A Wallflower's Discoveren

Noble Competition

As the London season wore on, Her Majesty Queen Charlotte found herself increasingly bored with the monotony of royal life. With the king in seclusion, her children grown and living their own lives, she performed her duties as Queen and assisted the Prince Regent in leading the kingdom. Yet, amidst this lonely existence, she sought amusement in the latest gossip and challenges posed by the notorious writer, Lady Whistledown.

Determined to alleviate her boredom, Queen Charlotte organized a retreat at the Copped Hall near Epping Forest, extending invitations to the elite of the on. The retreat, planned for a whole week, promised social gatherings, noble competitions and a grand ball hosted by the Queen herself.

Among the families invited were the Bridgertons and the Featheringtons, now closely linked by the courtship of Viscount Anthony Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington. Both families prepared for the journey, each in their family carriages. Despite Anthony's invitation to join the Bridgerton carriage, Penelope chose to travel with her own family.

The Featherington carriage was a sight to behold, resplendent in its opulence, with Penelope seated between her sisters, eager but nervous about the upcoming week. Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, especially after the recent heartfelt conversations she and Anthony had shared.

The Bridgerton carriage, meanwhile, was filled with lively chatter. Violet Bridgerton sat with her children, offering last minute advice and encouragement, particularly to Anthony, who seemed preoccupied.

As the carriages rolled towards Copped Hall, Anthony's thoughts were filled with Penelope. He wondered why she had chosen to travel with her family instead of joining him. Did she need more time to herself, or was she still processing their recent conversations?

Upon arriving at the estate, the families were greeted with regal splendor. The estate's vast lawns and gardens were meticulously maintained, and the grandeur of the architecture spoke of centuries of royal heritage. Servants bustled about, ensuring every guest was accommodated comfortably.

The Featheringtons were shown to their rooms, Penelope gazing out of her window at the serene landscape, her mind still occupied with thoughts of Anthony. Meanwhile, the Bridgertons settled into their own quarters, Anthony pacing restlessly in his room.

That evening, a welcoming dinner was held in the grand dining hall. The room was adorned with the finest drapery and lit by chandeliers that cast a warm glow over the assembled guests. Queen Charlotte sat at the head of the table, her presence commanding and regal. She exchanged pleasantries with the guests, her sharp eyes taking in every detail.

Anthony, seated next to Penelope, took a deep breath and turned to her. "Penelope, may I say you look absolutely enchanting this evening." He said, his voice low and sincere.

Penelope blushed, her heart fluttering. "Thank you, Anthony. You look quite dashing yourself."

He smiled, feeling a surge of affection for her. "I must confess, I missed your company on the journey here."

Penelope's eyes softened. "I thought it best to travel with my family, given the length of the journey. But I assure you, you were in my thoughts."

Anthony reached for her hand under the table giving it a gentle squeeze. "I am glad to hear it. I have been thinking of you constantly."

Their intimate conversation was momentarily interrupted by Queen Charlotte, who raised her glass for a toast. "To our esteemed guests, welcome to our humble abode."

The guests raise their glasses, thanking the Queen's hospitality. As the dinner continued, the conversation flowed, and laughter filled the hall. Anthony and Penelope, despite the grandeur surrounding them, found solace in each other's company.