Testing Audio -DK Principessa

by kibass91

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3. 3

Chapter Text

Penelope was out promenading with Eloise at her mother's insistence. It was because her sisters had the same questions on Marina's condition as she and decided to use her as a scapegoat. She had decided it was better to just get it all out so there was only on blow up so, she just asked how one became with child without being married. Now, here she was out of the house with her best friend who is going on and on about Daphne and the Duke. Eloise didn't even notice she wasn't paying attention because all Penelope could think about is Marina and her predicament.

"Pen, are you even listening?" Penelope shook herself from her thoughts while threading her arm through Eloise's. She pulled the dark haired girl closer and glanced around to see if anyone including their ladies maids were close.

"Someone I know is with... child." Penelope whispered.

"Is it your mama?" Eloise asked furrowing her brows and looked like she was about to start getting worked up. Penelope seen all the signs of it in her friend and knew if she didn't say anything fast she wouldn't be able to the rest of the walk.

"No it's... one of our maids." Penelope couldn't say her cousin's name and had to think fast even if it wasn't the best.

"Which one of your maids are married?" Eloise questioned tilting her head. Penelope shook her head once.

"She is not married." Eloise paused in her walk causing Penelope to jerk back at the sudden stop. Eloise was staring at her best friend.

"What do you mean she is not married? How did she become with child then?" Penelope gently shrugged at her friend.

"I do not know, but I will find out." Penelope promised. Eloise nodded in approval before turning sharply and started to drag Penelope back in the direction of their houses.

"You must find out so we can make sure that it will never happen to us. We have accomplishments to aquire." Eloise told her passionatly without breaking her stride.

Penelope was quite worried for Eloise since it seemed her friend was about to work herself into a frenzy.

While Penelope was in agreement to find out how this happened without marriage; she thought it a little farfetched to make sure they were never to be with child. Maybe Eloise was meaning right now and not when they were wed later in their life, that's what Penelope will assume for now. The walk back wasn't a very far but with every step the long legged Eloise took Penelope had to take three to keep up. When they finally reached the spot where they would usually split to go to their separate houses, Eloise never let go of her arm. Penelope was dragged into the Bridgerton house by Eloise. Eloise made so much noise as she stormed threw her house trying to find her family.

"El, what are you doing?" Penelope whispered trying to tug her arm from the death grip of her friend. Eloise ignored her and dragged her to the sitting room where she made her presence known.

"How does a lady come to be with child?" Eloise all but yelled. Penelope stared wide eyed at her friend as a blush flooded her cheeks. Everyone stopped what they were doing to stare at the both of them. Penelope slowly eased herself to hide behind Eloise since it was all her doing.

"Eloise, what a question!" Violet Bridgerton exclaimed.

"I thought one needed to be married." Eloise told them while Daphne was wanting to know what she meant. Penelope had to bite her lip in despair at the fact she's the one that started this particular hunt. She should have known this was what would happen when it came to Eloise.

"Apparently, it's not even a requirement." Eloise leaned towards her sister to enlightened her before her mother told her to stop asking. Eloise huffed knowing better to continue when her mother got that particular tone.

She went over to sit between her brothers pulling Penelope along with her. Penelope stood there akwardly when Eloise plopped herself down. Benedict watched for a second before gestering to the other unoccupied side of him for Penelope to sit down. She sent him a small smile and softly sat down on the edge not wanting to take up to much space.

"Good morning, Miss Featherington." Benedict murmured trying to give the girl a bit of normality to what he would suspect is a unprepared visit. She sent him a shy smile.

"Good Morning, Mister Bridgerton." Before Benedict could say anything else both he and his brother were slapped on the thigh.

"I take it you two know?" Eloise interrogated.

"Do not look at me." Benedict stated without moving his head to look at either girls. Colin grinned eyes darting between both girls.

"Ever visited a farm, El?" Benedict cuffed the back of his head while Penelope stifled a laugh at the startled look on Colin's face.

"I hope you are not encouraging improper topics of conversation." Violet repremanded. Colin smiled his charming smile before jumping up. Benedict answered his mother letting her know they weren't doing that at all. Colin had told his mother that him and his brother were going to go fencing all with a lewd joke that went over everyone's heads but the three oldest in the room. Once they left Violet finally caught a glimpse of red hair that made her turn fully to her guest with a bright smile.

"Penelope! How good to see you dear!" Violet exclaimed. Penelope sent her a smile and bowed her head a bit.

"Good Morning, Lady Bridgerton. I apologize for intruding but I was pulled along for the ride. I can leave if you would wish?" Penelope offered, eyes darting to her best friend, who looked sheepish. Violet laughed and shook her head.

"Not to worry dear, I know my daughter. You are never intruding especially when your practically family here." Violet gave both girls a fond look before focusing on Penelope.

"Did you eat before?" Penelope nodded.

"Yes, Lady Bridgerton." Violet hummed but was interrupted by a maid letting them know Humboldt was coming.

Penelope watched on in fascination at Humboldt's announcement of suitors on behalf of Daphne. It was like a never ending line of men coming to speak to her. When it became appearent that space needed to be made for the amount of suitors the two youngest Bridgertons, Eloise and Penelope herself were ushered out of the sitting room. The two younger ones left to go play in their rooms leaving Eloise and Penelope alone to figure out what they should do.

They wandered down into the foyer when Anthony stormed in with Lord Berbrooke trailing behind him. The two moved towards the other side of the foyer watching Anthony throwing his hat while marching up the stairs taking no noticed of anyone. Penelope couldn't help image steam errupting from eldest Bridgerton's ears when he made it to the landing but also how Lord Berbrooke looked like a child tugging on their father's jacket after not getting a toy they were promised. The girls looked at each other before making their way over to Penelope's.

Penelope was dressed for another event, a ball. She was dressed in a less ostentatious dress, while it was still frilly and covered in flowers it was in a lemon cream color. She was very glad to not stand out so much as she usually was. She stood where she normally would when at any of the season's balls, on the sidelines watching everyone. Some men seemed to have taken some pity on her older sisters and offered to dance with them leaving her alone.

Penelope watched the Duke and Lady Danbury stride in with grace and power that she wished she had possessed. Not to far behind them Daphne and Anthony followed, the group met up together where Lady Danbury quickly stole Anthony away from his sister. She couldn't help but notice the slight pout on Anthony's lips when he realized he was beaten yet again by Lady Danbury.

Everyone was watching the Duke and Daphne dance, they looked like they were in their own little world. It was very romantic to Penelope but when her gaze shifted she seen Anthony pushing Benedict towards the dance floor before making his way over to the drinks. Penelope watched as the Duke and Anthony have a bit of a disagreement before Lord Berbrooke edges his way into the conversation. That is when the disagreement turns into an aurgement before the Duke furiously murmurs something towards Anthony which makes all the fight drain from the older brother. She had never seen Anthony so uncertain which she could only speculate why.

Penelope tilted her head slightly trying to see if she could hear them better but also to see if she could glimpse where Daphne was. Daphne was still dancing with her brother but couldn't keep her eyes from the scene that was playing out. Penelope followed Daphne's hurried steps once she breaks from the dance over to the gentlemen. It seems that everything was wrapping up with the agrument even though she could see both the Duke and Anthony wanted nothing but to get physical with Lord Berbrooke. Whatever Daphne metioned had Anthony viaing for a fight, Penelope noticed as he clenched and unclenched his fist. Lord Berbrooke then broke from them and fled. After a moment Anthony left leaving the couple alone.

"What fun." A voice deadpanned causing Penelope to whip around to see Benedict standing behind her.

"Mister Bridgerton." Penelope greeted with a small nod.

"Miss Featherington." He greeted back with a grin. She raised her brow knowing he was up to something.

"Is there something you need?" She didn't want to be blunt because it was definitely frowned upon but they had been standing there for a few minutes and wanted to hurry this along. Benedict had to grin harder at the question but it wasn't everyday he got to see a side of Penelope Featherington that no ones ever seen.

"I would like to ask you to dance, seeing as my other dance partner left me." His hand was held out while Penelope pursed her lips staring at it.

"Let me guess... your mother either needled you into dancing with me or you're avoiding your mother, who is looking for eligible debutants to throw at you." Benedict shrugged sheepishly.

