Michael Sterling returned from many of his trips just to attend his cousin's wedding. He and John grew up together close as brothers so there was no chance for him to miss John's wedding. He had written about Francesca in some of his letters and now Michael wanted to meet that perfection of a woman…and met her he did.
Francesca slipped away into the garden from their pre wedding dinner just for a moment of silence and peace. Michael found her there and somehow, they started a very unusual conversation about stars and how in the country stary skies are absolute perfection. He mentioned his travels and how he would sleep outside on the boat just to look at the sky and imagine he could touch the stars. She listened and smiled at him. Yes, she was tempted to do the same as a child and then Anthony explained to her that it was not possible. Unlike her, Michael didn't believe in impossible. For him, anything was possible but not happening because there were no tools to do it.
He told her that one day men will find the way to touch moon and the stars. She giggled and he smiled at her. For some reason that young woman fascinated him. He made note to himself to ask for her name when he sees his cousin. They talked about his time in the military and that is how John found them.
''Cousin, I see you've met my fiancée…''
''Oh, I was not aware it was Miss Francesca. My apologies, Major Michael Sterling at your service….''
''Major? You seem very young.''
He smirked at that comment. It was not the first time someone said it to him.
''I am, but circumstances turned me into one… Let's say I survived pretty bloody battle where I lost men who were higher in chain of command than me…so I was appointed the rank of Major because they had no time to send someone more experienced. We were lucky to survive under my command. There was something that day preventing us from dying.''
''God?''
''I am not sure Miss Francesca, but something was.''
''Well, I am glad that you survived.''
Their quiet moment in the garden was interrupted by John's mother getting out to the garden with a sheet of paper saying that Francesca was seen in suspicious company of men and men who are not of noble background. She turned pail as a sheet. She was not there. It was Elosie who was using her cape mask herself. She went there to see the boy that worked at the printers. Someone must have seen her there. Now her reputation was ruined. Janet Sterling liked the girl, but couldn't allow her son, the earl to be tied to that story.
''I didn't do anything.''
''You were seen their Miss Francesca?''
She couldn't betray her sister.
''I was not there.''
''Miss Francesca, do you have lavender cape with satin bow on the chest.''
''Yes, I do… But…''
Janet shook her head. Violet and Anthony were fuming. Eloise was about to say something, but Francesca didn't let her.
''Miss Francesca, I can't let my son marry someone associated with anarchists.''
''I am not. I told you…''
''I am sorry… But he can't marry you and risk Kilmartin estate for you and your curiosity.''
John looked very sad, but said nothing to contradict his mother. He never said anything to contradict her. Michael was standing in the back watching the entire exchange trying to figure out what was going on. He knew there was something more, but couldn't pinpoint what. Was it that his aunt believed that Miss Francesca was not good for his cousin? She was a Viscount's sister, so it was not about the family. Maybe she didn't like her? Miss Francesca seemed very nice and polite when they spoke, so he was sure it was not that. John looked at his mother and then back at Francesca.
''I am sorry Miss Francesca… I really wanted to marry you.''
Anthony now got involved.
''And now what? Based on a rumor my sister will be ruined?''
Janet turned to Anthony.
''You as a Viscount should understand that we can't take that risk. Maybe it was just a rumor, but if the rumor reaches the queen, my son will be in trouble.''
''And now my sister is even if she says she is not there… No one will marry her now because of what you are doing Countess Kilmartin.''
''I am sorry… But there will be no wedding tomorrow. We shall inform the guests now.''
Michael came to them and looked with a lot of anger at his aunt and cousin.
''There will be a wedding.''
Janet raised her cane.
''Michael Sterling! I said no!''
'' If my cousin is a coward, then I will marry Miss Francesca. Her honor will not be sullied by a rumor and my cousin's cowardness.''
He turned to Anthony.
