocked on a laugh. "Yes, Emmett, we do."

"It's temporary insanity." He grumbled. "It has to be. There is not other explanation. He was a perfectly reasonable brother until you reached marriageable age?"

"Me?" Estelle squeaked. "Then this is all my fault? He is full four years older than I am!"

"Yes, but he wasn't gripped by this matrimonial fervor until mother passed."

Estelle chuckled. "Forgive me if I lack sympathy. I received a list last year."

"Did you?"

"Of course. And lately he's been threatening to deliver them to me on a weekly basis. He badgers me on the issue of marriage far more than you could ever imagine. After all, bachelors are a challenge. Spinsters are merely pathetic. And in case you hadn't noticed, I'm female."

Emmett let out a low chuckle. "I'm your brother. I don't notice those things." He gave her a sly, sideways look. "Did you bring it?"

"My list? Heavens, no. What can you be thinking?"

"I brought mine." He said with a wide smile.

Estelle gasped. "You didn't."

"I did. Just to torture Edwin. I'm going to peruse it right in front of him, pull out my quizzing glass-"

"You don't have a quizzing glass."

Emmett grinned- the slow, devastatingly wicked smile that all Blackwood males seemed to possess. "I brought one just for this occasion."

"Emmett, you absolutely cannot. He will kill you. And then, somehow, he'll find a way to blame me."

"I'm counting on it." He responded. Estelle swatted him in the shoulder, eliciting a loud enough grunt to cause a half dozen partygoers to send curious looks in their direction. He rubbed his arm. "A solid punch."

"A girl can't live long with four brothers without learning how to throw one." Estelle said, crossing her arms. "Let me see your list."

"After you just assaulted me?" Emmett questioned. Estelle rolled her brown eyes and cocked her head in a decidedly impatient gesture. "Oh, very well." He reached into his waistcoat, pulling out a folded slip of paper, and handed it to her. "Tell me what you think. I'm sure you'll find no end cutting remarks."

Estelle unfolded the paper and stared down at Edwin's neat, elegant handwriting. Edwin Blackwood had listed the names of eight women. Eight very eligible, very wealthy young women.

"Precisely what I expected." Estelle murmured.

"Is it as dreadful as I think?"

"Worse. Philipa Featherington is as dumb as a post."

"And the rest of them?"

Estelle looked up at him under raised brows. "You didn't really want to get married this year, anyway, did you?"

Emmett winced. "And how was your list?"

"Blessedly out-of-date, now. Three of the five married last season. Edwin is still berating me for letting them slip through my fingers."

The two Blackwoods let out identical sighs as they slumped against the wall. Edwin Blackwood was undeterred in his mission to marry off his siblings. Estelle, the elder daughter, and Emmett, the second oldest son, had borne the brunt of the pressure, although Estelle suspected that their brother might have cheerfully married off fifteen-year old Esme if he'd received a suitable offer.

"Miss Blackwood." Lord Spencer Darcy said with a gentle smile, approaching them. "Would you do me the great honor of gracing me with a dance?"

Estelle smiled and nodded, extending her hand. "I should be most delighted, my Lord."

The orchestra stopped its discordant warm-up and began playing the first notes of a waltz. Spencer took her hand and led her into the dance floor, swirling her among the elegantly dressed couples.

Meanwhile on the other side of the room, Benedict and Collin stood at the lemonade table, sipping champagne. If Benedict was going to be stuck in this room all night, he would need all the champagne he could get his hands on.

"Pray, dear Brother, why not extend an invitation to Miss Elle for a dance tonight. I am certain that you both would find much delight in the revelry of such an occasion." Collin suggested.

Benedict scoffed. "Elle is no dancer, dear Brother. In truth, she finds the very notion quite loathsome."

"Pray, then, why is she presently engaged in a dance with Lord Darcy?"

Benedict furrowed his brows and turned abruptly to find Estelle dancing joyfully with Spencer Darcy. Her radiant smile captivated him, exuding happiness and bliss. His nostrils twitched slightly, a feeling of unease creeping in. He sighed, shaking his head, and turned back to his champagne, unable to bear watching any longer.

Estelle felt a blush creeping up her cheeks. The reality was that Lord Darcy was an incredibly skilled dancer, and she had been so engrossed in the waltz that she hadn't even considered their surroundings.

