A Wallflower's Discoveren

Chapter 15 - Royal Confession

The season's end ball held by Queen Charlotte was nothing short of spectacular, a glittering event where the creme de la creme of the ton gathered for one final evening of gaiety before retreating to their country estates for the off season. The Bridgertons, led by Viscount Anthony Bridgerton and his new Viscountess, Penelope Bridgerton, arrived in elegant fashion, their arrival garnering approving murmurs and nods from the assembled crowd.

Anthony wasted no time in bringing Penelope to greet the Queen. Dressed in a gown of emerald green, a subtle nod to her recent title of the Queen's 'Season's Emerald', Penelope carried herself with the poise of her new title. Queen Charlotte, reclining in her opulent chair, greeted them both with a glimmer of approval.

"Lord Bridgerton, Lady Bridgerton." The Queen said, a small smile gracing her regal features. "I am pleased to see you so settled, and that your union is one of affection."

Anthony inclined his head respectfully, while Penelope curtsied, her heart fluttering with equal parts reverence and relief.

As the evening wore on, Penelope danced a graceful waltz with her husband, who held her close, his dark eyes warm with pride and affection. The music drifted through the air like a soft breeze, and as they twirled under the chandeliers, Penelope felt an almost overwhelming sense of contentment.

Not long after their dance, a footman approached with a message. Queen Charlotte wished to speak privately with Penelope, and the Viscountess felt her pulse quicken. She glanced at Anthony, who offered her a reassuring nod, and then made her way to the Queen's private balcony, where her Majesty was seated beside the ever-watchful Lady Danbury.

"Come, Viscountess Bridgerton." The Queen beckoned, patting the seat beside her with an inviting smile. Penelope curtsied and took her place, feeling a blend of curiosity and trepidation.

As they observed the grand ballroom from above, Penelope took a deep breath, gathering her courage. "Your Majesty, I... I have a confession to make. I am Lady Whistledown."

A moment of profound silence followed before Queen Charlotte's eyebrows rose in surprise. Lady Danbury merely smiled, her expression knowing.

"Well, well." The Queen mused, tapping her fan against her palm. "I must say, this explains a great deal. You have led us quite a merry dance, Lady Bridgerton."

Penelope's hands twisted in her lap. "I apologize for any offense I may have caused, your Majesty. Though I stand by my intentions to bring truth to light, however uncomfortable it might be.."

"No need for apologies." Charlotte waved her hand dismissively. "Your wit has provided me with countless hours of entertainment. Though I must admit, I never suspected my season's emerald of such.. Literary talents."

"Your Majesty.." Penelope continued, her voice calm and steady, though her heart beat furiously. "Whistledown is a title I took up in anonymity, one I realize must have caused frustration at times, especially as it pertained to you. I hope you will accept my sincere apologies for any affront I may have given."

Queen Charlotte raised her eyebrows, though her lips held the faintest hint of amusement. "Oh, there were indeed moments I considered calling for Lady Whistledown's head!" She exclaimed, though her tone held more delight than ire. "But tell me, my dear, what compelled you to take up such a pen and write as you did?"

Penelope's eyes softened as she thought back to the years she'd spent as an overlooked wallflower. "Your Majesty, for so long, I found myself on the edges of society – an observer, invisible and often ignored. Writing gave me a voice, one that allowed me to speak not only for myself but for those like me, those overlooked by our ton. Lady Whistledown was, if I may say, my way of being seen."