Chapter 2: Unspoken Histories
After the ball, Eloise found herself increasingly curious about Oliver Thorne. His composed demeanor at the event had sparked a number of questions in her mind, leading her to seek out information about him through her social circles and discreet inquiries among those acquainted with his business dealings.
What she learned intrigued her deeply: Oliver had served with honor in the British army during the tumultuous years of the Napoleonic Wars, returning only after the death of his grandfather, who had raised him and built a substantial fortune through banking and trade. His friends spoke of him as a kind and gentle soul, a stark contrast to the reserved, almost aloof man he presented in public.
However, when Eloise and Oliver next met at the Royal Society exhibit, the atmosphere between them was subtly charged. Oliver, having heard through his own contacts that Eloise had been asking about his past, was more guarded than usual, his responses measured and his demeanor cool.
As they stood beside an exhibit of new steam engine advancements, Eloise, aware of his discomfort, attempted to bridge the gap. "Mr. Thorne, I must admit, I have heard much about your past endeavors and hardships. Your experiences are quite remarkable," she ventured, hoping to encourage a more open dialogue.
Oliver's reaction was restrained, a flicker of displeasure crossing his features before he composed himself. "Miss Bridgerton, while I appreciate your interest, I find it curious that you chose to learn about me from others rather than through direct conversation. It suggests a certain... mistrust, does it not?"
His directness took Eloise aback. She realized her mistake in not approaching him sooner and more personally. "Mr. Thorne, I apologize if my actions seemed discourteous. My intentions were not to undermine your trust, but rather to understand the man who has become a topic of much discussion among my peers."
Oliver listened, his expression softening slightly, though his stance remained cautious. "Understanding is a noble pursuit, Miss Bridgerton. However, trust is built on more personal interactions, not second-hand accounts."
Chastened, Eloise nodded, recognizing the wisdom in his words. "You are right, of course. Perhaps, then, you might allow me the chance to know you as you truly are, not as others perceive you?"
There was a long pause as Oliver considered her request, the bustle of the exhibit around them fading into a muted backdrop. Finally, he nodded slowly. "Very well, Miss Bridgerton. It seems only fair to offer you the opportunity to form your own judgments based on firsthand knowledge."
The rest of their conversation proceeded with a new understanding, albeit with a cautious undertone. Oliver shared insights into his passions for innovation and his vision for the future, but he carefully steered clear of more personal revelations.
As they parted ways, Eloise felt a mixture of satisfaction and frustration. She had opened a door to a potentially deeper relationship, yet the path forward was clouded with caution. Her curiosity about Oliver had deepened, but so had her awareness of the careful balance required to navigate the fragile beginnings of their acquaintance.