"Would it matter?" Penelope rolled her eyes but took the offered hand as he pulled her to the floor.

"It does not." Benedict grinned as the music started. No one took noticed of the two since Daphne had taken to the floor once more with a different suitor. Benedict could help but admire the way Penelope had such grace when she danced. Once the dance was over Penelope curtsied to him and he bowed.

"Thank you." Penelope murmured to him. He twisted his head at her as he tucked her hand into his elbow to lead her off the floor.

"Do not thank me. It was a pleasure to dance with such a beautiful young lady." Penelope shook her head.

"But I need to. I am sure that without you tonight I would not of stepped foot on the dance floor." He paused not letting Penelope move away. Penelope winced when she realized what she had said, not understanding why her mouth seems to run away from her lately. Both times with the Duke then her mama and now with Benedict.

"Surely you jest." Benedict couldn't really believe that no one would have danced with her. She shook her head and bit her lip in thought. Mental shrugging to herself that she had already ousted herself she should just continue.

"I do not. Since I have been out the only other person to dance with me was Colin at the Vauxhall Ball." Benedict watched her face as she stated that but couldn't really see anything to see how she felt about it. It looked to him she was just stating a fact. His heart broke a bit for the redhead. Penelope knew she had to get out of this conversation before she said something worse.

"I did enjoy our dance though. Have a good night, Mister Bridgerton." With that Penelope slipped out of his grip and walked away. Benedict could only stand there wondering why everyone was so blind to his family friend. He was going to make it his mission to try and get Penelope on the dance floor at least once every ball even if he had to recruit his brothers into it.

Today was a good day to go picnicking since the sun was shining. Most of the ton was out enjoying this weather including the Bridgertons and Featheringtons. Eloise walked over to the Featherington's tent motioning to Penelope.

"Mama? May I go play with Eloise?" Portia scoffed glaring at her daughter.

"A lady does not play Penelope." Penelope sighed and looked over.

"May I promenade with Eloise?" Penelope asked correctly. Portia just waved off her daughter. She made her way to Eloise where they hooked elbows.

"Did she tell you?" Eloise started off making Penelope huff a laugh.

"No, good morning Pen. How was your morning?" Eloise squawked at her friend gently bumping her.

"Good morning Pen. How was your morning? Did you find out?" Penelope laughed walking away from the family tents.

"It was love." Eloise blew a small raspberry towards her friend. Penelope scrunched her nose at the noise before sighing.

"I do not think it was just love because if it was then my mama and papa would not have three children." Penelope paused with a smile on her face and turned to Eloise.

"They are in love! She wants to go to the country with her lover and to marry." Penelope said with a loving sigh looking at her best friend. Eloise was not impressed by the words unlike her friend.

"That is not the information we needed it." Penelope shrugged a shoulder.

"I do not think she will tell me." Eloise huffed before turning back the way they came.

"We will just have to figure it out for ourselves." Eloise said determinedly. Penelope sighed yet again knowing all to well she would be dragged along in the search. They made it back to the Bridgerton tent where most of them still were.

"I hope you don't mind Penelope staying." Eloise stated looking directly at Anthony. He nodded his agreement motioning to both the empty seats next to him.

"Thank you Lord Bridgerton." Penelope nodded before taking her seat. Anthony nodded to the polite girl.

"No thanks necessary, Miss Featherington. You are practically family." Penelope shot him a smile. After a moment when no conversations started up Anthony glanced around to see Benedict and Eloise squabbling quietly between themselves, Colin was over with the youngest playing a game and his mother was occupied by her needle work. Anthony turned to see Penelope sitting there just watching everyone and he felt a need to be a good host and not ignore the girl that was invited to sit.

"How has being out in society been for you, Miss Featherington?" Anthony cringed realizing how abrupt this question was. Also was problably not the best way to start this conversation but he hadn't been around Penelope much in the last few years. Penelope hummed before turning her attention to Anthony.

"It has been...good." Penelope was about to open her mouth like she had for the past few weeks but stopped herself. Anthony could tell that wasn't what Penelope wanted to say.

"Has it? Any prospects?" Did he have a right to ask this? No, he did not but he still did. He's know this girl since she was young and felt a duty to her as an older brother to check into any would-be-suitors even though she has her father for that. Even he knew that her family wasn't the most attentive bunch.

"No, my lord." Penelope blushed. Anthony wasn't sure which question this answered but he was going to assume it was both. At this awkward pause he cleared his throat before sending a small smile at her.

"What have you been reading?" That was the questioned he should have started with as Penelope lit up and started telling him about the books she's read in the past month.

He was watching her talk animatly while her hands flung about trying to explain one book. He glanced up to see his mother, brother and sister all watching the shy girl talk with smiles on their faces. Benedict caught his eye and winked before resuming his sketching. His mother patted his hand going back to her art. He turned his attention back to the girl only for her to stop short on a sentence as a blush stained her cheeks.

"Apologies, my lord. I got a litt-"

"BRIDGERTON!" Penelope was cut off by the man that was storming into their tent. Lord Berbrooke, who was waving a piece of paper and making his way to Anthony. Everyone in the tent stood up with the abrupt interuption from the roughed up Lord.

"I bring cheerful news, Bridgertons. I have taken matters into my own hands with a special license for my wedding to Miss Bridgerton." Lord Berbrooke anounced with a pompus smile on his face while slamming the papers into Anthony's chest. Eloise grabbed Penelope's arm and gripped her hard. Penelope lifted her hand to pat it gently trying to ease her friend's panic.

"There is no wedding."

"I told you. The arrangement is canceled." Both Daphne and Anthony spoke at the same time. Violet tried to direct the conversation to the pain the man must be in and to bring them from prying ears only to be dismissed by Lord Berbrooke.

"Perhaps I am finally speaking to the true head of the Bridgerton house." He said towards Violet all while being smug at the insult he threw at Anthony.

"For if it were you, I imagine you would have instructed your sister to take better care than to encourage certain attentions while alone with me on the Dark Walk at Vauxhall. Of course, mere hearsay of such a scandal could wreak havoc on even the most influential of families." Penelope's eyes narrowed on to the battered Lord with fire burning in them while her eyes quickly darted around to see where everyone was. No one was close enough to hear what was being said but could definitely see the body language that was being displayed. She would make sure no one knew of this awful encounter between her favorite family and Lord Berbrooke, she promised that.

"What would someone like, say, Lady Whistledown do with such information?"

"Is that a threat?" Anthony practically growled. Lord Berbrooke merely smiled.

"It is not. In three days time I am to marry the diamond of the season. The very best and a Bridgerton to boot. I shall save her and the rest of your family from ruins which you could not protect." Penelope gritted her teeth along with Anthony at the blantent dig at Anthony. She knew he tried very hard to keep his family safe and that was to far below the belt for her to take laying down. Lord Berbrooke said a few more words that were lost on most of the people gathered before he took his leave.

The lot of them looked like they were drug through the wringer. Anthony then announced in a gruff voice that it was time to go home after no one moved after what just happened. While the servants started to pack up. the family was clustering together. Eloise had not removed her hand from Penelope. She ended up bringing Eloise with her up to Violet, Daphne and Anthony who up until this moment had forgot she was with them.

"Lord Bridgerton, Lady Bridgerton, Miss Bridgerton." Penelope said bowing her head towards each of them. While she would have liked to have been less formal she felt they all needed this to show how serious she was about to this.

"Miss Featherington, we must apologize..." Violet stared but Penelope waved her off not wanting to be rude but couldn't stand for unneeded apologies.

"Please, do not apologize. No one would have expected this to happen. I feel like I should apologize for not having left once it got personal." The three older Bridgertons shook their heads at the girl not needing her apologies either.

"I would also like to let you know my lips are sealed on this matter. No one will get a word out of me about it." Penelope said with a steeliness none of them expected while looking each Bridgerton in the eyes. Everyone knew then that she would certainly not say a word about this for that they were sure.

She then bid the Bridgertons adieu returning to her family. On her way back all she could think of was digging up dirty on one Nigel Berbrooke.

Penelope had to smile as she and her sisters skimmed through the newest Lady Whistledown. She was happy that now Daphne would not have to marry this horrible man. Her ladies maid, Eliza had come to her the night before with this information on the bastard son of Lord Berbrooke and a maid and knew she had the newest gossip that could save the Bridgertons. Eliza also mention that it was brought to her attention by the other maids in different households.

