[1.5] The Duchess of Kent and Strathearn | B. Bridgerton

Chapter 1

The Newlyweds

Westminster Abbey, London

Charlotte and Benedict walked out of the Church, and waved at the people outside, who were cheering with smiles on their faces.

"I never thought people would be so happy of our union," he commented.

"Neither did I," she nodded in agreement. "Although, I must say, they have always been supportive and cheery when it comes to matters I am involved in."

"For how long must we wave, my love?" He asked, and she chuckled.

"We can stop now," she said, and they did. Then, she turned around and saw her new sisters and brothers approaching them.

"We are officially sisters!" Hyacinth shouted at the top of her lungs as she hugged the new Duchess by the waist.

Charlotte chuckled at her excitement, and crouched down to hug her properly. Soon, the rest of the Bridgerton girls followed and joined the hug, all with the widest of smiles on their faces.

"Must we bow every time we see you now?" Gregory asked his brother.

"As mother always says, 'only in public'," he nodded, and chuckled.

"Congratulations, Brother, Sister," Anthony nodded at the two newlyweds. "I am very happy for you two."

"Thank you, Brother," Charlotte said as all girls pulled away from the hug. And she stood up. "May I call you that from now on, my lord?"

"I would love nothing more," he nodded with a smile of his own. "And what of you? Do you prefer 'Princess' or 'Duchess'?"

"It is now 'Duchess' by law, Lord Bridgerton, but she is still a Princess," everyone turned at the sound of Tommy's voice. "Your Royal Highnesses, they are waiting for you by the carriage."

"Who is?" Benedict asked, confused.

"Well... The reception, sir," Tommy stated, a bit impatiently. "There are more than a thousand guests. And, preferably, most of them must have arrived at the palace before you."

"Alright, Tommy. We will go," Charlotte nodded, and sighed contently before turning to her family. "We'll see you at the palace."

Everyone nodded and Benedict took his bride by surprise when he kissed her cheek. All those few around cheered, and others laughed. Charlotte looked at him with wide eyes, but it was impossible for her not to smile.

"Oh, Benny," a giggle escaped her lips. "You cannot resist, can you?"

Her cheeks were as red as a rose, and her smile was as bright as the sun. While her husband, only smirked with triumph.

"To be fair, kisses on the cheek are allowed. Isn't that right, Tommy?" Benedict teased, and everyone looked at the Private Secretary, who lightly chuckled, and nodded. "See? I did nothing wrong."

Charlotte shook her head as Benedict grabbed her hand and the two walked towards the carriage. She got in first, and he followed after her.

"I've never seen you in a carriage like this," Benedict pointed out as he stared around the roofless carriage. Everyone could see them quite clearly. "Is it only for important events?"