[2] The Queen Mother of Württemberg | A. Bridgerton

Chapter 10

Here's To Love and Forever

Buckingham House, London

Moira knelt beside Max, Charlotte's loyal dog, her hands deftly scratching behind his ears to keep him calm. The dog wagged his tail enthusiastically, leaning into her touch as if soaking up every ounce of affection. The door creaked open, and Kate stepped inside, Newton trotting confidently at her side, his curly fur bouncing with each step.

Max perked up immediately, his ears twitching at the sight of the new arrival. Newton stopped a few feet away, sizing up his fellow canine with curious eyes. The two dogs slowly approached one another, their noses extended to exchange cautious sniffs. A brief moment of tension passed before both barked—sharp but harmless, like a greeting between old souls meeting for the first time.

Charlotte and Kate exchanged amused glances as their pets continued their introductions. The initial barks gave way to wagging tails, and soon, both dogs looked up at their owners with wide, innocent eyes, as if to say, See? We're friends now.

"They seem to like each other," Kate remarked with a soft laugh, crouching to stroke Newton's head. "How old is he, Your Majesty?"

"Thirteen," she lightly smiled. "He was a gift from my late husband."

However, for the Queen Mother of Württemberg, the sight of Lady Danbury and the Sharmas so soon after recent events was overwhelming. Their presence carried an air of anticipation, yet one absence loomed large—the Viscount. A wave of emotion swept over her, and she quickly excused herself to regain composure. Slipping out into the hallway, she closed her eyes and drew in deep, steadying breaths.

But her mind betrayed her. Each time her eyes closed, memories surged forth—of their stolen kisses last year, and the aching need she had felt for him during her last night at Aubrey Hall.

Footsteps echoed in the quiet hall, breaking her reverie. Opening her eyes, she saw Anthony Bridgerton approaching. His expression was unreadable, his presence undeniable.

"Your Majesty," he greeted her with a polite nod, his voice steady as he moved to pass her.

As their hands brushed in passing, an undeniable spark crackled between them. Both stilled for a fleeting moment, holding their breath as if to deny what they felt. Then, as if on cue, they both ignored it—for the better, or so they convinced themselves.

Charlotte re-entered the drawing room moments later, just in time to hear her mother's voice.

"Viscount Bridgerton," the Queen greeted him, her tone warm yet commanding. "We thought perhaps you would not be joining us."

"Your Majesty. Nothing could keep me from my beautiful bride," Anthony replied, bowing his head respectfully. His words landed just as Charlotte stepped into view, his gaze briefly flickering toward her. "Your Majesty."

"Lord Bridgerton," Charlotte replied evenly, though her eyes refused to meet his.

The Viscount quickly moved past her, taking his place on the sofa beside Edwina. The Queen gestured for Charlotte to sit, and the younger Queen complied, donning her perfectly practiced regal demeanor. Yet, she could feel Lady Danbury's piercing gaze on her, as if the older woman saw right through her composed facade.

A servant handed Charlotte a cup of tea, and she accepted it, grasping it tightly as though it could anchor her to the moment.

"Now, tell me of your wedding plans," the Queen said, her voice cutting through the room. "There is no talk of a special license, I would hope?"

"Of course not, Your Majesty," Lady Mary replied with a polite smile.

"I believe a modest family affair would be most fitting," Anthony suggested. "Perhaps back in the country, at Aubrey Hall."