Penelope had an inkling that it was Lady Bridgerton who started this whole gossip chain. She was glad that Violet at least had the right idea to use their servants while also finding out they were far more useful than just their normal duties. Penelope knows several of the help that would never think about doing wrong by the Bridgertons.

A few days later it reached her ears that Lord Nigel Berbrooke had fled the country after the scandal broke. Penelope had to hid her wicked smirk at the thought.

Notes:

Disclaimer: I do not own Bridgerton, books or show. I did use a bit of Dialogue from the show in this but mostly tried to keep it somewhat my own.

Chapter 3: THREE

Summary:

A short filler chapter with a little bit of interactions.

Notes:

This is gonna be a short chapter. I swear the next one will have more to chew on. I'm sorry!

Chapter Text

Penelope sighed brushing off her dress before getting out of the carriage to yet another ball. Her mama had stuffed her in a pink flowery ensemble that made her look rosier than before. She supposed it was better than the green and orange of her sisters. She made her way around the ballroom with ease since no one took much notice of her to begin with.

She caught the arrival of the Bridgertons and couldn't stop the thought that they made an extraordinary sight with all the men gathered around Violet and Daphne. She couldn't wait for the arrival of the Duke because there was something intriguing when she would see the Duke and Daphne together. Luck would have it, the Duke arrived just ten minutes after the Bridgertons. She watched with a raised brow as Daphne took the offered hand of the Duke and leaned in close with the man to whisper. She observed with narrow eyes while Lord Weaver stood in the pair's path before bowing at Daphne. Penelope had to hand it to the Lord, he was either very brave or stupid to intrupt the Duke. She could see Daphne offering her dance card to the Lord while the Duke looked to the side before his face turned angry.

"Must I share you attention with every man, Miss Bridgerton?" The Duke asked with jealousy coating his words. He was loud enough that Penelope could hear him halfway across the room. Penelope slowly made her way over to the Duke, again not thinking about how this could possibly look. She made it just before Daphne started to dance with Lord Weaver. She stood just behind the Duke not wanting to draw much attention to them if she could.

"Did the little green eyed monster get the better of you, Your Grace?" She watched as the Duke startled for a second before he turned slightly to catch a glimpse of her. His straight tense lips pulled into a grin when he saw his little heroine behind him.

"Miss Featherington, you have honored me with your presence tonight." Penelope smiled keeping her eyes on the dance floor.

"I thought it might be time to actually have a conversation in which you were not fleeing." That brought a laugh from deep in Simon's throat. He difently liked the red head she was one of the very few who actually spoke to him like an actual person. Penelope hummed at the laugh quite pleased with herself to make the stoic Duke laugh.

"I have to ask, what was that display about? I did not take you for the jealous type?" Simon turned his head towards her as she spoke quietly thinking on how to respond to the curiosity of the girl.

"I do not like sharing attention when it comes to Miss Bridgerton." He lied to the girl. She raised her brow and he could swear that her eyes were burning into his soul.

"Somehow, I do not believe you fully." Penelope mentally sighed at blurting out the first thing that came to mind. She didn't even want to say that in the first place but it seems she can't control her tongue around the few she probably should. Simon chuckled at the audacity of the redhead to basically call him out on his lie. The music came to an end and Penelope caught sight of Daphne making her way back.

"I must take my leave, Your Grace." Penelope bowed slightly towards the Duke, who turned sharply towards the girl.

"You are now fleeing from me, Miss Featherington." Penelope grinned and tilted her head towards Daphne.

"Yes, it seems Daphne is on her way back." Simon turned to where her head was to see that Penelope was correct but once he turned back to bid her farewell she was gone. Simon huffed yet another laugh as Daphne came to stand next to him.

"Was that little Penelope I saw walking away?" Simon nodded while Daphne stared at the man.

"You did not scare her away I hope?" Simon shook his head.

"I should warn you, if you do anything to hurt that girl, my family shall hunt you down." Daphne wasn't quite sure what was going on with Simon and Penelope but she just wanted to make sure he knew what would happen if he hurt her. Simon grinned down towards Daphne not the least bit surprised about the loyalty the Bridgertons had for Penelope Featherington.

"You are not the first Bridgerton to threaten me over Miss Featherington..." Daphne cut him off.

"Quite possibly not the last either." Simon sent her a sarcastic smirk.

"As I told your brother. We just had a nice chat and nothing more will happen." Daphne pursed her lips then sighed deciding to move on with the conversation.

Anthony had stayed in his spot watching Simon and Penelope Featherington chatting. He wasn't sure when Penelope had made her way over but it seemed out of place for the shy girl to instagate a conversation. He turned his attention back over to Daphne to make sure the young Lord didn't take any liberties with his sister. As the music ended his eyes flickered back to Simon only to see him standing alone with a shock of red weaving its way through the crowd. He pursed his lips as Daphne made her way back over to Simon and all thoughts of Penelope left his mind. He still hated the idea of the two together.

"Are you still glaring at them brother?" Benedict asked joyfully before handing his brother a drink. Anthony turned his glare to his brother taking a sip before turning his attention back to his sister. Benedict rolled his eyes before wandering back off not in the mood to deal with his brooding brother.

The Featherington's carriage pulled up to the art gallery there were people scattered everywhere but one spot in particular had nearly half the debutantes squished together. If Penelope had to take a guess, she would say that is where Prince Friedrich was since none of the ladies allowed an inch between one another. She had to feel for the man having all these ladies gathered around his person and not even taking his thoughts into consideration. She followed her family over to the bustling crowd as her mother tries to shove her sisters into the ring.

After a few minutes they are back together and making their way into the gallery while her mother mutters to herself how she'll have to wait until the Prince is in a less crowded enviorment to introduce her daughters. Once inside Penelope wanders off from her family to try to find Eloise. She ends up finding her best friend and they stood staring at a painting with multiple nude women washing up in a river.

"These paintings are all done by men who view women as decorative objects. They are like..." Eloise trailed off while Penelope thought for a moment before stepping back with glee.

"Human vases!" Penelope ended in a squeak due to her stepping back in the path of Anthony who was running away from his mother. Anthony let out a grunt as he crashed into Penelope, he looked down and grabbed the girl before she could fall to the ground. Penelope blushed as she regained her footing.

"Apologies and thank you, my lord." Anthony glanced down at her before sending her a small nod.

"You are welcome, Miss Featherington. Be careful, the gallery is crowded." He told the girls in a big brother tone and with that he left. Penelope looked over at Eloise who looked like she was in pain trying not to laugh.

"Do be careful Pen." Penelope huffed glaring at her friend but before she could say anything Marina was being ushered past mouthing at her to help. Penelope sighed sending a sad smile to her friend.

"My mama is calling for me." Penelope scurried off without giving Eloise a chance to say anything. Her mother was in the middle of introducing Marina to a very old Lord. Penelope tried to help but was being held back by her mother but it seemed Marina didn't need her help.

Penelope was now in trouble with her mama due to her interference and told to go find something else to do. She was about to walk off with Eloise, who had apparently followed her, a shriek was heard making both girl turn to see Cressida on the floor with the Prince holding her upper body off the ground using her fan to fan her face. Penelope turned her head towards Eloise forcing back her laughter but Eloise was not helping since she was gaping at the scene in front of her.

Penelope walked into the ball standing behind her family in another yellow dress. She was greatful that she was not the only one to be wearing yellow though since Marina was now forced into the family colors also. Right off the bat a Lord asked Marina to dance. Penelope took her last step off the stairs to see Lady Danbury looking rather upset at the Duke. Penelope made her way over to them slowly debating if she should even say anything since the Duke looks to be upset also.

The doors open and Daphne is there looking stunning in an all white dress and a pure white feather fan. Everyone is watching her desend the stairs while the Prince makes his way over to the stairs. He asked to have her first dance with him and she premits it but drops her fan. Penelope couldn't help thinking Daphne was a brillant girl for that move since the prince knelt down to pick up her dropped fan. Penelope's head turns toward the Duke who was watching the whole thing with a utter heartbreak on his face.

Penelope thought Daphne was making a horrible choice in choosing the Prince over the Duke since even she could tell the Duke was in love with the Bridgerton girl. Sadly before Penelope could go over to the Duke to speak with him, he had walked right out when Daphne started dancing.