'' I am just a Major with an honorable discharge from the service due to an injury. I have no earldom or anything that her alleged action can ruin. I currently live in a bachelor pad but I do own a home not far from your residence, it will just take few days for it to be aired and minor fixing to be done before it would be suitable for living. I have inheritance from my father and also employment in the military here in London. Since I was relieved of my duties in the field, they find me useful in the dusty office. I have means to provide for your sister and not ask of you and your family for anything. If you will have me, I will marry your sister Viscount Bridgerton.''
Francesca was heartbroken over end of her engagement and then impressed by what Michael said and offered. He believed her and man she spent months courting didn't. She also knew she had to say yes to marriage in order to save face and her family. It was all now on her brother and she was sure he would have to say yes.
Anthony knew of Mchael Sterling. He knew that too many women have been with him or daydreams about him. He also knew he was a good soldier and saved a lot of people under his command. He was young, but very smart and with a good head on his shoulders. He had money from his father and his sister wouldn't be in any worse position if she married him instead of the earl. And he appreciated the courage young man had to marry his siter after the rumor he heard about her. He offered his hand to Michael and nodded.
''If you want to marry her, you have my blessing. Major Sterling, you are a very noble man, but decision is on Francesca.''
Lady Bridgerton wanted to protest what her son said, but knew she had no right. Francesca was compromised by this story. She wanted her children to have marriages built on love and this was not what she wanted for Francesca.
Francesca looked around and saw many faces in suspense. She had to give them an answer as soon as possible. She took off John's ring and gave it back to him. Her eyes were wet, bit she didn't cry in front of him. She turned to Michael and tried to smile.
''If you were honest with what you said….my answer is yes Major Sterling. I shall marry you tomorrow.''
He took her hand and kissed it.
''It would be my honor to take you as my wife Miss Francesca.''
Janet was stunned.
''Michael, I hope you know what you are doing?!''
''I do know aunt Janet. If someone has a problem with who I am married to in London, there is always my lodge at the Kilmartin estate in Scotland or even offer I've got to go to India.''
Kate's eyes wend wide when he mentioned it. India…How she missed it.
''You would go across the world for that girl?''
''As of tomorrow, she will be my wife. And if future Lady Sterling is not accepted in London, then she can build her life and home in India.''
John didn't like it at all.
''You will marry my fiancé?''
''I believe you broke it off before I offered the marriage. Miss Francesca is honorable person and doesn't deserve to be ruined based on a rumor that someone told aunt Janet and she was very quick to believe.''
Anthony came to Michael and asked him for a moment alone. They went to his office and he offered Michael a drink.
''Since you will be marrying my sister, I guess there are some things we have to discuss. You are going to receive her dowry. My solicitor will change the name on the contract. Since your cousin didn't marry her, he can't touch the money. Second, thank you for saving my sister's honor and third… You and Francesca can stay here in the Bridgerton house until your home is ready. That is the least I could do for you.''
''We don't have to stay here and make it even more crowded for you and the family.''
''You are a family now. Since she is not going to the honeymoon she and John planned, do you have some ideas where you might go?''
''I apologize. I didn't have time to think that ahead.''
''You can go to our family estate after you are done decorating your home. We plan to retire there after the season is over…and for us is over with your wedding. So, you and Francesca can join us when you are ready…''
Anthony explained him where the estate was and Michael was very pleased.
''That sounds very nice. I can be reached there by post and it is not too far from London so I can return if my presence is needed. Thank you for the offer. I will tell my valet to prepare some of my things for the stay with your family and then for the estate…''
''I know this is your honeymoon so you would need some time alone, we will not bother you. Two of you will be free to find your footing and all of our chambers are providing privacy for us and our couples. My family really loved their privacy in the past so you and Frannie would not be disturbed by any of the siblings…''
He tried not to smirk at that. He was not going to talk to Anhtony about sleeping with his sister. He had no idea if Miss Francesca would be interested in anything like that.
Gathering ended and Francesca went to her room. Her mother came after her and had million questions. Francesca said she was not there, but she didn't betray her sister. After Violet went, Elosie came. As soon as she saw Francesca she started crying.
''I am so sorry. I've ruined everything. I can tell him tomorrow that it was me.''
''It doesn't matter now. Even if you tell, he will not marry me because you were there, a Bridgerton was there…and his earldom matters more than me.''
