Daphne's heart skipped a beat, her emotions swirling in a tempest of surprise and apprehension as the Prince's proposal hung in the air between them. She felt a strange mix of flattery and unease. She hadn't expected such a monumental question during their first encounter. This wasn't at all how she envisioned her journey to marriage. The Prince had a striking, pleasing face, but beyond his title as the Prince of Prussia, she knew almost nothing about him. To accept his proposal now would be the biggest blunder she could ever make.
Daphne took a deep breath, her mind racing. She needed to be careful, measured. "Can we spend some time together before making such a hasty decision?" she asked, her voice trembling despite her efforts to sound composed.
The Prince studied her for a moment, his eyes softening. He seemed to understand her hesitation. "I couldn't agree more," he replied with a slight nod.
Daphne felt a glimmer of relief. "Then it's settled, Your Highness. I chose you to be my partner for this week."
The Prince shook his head slightly, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "I wish I could stay longer, but my trip to Mexico is pressing. I can give you three days, and in that time, we can get to know each other better. You can decide by the end of those days."
Daphne considered his words, knowing that three days were all she could expect given his likely busy schedule. She had to believe in the power of her own heart. If he was the one for her, she would feel something akin to what she felt with the Duke in mere minutes.
"Three days would be more than enough, Your Highness," she agreed, her voice steady.
Lady Bridgerton let out a sigh of relief, visibly relaxing at the development.
"Then it's done," the Prince declared, turning to his man at the door. "Call in the presents."
Four to five men entered, each carrying large, elegantly wrapped boxes. Lady Bridgerton watched with curiosity as the Prince handed them to Daphne one by one. Inside were the most exquisite dresses and jewelry pieces she had ever seen. Each piece was unique and breathtaking, designed to highlight her beauty. One dress in particular stood out—a stunning gown the Prince asked her to wear to the ball they would attend tomorrow. It was a masterpiece of delicate fabrics and intricate details, the white color making it even more ethereal.
Lady Bridgerton, a woman well-acquainted with luxury, was visibly astounded by the Prince's display of wealth and generosity.
Finally, the Prince pulled a small, ornate box from his pocket and handed it to Daphne.
"I promise this is the last," he said with a playful twinkle in his eye.
Daphne opened the box, her breath catching in her throat. Inside was a pendant, a dazzling creation of small diamonds meticulously arranged to form a blue rose in the center.
"This is truly beautiful," she murmured, deeply touched by the gesture.
"May I?" the Prince asked, his voice gentle.
"Yes, you may," Daphne replied, turning her back to him and rolling her hair forward. The Prince's warm hands sent shivers down her spine as he gently placed the necklace around her neck.
His touch triggered memories of the Duke taking her back to the night they met.
Daphne slowly turned around, meeting the Prince's gaze. He gently pushed her hair back, his fingers brushing against her skin in a way that sent sparks through her. His kindness and gentle gestures made her see the folly of waiting for a man who hadn't shown up. She had to open her heart to new possibilities.
"You look stunning," the Prince said softly, his eyes filled with admiration.
"Thank you, Your Highness," Daphne replied, feeling a mixture of gratitude and confusion.
After the Prince left, Daphne retreated to her room, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. She sat there for quite some time, grappling with her feelings. When it was finally time for dinner, she descended the stairs, only to freeze at the sight that greeted her.
Her brother was talking to someone, and as she drew closer, her heart skipped a beat. It was the Duke. The man who had captured her heart in an instant, who had haunted her thoughts ever since.
The Duke had come, but it was just too late.