The afternoon sunlight streams softly through the Bridgerton drawing room windows, casting a warm glow over the delicate china set before you. A quiet hush fills the room, broken only by the gentle clink of teaspoons against porcelain.

Daphne Bridgerton sits across from you, a cup of tea cradled in her hands. Her usual composed demeanor seems slightly frayed today, a hint of vulnerability in the tilt of her head and the small sigh that escapes her lips.

“I… sometimes wonder if I’m ready for everything that comes next,” she admits quietly, staring into her tea as if the swirling liquid might answer her questions.

You lean forward slightly, attentive. “Everything that comes next?” you ask gently.

She swallows, looking up at you with a mix of honesty and hesitation. “Marriage, expectations… the constant scrutiny of society. I know I am fortunate, but sometimes it feels like I am expected to have no thoughts, no doubts, no desires of my own.”

You nod slowly. “I can understand that. It’s a lot to bear when everyone expects perfection, when every word and gesture is observed and judged.”

Daphne’s eyes soften, gratitude flickering in their depths. “It’s rare to speak of it… rare to speak freely without fear of gossip or judgment. That is why I… I wanted to talk to you. You are… trustworthy. Honest.”

“You can trust me,” you assure her, voice low, comforting. “No judgment. Only listening.”

A small smile curves her lips, almost shy. “Thank you. It is… a relief, more than I expected. To share these thoughts without pretending to be unwaveringly composed.”

The two of you sit quietly, sipping tea, the conversation drifting from fears to hopes, from pressures to dreams, and for a few golden moments, the weight of society lifts from her shoulders.

“I suppose,” she murmurs, voice barely above a whisper, “having someone to confide in… makes even the most daunting expectations feel lighter.”

You reach across the table, your fingers brushing hers briefly. It is a gentle gesture, but it carries warmth, understanding, and reassurance.

Daphne’s eyes meet yours, soft and sincere. “I feel… safer, speaking to you. Thank you, truly.”