They took two steps forward in a leaping motion, their hands reaching for the other as their sudden laughter combined with the joyful harmony. Their arms brushed against the other when they rounded themselves, soon standing in front before coming forward and taking steps in a leaping manner.

Spencer effortlessly twirled her, causing her fringe and framing pieces to blow in a circular pattern. Pulling her close, he placed one hand on her back and held her other hand firmly. His laughter couldn't be contained as he marveled at the beauty of her laugh and felt grateful to be the one causing it.

As the song came to an end, Estelle and Spencer bowed their heads. She felt a desire to share another dance with him, as she had never before enjoyed dancing with someone as much as she did with him. His movements were precise yet carefree. He wasn't concerned with impressing her; instead, he was solely focused on savoring the moment - a rarity in today's world.

Spencer took Estelle's gloved hand and laid a polite kiss on her knuckles. "I am honored to officially make your acquaintance, Miss Blackwood."

She laughed again, this time with more gaiety, and Spencer once again found himself mesmerized by her smile.

"Elle." Daphne called out as she rushed to the pair, grabbing her hand. "Please conceal me ere Lord Berbrooke endeavours to solicit a dance."

Estelle turned to Lord Darcy and bowed her head. "Excuse me, my Lord. Miss Bridgerton requires my assistance."

"It's okay. I do hope to encounter you once more, Miss Blackwood." He said graciously.

Estelle let out a satisfied sigh as her hand nestled comfortably in the crook of Daphne's elbow, and the two of them began walking around the ballroom.

"He appears quite agreeable." Daphne stated, gesturing to Spencer Darcy.

"Indeed, he is. A commendable dancer, I must say." Estelle said, a small smile appearing on her face.

"Do you believe he might be the one for you this season?"

"I am uncertain, yet he did indeed leave an admirable first impression."

Before Daphne could respond, she accidentally collided with someone. The two ladies turned to see a handsome man. Estelle instantly recognized him as Simon, the Duke of Hastings and best friend of Edwin Blackwood and Anthony Bridgerton, formerly known as Earl Clyvedon.

He is handsome, strong, and quiet, and is considered the most eligible bachelor in London. Despite his desirability, he has sworn never to marry.

Daphne gasped. "Pardon me."

"Forgive me." Simon apologized.

"Your name, sir?"

"Am I honestly to believe you do not already known my name? If you desired an introduction, madam, I do believe accosting me to be the least civilized of ways."

Daphne furrowed her eyebrows in confusion. "Accosting you?"

Simon sighed. "Truly, they will try anything."

"Sir, that is not... This is not... What is your name?"

"Basset." Anthony Bridgerton called out, rushing through the crowd with Edwin. "Basset!"

Simon quickly turned to them with a wide smile. "Bridgerton! Blackwood!"

"Come here, old friend!" Edwin insisted eagerly as he embraced his old friend.

Estelle and Daphne exchanged glances as their older brothers circled around Simon.

"We heard news of your father. Deuce take it, you are no longer Basset. Hastings! The Duke of Hastings, now known for evermore." Anthony exclaimed and bowed his head at Simon.

Daphne's eyes widen. "The Duke of Hastings, is it?"

"Right, Hastings, this is our sisters, Daphne Bridgerton and Estelle Blackwood, who looks splendid as always."

Simon raised a brow. "Your sisters..."

"Daphne, Hastings, Edwin and I know each other from our days at Oxford, days we shall not soon forget." Anthony explained with a knowingly smirk.

Daphne chuckled. "Yes. I am well aware of the company you keep, brother, I am certain your days with His Grace were most civilized, indeed."

"Hastings, we shall need to get together properly. I expect to see you at our club, then." Edwin offered.

Simon nodded. "Indeed. Evening, Bridgerton, Blackwood." He turned to face the women and bowed his head. "Miss Bridgerton. Miss Blackwood."

With that, Edwin extended his arm for his young sister to take. Estelle accepted it, placing her hand in the crook of her brother's elbow, and the two of them started walking around the ballroom.

"We shall retire." Edwin declared.

Estelle looked at her brother in confused. "What are you talking about?"

"Elle, there is nary a gentleman here who would not take your hand. You must think about this. The most perfect thing to do now is not to dance, but to leave them all wanting more. If anyone knows how this works, it is your eldest brother."

"Perhaps you are right. Let us go."

________________
PUBLISHED: 30.09.24

A/N: I hoped you enjoyed this chapter!

Votes and comments are very much appreciated!