Chapter 4: Four

Notes:

Happy Easter! I bring you this chapter as an Easter present!

Chapter Text

Penelope walked down the stairs as Marina storms pass her. She offered to stay in for her but hardly gets a response from the other girl. She goes into the sitting room where her family is. She had a few minutes before she has to meet with Eloise and sits down beside her Papa. She could possibly get a few minutes with him.

"A gentleman caller. Mr. Albion Finch." With her mother and sisters thoroughly distracted by the man, Penelope turns her attention to her papa.

"Good morning, Papa." Her father looked up from his paper sending her a small smile before looking back down.

"Good morning, Penelope." She was closer with her father than her mother when she was younger but two years ago when they talked about coming out in society he had pulled back from her until there was hardly any interaction at all.

"I hear that there is a match later. Are you planning on attending?" Her papa froze for a brief second before continuing to read. She knew she probably should of brought up something else but knowing how much her father likes things such as this she thought it would somehow get him talking.

"I am." She hummed while fiddling with her gloves.

"Are you placing a bet?" She knew her papa like to gamble, so there was a big possibility of him betting on this fight.

"I am, on Mr. Gillespie. He is the Prince's man after all." Penelope chewed on her lip before letting it go. She put her hand on her father's wrist making him look away from the paper.

"Papa, perhaps you should bet on Mr. Mondrich. I hear he is the Duke of Hasting's man." He stared at her before shaking his head.

"Mr. Mondrich is the underdog." He said turning back to his paper. Penelope frowned remembering that he used to tell her to bet on the underdog since that had nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"Underdogs can surprise us." She murmured to him but she knew he didn't hear her too engrossed in his paper again. Sighing she got up and went to meet with Eloise.

Penelope watched as her father came in after the match this afternoon looking downtrodden. She knew right then that he had not heeded her advice and lost.

She was forced into yet another brightly yellow dress. She feel the jealously bubbling away once she seen her cousin was in a white dress with black flowers. They were ushered out of the house before she could even complain. Once at Lady Trowbridge's ball her mother pulled Marina towards Lord Rutledge telling him lies about how her cousin couldn't wait to talk to the man. Penelope scrunched her nose up at the Lord wanting to see how her cousin spins. He pulled Marina away without a word towards anyone then Mister Finch came over with a sneeze and a bow towards Phillipa.

She could see her sister was absolutely smitten with the man even as he talked to her about cheese. Mister Finch pulled her sister away making a smile break across Penelope's face glad that her sister found someone that makes her happy. Penelope slipped away from her family to travel around the room. She could keep an eye on her sister while listening for things that could be an interesting piece. Nothing to exciting happened but then she spotted him sneak in, the Duke. She had to force herself to not laugh because she knew he wouldn't be able to stay away. She goes over to him and grins.

"Well, well. It seems not even a Prince could keep you away." Penelope joked not caring anymore about being polite. The Duke seemed to enjoy it and she was definitely having fun while at these events when he showed. Simon turned at the familiar voice with a slight smile on his lips.

"Miss Featherington, it is like you are a hound. You find me every time." She shrugged.

"Perhaps, I am. Are you finally here to fight a Prince for Miss Bridgerton's hand?" Penelope smirked at the startled look on his face. Simon sighed not even surprised by the mouth on this girl and tugged on one of her curls in jest. He felt like this is exactly how it felt to have an annoying little sister.

"You act like a bothersome younger sister." Simon had to laugh in victory at the wide eyed look he received from the redhead. He liked being the victor of their verbal sparing since it didn't happen very often. Penelope hummed at the thought of him becoming a big brother of sorts and couldn't say she hated the idea.

"Why brother, you are avoiding my question. I thought you were leaving but here you are. Are you going to fight for Daphne?" He was expecting the scolding for avoiding the question but not her acceptance of the sister comment so fast, or to be called brother.

"Well sister, I am not sure why I am here. Lady Danbury gave me quite the talking to." Penelope laughed not even trying to stifle it.

"It is great to see even Lady Danbury scares the big bad Duke." Penelope told him making him chuckle.

"Yes, she went on about love and how I let it slip right through my fingers." Penelope nodded thinking Lady Danbury was correct but could tell that wasn't the reason he came. She has heard that the late Duke wasn't the best of father's and she could tell it affected the Duke still to this day. She tilted her head towards the man.

"Can I be blunt, Your Grace?" Simon's face went blank at the question but nodded.

"You are always blunt with me, Miss Featherington." Penelope scrunched her face up making Simon think she looked adorable.

"I have heard that the late Duke wasn't a good man. I hardly think that would change when it comes to his heir. I know what it is like to come from a place with hardly any love or care and it is hard to accept it from others or even think you're deserving of it." Simon went to cut off the girl he was seeing was similar to him but she glared at him daring him to interrupt.

"But! You need to know that you deserve it and you have the best person who can show you unlimited and unconditional love. Daphne is the epitome of love, actually any of the Bridgertons are since they have so much of it in their home that it practically pours out of them." He listened to her passionate speech before she lets out a small laugh.

"Believe it or not, this includes our very own Viscount Bridgerton even if he shows it in his own ways." She finished with a smirk staring him in the eye. Simon swallowed not knowing how to take the speech from this tiny girl. She sent him a small smile before patting his arm in a comforting motion.

"Now that I seem to have broken you, I will leave you to your thoughts. Your Grace." She curtsied towards the man.

"I will think on your words, sister." He though of using titles but with the way she practically eviscerated him like how he assumed a sister would do, he did not. She had secured her place as the sister of his heart and nothing would change that. She was stunned but nodded before walking off towards the dance floor. He needed to think so he slipped off to the back of the room. What neither of the heart siblings knew was one person was watching the entire exchanged with a smirk of her own.

A little later on the sidelines of the dance Penelope noticed as Anthony kept turning his head away from the singers on the stage until he got to lock eyes with one of the women. She caught sight of Violet dragging an unsuspecting debutante, Miss Addington over to Anthony with a stern glare. She introduced the two before leaving them and grabbing another glass of champagne. Penelope was starting to worry over the matriarch of the Bridgertons.

"Our host is looking a little fussy." Penelope was startled from her thoughts at the unexpected voice. Penelope looked up to see Colin and followed his gaze to Lady Trowbridge and the little red-faced Lord. She couldn't help but feel sorry for him being paraded around.

"Do you think if he goes to bed, we all have to leave?" Colin questioned.

"It's lucky the lady produced an heir before the old Earl croaked, no?" Penelope let out a little laugh before looking up at the man.

"Lucky, indeed." She murmured before tilting her head towards the host.

"But do you not think the boy bears a passing resemblance to Lady Trowbridge's footman?" Penelope said with a smirk causing a scandalous gasp to erupt from the man.

"Penelope!" She peeked up through her lashes to see Colin looking down at her. His gaze made a thrill rush down her spine.

"What a barb!" He exclaimed looking away abruptly only to sweep his eyes over to Marina.

"I have been trying to get Miss Thompson's attention all night." Penelope's smile shrunk at the mention of her cousin.

"She is not interested in Lord Rutledge, is she?" Penelope sucked on her teeth at Colin's interest.

"No, she is more likely in need of a swift rescue." Penelope held back a curse once she spoke the last word. She knows Colin too well to know his weakness for anyone he decided is a damsel in distress. She seen the way his chest puffed out.

"I believe you are right." He struts over to the old Lord and Marina.

"No, Colin... that's not what I meant." She trailed off in a whisper since he was long past the point of hearing her. She stared as he acted as the hero for saving Marina from yet another dance with the older Lord. Penelope has decided she has had enough of this tonight but before she could leave Violet caught her arm.

"Penelope, dearest!" Penelope was pulled into a hug by the woman. She was released but Violet maintained a hand on her so she couldn't leave.

"You, my dear, are my favorite of my children." She bit her lip holding back the giggle that wanted to be set free. She was now absolutely sure Violet was drunk.

"Lady Bridgerton, I am not your child." Violet shushed her and brought her closer.

"Not yet, you are not! But you will be!" Violet announced with certainty. Penelope patted the woman's hand.

"Once you marry one of my boys then you will be mine officially. My daughter by name along with my heart." Penelope scanned the crowd trying to find one of her children but found none of them.