''It shouldn't.''
''I agree… But how can I marry a man who doesn't believe me and doesn't try to even ask if it was me.''
''I was surprised by the cousin. He believed you.''
Francesca started getting pin out of her head and combing her.
''I don't know why. I gave him no reason to come to my rescue.''
''He is good looking.''
''And rake too.''
''Well, so are our brothers.''
''Yes, but I am not marrying any of them.''
''True… But even if I had to marry one of them, I don't know who would I pick… I think Benedict… He is the most fun…''
''Eloise, they are our brothers. I don't want to think about them in that manner.''
She made disgusted face.
''I guess you are right.''
''I often am.''
''I am sorry again.''
''It is what it is… It will be fine. His cousin looks like good man.''
''I agree. He looks like GOOOOOD man''
''Good night, Eloise.''
She was finally alone. She couldn't really sleep because she was nervous about her future husband. All se knew about him was what she heard in the garden. She had no idea even if any of it was true.
In the morning maid came to wake her up and help her get ready. Her wedding dress was hanging in the corner with perfect veil and all the hair decorations were on the small table in the room. They prepared a bath for her and picked perfect set of underwear for her wedding night. She was looking forward to make love to John for the first time and now it would be a stranger. She just met him last night and now he will be her husband. She knew of Michael's reputation and now he was to be her husband. She did wonder if he would cheat or behave in a way she doesn't really approve. She was dressed in her robe and took a seat at her vanity. Her hair was in a bun and they put the ornament made of silk dark gold and pearls. They helped her put the dress on and then attached her veil. She looked absolutely perfect. Lady Bridgerton entered the room and was almost in tears when she saw how beautiful Francesca looked.
''You look stunning.''
''Thank you, mother.''
''The dress was beautiful in the modiste's, but on you… You are a vision, Francesca.''
She took her daughter's hand and gave her a tight smile.
''Well, you are getting married in a few hours, so I believe it is time for us to have a conversation of what is to expected on your wedding night.''
That was very embarrassing conversation for both of them. Lady Bridgerton explained to Francesca what is to be expected and her daughter listened carefully. When they were close to finishing the conversation, someone knocked at the door. Violet opened and there was a maid with a letter and a box.
''This arrived for Miss Francesca.''
Violet took it and gave it to her daughter. Francesca placed box on the small table and looked at her mother in surprise. She opened the letter and started reading it.
Miss Francesca,
In this box is an engagement ring that I couldn't provide for you last night since we got engaged in such an unusual manner. I took liberties to send it to you because regardless of the way we got engaged, you deserve to walk into that church with a ring on your finger, just as any lady who is to be married. It was my maternal grandmother's ring and it very dear piece of family heirlooms to me. It always reminded me of her. She was an amazing woman and someone who gave me so many happy memories and and I am giving you a now one of the dearest pieces of my past to hold on to in the future. I know that our marriage is not a love match that you Bridgerton family prefer, but I promise to be good husband to you. My reputation is not perfect and I know you've heard a lot of things about me, but I promise you there is much more to my characters than those stories.
I guess we have a lifetime to get to know each other now Miss Francesca,
Your future husband,
Michael Sterling
Violet was reading the letter over her shoulder and she felt some respect for the young man. She even liked the gesture of sending the letter and a ring.
''Shall we see the ring?''
Francesca put the letter on the table and picked up the box she left there just a moment ago. She opened the box and inside was a very beautiful ring. It was flower shaped yellow gold ring with rubies and pearls. On the side, work made it look like leaves and petals. It was a beautiful ring and it reminded Violet of her own ring that was now on Penelope's finger. Francesca held the box in her hand feeling a bit confused. She loved the ring. She would have picked it if she had a choice. She wondered how a stranger knew her more than a man who courted her for three months and saw her almost every day. She took the ring out of the box and put it on. It fit her perfectly. She was looking at her hand and admiring the ring when Anthony came to the door.
''I think it is time for us to leave.''
