Chapter 26

After leaving the chaos from home behind, Bridget found solace in the small estate where she had settled for the past couple of days.

The countryside embraced her with its serene beauty, offering a respite from the multitude of events that had unfolded in her life.

The estate itself was a picturesque haven, nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. The grand iron gates opened to reveal a winding gravel path, lined with vibrant flowers that bloomed in a riot of colors.

The scent of freshly cut grass and the sweet fragrance of blossoms filled the air at all instances and periods.

The first time she approached the house, her heart skipped a beat at its sight. The little cottage mansion stood proudly, exuding an air of elegance and homeliness. Its regal facade boasted intricate stonework and large windows that allowed the golden sunlight to filter through.

Inside, it was a blessed architecture of warmth and comfort. The grand foyer greeted her with a sweeping staircase, its banisters adorned with delicate carvings.

The walls were adorned with exquisite artwork, depicting scenes of nature and romantic landscapes. Plush furniture was arranged in cozy clusters, inviting one to sink into their soft embrace.

Bridget felt a sense of peace wash over her when she set out to explore the various rooms. Each space held its own unique charm, from the cozy library with its walls lined with books, to the opulent drawing room where she imagined hosting intimate gatherings.

She wandered through the elegant halls that morning with a smile on her face when her lady's maid, Eloise, who had traveled with her, walked forward, a warm smile gracing her face as well.

"Good morrow, M'Lady," she greeted, curtsying gracefully. "I hope the day finds you in good spirits."

Bridget returned the smile, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Indeed, Eloise, the day has brought me much delight already. This home is a true bringer of joy, is it not?"

"It is indeed, M'Lady. I dare say there is something in the air causing such incessant joy and a peaceful feeling of mind," Eloise agreed.

"It surely has been a while since I woke up feeling this refreshed and excited to carry on with my day." Bridget let out a happy sigh as her eyes drifted past the windows.

"It is truly a wonderful thing to find you in such high spirits, M'Lady. My heart is glad to see you remain as excited as you were on your first day of arrival."

Bridget linked their arms and laughed. "May the excitement and joy never end, indeed."

As Eloise nodded her head again and clasped her hands in happiness, a wider smile lit her face.

"Shall we take a turn to the kitchen, then? I long to see the bustling activity within. It's surprisingly so calming to watch."

"Why, of course, the kitchen staff are waiting for you pick of breakfast, M'Lady."

Eloise gestured towards the end of the hall, her apron fluttering as she led the way to the heart of the house.

The aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering stews filled the air, enveloping them in a comforting embrace as soon as they arrived.

Bridget's laughter mingled with the cheerful chatter of the servants and helpers who bustled about, their tasks carried out with precision.

This house was different from what she had grown accustomed to. The staff acted as though they were family, everyone knew each other's names, and they were a lot more open and nicer than usual. It was a change that Bridget did not mind at all.

As they entered the kitchen, her eyes widened with delight. "Oh, what a splendid sight it is! The pots and pans gleaming, the ingredients laid out in an orderly fashion. The delicious scents in the air."

The servants responded to her praises with laughter and thankful bows. As usual, Bridget found it easy to strike up a conversation with them, and the kitchen was bustling with happy chuckles and lively exchanges in no time.

A young servant girl, Molly, then approached with a tray of freshly baked scones. "Lady Bridget, would you care for a scone? They are still warm from the oven," she offered with a shy smile.

Bridget graciously accepted, her eyes twinkling with gratitude. "Thank you, Molly. Your baking skills are truly remarkable. I shall savor every bite."

Eloise joined in the mirth, her laughter echoing through the kitchen as she collected some from the platter for herself. "Indeed, Molly, your culinary talents are unparalleled. I have never tasted scones as heavenly as these."

Finally, when her breakfast was ready, Bridget sat alone at the grand dining table, the morning sunlight streaming through the windows. The servants served her a sumptuous breakfast, their gentle smiles and attentive gestures a testament to their dedication.

"Thank you," she murmured, her voice filled with gratitude.

Her gaze lingered on the spread before her, a feast fit for a queen. The aroma of freshly brewed tea and warm pastries wafted through the air, tantalizing her senses. She took a delicate sip of tea, savoring its comforting warmth as it danced on her tongue.

Yet, amidst the opulence and delicious tastes of her new home, she felt overwhelmed by a sudden melancholy. As the feeling came often, she shook off the longing for family.

The absence of loved ones at the table tugged at her heartstrings, reminding her of the joyous mornings spent in the company of her dear ones. She missed the laughter, the lively conversations, and the shared moments of affection.

Thoughts of Abel flooded her mind the most. A wistful sigh escaped her lips as she wondered where he was and if he ever thought of her.

"Oh, Abel," she whispered to the empty table, her voice laden with longing, "do you dwell on our memories as I do?"

A pang of sadness washed over her as she contemplated the possibility of him having moved on, perhaps finding solace in the arms of another at that very moment.

The mere thought of him being wedded to someone else pierced her soul. She clutched her teacup tightly, her fingers trembling ever so slightly, refusing to think more about it.

Suddenly, a loud banging sounded at the main door. With the home normally being quiet, the sound carried all the way to where Bridget sat, disrupting her thoughts.

Her heart skipped a beat as the bangs continued, echoing through the mansion, reverberating within the quiet halls.

