Blooming in Friendship

Tonight was pleasant and most surprising.
 
I believe I have found a kinship with the Lady Dahlia. If I am to be frank, I have discovered a similar connection with her mother as well. Both are scholars of remarkable intelligence, a trait that I did not fully anticipate. Our conversation flowed with ease and I was captivate by their depth of knowledge and insight.
 
Reflecting on my time with Lora, I see now that my feelings were rooted in a fascination with her intellect. Never before had I encountered someone my own age that matched my mental acuity. It both vexed and frustrated me, leaving me unable to free my mind of thoughts of her.
 
Conversation with Dahlia flowed freely and I found my ill ease fading with each minute that we spent at that table.
 
Upon my return, I found a hot towel delivered by the most curious of creeping vines - a clear testament to the Druidic magic of the Blumetts. The thistle atop betrayed the identity of the sender. While the exact meaning of this gesture eludes me, the gift itself brought a warmth to my heart as comforting as the towel itself. I must think of a gift to reciprocate this gesture.
 
For so long, I have deemed myself unlovable due to my many rough edges and sharp points, my interests in the academic as opposed to those “normal” of a lady in society. Perhaps what I truly needed was someone who appreciates me because of these qualities, not in spite of them. Lady Dahlia's presence and our connection have sparked a hope within me that I scarcely dared to entertain.
 
Yet, I find myself yearning to share this experience with my brother. I can almost hear his teasing remarks about the matter. No doubt Dominic and Nicholas will have their share of jests, but strangely, I care little for their opinions at this moment. The prospect of a budding connection with Lady Dahlia outweighs all else… but I still cannot help the logical part of me trying to warn that this has all moved too suddenly.
 
My purpose in society is to secure an advantageous match to help further my family’s standing within society. While Dahlia, and the Blumetts, are well-established and powerful, it would be selfish of me to not try and find what would help the family most.
 
For the sake of my family, I will not be blind to the other matches presented to me. I will not let Dahlia Blumett blind me to what my goal this season is…