Fresh Air - Anthony Bridgerton

You never lost me

In her chambers, Scarlett stood before the mirror, dressed in an elaborate wedding gown. The dress, though beautiful, felt like a shroud. Her eyes were hollow from sleepless nights, and her hair, adorned with a delicate veil, was pulled back into an intricate style. The raw pain in her eyes spoke more than any words ever could. She reached up to touch the locket around her neck, a gift from Anabeth, feeling the cold metal against her skin as a painful reminder of her loss.

"Your Highness, it is time. You look beautiful." Brimsley said softly from the doorway.

Scarlett turned to him, her expression one of resigned determination. She nodded, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "Thank you, Brimsley."

As she walked to the grand hall where the ceremony was to be held, Scarlett's mind drifted back to happier times with Anabeth. She remembered their laughter, their shared secrets, and the dreams they had woven together. Each memory was a dagger to her heart, but she held onto them, refusing to let her sister's spirit fade.

The hall was filled with guests, their faces a blend of anticipation and respect. At the front, Henry stood tall and handsome, his expression serious but tender as he watched Scarlett approach. Scarlett's steps were heavy, feeling every eye on her. She reached the altar and took Henry's hand, his grip warm and reassuring.

Henry's eyes searched hers for comfort. "You look beautiful, Scarlett," he whispered.

"Thank you, Henry," she replied, forcing a smile. She glanced briefly at Daphne, who gave her an encouraging nod. Henry looked at Scarlett, his expression filled with hope, but she barely met his gaze, her thoughts elsewhere. Across the garden, standing with the rest of the Bridgertons, was Anthony.

The priest began the ceremony, his words echoing through the grand hall, but Scarlett barely heard them. Her mind was consumed with thoughts of Anthony and the letter she had sent. Had he read it? Would he come to her? The uncertainty gnawed at her, but she clung to the hope that, somehow, they could find a way to be together.

The moment came for the vows. Henry took Scarlett's hands in his, his eyes filled with sincerity and love. "Scarlett, I promise to be by your side through all the challenges and joys of life. To honor and cherish you, to support you in all your endeavors. I love you, and I am honored to become your husband."

Scarlett's heart ached with guilt and confusion. She took a deep breath, ready to recite her vows, when a commotion at the back of the hall drew everyone's attention. The doors swung open with a resounding bang, and there stood Anthony, his face determined and eyes blazing with emotion.

"Stop!" Anthony's voice rang out, commanding the room. "I cannot let this wedding happen."

Gasps and whispers filled the hall as all eyes turned to Anthony. Henry's grip tightened on Scarlett's hands, his expression shifting from confusion to anger. "What is this?! What do you think you're doing?!" Henry demanded.

Anthony stepped forward, his gaze locked on Scarlett. "I love you, Scarlett. I have loved you for as long as I can remember, and I cannot stand by while you marry someone else. You deserve to be with someone who truly loves you, not out of duty, but out of genuine, unending love."

Scarlett's heart pounded in her chest, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. She glanced at Henry, whose face was a mask of betrayal and hurt. "Henry, I..."

Henry released her hands, stepping back. "Scarlett? Do you love him?"

Tears welled in Scarlett's eyes as she looked between Henry and Anthony. The weight of her decisions pressed down on her, but in that moment, she knew what she had to do. "Henry, you are a good man, and you will make a wonderful king. But I love Anthony. I always have."