"Lady-" She was yet again cut off by Violet.

"No, mama or Violet since you will be my daughter soon enough." Penelope sighed but nodded.

"Violet." Violet made a happy noise. Penelope grabbed the hand that held her cupping it in both of her hands.

"Violet, I am not your..." The look Violet was giving Penelope made her back track.

"I am not yet your daughter but can you tell me how many you have had?" Violet laughed in delight at the change Penelope made.

"Look at you! You are so kind, and caring, and so very beautiful! My sons are so blind to you!" Violet almost wept. Penelope was so very grateful that hardly anyone was paying attention to them.

"Whichever one of my foolish sons finally realizes what is in front of them and marries you, both of you will give me such beautiful grandchildren. They will inheirt your big heart that is filled with so much love, kindness and care." She scanned the crowd yet again and finally spotted Colin. She waved the man over frantically and maneuvered the woman to Colin but the woman kept her grip on Penelope's hand.

"Colin, my son! Why have you not taken notice of Penelope?" Penelope blushed turning to the man. Colin glanced down at his mother before sending a look towards Penelope.

"She has discussed a great deal with me. You may need to take-" She was yet again cut off but not by Violet but a furious Anthony.

"Daphne has developed a headache. I am taking her home." Anthony told everyone before catching sight of his mother still clutching Penelope. He raised a brow looking between the three, Penelope could see the curiosity burning in his eyes at their position but it quickly left after he heard a few comments towards Daphne.

"Colin, I am leaving mother in your hands." Colin nodded as Anthony swept away with Daphne following behind.

"Perchance, Anthony might do." Violet muttered flicking her eyes between her eldest and Penelope. Colin stared at Penelope in questioning silence.

"I am sure she will tell you all about her plans. I must be leaving before I am left behind by my family." Colin nodded and helped Penelope pry his mother's hand off her.

"Thank you for the talk, Violet. I will try to visit with you again." Violet patted her cheek.

"Until next time, my daughter." Penelope shrugged at the look Colin was giving her and left the mother and son.

Penelope sighed for what felt like the fifth time in a span of five minutes due to Marina constant nattering about Colin. It started immediately once she went up to her room and her cousin had followed her. She was about to scream if it doesn't stop soon.

"Pen, he is kind and funny." Marina sighed throwing her arms back and started to twirl around.

"He would be a brilliant father, you have seen him with the young Bridgertons. Colin might be a bit young for marriage." Penelope gritted her teeth in an attempt at a smile.

"You need someone who will propose soon." Marina waved her hand.

"This is why Mr. Bridgerton is perfect. He rescued me tonight. He does not seem like the type of man to play games and he is quite eager too. Pen, have no doubt he will propose soon and I won't have to marry Rutledge." Penelope folded down her bedding and crawled into bed hoping her cousin would get the hint. Marina walked over to lean over her.

"Am I keeping you awake?" Penelope nodded while Marina sat on her bed.

"The best thing about when we marry, I'll be able to stay here and with you and Eloise being so close, we will all be sisters." With that Marina left with a dreamy sigh. Penelope huffed before dropping back into her bed.

She then began to kick and hit her bed in a fit of rage. While she knew it was likely she and Colin would have never been married, she was hoping for some beautiful debutante to come and sweep Colin away. She could then be happy for her friend since it would have been someone she didn't know. But no, he had to start this infactution to HER cousin, who is with child that's not Colin's child. A tapping at her window drew her attetion away from her childish tanutrum. She peered out her window to see Eloise waving her down.

Once downstairs Eloise waited not even a minute before starting her tangent on none other than Lady Whistledown. Penelope tried to tell her friend that it was late and she was tired but it seemed to go in one ear and out the other. She conunited to rant about finding the identity of Whistledown and Penelope finally snapped.

"Eloise! I do not care! Some people have real problems that are not hunting down some stupid gossip writer! More important things than that!" She yelled at her friend, sick and tired of people talking over her or not even listening to her.

"What is more important?" Eloise questioned taking a small step back from her normally level headed friend.

"Like marriage." Penelope said dully not understanding how her friend could be so dense.

"You do not care about marriage." Eloise stated like it was facts. Penelope wanted to cry over the fact that her friend didn't even know her.

"I do though! But I do not expect you of all people to understand!" Eloise stood there staring at this new person that she couldn't even recognize as her friend.

"You never wanted to marry and that is your decision. Not everyone gets to have the chance to decide how their life will pan out! I understand you don't want the same things as me but I do not have a family like yours to let you be yourself! Not everyone is a pretty Bridgerton!" Penelope wailed out gripping on to the door frame. Eloise watched with tears threatening to fall at the harsh words her friend spat at her. Eloise ran back to her house not wanting to see her friend fall apart or the fact that she was about to cry.

"Eloise! Wait, I did not..." Penelope croaked out but was far to late. She went back up to her house. She couldn't believe she had just yelled at her best friend and she wasn't truly upset with Eloise. She was just done with this whole sitution that keeps getting worse and worse. She was tired of everyone walking all over her and talking over her like all she was was a sounding board. She was like a item to be taken out when one felt like using it only to be shoved back into the cupboard once they were finished.

She wiped the tears from her eyes while going to her favorite spot, the bay window in her family's sitting room. She did not feel like going back up to her room to wallow in her self made pity. She gathered up her dressing robe before manovoring herself onto the window seat. She stretched out her legs over the lenght of the seat, resting her back on the wide seal letting her head hit the window with a thud. She could still feel tears falling down her cheeks but made no move to clean her face. She just stared out the window to her favorite place in the world, the Bridgerton house.

She watched as Colin and Violet stumbled out of the carriage and made their way into the partially lit house. Colin was carrying most of his mother's weight while climbing the stairs. Penelope wasn't sure how long she stared at the door before it opened again to Anthony rushing out of the house and turned the corner disappearing into the dark. She wasn't sure what Anthony was up to but she yawned as her eyes fluttered shut.

Penelope peeked up from her book to see her mother and father whispering in harsh tones before her mama steals her father's pipe. She raised a brow wondering what could possibly be the reason for this fight though from what she heard from Prudence, that their papa had said something to Mr. Finch to make him turn away from Phillipa might be the cause of it. Penelope chose to ignore it to go back to her book because it was getting to her favorite part when Briarly, their footman, came into announce that Colin had come for Marina. Briarly sent Penelope a sad half smile because he's known her since she was born and knew her well and left the room.

Penelope knew then she wouldn't be getting to that part of her book. Colin comes in with a boquet of flowers giving them over to her cousin with a charming smile. Marina gushed over the flowers yet again while Colin made a joke about tomatoes. Penelope frowned feeling her stomach starting to tie in knots.

"Marina hates tomatoes." Penelope announced with a mental slap to her forehead for not thinking before saying anything. Marina made her a fool by denying her dislike for the food.

"What about Greece? Perhaps you can bring a tomato plant as a souvenir for Miss Thompson when you return from your travels." Penelope suggested hoping once Marina knew that a marriage with Colin was not possibly she might find someone else to marry. Only thing was Colin threw her for a loop by telling her that he wasn't sure about his travels any longer.

"You were so keen to travel." She choked out not believing him. He then explained that something might be keeping him here in London that he might miss more all the while flicking his eyes to her cousin. Penelope swallowed hard between her clenched jaw. She hated this feeling that is burning hot in the pit of her stomach. Once Colin and Marina started having tea Penelope stalked over to her mother.

"Mama." Portia glanced over towards her youngest with a raised brow.

"Is this wise?" Penelope nodded her head towards the couple.

"Colin is so young, I think marriage is years from this thoughts. I feel like Marina might be wasting her time, time she does not have." She told her mother before leaving not being about to stand there any longer. Penelope could feel herself shaking not believing she was actually saying this about her friend and cousin. She felt physically sick for being this manipulating, she felt like Cressida! She was a horrible person.

Penelope was getting ready to go over to the Bridgertons for the reception of the Duke and Daphne's wedding. They had a small chapel wedding with just Daphne's family and Lady Danbury but needed to throw a party for the ton to be happy. Penelope was happy for the couple but was a bit stressed by what she heard the day before. Marina was planning on seducing Colin into a scandal to get him to marry her so she does not have to marry Lord Rutledge. She needed to protect her friend from her own cousin.