They both nodded and followed him out. Francesca's siblings were at the bottom of the stairs waiting for her to come down the stairs. Even Daphne and Duke came to see her. Duke was away a lot for past few years and she was honored to have him at her wedding, even if it is not to the man she expected to marry. Daphne cried when she saw her. Yes, she was pregnant again and hormones were part of her cyring to everything, but Francesca really did look beautiful. Benedict told her that she is a vision and the rest gave her compliments. Of course, her youngest sister said that her future husband was dashing and that got them all to laugh. She was never that open with her comments on men so it got her mother and Anthony a bit surprised.
''Oh, Hyacinth… You will get Anthony and our mother to an early grave.''
Michael's day was much different that Francesca's. He spent his stag night arguing with his aunt in the presence of his mother and John. Janet wanted him to cancel the wedding, but he stood his ground. John was not happy his cousin was marrying the woman he loves and Helen sat on the side and watched them all. He wanted to know more details of the story before she tells her son yes or no. She had to know if this girl was really someone good for her son. She was not petty. She was not one of the mothers believing that no one is worth their son. She just wanted to know the girl he chose to marry on a whim. There must have been something about her that got him to utter the words asking for someone's hand.
''Helen she will ruin the family. You must say something!''
''Well, I haven't heard anything to assure me that it was Miss Francesca near that place. Many young ladies have capes that look like and you said that girl had a hood on. If my son believes she is innocent and wants to marry that girl, he has my blessing.''
That got John to wonder if his aunt Helen was right. Girl could have been someone else. Did he make a mistake of listening to his mother?
''So, you will let him, do it?''
''I can't let him or not. He is a grown man and has a right to marry a girl he wants… Like we married too. So, if he wants that girl, I will stand by my son's side no matter what.''
Janet left the room and went to the garden. Michael went upstairs to get ready for the wedding and John was with his aunt.
''Do you think I made a mistake?''
''I don't know. But what I know is that it is too late. Letters were sent to change name of the groom and I don't think that the girl would take you back now even if you groveled. She could have been ruined if my son didn't offer to marry her. Now it is time to find a new Countess and leave that girl alone. In few hours she will be his wife and what is done is done. Let it go.''
Helen left and John had so many things to think about. He was so torn between wanting Francesca and listening to what his mother had to say.
Michael was in his military uniform with all of his decorations and saber at his side. His hair was longer than before but with nice combing he made it look presentable and he was satisfied with how he looked. He put a wedding ring in his coat pocket and left the house to get to his wedding. His mother was in the carriage already and in the next one were John and his mother. After all they accepted to be there, but Janet was firm in her belief that this was a mistake.
Church was filled with people and everyone was waiting for what would happen. Some didn't even know that the groom has changed. Some eyes went wide when they saw Michael stand in front of the priest. Bridgerton family came into church and took their place. Soon after Anthony walked in with Francesca that was a vision. Helen looked at her son and smirked. He WAS smitten with a girl after all. Francesca looked in front of her and made sure not to let her eyes wonder. She didn't want to see anyone in case they were making fun of her. They reached the altar and Michael took her hand. They were both having gloves so it made her feel more comfortable. Touching skin to skin was too intimate for a stranger…even if it was their wedding. Violet looked at her daughter and new son in law and she was in awe how good they look together. Francesca's head was the same height as his shoulders. They exchanged vows and it was time to exchange rings. They both removed their gloves. She put hers on the side of the altar and he put his in the pocket. Then he took her ring out and just as he was putting the ring on her finger, he saw his grandmother's ring and smiled. He placed it above it and mouthed thank you to her.
Francesca tried to put the wedding ring intended for John on his finger, but it didn't fit. It could reach half of his finger and that was it. It was a bit embracing until Violet got up and came to the altar. She produced a small box from her purse and offered it to Francesca.
''This was your father's ring. I think it will fit your husband well.''
Anthony, Benedict and Colin were shocked by what she did. She didn't give ring to them and now she was giving it to this man they just met. Daphne found it as a way of acceptance her mother was offering to her new son in law and Eloise found it interesting since their mother never parted from that ring. It was always with her. Violet turned to Michael.
