Chapter 9: Scandal's Shadow
The false Whistledown pamphlet, expertly crafted by the Cowpers to mimic the notorious columnist's style, quickly became the talk of the ton. It insinuated a scandalous, clandestine relationship between Eloise Bridgerton and Theo Sharpe, a man deemed unsuitable due to his social standing. The gossip spread like wildfire, tainting Eloise's reputation with hints of impropriety.
As the whispers turned into outright stares and snickers at a grand ball, Eloise felt the weight of every glance. Her usual poise faltered under the scrutiny, the written words twisting the innocent nature of her visit into something sordid.
Oliver, upon hearing the scandalous rumors and reading the pamphlet, sought out Eloise, who was visibly shaken. Finding a quiet corner away from the prying eyes and ears, he spoke, his voice calm and reassuring. "Eloise, I know you. This pamphlet—these lies—they change nothing about how I see you."
Eloise met his gaze, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and distress. "Oliver, there's nothing untoward between Theo and me. We met to close a chapter of our past. That's the truth. I fear, however, the damage these rumors may do."
Oliver's jaw tightened as he processed the potential fallout. "Then we shall address this head-on," he declared. "Whatever your history with Theo, it is just that—history. It is not my place to judge, nor is it the business of anyone else."
In a bold move to control the narrative and protect Eloise, Oliver decided to reveal his own involvement with the docks and the nature of Eloise's visit. At a hastily called press gathering at his warehouse, with journalists and several key figures of society present, Oliver laid out the facts.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Oliver began, his voice carrying over the crowd, "recent rumors regarding Miss Eloise Bridgerton have come to my attention. I am here to clarify that Miss Bridgerton, along with her brother, Mr. Benedict Bridgerton, visited my docks to discuss a potential joint venture between our enterprises. Miss Bridgerton's presence at the docks was purely professional, representing her family's interests."
Benedict, standing beside him, nodded affirmatively, adding weight to the statement. "I can attest to everything Mr. Thorne has stated. I was present during the visit, and any insinuation beyond this is a gross misinterpretation."
The revelation of Oliver's hands-on approach to his business, typically deemed unusual for a man of his standing, also served to divert some of the attention from Eloise. The crowd listened, intrigued by Oliver's candor and the clear implication of his statement—his respect and protective stance towards Eloise.
While the explanation did not completely silence the gossip—nothing ever truly did—it muddied the waters enough to cast doubt on the salacious interpretations of Eloise's actions. Over time, the boldness of Oliver's defense and the corroboration by Benedict helped restore a degree of normalcy.
In the days that followed, Eloise found herself deeply moved by Oliver's unwavering support. His actions spoke louder than any words could, proving his respect and care for her extended beyond the superficial layers of society's expectations.
Their relationship, strengthened by this ordeal, began to evolve into something more profound. Eloise saw Oliver not just as a friend or a potential suitor, but as a partner who stood by her side against the storms of scandal and rumor.