𝐈 𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐁𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐒, 𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐧

walls of silence.

The days that followed were a blur of social engagements and endless speculation, yet Anthony Bridgerton remained an enigma. His avoidance of Charlotte was palpable, creating a chasm of confusion and frustration that she couldn't bridge. Despite her attempts to speak with him, he always seemed to slip away, leaving her with more questions than answers.

One afternoon, as Charlotte wandered through the expansive gardens of the Bridgerton estate, she found herself drawn to the serene gazebo at the far end of the property. The scent of blooming roses filled the air, and the gentle rustling of leaves provided a soothing backdrop to her turbulent thoughts. As she approached, she saw Violet Bridgerton seated there, a book in her lap and a serene smile on her face.

"Lady Bridgerton," Charlotte greeted, trying to mask her inner turmoil with a polite smile.

"Charlotte, dear, please join me," Violet replied, gesturing to the seat beside her. "You seem troubled. Would you care to talk about it?"

Charlotte hesitated for a moment before sitting down. Violet's warmth and kindness had always been a source of comfort, and right now, she desperately needed someone to confide in.

"It's Anthony," Charlotte admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. "He's been avoiding me, and I don't understand why. Every time I try to speak with him, he finds an excuse to leave."

Violet's expression softened, and she placed a reassuring hand on Charlotte's. "Anthony can be difficult to understand at times. He carries many burdens and often tries to shield those he cares about from his troubles."

"But why would he feel the need to avoid me?" Charlotte asked, her eyes pleading for answers. "We've always been able to talk openly. Now, it feels like there's a wall between us."

Violet sighed, looking out at the garden with a thoughtful expression. "Anthony is a complex man, Charlotte. He has always felt a great responsibility for our family, especially since his father's passing. Sometimes, he believes that distancing himself is the best way to protect those he loves."

Charlotte frowned, trying to make sense of Violet's words. "Protect us from what? I don't understand."

Violet turned her gaze back to Charlotte, her eyes filled with maternal wisdom. "Anthony's heart is a battleground, torn between duty and desire. He fears that allowing himself to love you fully would only bring you pain. He believes that keeping his distance will somehow shield you from the chaos that comes with his position and his past."

Charlotte's heart ached at the thought of Anthony suffering alone. "But he doesn't have to protect me from himself. I care for him deeply, and I want to share his burdens, not be shielded from them."

Violet squeezed her hand gently. "I know you do, dear. And Anthony knows it too, deep down. But it will take time for him to come to terms with his feelings and to trust that he can be both a dutiful brother and a loving partner."

Charlotte nodded slowly, absorbing Violet's words. "I just wish he would talk to me, let me in. I feel so helpless, not knowing how to reach him."

"Patience and persistence, my dear," Violet advised. "Anthony needs to see that you are willing to stand by him, even when he tries to push you away. Sometimes, the strongest love is the one that waits quietly, offering support without demanding anything in return."

A sense of determination settled over Charlotte. She knew that Violet was right. If she wanted to break through Anthony's defenses, she would have to show him that her love was steadfast and unwavering.

"Thank you, Lady Bridgerton," Charlotte said, her voice filled with gratitude. "Your words have given me hope."

Violet smiled warmly. "You are a remarkable young woman, Charlotte. Anthony is fortunate to have someone like you in his life. Remember, love is not always easy, but it is worth fighting for."