''Major Sterling, you gave my daughter part of your family history, now I offer you part of ours. That ring you will receive from my daughter holds a special place in my heart. It was a ring I placed on my husband's hand many years ago. I apologize it is not polished; I've kept it in a box by my pillow since my husband died. That was my way of having him nearby. I brought the ring today to have piece of Edmund at his daughter's wedding. I never imagined doing this, but I feel it is right thing to do.''
He took off what was supposed to be John's ring and gave it to Violet. Then he took her hand and kissed it.
''I am honored Lady Bridgerton to use your husband's ring at the wedding. I've never met him but I've heard only good things about him and how special bond you shared.''
She smiled, took her daughter's gloves and stepped away. Francesca took her father's ring and put it on Michael's finger. It fit like it was made for him. They were pronounced man and wife and it was time for the first kiss. Michael was gentleman so he looked at her waiting for her permission. She nodded and he pecked her lips. To Francesca's surprise, kiss somehow felt familiar. It didn't feel as strange as it should. He offered his arm and she took it. Lady Francesca Sterling, wife of Major Sterling. She looked around and everyone was up and clapping. She saw John and his mother that didn't look very happy and other women with them that was very beautiful and looked like Michael. She guessed that it was his mother. They got out of the church and entered the carriage. Wedding breakfast was held in Bridgerton house. They drove in silence and Francesca kept looking at her new husband puzzled by him. Why would he marry her? He just met her last night. Why would someone do something like that for her without even knowing her?
''I owe you an apology.''
Francesca was surprised by that.
''Why my Lord?''
''Michael…Please call me Michael.''
''Then you should call me Francesca.''
He smiled at her and continued.
''I shouldn't have forced you to marry me.''
''I owe you an apology for being trapped in this marriage.''
''I don't like injustice. That is why I married you.''
''Injustice?''
''You were not near that place and regardless my aunt was very determined to accuse you.''
''How do you know I was not there?''
''Because you didn't tell where you were… If you did, everyone would know that it was not you, but Miss Bridgerton who was at that place. And it takes about two minutes to realize who is into music and who is into politics. I would believe it was you if they were printing sheets of music, not political sheets.''
She looked at him with wide eyes.
''You knew all along?!''
''I might be new to ton, but I am no fool Francesca…''
She was about to say something but he stopped her.
''Your secret is safe with me. I will not out Miss Bridgerton.''
''Thank you, Michael…''
He winked at her.
''Oh, it is my pleasure.''
He continued looking through the window of the carriage and Francesca was looking for unexciting threads on her satin dress and trying to hide her blush.
They arrived to the house and everyone was waiting for them. House was filled with flowers music and people who wanted to congratulate them. Michael's valet got his things to the house during the wedding and now they were in Francesca's room. Violet took Francesca to her room to remove the veil. It could be bother in the crowd and someone might step on it. When they got in, they noticed maids and Michael's valet putting his things in her closet space.
''This is so strange… Someone will share my room now.''
''Do you want him not to?''
''He is my husband. I guess we have to now.''
''My love, you don't have to if you don't want to.''
''All of my siblings do… It would be disrespectful to him if I asked him to sleep in a different room.''
''My love, they are love matches.''
''Maybe, but they are married, as are we. And if we are to spend a life together, we better start getting to know one another.''
Francesca went to the closet part to take off her veil and take a seat for a moment. Violet didn't know what to tell her daughter. She was right…in a way, but there were many couples that never shared bedroom, just a bed in order to get an heir.
Michael came into the bedroom and was glad to see Violet there.
''Lady Bridgerton, I was looking for you.''
''You were?''
''Do you wish me to return the ring to you? I can make a new one for myself and I am sure that my wife would understand why my finger is bare, since it is your treasure. You saved my face in the church, but I am perfectly fine with giving it back to you.''
He started removing the ring, when Violet stopped him. Francesca was coming back to the part of the room where two of them were but stopped to see what is going on.
