The Viscount Who Loved Me | Anthony Bridgerton

Chapter Sixteen

Anthony took a deep breath as he stood outside his mother's parlor. He had made up his mind. It was time to take the next step, and for that, he needed his mother's blessing. He knocked gently and waited.

"Come in," came Violet Bridgerton's warm voice from within.

Anthony entered the room, finding his mother seated by the window, a soft breeze rustling the curtains. She looked up from her embroidery, her eyes lighting up as she saw him.

"Anthony, my dear," she greeted, setting aside her work. "What brings you here?"

Anthony closed the door behind him and took a seat across from her. "Mother, I need to ask you for something very important."

Violet's smile softened with curiosity and concern. "Of course, Anthony. What is it?"

Anthony hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "I have decided to ask Katherine to marry me," he said finally, his voice steady. "And I would like to give her the ring that Father gave you."

Violet's eyes widened, her hand flying to her mouth in shock. "Oh, Anthony," she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes. "Are you certain?"

Anthony nodded, his expression resolute. "I have never been more certain of anything in my life, Mother. I love her deeply, and I want to spend the rest of my life with her."

Violet stood and crossed the room, her emotions evident in her glistening eyes and trembling hands. She reached out and took Anthony's hands in hers. "Oh, my dear boy," she said, her voice choked with emotion. "I have worried about you for so long. To see you find love, especially with Katherine, fills my heart with such joy."

Anthony smiled, feeling a sense of relief and happiness at his mother's reaction. "Thank you, Mother."

Violet dabbed at her tears with a handkerchief. "Your father would be so proud of you, Anthony. He loved you so much and always wanted you to find the same happiness we had."

Violet walked over to a small jewelry box on her dresser. She opened it and took out a delicate, velvet-lined box. Inside was the ring, a beautiful piece with a single, stunning diamond.

"This ring has been in our family for generations," Violet said, her voice filled with reverence. "Your father gave it to me when he proposed, and it brought us many years of happiness. I hope it brings you and Katherine the same."

She handed the box to Anthony, who took it with great care. "Thank you, Mother," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I will do my best to honor our family's legacy and make Katherine as happy as you and Father were."

Violet placed a gentle hand on Anthony's cheek. "You have my blessing, Anthony. And more than that, you have my love and support. Always."

Anthony felt a lump in his throat, his eyes stinging with emotion. "Thank you, Mother. That means more to me than you know."

Violet smiled, her eyes shining with pride and affection. "Now, let us get ready for the ball. There are still many preparations to be made, and I want everything to be perfect."

As Violet and Anthony left the parlor, the excitement and anticipation for the evening ahead filled the air. Violet couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and happiness for her son. She had always known that Anthony had a great capacity for love, and seeing him so determined and in love with Katherine warmed her heart.

The final preparations for the ball were in full swing. The Bridgerton household was bustling with activity, servants hurrying about with flowers, candles, and all the other accouterments necessary for a grand event. Violet took charge, directing everyone with a practiced eye and ensuring that every detail was perfect.