A Wallflower's Bloom

Chapter 17: Confession

Confession

It is almost past midnight and yet, Penelope Featherington could not fall asleep. Her mind had become worked up as she had repeatedly read the secret behind the book Thomas Debling gave to her. And for the fifth time for that night, she grabbed the volume and flipped through the last pages towards the end of the book.

For where there should be blank pages that were merely used to balance the folios that make up the book, she saw a handwriting that were so beautifully and delicately scribbled.

-x-

My Dearest Miss Featherington,

As I pen these words upon the blank pages of this book, my heart swells with emotions too vast to contain. From the moment our paths crossed, I have been ensnared by the radiant light of your presence drawn inexorably into the depths of your captivating gaze.

In your eyes, I see the reflection of a thousand stars, each one a testament to the beauty and brilliance that resides within your soul. Your fiery locks, like strands of spun gold, dance upon the breeze with a grace unmatched by any mortal coil. And though others may deem yourself inferior to that standard of society, in my eyes, you are the very embodiment of perfection, a vision of loveliness that steals my breath away.

But it is not merely physical allure that has captured my heart, my dear Miss Featherington. Nay, it is the depth of your intellect, the quickness of your wit, that sets you apart from all others. In your presence, I find myself challenged and inspired, eager to delve into the mysteries of life with you by my side.

Thus, with every beat of my heart, I am consumed by a love so pure, so profound, that it transcends the bounds of time and space. Miss Penelope Anne, my beloved, I beseech thee to grant me the honor of calling you mine, to walk hand in hand through the trials and triumphs that await us on this journey called life.

For it is with you, and you alone, that I find my truest happiness, my deepest fulfilment. In your arms, I have found my home, and in your love, I will have my salvation.

My lady, my dearest Miss Penelope Featherington, would you do me the extraordinary honor of becoming my wife? Know that this request comes from the deepest recesses of my soul, and that I pledge myself to you with all the ardor and devotion that a heart such as mine can muster. Should you see fit to bestow upon me the privilege of your hand, I vow to spend every day of our shared existence striving to be worthy of the honor.

Yours, now and always,

Thomas Debling

-x-

Penelope still could not believe what was written down with Lord Debling's signature. She has already read it several times, memorizing almost all of the words on the page. Penelope tries to think what to do with the proposal. Sure, it was a proposal but an informal one as it has not been officially made to the lady of their household, Portia Featherington.

Should she tell her mama, and show this letter penned by Lord Debling? For the first time in all her years, being up in the marriage mart, Penelope Featherington had received a marriage proposal, from a titled lord no less. Tears of joy brimmed in her eyes as she continued to re-read the words written by Thomas. Her heart danced with delight, and her soul soared with an overwhelming sense of happiness.

Never before had she encountered such a declaration of love, so tender and sincere, written with such eloquence and passion. Lord Debling's words stirred something deep within her, igniting a flame of affection that had long been dormant.