''Please, keep it. I feel like I kept too much of Edmund from the little kids that maybe this is the way for three of them to get piece of their father. Francesca his wedding ring on her husband's finger. Gregory his compass and Hyacinth, only child that actually never got to meet him or be held by him, to get his Viscount's signet and diary. When Anthony became Viscount, he had to have his own made, so Edmund's remained as part of things he just left behind. My older children remember their father, especially boys and Daphne. Eloise has some memories, but Francesca, Gregory and Hyacinth… They have bits and pieces we who knew him give them. So, please keep the ring as a present to my daughter. So, she has part of her father close.''
''I will give my best to justify the honor you gave me by giving this ring to me. I will take care of it and make sure it is on my finger at all times.''
''Thank you, Michael…''
''What for?''
''For being a bigger man and believing in my daughter.''
''No, thank you for letting me marry her.''
Francesca entered the room and tried to hide her wet eyes.
''Francesca, are you well?''
''Yes, I am mother… I heard your conversation with Michael…and…''
''Oh, I am sorry I made you cry on your wedding day.''
''It is all right mother… It sounded like something you had to say and I had to hear. Thank you for the ring you gave Michael. It means a lot to have something of dad's.''
''I am sorry I haven't given you kids things before.''
'' Don't worry about it, mother. You have a chance to fix that mistake now.''
''I shall give you a minute. Guests are waiting for you…''
''We will be there mother…''
Violet left the room and Francesca and Michael were alone for the first time in something that would be their bedroom for next few days or weeks, depending on the renovations.
''How are you feeling after what your mother said?''
''Honestly, I feel at ease… She finally acknowledged that she didn't talk about dad with us. I understand she was in pain because of that loss, but we were in pain too.''
''I guess that is the curse of a love match…''
She looked at him with curiosity.
''You die in life… Your half, or what you believe is your half, is gone and you just are… When you are together, there is a purpose… You are here to love, to create family, memories, grow old together and have a life that is fulfilling. And when one side of that match dies, other just stays in life because they have to, not because they want to. I am sure your mother wished to die more than once since his death and probably the only reason she is still here is eight of you.''
''Do you believe in true love matches?''
''I do… But I also know it doesn't happen always and to everyone. And each of us has a path.''
''Do you wish for it?''
He smirked…
''Are you trying to find out are you my true love match Francesca?!''
She was not sure if he was teasing or being serious.
''Maybe we should get downstairs. We shouldn't leave our guests.''
He knew he hit the nail on the head with the question. She was nervous. He was pretty sure she could be his true love match, but he had no idea how she felt, aside from being embarrassed.
''You are right… We don't want them to cut the cake and gossip without us.''
''Your aunt picked the cake.''
''Ah, then it would be some boring and bland taste… Like John likes them.''
''And you don't?''
''I love things with a little more spice int hem…''
''That is something you will have to take to Kate. She is Indian and none of us can eat food she makes for herself.''
''I am sure of it. When I was there, it took us good six months to get used to their food. Me and one more guy made friends with an Indian and we had dinners at his house. I swear, after first dinner we were crying, sweating and swearing him for indigestion we had. Before I left, I could eat his food and have no issues after. I call that progress.''
''That sounds like accomplishment and I am not teasing you.''
''I know, you wouldn't dare.''
She just shook her head and walked out of the room. When they got to the stairs, he offered his arm to her and they descended together. Guests were clapping, music was playing and there was a lot of people who wanted to talk to them. After few minutes they were separated and talking to different guests. Michael followed her with his eyes across the room making sure she is well. His mother came to him and smiled.
''What is it mother?''
''You like the girl, that is why you married her. You even gave her my mother's ring.''
''Well, it is a nice ring.''
''I agree, but I also remember you saying it is not for any girl…but waiting for the special one.''
''She is special…''
''I see… Well, introduce me to her.''
He took his mother to Francesca who was talking to Elosie and Penelope. They were teasing her that they were alone too long in her bedroom and asked her if anything happened. She blushed and said that none of the things they expect happened and that hey talked to Violet most of the time. Just as she finished her sentence Michael put his hand on her waist. She turned to see who it was and saw him with a woman.
