A Wallflower's Discoveren

Chapter 14 - Hastings Ball

The journey from London to Aubrey Hall; the ancestral seat of the Bridgertons, was both serene and filled with a quiet anticipation. The newlyweds, Viscount Anthony Bridgerton and his bride, Penelope Bridgerton, settled into the carriage, hands intertwined, their hearts brimming with the promise of the days ahead.

Anthony had wished to whisk Penelope away to the continent, to explore the picturesque landscapes of Italy to the charming village of France. But his duties as Viscount and obligations in Parliament restrained him to no more than two months away from London. So, Aubrey Hall, with its sprawling grounds and secluded beauty, became their haven, a perfect retreat for their honeymoon.

As the carriage rolled to a stop before the grand entrance of the estate, they were met with the welcoming smiles of the household staff. The butler, Mr. Hollins, stood at the forefront, his expression warm but tinged with the decorum expected of his station. The housemaids and footmen lined up behind him, their faces alight with joy at the sight of the new Viscountess.

"Welcome home, my lord, my lady." Hollins intoned with a deep bow, his voice carrying the weight of years of service. "We are most delighted to have you both here."

Penelope smiled warmly, her eyes misting with emotion. The servants' genuine affection touched her deeply. She had visited Aubrey Hall many times in the past, often as a guest of the Bridgertons, and had always treated the staff with kindness and respect. That they now welcomed her as their mistress was a moment of profound significance.

"Thank you, Hollins." Penelope replied softly, her hand still clasped in Anthony's. "It is a pleasure to be here, truly."

The housekeeper, Mrs. Lewis, stepped forward with a curtsy. "We are most pleased, my lady. The household is all the better for your presence."

Anthony, observing the scene, felt a swell of pride. His Penelope had always been gracious, even before her title elevated her in the eyes of society. That she had already won the hearts of those who served them filled him with a deep sense of contentment,

Once the formalities were over, the couple was shown to their chambers, where the grandeur of the estate paled in comparison to the intimacy they were about to share. The moment the door closed behind them, the veneer of propriety was cast aside, replaced by the raw, undeniable desire they felt for each other.

That night, beneath the canopy of their bed, Anthony and Penelope consummated their marriage with a passion that had been simmering since their engagement. Theirs was a union forged not merely from duty but from a love that burned brightly in both their hearts. The days that followed saw them sequestered in their chambers, indulging in the delights of each other's company. The servants, well-versed in the ways of newlyweds, discreetly left trays of food outside their door, knowing better than to disturb the Viscount and his new Viscountess during this private time.

By the second week, after their initial fervor had settled into a warm and enduring affection, Penelope finally ventured beyond their bedchambers. Anthony, knowing her love of books, was not surprised when she made her way to the library, a room lined with volumes from floor to ceiling. The scent of aged leather and parchment greeted her as she stepped inside, her fingers brushing against the spines of well--worn tomes. She immediately felt at peace, the outside world fading away as she immersed herself in the rich world of literature.

Anthony found her there one afternoon, curled up in a deep armchair, her nose buried in a book. He paused in the doorway, taking in the sight of his wife so content and at ease. It was a simple moment, yet it filled him with profound happiness.

"You've found your sanctuary, I see." He remarked, his voice soft as he crossed the room to her.

Penelope looked up, her eyes sparkling with the joy of discovery. "Indeed, I have. This place, these books... they are a treasure trove. I could lose myself here for hours."