The Viscount Who Loved Me | Anthony Bridgerton

Prologue

1803

In the grand drawing room of the Arlington estate, Katherine sat elegantly on a plush settee, her eyes fixed on the intricate embroidery of her gown. Her mother, the Countess Eleanor Arlington, watched her with a knowing smile, a glint of mischief in her eyes.

"Katherine, darling, it's time for your afternoon tea with the Bridgertons," Eleanor announced, her voice carrying a hint of excitement.

Katherine sighed inwardly, knowing what her mother had in mind. "Must we, Mother? You know how Anthony and I feel about these arranged meetings."

Eleanor chuckled softly, crossing the room to take her daughter's hand. "I know, my dear, but it's important to maintain appearances. Besides, Anthony is your dearest friend. Who knows? Perhaps one day, he'll be more than just a friend."

Katherine rolled her eyes playfully, but deep down, she couldn't deny the flutter of excitement at the thought. Anthony Bridgerton had been her closest companion since childhood, and although she cherished their friendship, she couldn't help but entertain fantasies of something more.

As they arrived at the Bridgerton estate, Katherine braced herself for the inevitable awkwardness of their forced encounters. However, as soon as she caught sight of Anthony's familiar grin, her tension melted away.

"Kat, there you are!" Anthony exclaimed, striding over to greet her with a warm hug. "I've been looking forward to our afternoon together."

Katherine smiled, returning his embrace. "Likewise, Anthony. Shall we take a stroll in the garden?"

"Most certainly, my lady," he said, grinning as she kissed her gloved hand. Katherine lets out a giggle as tucks her hand on his elbow and leads her outside, his mother, Viscountess Violet Bridgerton, chaperoning from behind.

The pair wandered through the manicured grounds, their conversation flowing effortlessly as they reminisced about their childhood adventures. With Anthony, Katherine felt free to be herself, her wit and intellect shining through without the constraints of societal expectations.

"Katherine, there's something I've been meaning to ask you," Anthony began, his voice tinged with a hint of nervousness.

Katherine's heart skipped a beat as she turned to face him, her eyes locking with his. "What is it, Anthony?"

He took a deep breath, his gaze unwavering. "Do you ever feel like there's more between us than just friendship?"

Katherine felt her cheeks flush with heat, her pulse quickening at his words. "I... I've often wondered the same thing, Anthony."

Before either of them could say another word, they were interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps. It was Katherine's father, the Earl Edward Arlington, accompanied by Violet Bridgerton.

"Ah, there you are, Katherine," Edward said, his tone formal as he approached. "We must be going."

"But, father-"

"At once Katherine," Lord Arlington sternly injects, before turning to Lady Bridgerton. "Thank you for your hospitality, Lady Bridgerton, Mister Bridgerton."

Violet smiled warmly, though there was a hint of disappointment in her eyes as she glanced between Anthony and Katherine. "Of course, Lord Arlington. It was lovely to see you both. Until next time."

As they made their way back to the Arlington estate, Katherine couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in her chest. Her father's disapproval hung heavy in the air, casting a shadow over her burgeoning feelings for Anthony.

Once they were alone, Katherine turned to her mother, her eyes pleading for reassurance. "Mother, what are we to do? Father will never approve of Anthony and me."

Eleanor sighed, her gaze softening as she wrapped her arms around her daughter. "I know, my dear. But love has a way of conquering even the most stubborn of hearts. We'll find a way to make it work, Katherine. I promise, just leave your father to me."

And as Katherine nestled into her mother's embrace, she couldn't help but cling to hope, knowing that no matter the obstacles they faced, she and Anthony would always find their way back to each other.