''Francesca, let me introduce you to my mother, Lady Helen Sterling. Mother, this is new Lady Sterling.''
She curtsied and lowered her head.
''Pleased to meet you, Lady Sterling.''
Helen smiled.
''Well, now that is getting confusing since we are both Lady Sterling now. How about you call me Helen…''
Francesca smiled and nodded.
''I must say I can't wait to get to know you. You seam like very nice girl Francesca.''
''Thank you… I hope we would find some time soon to get to know one another.''
''I want to hear you play. I've heard so much about it.''
''Oh…''
She knew it was from John or even his mother.
''In my time I also loved to play. I must say, I haven't played in years.''
''Maybe we can try a duet?''
''That sounds wonderful. I will leave you to your guests now.''
She walked away and Michael stayed with Francesca and the ladies. Penelope was sipping her lemonade and watching them.
''Will you do the first dance? Me and Colin did…''
''Oh, well… John was not much of a dancer so, it was not planed.''
Michael looked at her.
''Do you want to dance?''
''Yes, I'd be happy to.''
Musicians started playing something they could waltz to so Michael took her to the floor. They danced few dances and then Anthony came to dance with her. Michael took his chance to ask Violet to dance. She was confused, blushed but danced in the end with a rake that became her son in law. He even got Lady Danbury to dance and that was not the worst of it. She was laughing, that got everyone in state of shock.
Anthony, Kate, Benedict, Colin, Eloise and Francesca watched the dance and couldn't believe what they saw. Benedict looked at Anthony.
''Did she actually smile?''
''Yes, and mother was all giddy for some reason.''
Eloise had to be the next to comment.
''Well, they act that way because pretty boy is asking them to dance. They've been widows for too long and finally they got the chance to be giddy and act like young girls they were.''
''Pretty boy?! We dance with mother too…''
''Yes, Colin, but you are her SONS… Francesca married the pretty boy everyone wants piece of…even our mother and her best friend.''
That got them all to make disgusted faces, all but Elosie, Kate and Francesca. Kate was entertained how they were jelous. Eloise loved making fun of her brothers and Francesca was intrigued.
''Do you really think he is pretty?''
Both Kate and Eloise just looked at her like she grew third head.
''Are you serious Francesca? Look at the women around him. They are in awe just as he passes them to get something to eat or drink.''
Kate just nodded in agreement. Anthony got jealous.
''Well, he is not that pretty…''
''Oh, brother, don't worry. Your wife is safe. She is smart for many things, accept when she fell for you. She could have done much better…''
''What? Like pretty boy there?''
''Hmmm… I think he is pretty enough to make good couple with anyone…''
''Elosie, please don't tease your brother. We don't want him to act like an idiot in front of the guests.''
''I guess you are right. We can save that for more private setting.''
And with that Elosie left to get something to eat and Francesca continued watching her husband dance with her mother, his mother and some other older ladies that smiled and looked very happy. She could imagine them as debutantes dancing at their first balls. Maybe some of them married their first cavalier? Maybe they were still in love? Maybe they lost them? Maybe they lost the love? Too many maybes for one bride….
Francesca and Michael cut the cake and as she said, taste was very bland. She and Michael gave first pieces to their mothers and then maids cut the cake and gave to the other guests. They noticed that Janet and John were looking at them.
''You want to talk to them Francesca?''
''I am not sure what I would say. I think everything was said yesterday when he said he can't marry me. Now we have nothing to talk. I am married to you and he made his choice.''
''I know, but he is still my cousin. We will have to spend some time with them. Better to clear the air now than later.''
She followed him to John and his mother and she felt uncomfortable.
''Aunt Janet, cousin… Are you having fun?''
Fran curtsied and greeted them too.
''Lady Kilmartin, Lord Kilmartin...''
''Francesca…''
She wanted to be polite to them because they mattered to Michael. She still harbored a lot of feelings and wished they were not here. Janet made comment about too many people coming and how she really dislikes too crowded events.
