Fresh Air - Anthony Bridgerton

I chose...

Scarlett's heart raced as she reentered the grand ballroom, the warmth of Henry's touch lingering on her cheek. The contrast between the tranquil garden and the vibrant ballroom was stark, but she embraced the energy, seeking the familiarity of the crowd to steady her tumultuous thoughts.

Inside, the music had shifted to a lively polonaise, and the dance floor was abuzz with twirling couples. Lady Somerset, ever the gracious hostess, glided through the room, her keen eyes catching Scarlett's return. With a knowing smile, she approached.

"Miss White, you are positively glowing," Lady Somerset remarked, her voice warm with affection. "Might I assume that your evening has been eventful?"

Scarlett smiled, her gaze momentarily drifting to where Anthony stood conversing with another guest. "Indeed, Lady Somerset. It has been quite the evening."

"Ah, to be young and at the center of such excitement," Lady Somerset mused, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "But do take care, my dear. The choices you make now will shape your future in ways you may not yet fully grasp."

With a gentle squeeze of Scarlett's hand, Lady Somerset moved on, leaving Scarlett to ponder her words. She couldn't help but feel the weight of the evening's encounters pressing upon her. The Queen's proposition, Anthony's declarations, and Henry's unexpected passion all swirled in her mind, demanding attention.

As Scarlett moved through the room, exchanging pleasantries and polite conversation, she felt a subtle shift in the atmosphere. Whispers followed her, curiosity and speculation dancing in the air. It was clear that her interactions with Henry and Anthony had not gone unnoticed.

Seeking respite, Scarlett found herself drawn to the refreshment table. As she sipped a glass of lemonade, she felt a presence beside her. Turning, she found herself face-to-face with Daphne Bridgerton, a close friend and confidante.

"Scarlett, you look as if you've seen a ghost," Daphne said, her tone laced with concern. "Are you alright?"

Scarlett sighed, grateful for the familiar company. "It's just... everything. The attention, the expectations. I never imagined it would be this overwhelming."

Daphne nodded, her expression sympathetic. "I can only imagine. But you are stronger than you know, Scarlett. And whatever you decide, you have friends who will stand by you."

Scarlett smiled, touched by Daphne's unwavering support. "Thank you, Daphne. Your words mean more to me than you know."

Before she could say more, the music shifted once again, this time to a soft, romantic melody. Couples began to pair off for the final dance of the evening, and Scarlett felt a gentle tap on her shoulder.

Turning, she found Anthony Bridgerton standing before her, his expression earnest. "Scarlett, may I have this dance?"

Scarlett hesitated, her mind flashing back to the intensity of their earlier conversation. But there was something in Anthony's eyes, a sincerity that called to her. With a nod, she placed her hand in his.

As they moved onto the dance floor, Anthony's hand settled on her waist, guiding her with a practiced ease. For a moment, Scarlett allowed herself to be lost in the music, the world around them fading into a blur.

"Scarlett," Anthony began, his voice low and earnest. "I know I have not always been forthcoming with my feelings, and for that, I am truly sorry. But I want you to know that my affection for you is real. I want to build a future with you, if you'll have me."

Scarlett met his gaze, her heart torn. "Anthony... this decision is not just about us. There is so much at stake."

"I understand," Anthony replied, his grip on her hand tightening slightly. "But whatever you decide, know that I will stand by you, no matter what."

As the final notes of the melody played, Scarlett felt a sense of clarity wash over her. The path ahead was uncertain, but she knew one thing for sure: she would not face it alone. As the music ended, the grand doors of the ballroom opened with a flourish, and the Queen herself entered, escorted by her attendants. The room fell silent as all eyes turned to the regal figure at the entrance. Her Majesty moved with an air of authority, her gaze sweeping across the assembly before settling on Scarlett.

"Miss Scarlett White," the Queen's voice rang out, clear and commanding, "I have an announcement to make."

Scarlett's breath caught in her throat as she curtsied deeply, her heart pounding.

"The time has come for a decision to be made," the Queen continued. "As you all know, Miss White has been chosen to become the next Queen of England. However, this decision comes with great responsibility and urgency. So Miss White, it is now your turn to chose. I now decree that if Miss White is to ascend to the throne, she must be married within the next month."

Gasps and murmurs filled the room, the weight of the Queen's words sinking in. Scarlett felt a surge of panic, the enormity of the decision pressing upon her.

The Queen's gaze softened slightly as she addressed Scarlett directly. "Miss White, the choice is yours. You have my support, and I trust you will make the right decision for the future of our kingdom."

Scarlett stood in stunned silence. The guests began to buzz with speculation and excitement, the atmosphere charged with anticipation.

Anthony squeezed Scarlett's hand reassuringly. "Whatever you choose, Scarlett, you have my family and I's support. You are practically family after all"

"So Miss White who will it be?" The Queen asked eyeing Scarlett.

The girls mouth opened but no words came out. She loved Anthony, she had since they were children. But she was a memory of his past. She had to look toward the future. 

"I chose Henry Saint-Clair, The Orel of Oxford." The ballroom began to buzz with excitement.

Anthony looked at the girl and dropped her hand ever so slightly. He saw the Orel make his way towards the two. So Anthony stepped away slowly.