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If Cressida Cowper could only describe herself in one word, she would choose resourceful.
It was likely not the first word that came to the minds of most who knew her, or knew of her, but the recent weeks and newfound friendship with Eloise Bridgerton had made her realize the depths of her character that she did not see. Or perhaps, had just ignored.
So, when she saw Lord Debling rush from the queen’s ball, a rather brokenhearted Penelope left behind to be berated by her mother, Cressida saw the opportunity. But rather than chase the man, as he was likely on his way home to lick his wounds, she took pause. She barely had time to rest these days what with her mother, father and the doom of an unwanted marriage on her heels. But she took note how Penelope had drawn Debling back time and time again: with patience and quiet reserve.
The man was certainly unlike most in the ton – though not so much that he hadn’t been swayed by her half-researched talking points of nature and fluttering eyelashes. She had quickly seen his propensity for aiding those in need, and wondered if now he would be the one in aid from the disappointment of Penelope Featherington (and isn’t that something no one expected?)
So, rather than jump at the vacancy Penelope had left, Cressida waited. Only one day, mind you, she didn’t have that much patience. But, two days after his failed proposal, Cressida wrote Lord Debling a letter. Writing wasn’t her preferred method of communication, however she had a feeling he might as anyone he would marry would have to be mollified by letters during his years-long absence.
Dear Lord Debling,
I do hope you do not mind my breaking convention to write you this letter. I know that your attentions had not been swayed towards me, however I did enjoy our conversations and brief times together. I wanted to express my sympathy towards you and offer any assistance that I may be able to render.
I cannot know the depths of your feelings but can be a listening ear if ever you have need. If you do not wish to speak, I only ask that you respond so that I may know you are well. I do so hope to hear from you.
Sincerely,
Cressida Cowper
It was perhaps a bit too sweet for her tastes, but Cressida had to use all she knew to ensnare this wounded bird. That did not prevent her anxiety, however, as she waited in her parent’s tomb of a home waiting a response. Though she did not have great affection for the man, she had genuinely enjoyed talking to him, and though she would never admit it, enjoyed learning a few new things from those tedious books of Eloise’s in pursuit of him. She found herself thinking that she could even bring herself to deny meat for her husband.
Cressida was not so stupid as to not realize a marriage with Debling would be a lonely one – she knew that he had mentioned traveling often, but she was not so unused to loneliness. And as the lady of the house, she knew she could find much to occupy herself.
And yet, she had to ignore the flutter of her heart the following day, when their servant brought her a letter with a familiar seal on it.
Miss Cowper,
Thank you for your kind letter. I do appreciate your interest in my well-being and though I may still be hurt from the events of that night, was very much gladdened by your words.
If I may be so bold, I would like to call upon you in the coming days. I fear I did not give you as much attention as you deserved and would enjoy getting to know you more.
Sincerely,
Alfred Debling
Cressida could not help the small smile that formed as she read the man’s short missive. Satisfaction filled her, of course, at the successful return of his attention, but there was also something else. She did not want to name it, she still felt unsure of what the future lead with Debling, yet here in her room – the only spot of light and color in the home – she could not help but hope.