"Penelope!" She heard her mother yell from downstairs. She smiled to Eliza before brushing down her dress and nodding to her ladies maid. She hurried down and then made her way across the street with her family. There they didn't even wait as they split up, she walked down the stairs only to be hit with two bodies wrapping their arms around her.

"Penelope!" Two voices exclaimed together. She let out a huffed laugh as she took in the dark brown hair of both her attackers.

"Gregory, Hyacinth! It is so good to see you two." Penelope told the two petting their hair.

"You should have seen it. Daphne looked like a princess. Do you think I will get married one day?"

"We have not seen you in ages. Why have you not came to visit?" Both children talked in tandem as Penelope's eyes flickered between the two of them.

"Gregory, Hyacinth, we do not attack guests." A deep voice scolded. Penelope turned to see Anthony standing there with his arms crossed a stern glare at his younger siblings. While he knew Penelope was a permanent fixture in their home he didn't want his siblings acting improper.

"But its Penelope!" The two blurted out. Penelope waved Anthony off.

"Do not worry about it, Lord Bridgerton." She gently informed him before turning back to the children. Anthony was quite shocked at being waved off but Anthony decided to watch this play out. Usually Hyacinth and Gregory would fight over who got their answers first.

"I wish I had seen wedding, I think it would have been magical. I will be seeing Daphne soon so I will let you know if she is indeed a princess. I am sure that once you are old enough you will have your own prince charming." Penelope rattled off to Hyacinth before turning her attention to the pouting boy. Anthony raised his brow surprised by the lack of arguing between the two.

"I apologize for not being around recently, I have had a busy first season. I promise I will make more time to come and see you." Gregory blushed with having Penelope's whole attention on him but nodded his head at her promise. Anthony hid his grin at his little brother having a crush. Hyacinth had caught sight of Gregory's blush and promptly poked his cheek with a grin.

"Oh, Greg is blushing! I wonder why." She sung before darting off with Gregory running after her. Penelope then turned her attention to Anthony with a delicate shrug of her shoulder.

"That lasted longer than I thought." Penelope joked making Anthony smirk.

"I was surprised how long they lasted. I was sure that they would be fighting before you even finished your thought." Penelope smiled at the man.

"It helps if they like you." She teased while Anthony stared at her for a moment. Anthony was sure he had never had the opportunity for Penelope to tease him but he couldn't say he hated it.

"Are you feeling a bit more relaxed now that your sister is married?" She asked to get out of the silence that followed her jest. Anthony tilted his head before nodding.

"Yes." Then he shook his head as Hyacinth ran by.

"No, I still have El, Fran and Hy to worry about." Penelope smirked looking up at the man. Anthony was amazed by the height difference between him and Penelope. He knew she was short but never was close enough to compare it to himself.

"Well, I do not think you have Fran to worry about but..." She trailed off with a little laugh.

"But?" Anthony raised his brow wanting to know what had the girl giddy. She looked at him through her lashes as her smirk grew.

"The other two are sure to give you more grey hairs than Daphne ever did." He was astonished at the joke coming from Penelope. He did huff a laugh because she was probably right on that end before he could respond he was called over over by his mother. He bowed to Penelope.

"Miss Featherington, it was good speaking to you." Penelope frowned for a second upset that this enjoyable conversation was cut short but curtsied to the man.

"Lord Bridgerton." He walked away with Penelope watching his back in a daze. She just made jokes at Anthony and while it was a short conversation it was the most pleasant one she's had in a while.

After some time Marina had come over to stand with her and she decided to start with her plan. She pointed out some men she knew were looking for a bride and tried to get her cousin to take notice. None of it was working though because all that her cousin wanted to do was find Colin. Penelope had enough of this.

"Anyone but him, Marina. He is my friend and I have known him forever." Penelope started watching her cousin as she turned to her.

"I do not want him tricked into a lifelong commitment. He does not deserve to be deceived by you." Penelope pointed at her cousin who looked offend.

"Do you want me to marry a man I do not know? A man that could possibly be a beast of a man? What do you want me to do Penelope?" Marina questioned looking on the verge of tears. Penelope could not respond since her cousin continued.

"I will be a good wife to Colin. He will be a good husband and father no matter how long you have been friends for." Marina said narrowing her eyes at her cousin before she had caught sight of Colin at the drink table.

"Please, Marina." Penelope begged but was ignored as her cousin walked away. Penelope sighed watching her mother intecept her cousin and had a small chat with her before Marina continued her way over to Colin. She stared at the two as they flirt before Colin pulled Marina away making her stomach plummet. She turned away before walking right into someone. She looked up to see the Duke standing before her.

"We have to stop meeting like this, sister." Penelope half heartedly smiled at him. Simon frowned not liking this sad version of his sister.

"What is wrong, sister dear?" Penelope shook her head before looking up at him.

"Nothing, dear brother. Congratulations are in order!" Penelope tried to sound cheerful but she knew she didn't succeed as Simon's frown deepened.

"Thank you. Now what is wrong?" Penelope waved him off.

"The season is just getting to me is all." Simon stared at her knowing she didn't have many prospects but couldn't help but feel something else was wrong.

"Are you sure?" Penelope nodded before grinning up at him.

"Look at you! Fought against a Prince and won!" Simon laughed hoping Penelope never learned the real reason he won. The two talked for a bit longer before Simon decided it was time to leave. Penelope had enough of the party and let her mother know she was going home and her father came with her.

Chapter 5: FIVE

Notes:

I am sorry about the beginning, might not be my best work but I tried a different approach to writing this and it wasn't for me. So I am sorry if the beginning isn't the greatest.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

They were at yet another garden party that Penelope had not the slightest clue of who was hosting it. Colin claimed Marina almost immediately after they had arrived. Penelope strayed off from her family after having enough of the lovey eyes Colin and Marina were sending each other. She wandered passed Lady Bridgerton and Eloise making Hyacinth and Gregory give chase.

"Pen." The children did not yell but they did run pass Anthony causing him to turn to see them running towards the red head. Penelope turned and grinned at the two as they hugged her.

"Gregory, Hyacinth. How are you two?" They smiled at her. She spoke to the younger children for a few minutes getting caught up with all that their governess was teaching them. Anthony and Benedict watched the way Penelope interacted with their youngest siblings impressed with the way she was handling the rambunctious duo.

"Penelope, can you come over tomorrow?" Gregory asked blushing. Hyacinth nodded eagerly along. Penelope smiled at the two.

"That is a question to ask Anthony and your mother. I would be glad to come if you get their permission." Gregory nodded sternly before offering his arm to her. Penelope laughed tucking her hand in the crook of his elbow. Hyacinth skipped over taking Penelope's free hand while swinging it. She was led over to Violet first who hid her bemused smile behind a gloved hand.

"Mother, may Penelope come over tomorrow?" Gregory asked regally. Penelope caught both Violet and Eloise's eyes seeing the amusement filling her own eyes reflected back.

"I do not see why not. You will need to speak to Anthony." Hyacinth nodded sagely.

"He is our next stop." With that she was led away yet again and over to were Benedict and Anthony were standing talking with a few ladies. One was Cressida Cowper forcing Penelope to freeze mid step. Gregory looked back when he felt the small tug on his arm only to see Penelope frowning staring at something. He stepped back a few feet to be side by side with Penelope. He glanced over at Hyacinth who was looking back at him.

"Penelope?" Hyacinth spoke shaking the hand she was holding gently. Penelope shook her head looking down at the young girl.

"Yes Hy." Hyacinth frowned.

"Are you okay?" Penelope nodded pasting on a smile and led them towards the two men.

"I am. We were on our way to your brothers yes?" The younger two shared another look but allowed the older girl to lead them. They stood there for a second waiting for a lull in the conversation before announcing their presence. Luckily for them Benedict noticed them before they had to wait to long.

"Miss Featherington, Gregory, Hyacinth." Penelope nodded her head since her hands were full. Anthony turned at the mention of his siblings.

"Ah, Miss Featherington. They are behaving themselves I hope." Both children squawked at the insinuation.

"They have been nothing but a gentleman and lady, Lord Bridgerton. I assure you." Penelope spoke up in their defense causing Gregory's chest to puff out and Hyacinth to stand straighter. Both brothers noticed the small changes at the simple praise Penelope conveyed into the two. This was the moment that Cressida acknowledge Penelope was the person to drag two of the Bridgertons' attention from her.

