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.
