Chapter 4: Unseen Duties
Eloise sat in the quiet expanse of the Bridgerton family library, her anticipation tinged with disappointment. She had been looking forward to continuing their conversation, to perhaps understanding Oliver Thorne a bit more. Yet, as the clock chimed the hour and then one past it, her hope waned, replaced by a growing unease.
Just as she was about to leave, a servant approached, handing her an envelope with the Thorne seal. The letter inside was penned in Oliver's meticulous hand, expressing his deepest apologies for missing their appointment. He wrote of an urgent business matter that demanded his immediate attention, though the details were sparingly mentioned.
Eloise read the letter twice, her initial irritation softening to concern. She knew of his business, of course, but what she did not know was the nature of the 'pressing matter' that could pull him away so suddenly.
Meanwhile, at the docks, Oliver was knee-deep in managing the aftermath of an accident. One of his ships had come into port with damaged cargo, and during the unloading process, a crate had slipped, injuring a worker. While such incidents were not uncommon, Oliver took them personally, feeling a deep responsibility for the men and women who worked for him.
His involvement was direct and hands-on, contrary to the expectations for a man of his standing. He worked alongside his employees, giving orders, lifting alongside them, and ensuring the injured were cared for. His presence was a testament to a side of him unknown to the high society—an Oliver Thorne who valued people over pedigree.
Back at the Bridgerton estate, Eloise found herself unable to dismiss her thoughts about Oliver. Moved by his sincere regret and the mysterious urgency of his letter, she decided to act. Disguising herself modestly, she ventured toward the docks, driven by a blend of concern and curiosity to see the man who was so different from the one portrayed in society columns.
As she neared the busy docks, the sight of Oliver, not overseeing from a distance but actively involved, dirty and sweat-soaked among his workers, struck her profoundly. He was a man of action and integrity, she realized, far removed from the aloof businessman society saw at balls and soirees.
Her presence went unnoticed in the bustle, allowing her to observe Oliver unguarded and genuine. It was a revelation that reshaped her understanding of him entirely.
When she returned home, her mind was ablaze with new respect and an unexpected warmth towards him. The man she had watched today was a leader who earned his respect through action, not just through wealth.
The next day, Eloise received another letter from Oliver, this time inviting her to a quiet dinner at his estate, hoping to make amends for his absence. As she penned her acceptance, Eloise felt a burgeoning excitement, not just to confront him about his secret but to share in the deeper connection that was slowly, yet undeniably, forming between them.