"Well, would you look at that. Someone has at long last snagged a suitor, a Bridgerton to boot." Cressida's snide voice commented catching sight of Penelope's hand hooked with Gregory's. Penelope's grip on Gregory's arm tightened as four Bridgertons snapped their heads towards the lady. Hyacinth sneered at the older girl not liking how she was talking to one of her favorite people. The older two were surprised by the gull of the woman in front of them while Gregory patted at the hand attached to his arm knowing it was frowned upon to harm a lady.

"Miss Cowper." Benedict and Anthony scolded like she was one of their younger siblings. Cressida blushed momentaryily forgetting who were in front of her before walking away not wanting to embarass herself any further. Penelope had to hide a smile at the scolding but also the fact that she was defend by the two. She's never had someone other than Colin defend her to anyone.

"Brother." Gregory said wanting to put this behind them but planned to keep an eye on Miss Cowper since she hurt his Pen. Benedict and Anthony focused their attention on the boy.

"Can Penelope come over tomorrow?" Hyacinth asked. Anthony glanced at Benedict who shrugged then turned his attention to Penelope.

"Did they ask you if you wanted to come over?" Penelope nodded softly.

"They did. I let them know they needed to ask you and your mother. I have no plans for tomorrow." Anthony nodded and crossed his arms staring at his siblings. Penelope held back a laugh at the two squirming children waiting desperately for an answer.

"Brother, I think they may kidnap poor Penelope if they have to wait any longer." Benedict joked making Anthony sigh.

"Alright, she can but..." The children cheered before quieting down hearing the dreaded but.

"But you will have to have to do any of the work your governess gives you without protest." Anthony added his stipulation. The children groaned while Penelope and Benedict let out a little laugh.

"Deal?" Anthony questioned with his hand out. The two shared a quick look before nodding at each other.

"Deal." Gregory and then Hyacinth shook his out stretched hand with that the two ran off. Penelope looked around with a slight pout.

"It has appeared that I have been ditched. After all that hard work to get permission too." Benedict laughed at her pout while Anthony studied her. He was once again impressed with her ability to keep his two youngest siblings in line. Then he shook his head because that was wrong, she seemed to be able to keep two other siblings of his in line too. Colin and Eloise. Penelope noticed his staring and tilted her head. Why was the Viscount staring at her?

"Lord Bridgerton? Is something wrong?" Benedict glanced at his brother seeing him shake himself out of his thoughts.

"Not at all. I was just wondering how you have managed to wrangle not two but four of my more rambunctious siblings." Benedict had to admit it that he was now wondering how the small girl did that also.

"Ah, patience. Lots and lots of patience." She told them with a grin and a wink towards them. Penelope had to hold back a gasp not believing she would wink at the men. Benedict was finding this new Penelope interesting first she was being blunt and now she was joking and winking at them. Anthony just stared at the girl not really comprehending that she had just winked at him.

"You Bridgerton's are a stubborn lot." Before either of the men could defend themselves Colin had interrupted.

"I have asked Miss Marina Thompson to be my wife, and she has accepted." He announced.

Penelope could not hear anything but a roaring in her ears. She watched with a shocked expression on her face as the Bridgertons stare at Colin in shock. She blinked slowly as Anthony walked over to Voilet talking in low tones while Benedict went over with Eloise to congradulate the couple. She was taking everything in but not processing it because if she was she would have noticed multiple eyes watching her.

Once Eloise heard the news her eyes swept over to Penelope hoping she knew about this. Sadly the stunned expression on her best friend's face showed she did not have a clue. Benedict was in the same frame of mind as his sister and his first thought was of Penelope. He knew she held a small crush on his brother and this would crush her so his eyes found the short girl to see her heartbroken at the news.

Anthony's first thought was finding out why this happened but as he was walking over to his mother he caught that flash of red out of the corner of his eye. Penelope, the poor girl was distruat at the news and was frozen on the spot, how could his brother not see the flame she held for him. Violet was shocked that her son would get engaged without her knowledge. She would have been happy if this was Penelope but it was her cousin she's never had the chance to know.

She had a good time yesterday over at the Bridgerton house. She had fun with Hyacinth and Gregory and had one on one time with them. The other Bridgerton's had other engagements so it was just the three and their governess. What they didn't tell anyone was that Penelope helped the two with their work before they started to play.

Now, she was stuck at a dinner with her family, Anthony, Colin and Violet. Penelope hated how this was going. Marina was awkward with everyone that wasn't her, her sisters were making fools of themselves and her mama was putting a lot of unsubtle comments on having a quick engagement and wedding. She knew Anthony was getting suspicious with all the comments and he seemed to be getting annoyed with them too. Violet was trying to be a good buffer while also getting to know her soon to be daughter-in-law but Marina wasn't helping anything. Finally, they had moved to the sitting room where Precedence was showing off her singing talent to the group. Colin had excused himself from the room and Penelope decided now was the best time to confront him. She walked after him before stopping him at the foot of the stairs.

"Colin. Can I have a word?" Penelope asked walking closer to the man so he could hear her clearly.

"For you Pen, of course." Penelope felt the butterflies flutter around her heart at his answer even if she wished they didn't.

"I... um... the matter is quite delicate. I do not wish to cause trouble but I believe you deserve to know." She stumbled over the words at first but finally found her footing. Colin turned serious at the tone.

"Is there something on my face?" He continued to ramble and Penelope had to sigh.

"Sorry, what was it?" Colin asked knowing Penelope well enough that if she was actually expressing her thinning patience then he needed to stop.

"I needed to talk to you but we have always seemed to have company about." Colin raised his brow.

"You mean about Marina?" Penelope licked her lips and nodded.

"Yes, her heart belongs to another. His name is Sir George Crane." Colin watched her confused as she continued to state information about the man and his love letter to Marina.

"Do you think I would care of her fond feelings for another before we met? I have flirted with many girls at one point." Penelope groaned shaking her head. She wasn't lying to Anthony and Benedict that the Bridgertons were stubborn but she forgot to mention they were more bull headed than actually stubborn just like this.

"You do not understand. It was not mere flirtation. Marina is in love with this man." Colin huffed out a laugh.

"And yet she is marrying me. Trust me Pen." He continued to tell her other things but all Penelope could do was bite her lip trying to withhold the scream that wanted to break out. This stupid man was just not getting what she was saying.

"Colin, Marina is..." She was cut off by Marina wondering into the hall watching both of them. Penelope felt like pulling out her hair.

"Pen, your mother is asking for you." Penelope sighed watching Marina get close to Colin. Penelope admitted defeat for the moment and went off to find her mother.

Penelope groaned for the ninth time as she crumbled the paper she was writing on. She wasn't sure how to write this or if it was the right thing to do. She wasn't sure if this was just a childish rage or if she was actually wanting to save Colin from a horrible mistake. She understood he was a grown man and could do what he pleased but he didn't have all the facts to make a decision like this. Sighing she rolled her shoulders settling back in her chair. Dipping her quill in the ink before hovered it and letting the ink drop to the paper. She took a deep breath and nodded to herself quickly scribbling away.

A hour later and several more sheets of paper Penelope clicked her tongue reading over this new article with a critical eye. All she could do was shrug thinking it was the best she could do and slowly packed up her supplies. She stared at the paper then shuffled it into the rest of her materials and putting it back in the floor boards hoping that with the morning light it might read better.

Penelope got ready for bed and just laid there for hours. Every time she tried to fall asleep all she could think of was the conversation she had with Colin. She could picture the packed bags in Marina's room tonight, she could hear the words her cousin spat at her, how she was in Colin's eyes, no different that Eloise. All she could think about was the article laying innocently under her floors waiting for her to make her choice. She tossed and turned the whole night not being able to sleep a wink.

She ran through all her choices and once the sun rose her course of action was clear. She shot up with demermintation that this was the right way to go about it and the article would be her last ditch effort to help Colin. She rang for her ladies maid because if this was to work she would need to start as soon as possible. After the fast work of Eliza she was out the door and striding over to the Bridgerton house. She straightened her shoulders as she knocked knowing Humboldt would be waiting.

"Morning Humboldt." She greeted as soon as the door opened. Humboldt smiled at the girl.

