An Invitation and A Letter
It has already been nine in the morning and yet, Penelope Featherington seems not to be able to get up from her bed. Two days had passed since the night of the Bridgerton ball, and everything that has occurred was all surreal for the ginger head. Lord Debling's courtship had become official as the man had formally asked Lady Featherington's permission, at the ball and yesterday at the comfort of their estate.
There was nothing else she could ask for, having an earl come calling for her and professing his eventual plans of marrying her, is something she had never thought to have experience of. But of course, Penelope was so delighted by the idea and so is her mother, Lady Portia Featherington.
The Lady Whistledown alter ego feels so happy with the progress of her husband search this season, she truly is. However, there was still the matter about her childhood first love, Colin Bridgerton. The third Bridgerton had expressed his annoyance when she shared to him the news of Lord Debling's courtship. Which made Penelope think it strange for the man to have that kind of reaction. She has put a stop on Colin's advances and efforts in making amends of their friendship, saying that she will put last year's humiliation behind. Penelope knew it would be best not to encounter the Bridgerton boy as she needs to turn her focus and attention to Thomas Debling. She needs no necessary distraction if she so wants to develop Debling as a marriage partner.
But as it turns out, Colin had different plans as to disturb her peace even after being "forgiven". The Featherington butler had handed the youngest Featherington daughter a letter after the post was delivered yesterday. The envelope has a red tree seal that secures its fold. A familiar seal that Briarly had been used to seeing for the past year. It was from no other but the third son living at the estate across the street, Colin Bridgerton.
It took a while before Penelope Featherington found the resolve to read the letter last night. For the past months, she never attempted nor dared to open any of the letters Colin had sent while overseas. She had instructed Briarly to burn them as soon as anything arrived with the sender's name as Colin Bridgerton. Though the old butler never handed her any, he had told the young lady of their existence and asked twice before finally leaving them to burn and become ashes on the fireplace.
She took her seat at her writing desk as she gently unfolds the piece of paper that has Colin's handwriting.
-x-
My Dearest Penelope,
I trust this letter finds thee, amidst the hustle and bustle of thy daily affairs. As I set quill to parchment, I find myself grappling with emotions I just realized concealed within the depths of my heart.
It is with a heavy heart and a humble spirit that I pen these words, for there is a matter of great importance that weighs upon my conscience.
This past year, I have erred gravely in my treatment of thee. Foolishly, I allowed pride and folly to cloud my judgment, speaking words that I now bitterly regret. When in the company of my peers, I may have uttered sentiments that suggested I would never entertain the notion of courting your hand. Oh, how I rue the folly of my immaturity, for it hath led me astray from the path of true happiness.
In your presence, I find solace and serenity. Your letters, a respite from the cares of the world. Your smile, like the sweet melody of a lark at dawn, brings joy to my weary heart, and your shared interest of my travels, hath warmed the coldest recesses of my being.
Now I cannot deny the truth that started to burn within me like a flame, for I have discerned I am deeply enamored with thee, Penelope. With every passing day, my longing for thee grows stronger, until it consumes my very being with an intensity that cannot be quelled.
Therefore, with all the sincerity of my soul, I implore you to heed these words of mine. Let not the misguided notions of the past cloud thy judgment, for I stand before thee now, baring my heart and soul in earnest supplication. Though I may have been oblivious in the past, I vow to make amends for my transgressions and to cherish you with a love that knows no bounds.
In thee, dear Penelope, I see not only the object of my affection, but also the greatest friend of my life.
Yours,
Colin Bridgerton
-x-
Penelope read the contents of the letter thrice and could not entirely make sense of Colin's words. She refuses to believe that it was something of a love letter as it was very unlikely for the man to have feelings for her. But then she kept on thinking the second line from last that he had written.
"I vow to make amends for my transgressions and to cherish you with a love that knows no bounds."
But then, the mention of her being a great friend of his. She can vividly remember him denying her as a woman; that she does not count as she was just a friend. Nothing more but a friend.
Was she to believe that Colin Bridgerton, one of the most charming men in London, and a member of the esteemed Bridgerton family, have come to develop affection for her? One that is more than of a friend or for a sibling. But looking back at what happened after her mama's ball last season, there was never an opportunity for Penelope and for Colin to have any encounters. The latter had gone to Italy for his travels and she, alongside her family had taken refuge to the country where their Aunt Virginia lives. It is comprehensible to deem it unlikely for Colin to gather such intimate feelings for her. More so, since she had ceased to treat him in a friendly manner since this season started.
These lingering thoughts have kept Penelope Featherington awake till the late of night, making her unwilling to come out of her bedchambers despite the time past breakfast. Fortunately, there were no expected callers for the Featherington daughters as Lady Featherington instructed their butler to decline any visitors today as she had come out of town.