''It is a wedding aunt. Day of celebration. It is nice of all these people to show up and support our nuptials.''
''Most of them came for Johns wedding.''
''Yes, but he was not allowed to come out and play aunty, wasn't he?''
''I will not start again why I was right…''
''Of course you will not. You never do that.''
That got Janet angry and she just walked away. John came closer to them and looked at Francesca.
''Francesca, do you think we could talk somewhere in private?''
Michael didn't like that idea. He felt a bit jelous, but also felt like he had no right to prevent her from talking if she wanted to.
''I am sorry, Lord Kilmartin. It is not appropriate. I am a married woman and you said everything that mattered last night. Please excuse us. My husband I have other guests to greet. Enjoy the cake and I hope that in this selection of fine young ladies, your mother can handpick appropriate lady to be your countess…''
With that Francesca ended her conversation and Michael felt sting of pride how she dismissed his cousin. They danced and mingled with the guests until their party was over. At the very end, Francesca climbed the stairs and threw her bouquet. It landed in Hyacinth's arms and Violet and Anthony turned pail as sheet. It was not her time yet. She was a baby of the family.
''Frannie, look!''
Francesca smiled at her sister and many of the guests applauded and laughed how happy youngest Bridgerton was.
''I am glad your aim is so bad that in the end it wasn't me.''
She rolled her eyes at Eloise and Kate couldn't stop laughing.
After guests left Bridgerton family plus two Sterlings were tired and just wanted a moment to breathe. Even Elosie, who hates parties, danced with her brothers, so her mother wouldn't get her hopes up, and had fun. Violet and Kate took over giving instructions to the staff for what is to be done with food. Kate usually sent the food to the poor parts of the city and gave it to the children begging on the streets. Anthony loved that side of his wife. He believed that it was inspired by everything she saw and lived in India.
''Francesca, your brother told me that he invited you and Michael to join us at Aubrey Hall after you move into you new home. I think you should come and spend some time with us in the country.''
''I think I have to talk to my husband about it.''
''That would be perfect opportunity to get to know him better.''
She smiled.
''Oh, I saw you dancing with him mother. I don't think it's safe to let you get to know him better.''
Violet knew her daughter was teasing and she was blushing.
''Francesca Bridgerton!''
''It's Sterling now, mother.''
She left Violet and went to Eloise and Hyacinth. Her baby sister was fascinated with her bouquet and teasing Eloise that she would marry before her.
''That is very possible… Eloise doesn't want to marry anyway.''
''Shame… I can't wait for dashing man to court me…''
They both smiled at her baby sister.
''I hope you will find what you are looking for.''
''Oh, I will… I just hope he will be good looking as your husband Frannie…''
''Can you stop calling her husband good looking. It is weird.''
''Why? He is good looking…''
Francesca blushed for a moment.
''I guess he is.''
''You like him…''
''I do not…''
She picked up her dress and left her sisters. She went outside to the garden and took a seat in the gazebo. She needed a moment alone. She never liked crowds. Big wedding happened because Janet believed that John needed a wedding like the one that actually took place. She wanted it to be very small and intimate. She closed her eyes and just started breathing.
''Francesca, are you doing well?''
''Yes, I just needed a moment… I am not found of crowds.''
''Ah… I can understand that. Your mother is calling us inside. She said she has something for us.''
He offered his hand and she took it. In the siting room was Violet with Lady Danbury.
''Ah, Lady Sterling, you look beautiful.''
''Thank you, Lady Danbury.''
''I have present for you Lady Francesca.''
She gave her a jewelry box. Inside what beautiful necklace with diamonds and pearls shaped as flowers and matching earrings.
''It is beautiful. Thank you.''
''That is for your first ball next season Lady Sterling.''
''It will be my honor.''
After some time in the sitting room with Lady Danbury and family, it was time for the couple to retire. Looking around the room, it was clear that Francesca was not the only one to be nervous. Violet was getting fidgety; Anthony was looking from her to her husband and back. His baby sister was about to become someone's wife for real an her was terrified of it. He wondered what the father would say? Did he choose well for her?