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

Chapter 12

Turmoil at the Altar

A march down the aisle may very well be the longest walk any young lady ever takes. It does not simply cover the length of the church, but rather, countless floors for dancing, and meandering paths for every afternoon promenade too.

It is a wonder, then, that feet do not tire or, heaven forbid, trip under the scrutiny of all those attentive eyes keeping close watch, indeed.

St James's Palace, London

"Does it fly?" The Queen asked the man about the peacock.

"Uh, some, Your Majesty," he nervously responded.

"What kind of answer is 'some'?" The Queen questioned.

"Well, it does not soar, but if you like, I can place it on a high perch and allow it to glide down," he suggested with a smile.

"Only if you follow its path," the Queen glared at the man and turned around to leave, her ladies following her.

"Such a beauty," the Duchess of Kent and Strathearn smiled warmly at the man and the peacock. "We'll keep him, thank you."

"Of course, Your Royal Highness," he bowed his head.

Charlotte gave the man a final nod, accompanied by a warm smile, before swiftly returning to her mother's side. Throughout the entire week, she had diligently adhered to her mother's directives, participating in every meeting and discussion concerning the upcoming nuptials of Viscount Bridgerton and Miss Edwina. Aside from spending cherished moments with her son, Charlotte's time had been consumed by the meticulous planning of the event. Together with the Queen, she had made countless decisions, ranging from the selection of the wedding cake to the choice of every single decoration, ensuring that each detail was perfect for the grand occasion.

The Duchess of Kent and Strathearn remained silent about the numerous occasions when she had been tempted to reveal to her mother why the Queen should call off the wedding. She was acutely aware that Anthony harbored deep feelings for Kate, not for Miss Edwina. This knowledge weighed heavily on her conscience, filling her with guilt as she busied herself with the wedding preparations. To Charlotte, the entire affair felt more like planning a funeral than a celebration, with the bride, the groom and the maid of honor serving as the mournful parties bound to a joyless future.

"The fireworks are ready, Your Majesty," Brimsley informed her mother. "Timed perfectly to discharge directly after the bride and groom utter, 'I do'."

"Whatever you have planned is not good enough, Brimsley. Make them bigger, longer, brighter. Our guests must be captivated," the Queen stated and noticed the servants going up the stairs. "I believe I asked for His Majesty's wing to be closed off today. I do not wish for anyone to lose their way and end up somewhere...curious."

"Of course, Ma'am. Though, you may rest assured His Majesty appeared in rather good spirits this morning," Brimsley added and looked at the Duchess. "He was asking for his Cherry and little Georgie."

"I will gladly pay His Majesty a visit after the wedding," Charlotte nodded and they continued walking outside. "Though, I do not nor will speak for my brother on when he'll visit the King."

"And what of our other grand plan?" The Queen asked him. "Is everything in place?"

"Indeed," Brimsley nodded.