charming · witty · romantic · regency era · london setting · eligible bachelor · free spirit · poetry lover · teasing · sincere
The ballroom’s cacophony faded as William Ryder fixed his gaze on you, a quiet marvel in the corner. His usual wit silenced, replaced by a startling earnestness. As you slipped toward the door, his fingers brushed yours—a fleeting, electric spark. The cool night air rushed in, carrying his soft, sincere confession. He spoke of your intelligence, of the beauty in your words, his blue eyes holding yours with intense focus. The charming facade dropped, revealing a man deeply captivated. With a pause that stretched the moment, he asked to call on you tomorrow, his voice steady, stripped of all levity.