Chapter 11 - Back in London

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The carriages of the London elite had returned to Mayfair, signaling the end of the grand retreat at Copped Hall. As society resumed its familiar rhythms, Viscount Anthony Bridgerton continued to ardently court Penelope Featherington. Despite the myriad responsibilities that demanded his attention – managing his estate, attending to family matters, and participating in parliamentary affairs – Anthony never missed a day to visit Penelope at her family's estate.

Their courtship was on full display during the daily promenades at The Serpentine and Rotten Row in Hyde Park. These moments allowed Penelope and Anthony to further deepen their understanding of one another. For Penelope, these days of courtship had revealed much about her true feelings for the Viscount.

She recalled the hunt, the sight of Anthony injured, and the terror she felt upon realizing the severity of his injuries. It was more than mere friendship; it was a profound worry that spoke of deeper emotions. Her heart fluttered at the lightest touch from Anthony, whether in a dance or as he led her through a crowded room. His smiles and glances sent waves of warmth through her, and she couldn't help but acknowledge how his handsomeness only heightened her attraction.

As Penelope walked alongside Anthony in Hyde Park, she grappled with a decision. Their courtship had progressed with sincerity, and she foresaw a future where they might truly marry. But this future held a daunting truth: she is Lady Whistledown, the notorious author behind London's most infamous gossip column. She knew that marriage would require her to abandon her secret enterprise, yet she harbored a flicker of hope to continue writing, a passion she couldn't easily relinquish.

The weight of her secret bore heavily on her. She had written scathing pieces about many, including Anthony himself, branding him a rake and unraveling scandals that affected his family. Would he understand her intentions, or would he, like the rest of the society, be filled with anger and betrayal?

Determined to face her fears, Penelope gathered her courage. Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Penelope gently tugged on Anthony's arm, bringing them to a halt beneath the sheltering branches of an ancient oak tree. Her maid acting as their chaperone, was standing ten paces away from them. "My lord.." She began, her voice barely above a whisper. "There is something of great import I must share with you."

Anthony turned to face her, his chocolate brown eyes filled with concern. "What troubles you, my lady? You know you may speak freely with me on any matter."

Penelope took a deep breath, steeling herself for what was to come. "My lord - Anthony - these past weeks have been... indescribably wonderful. Your attentions have brought me more joy than I ever thought possible."

A smile played at the corners of Anthony's lips. "I assure you, the pleasure has been entirely mine."

Penelope's cheeks flushed, but she pressed on. "It is because of the depth of my regard for you that I feel I must... confess something. Something that may change your opinion of me entirely."

Anthony's expression grew serious. "Penelope, I cannot imagine anything that would diminish my esteem for you. Please, speak freely."

She nodded, her hands twisting nervously in her lap. "Very well. Anthony, I... I am Lady Whistledown."

The words hung in the air between them, heavy with implication. Anthony's eyes widened, a myriad of emotions flashing across his face - shock, disbelief, and something that looked alarmingly like anger.

"You?" He finally managed, his voice hoarse. "All this time, it was you?"

Penelope nodded, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. "Yes. I know it must come as a shock, and I understand if you're angry. I've written things about your family, about you..."

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