Chapter 22: Intentions Made Clear
On a crisp, sunlit morning, the Bridgerton household buzzed with a quiet anticipation that was uncharacteristic for such an early hour. The cause of this unusual activity was none other than Sir Nathan Bromswell, who had requested a formal visit to the Bridgerton residence. The servants moved with purpose, tidying the drawing room to perfection, as Violet and Anthony prepared to receive a guest whose intentions seemed promisingly clear.
As the clock chimed the appointed hour, Nathan arrived, looking every bit the part of a gentleman with earnest intentions. His attire was meticulously chosen, complementing his dignified demeanor as he was shown into the Bridgerton's grand drawing room. Violet welcomed him with her usual grace, while Anthony regarded him with a mixture of curiosity and cautious approval.
"Lady Bridgerton, Lord Bridgerton," Nathan began, his tone respectful and confident. "I come today with a sincere request. I have come to hold in high regard your daughter, Miss Eloise Bridgerton. With your permission, I would like to formally court her."
Violet, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of surprise and delight, exchanged a quick glance with Anthony. Eloise, present and slightly flushed with a mix of nerves and excitement, listened intently, her gaze fixed on Nathan.
Anthony, ever protective and analytical, took a moment before responding. "Sir Nathan, your reputation as a man of integrity precedes you. However, my sister's welfare is my utmost priority. What are your intentions toward her?"
Nathan met Anthony's gaze directly, his expression earnest. "I assure you, my intentions are honorable. I admire Eloise for her intelligence, kindness, and forthrightness. I seek only to win her regard and, with time, perhaps her affection."
Moved by his sincerity and clear respect for their family protocols, Violet interjected, "We are honored by your request, Sir Nathan. Eloise, what say you?"
Eloise, who had always found Nathan to be a kind and compelling individual, felt a reassuring calm settle over her. "I am pleased to accept your request, Nathan. You have shown yourself to be a man of principle, and I would be glad to know you better."
The room brightened with smiles and nods of approval. Nathan, visibly relieved and pleased by the positive response, then took a slight step forward, emboldened by the acceptance. "Thank you, Eloise. With that settled, might I have the honor of being your escort to the upcoming ball at Lady Danbury's? It would be a privilege to introduce you there under such auspicious circumstances."
Eloise's smile deepened, touched by his thoughtfulness. "I would like that very much, Nathan. Thank you for the honor."
As the meeting concluded with warm handshakes and expressions of goodwill, the mood in the Bridgerton household lifted considerably. Plans began to take shape for the upcoming event, with discussions of gowns and carriages filling the air with an excited buzz.
The chapter closed as the Bridgertons, along with a now formally acknowledged suitor, Nathan, started their preparations to attend Lady Danbury's ball. The occasion was set to be one of the highlights of the social season, and with new relationships and alliances forming, it promised to be a night full of possibility and renewal. Eloise, supported by her family and her new suitor, felt a hopeful anticipation for what the evening might bring, her heart light with the prospect of new beginnings and the comforting presence of Nathan at her side.