Startled, she rose from the table, her eyes wide with apprehension. Before she could even gather her thoughts, Eloise burst into the dining room, her face etched with concern.

"M'Lady, there's a man outside, yelling and knocking at the door!" Eloise exclaimed, her voice trembling with urgency.

Bridget's pulse quickened, her mind racing with curiosity and trepidation. She asked, her voice laced with both fear and anticipation, "Who is it, Eloise?"

Eloise hesitated for a moment, her gaze meeting Bridget's. "I couldn't quite make out his voice, M'Lady," she replied, her voice filled with uncertainty, "but he seemed desperate to see you. I also arrived at the scene late before he announced his name."

A surge of curiosity and a flicker of hope propelled Bridget forward. Without a second thought, she hurriedly left the dining room, her steps echoing through the grand hallway, her heart racing in her chest.

As she approached the door, her eyes widened in astonishment. Almost all the servants and the butler had gathered, their faces a mix of concern and curiosity.

The relentless knocking grew louder with each passing moment, echoing through the grand entrance hall, and then, a voice pierced through the chaos.

"Lady Bridget! Bridget, I know you are in there! I beg of you, let me in!"

Shivers ran down Bridget's spine. She recognized the voice instantly, and her heart skipped a beat.

Abel. It was him standing on the other side of the door. Despite how difficult it was to believe, she would recognize that voice anywhere. The realization left her breathless, her mind racing with a whirlwind of emotions.

Could it be true? Had he truly followed her here? The pounding in her chest intensified as she grappled with the surreal nature of the moment.

Her cheeks flushed, her mind swirling with questions and doubts. What could he possibly want? Had her constant thoughts of him somehow called him to her side? The uncertainty of the situation gripped her, making her hesitate.

He continued to plead, his voice filled with urgency. "Bridget, please, I must speak to you. I beg you to open the door."

His words tugged at her heart, but they also stirred a sense of fear within her.

Her heart raced as Eloise approached her, concern etched on her face. Eloise asked what Bridget wanted to do, whether she wanted to let him into the house. Panic gripped Bridget, her mind swirling with fear and uncertainty.

"Is this a dream, Eloise? Pinch me, please, to confirm I am awake," she pleaded, desperate for some semblance of reality.

But Eloise shook her head. "I cannot do that, M'Lady, but this is real," she assured, her voice filled with conviction.

Just as their conversation unfolded, Abel's knocks grew more forceful, resonating through the grand halls. The noise startled them both, causing them to jump in unison.

Eloise turned to Bridget, her eyes filled with concern, and spoke urgently, "M'Lady, the servants are growing nervous. We must decide what to do."

Bridget's mind raced, torn between her emotions and the weight of the moment. She knew she couldn't keep him waiting forever, nor could she ignore the growing unease among the household staff.

Her gaze swept across the shocked faces that surrounded her, but she summoned her courage and took a deep breath. With determination in her eyes, she approached the door, her hand trembling slightly as she raised it to knock.

The loud noise behind the door ceased as her knuckles met the wood. She spoke firmly, her voice laced with a hint of authority, "Your Grace, enough with the commotion. I am here. Speak your purpose."

Abel's voice, soft and pleading, reached her ears from the other side of the door. "Please, Bridget, open up. Let me explain. I beg you."

Bridget felt her resolve waver, her heart aching at the sound of his desperation, but she shook herself, determined to stay strong.

Clearing her throat, she replied, her voice steady but tinged with a hint of vulnerability, "I will not allow you entrance. Go away, Your Grace. You are causing a disturbance, and I have no desire to see you."

Silence hung in the air for a moment, the tension high. Her hand rested on the doorknob, her heart pounding as she waited for his response.

"Please, Bridget." Abel's voice quavered with emotion. "I know I have caused you pain, but I cannot bear to be without you. I need a chance to make amends, to prove that I have changed."

As she stood there, her heart pounding in her chest, his words echoed through the air again.

"Open the door, Bridget. I was a fool, and I want to make things right. I just want to see your face," he pleaded, his voice filled with remorse and longing.

Her emotions were roiling, but she stood her ground. With a trembling voice, she replied, "No, Your Grace. I shall not open up. It is too late for us. You must go home. I cannot trust your words anymore. The damage has been done, and it is irreversible. It is best for both of us if you leave."

And with that, she scoffed and turned on her heel back inside.

The day went by, and to her surprise, Abel remained outside the door. Bridget's heart raced with anticipation the entire time. The knocks seized, but he remained, standing and sitting at intervals.

She finished her dinner, every bite a struggle as her thoughts were consumed by the man who refused to leave.

The butler approached her at last, concern etched on his face as he collected her plates and cutlery. "My Lady, I fear the gentleman outside has been waiting for hours. What shall we do?"

Her gaze drifted to the window, and her eyes widened in surprise to meet raindrops rolling down the glass. She had been too consumed by her thoughts to notice the heavy downpour outside.

She got up and walked to peer out a window with a view of the side of the main door, and as her eyes landed on a steadfast figure, a mix of emotions flooded her.

With a determined tone, she instructed the staff, "Retire early tonight. I shall handle this matter myself."

Her heart pounding in her chest, Bridget rose from the table and made her way to the door. As she reached for the handle, her hand trembled with a combination of fear and longing.

She took a deep breath, hardening her heart and steadying herself, before finally opening the door.