Love Story - Anthony Bridgerton x Princess Reader

Promise To Be Dazzling

The grand ballroom fell into a hush as Yn stepped through the doors, her entrance heralded by the royal guards. She was a vision in her gown - layers of shimmering lace and tulle cascaded gracefully around her, the bodice adorned with delicate floral details that sparkled subtly under the light. The gown was exquisite, ethereal, and undeniably regal, befitting the Princess of Edinburgh. All eyes turned toward her, whispers spreading through the crowd like wildfire, as the ton admired her grace and beauty.

Lady Danbury, the host of the evening and a close friend of Queen Charlotte, watched Yn with a knowing smile from across the room. Her sharp, discerning gaze hinted at her amusement over the excitement her young guest had stirred among the crowd. As Yn moved deeper into the hall, nodding politely at those who bowed and curtsied in her direction, she felt the weight of countless eyes upon her - yet her mind was elsewhere, already anticipating a familiar face.

And then she spotted him.

Anthony Bridgerton was standing near the edge of the room beside his mother, Violet, watching her with a composed expression that barely concealed the spark of mischief in his eyes. He straightened slightly as she approached, his gaze warm but careful, as though they were perfect strangers meeting for the first time. Yn felt a surge of excitement, a quiet thrill at the unspoken understanding between them.

"Your Highness," Violet Bridgerton greeted her with a deep curtsy, her tone warm and respectful. "It is an honor to have you here tonight."

Yn inclined her head graciously. "The honor is mine, Lady Bridgerton. Lady Danbury has done a wonderful job hosting, and I am pleased to be among friends." Her gaze flickered ever so briefly to Anthony before she added, "And new acquaintances, of course."

Anthony stepped forward, bowing with a formality that was almost exaggerated. "Your Highness," he greeted, his tone smooth and respectful, though his eyes held a faint glimmer of amusement. "A pleasure to finally make your acquaintance."

Yn met his gaze, her smile polite yet tinged with a playful spark. "And you, Viscount Bridgerton," she replied, matching his tone. "It is always a delight to meet one of society's most respected gentlemen."

Anthony's smile grew, his eyes twinkling as he caught the subtle layer of mischief in her words. "I am honored by your words, Princess. I only hope I can live up to such high praise."

"Oh, I'm sure you'll manage," she replied lightly, barely concealing her own amusement. Their banter was subtle, hidden behind layers of decorum, but they both knew the truth behind their words. It was a dance, a game only they were playing, and she could see in his gaze that he relished every moment.

Violet watched them with a curious expression, but if she suspected anything unusual, she kept it to herself, offering Yn a warm smile. "It is wonderful to see the young people of the ton connecting. I do hope you enjoy yourself tonight, Your Highness."

"Thank you, Lady Bridgerton," Yn replied, dipping her head respectfully. "I am certain I will."

As she turned to move further into the crowd, she felt a subtle brush against her hand. Her fingers curled around a small, folded piece of paper, slipping it smoothly into Anthony's hand as she passed him. She barely paused, glancing back only briefly to meet his surprised yet delighted gaze. He unfolded the paper discreetly, reading the words she had carefully penned earlier:

"Meet me at the tree in three hours."

He looked up, a faint, hidden smile playing on his lips, his gaze meeting hers across the room. She allowed herself the smallest of smiles in return, a silent acknowledgment of their shared secret. It was a daring move, a quiet act of rebellion amidst the formality of the ball, and the thrill of it filled her with a renewed sense of freedom.