Before Penelope can lull herself back to sleep, Briarly knocked on her room and informed her of another letter.
"Miss Penelope, a letter has arrived for you. From a Lady Danbury."
The youngest miss was surprised to hear who the letter was from. It was unusual to have the famed acerbic woman send a letter to their household, largely towards her directly. The only time they receive such correspondence from the countess was for social gatherings such as her annual ball. But that has already taken place on the first month of the season.
Penelope Featherington, immediately got up from her bed and opened up the door for their butler. She took the letter from the silver tray that Briarly had on his both hands. She took at a look at the recipient's name and saw her name indeed. "Miss Penelope Anne Featherington".
The young lady gently opened up the envelope, subtly rubbing her fingers on the wax that embossed with Danbury's seal.
-x-
My Dearest Miss Featherington,
I trust this message finds thee in the finest of spirits and health. As the gentle breeze of spring graces our abode with its presence, I am reminded of the joyous camaraderie shared amongst kindred spirits. With this sentiment in mind, I extend to thee a most cordial invitation to partake in a delightful afternoon tea gathering at my humble estate.
Pray, join me this Sunday at 3:00 pm in the opulent drawing room of my residence, where the aroma of freshly brewed teas and delectable pastries shall enchant our senses. 'Twill be an occasion for lively conversation and cherished companionship, as we bask in the warmth of friendship amidst the elegant ambiance of our surroundings.
I eagerly anticipate the pleasure of thy company, dear Miss Featherington, and I am certain that our time together shall be a resplendent affair worthy of your remembrance.
With warm regards and heartfelt anticipation,
Agatha Danbury.
-x-
Penelope was both excited and nervous at the same time. It was very rare for her to be able to speak and encounter Lady Danbury in a close manner. She had admired the old noble as she was able to set her own freedom and power in the society despite just being a woman. Lady Danbury had refused to remarry in spite of becoming a widow at a young age. The old lady had denied to have her freedom be taken away by the mere thought of marriage, thus making Agatha able to act on her own will and judgment, much to become an object of acclaim by some of the young ladies of rebellious mind from the ton.
But still, Penelope knew that she should hold her guard when in front of the Queen's closest friend, if she so wants to hide her identity as Lady Whistledown. Everyone knows that Agatha Danbury has very sharp instincts and impeccable observation. A little mistake and Penelope might have her deepest secret revealed, which may lead to her execution from the Queen's wrath.
"Oh, an invitation for a tea party." Penelope says as to let Briarly know of the letter's content. She knew very well that news of Lady Danbury's correspondence will reach the ears of her mama. And so, before the dowager baroness asks her of it, Penelope purposely lets Briarly know what the letter is about so he can be the one to explain it to her mother.
"I'll quickly put in writing my response Briarly, could you wait for a minute?" The butler just nodded as the youngest Featherington child took her quill and a piece of paper from her writing desk. She blew on the parchment to dry on the ink and gently folded it in three before finally slipping onto a blank envelope and putting her seal on the hot melted wax.
"Have this delivered before afternoon, Briarly. It would be best not to let the countess wait for my acceptance."
"I'll have it done as you ordered, Miss Penelope." With that, the butler took his leave carrying Penelope's response on the silver tray he had been holding.
Danbury's Residence
"My lady, a response from the Featheringtons." Coral, Agatha Danbury's long-time maid and companion, came to the gardens to deliver the post to the lady.
"Ah, pray it delivers good news Coral." Danbury was enjoying her embroidery at her gardens where she tries to breathe in the gentle wind of London.
She took the letter from her maid's hand and smilingly reads it.
-x-
Dearest Lady Danbury,
Your invitation fills my heart with joy and gratitude. It would be my utmost delight to accept your gracious invitation to your esteemed afternoon tea gathering. The prospect of indulging in delightful teas and engaging in lively conversation amidst the splendor of your residence is a most welcome respite from the humdrum of daily life.
I shall eagerly mark the appointed time tomorrow upon my calendar and eagerly anticipate the pleasure of your esteemed company. Until then, I remain, with warm regards and heartfelt gratitude.
Penelope Featherington
-x-
There was no question that at that moment, Agatha had verified how smart and intelligent the youngest Featherington is. Her eloquence is truly commendable as her choice of words represents her elegance and nobility. It was no wonder that the Earl of Beverley had fallen for her. Even her Majesty, Queen Charlotte, had knew that there was something more about Penelope the first time she saw her. Agatha smiles in excitement as she could not wait to exchange words with the young lady by tomorrow.
It will be a very interesting afternoon, she thought.
