chapter twenty one: Farewell

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The morning sun cast a golden glow over Queen Charlotte's castle, its grand towers and intricate stonework gleaming in the light. The air was filled with a bittersweet blend of joy and sadness as the royal family and close friends gathered at the castle’s entrance to bid farewell to Genevieve and her new husband, the Prince of Prussia. The scent of blooming roses from the meticulously kept gardens mingled with the salty tang of tears and the soft murmur of farewell wishes.

Cossette, her heart heavy, stood beside her parents, the Duke and Duchess de Montmorency, and her brother, Alphonse. They had come to see Genevieve off, their eyes brimming with emotions that words could scarcely capture. Genevieve, now adorned in the regal attire of a princess, looked every bit the royal she had become, but there was a glimmer of reluctance in her eyes that only her family could see.

Catherine, their mother, stepped forward first, her voice trembling slightly. “Genevieve, my dear, you have grown so much . I am so proud of you.” She embraced her daughter tightly, a few tears escaping down her cheeks. “Remember, you are always in our hearts. Be strong, be happy.”

Genevieve returned the embrace, her voice soft but steady. “I will, Mother. Thank you for everything. I will miss you all so much.”

Next, their father, the Duke, with a stoic but gentle expression, took Genevieve’s hands in his. “My sweet girl, you have made us proud. You are embarking on a new journey, and I know you will handle your duties with grace and dignity. Always remember your family is here for you, no matter the distance.”

Genevieve nodded, her eyes glistening. “I will, Father. I promise to make you proud.”

Alphonse, trying to maintain his composure, gave his sister a tight hug. “Take care of yourself, Genevieve. Prussia is lucky to have you. If you ever need anything, you know where to find me, oh and Fredrick I won't hesitate to kill you if you hurt her .”

Genevieve laughed softly, “I know, Alphonse. Thank you.”
Catherine gave her son a warning look ,"Alphonse !" , as the prince just laughed.
Finally, it was Cossette’s turn. She stepped forward, her heart aching at the thought of her sister leaving. “Genevieve... I...” Her voice broke, and she struggled to find the right words. “I will miss you so much. Please take care of yourself. And remember what you told me. I promise I will marry for love.”

Genevieve smiled through her tears, pulling Cossette into a warm embrace. “I know you will, Cossette. I love you.”

The family stood together for a moment, holding onto each other, reluctant to let go. But soon, the Prince of Prussia approached, gently taking Genevieve’s hand. It was time for them to leave.

As the royal carriage began to roll away, Cossette and her family waved, their hearts heavy with the weight of the farewell. They watched until the carriage disappeared into the distance, taking Genevieve to her new life.

Returning to their estate, which stood proudly in front of the Bridgerton estate, the  montmorencys began to pack for their journey back to France. The social season had come to an end, and the Duke had duties awaiting him back home.

The estate was a flurry of activity as servants packed trunks and prepared carriages. Cossette, however, found herself lingering in the garden, her thoughts drifting to Anthony Bridgerton. She had not seen him since the wedding, and her heart ached at the thought of leaving without saying goodbye.

Just as she was about to turn back to the house, she saw him. Anthony stood at the edge of the Bridgerton estate, his eyes searching for her. Their gazes locked, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still.

Cossette walked towards him, her heart pounding in her chest. “Anthony,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Cossette,” he replied, his voice thick with emotion. “I didn’t want you to leave without saying goodbye.”

She smiled sadly, “I didn’t either. Thank you for everything, Anthony. This season has been... unforgettable.”

Anthony took her hand, his touch warm and reassuring. “Cossette, I... I wish things were different. I wish we had more time.”

Tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them back. “Me too, Anthony. But we have our duties, our lives. Maybe one day...”

He nodded, his eyes filled with a longing that mirrored her own. “Maybe one day. Until then, take care of yourself, Cossette.”

“You too, Anthony.”

With one last lingering look, she turned and walked back to her family, the distance between them growing with each step. As she climbed into the carriage and left with a heavy heart .








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