"Good morning, Miss Featherington." Penelope stepped in the door quickly letting the footman close it behind her. She glanced up towards the man tilting her head.

"Is Lord Bridgerton available? I need to speak with him." She asked quickly knowing the older man would have the answer. He always knew where everyone was. Humboldt raised a brow with a nod.

"Follow me." She did as commanded trying to keep up with the long gait of the man. She watched as the man knocked on the study door before opening it slightly.

"Sir, Miss Penelope Featherington is here." Anthony glanced up from the ledgers he was reading. He was confused as to why Humboldt had told him about the young lady's arrival.

"She had requested to speak with you, sir." Anthony blinked in surprise at the fact that Penelope was seeking him out so early.

"Let her in." Humboldt nodded and the door drift open letting the red head slip in before the door closed with a soft click. Anthony observed the lady in front of him, she was dressed in a light blue day dress that was one of the simplest ones he's ever seen on her. Penelope fiddled with her dress finding her confidence waning slightly under the Viscount's stare.

"Please, sit down Miss Featherington." Anthony gestured towards the chair in front of his desk after he noticed the fidgeting. Penelope sent him a small smile before sitting gently on the chair.

"I apologize for the early call, My Lord." Anthony shook his head holding up his hand before sitting on the edge of his desk trying to look less intimidating.

"It is quite alright. I was already up." Penelope sighed twisting her fingers trying to figure out where to start.

"Just take your time Penelope. No need to rush." Anthony realized that whatever it was that made Penelope seek him out had to be important or she wouldn't be here. Penelope shook her head harshly before jumping out of her seat.

"That is the problem, we do not have the time!" Penelope snapped while Anthony watched in surprise as she started to pace around the study.

"I have tried to talk to the both of them but neither would listen to a word I had to say. Why could they not understand that I am trying to prevent scandal for both our families." Penelope started to rant. Anthony followed Penelope as her hands started to move with a frantic pace while trying to keep his attention on her rant. He was positive this had to do with the Miss Thompson and Colin sitution but he still wasn't quite sure why it was causing Penelope to lose all sense. Anthony has decided he needed to stop her before she went to talk into another circle.

"Penelope." Anthony raised his voice to be heard over the girl's voice. Penelope paused mid sentence to look over to the Viscount, who was staring at her. She blushed and bit her lip.

"Thank you. Now before you continue, can I ask questions to understand this better?" Penelope went back to the chair and sat down meekly. She could not believe she behaved this way in front of Anthony.

"Of course, My Lord." Anthony nodded and walked around to the other side of his desk sitting in his chair.

"Is this about Colin and Miss Thompson?" Penelope nodded. He was correct in his assumption, now he needs to find out why Penelope is involving herself in this. He knew she held a torch towards Colin but this seemed more than her not wanting Colin to marry.

"Can you explain why you are here seeking me out?" That's another thing he couldn't figure out. Penelope tilted her head before turning to look directly at him.

"I came to the one person I thought that could help me stop this farce." Anthony furrowed his brows at the statement.

"I tried to talk to Colin about this last night but he was not in the mood to listen. I also went to Marina only to come out with the same results. Colin does not have all the facts to make this big of a decision." Anthony was impressed by yet another side of Penelope he's never seen with the way she stared at him with determination.

"Those facts are?" Penelope flickered her eyes away for a moment to gather herself. She was hoping this was the right thing to do because she would assume finding out through a gossip column was a horrible way. She turned her attention back to Anthony.

"They plan to run away to Gretna Green in two days time." Penelope said while Anthony blinked at her. Anthony had heard what the red head had said but could not come up with a response.

"Marina is with child. Colin is not the father." Anthony didn't even blink unable to comprehend the news. His poor naïve brother who thinks he's in love but is being lied to. He had his suspicions something was up since the dinner party when Lady Featherington was pushing a swift engagement and marriage. Penelope observed the way Anthony's face jumped from one emotion to another multiple times before it turns stony.

"Explain from the beginning." Anthony commanded trying to process this information. Penelope took a deep breath and then started the explanation.

"At first we did not know Marina was with child. My mama found out when after a month here she did not get her courses. My mama kept Marina home until she could come up with a plan. This is were Lord Rutledge came into play." Anthony nodded along as he could see Lady Featherington doing this. He had seen the old Lord and Miss Thompson dancing and got the plan that Portia was trying to pull off. Lord Rutledge did need an heir.

"Colin was the spanner in the plan. Him and his hero complex." He slouched further in his chair at the statement with holding a groan. Anthony could hear the bitterness in Penelope's voice and he could feel even more pity bubbling to the surface for his brother. Colin was an idiot to not see the love and loyalty Penelope had for him and he just threw that back in her face.

"He decided to step in and save my cousin. I over heard a conversation between my mother and cousin at first it was mother demanding Marina to marry Lord Rutledge and to stop everything with Colin. Sadly, Marina thought that Colin would be better than the old Lord and ended up getting my mother to let her have her chance at Colin." Anthony could not stop the sigh that left his lips. Penelope frowned hating that she was putting more stress on the man's shoulders.

"I am not sure how she got him to propose or how the running off to Gretna Green happened. All I know is that we have two days before they run." Anthony scrubbed his face not believing the trouble his brother's gotten himself in. If his brother just listened to him... Anthony paused his train of thought with a laugh. Penelope looked worriedly at the man at the harsh laugh.

"Anthony?" Penelope hesitantly. He looked up to see the girl and waved her off.

"I just realized Colin has a listening problem." Penelope huffed out a laugh.

"That he does." Anthony straightened up and rolled his neck.

"Alright, I think we need to get Colin in here to break the news." Penelope squinted at the man.

"Are you sure? We just spoke about his listening issue." Anthony just shrugged and crossed his arms.

"I do not think Miss Thompson will say anything to him about it. This is the only way to get the truth to him."

"Lady Whistledown would be a way." Penelope muttered out not even catching herself but Anthony heard it.

"Miss Featherington!" Penelope looked up at the astonished look on Anthony's face. She scrunched her face up confused.

"Lady Whistledown will never hear a word of this." Penelope pursed her lips before agreeing with the Viscount.

"Last resort then." Penelope snarked not liking the scolding tone she received. Anthony narrowed his eyes at the girl but said nothing else in response. He now knew how Eloise and Penelope remained friends even with them being so different, Penelope had hidden sides of her self.

"I will call for my mother and Benedict first so we can explain the situation with them first and then call for Colin." Penelope shook her head.

"Would Colin not feel ambushed with so many people here?" Anthony sighed.

"Possibly but we need both of them in here. Benedict can easily hold Colin back should something make him lash out and mother..." Penelope got where he was going with Violet. She was their mother and could comfort Colin. Anthony rang the bell and told the maid that came forth to get his mother and Benedict. Anthony took this time to look over Penelope properly. She was dressed impecably and her hair was styled but he could see the dark circles under her eyes hinting that she has been struggling to sleep. Before he could contunie his mother and brother came in. Violet narrowed her eyes at the two before fully resting her eyes on the girl in the chair.

"Sweet Penelope!" Violet cooed pulling the girl into a hug. Penelope relaxed in the hold not realizing how tightly wound she had been.

"Are you alright dear?" Violet asked caressing the dark circles she noticed under the girl's eyes. Violet had wanted to scold both for not having a chaperone but the state of the girl in front of her and the atmosphere she had walked in on made her hold her tongue.

"I am alright, Lady- Violet." Penelope backtracked as she felt the stare. Violet patted her hand and took the seat next to her. Benedict stood next to his mother staring at his brother trying to figure out why he was summoned.

"We have a problem." Anthony stated. Violet and Benedict's full attention was on him.

"Miss Thompson is with child that is not Colin's." Both their eyes widen.

"They also plan to run off to Gretna Green in two days time." Penelope announced breathily. Benedict's eyes darted between the two not knowing who's announcement was worse. Violet gasped gripping the hand she was holding.

"I plan to bring Colin in to explain to him. I wanted you both here for Colin." The two nodded understanding more than even Penelope at how Colin was. With that Anthony rang again asking for Colin this time. It took less than two minutes for the man to arrive and when he stepped into the study he froze staring at the group.

"Colin." Anthony spoke gesturing to close the door. Colin narrowed his eyes before slamming the door.

"Why are all of you here?" His eyes darted between each person before landing on Penelope.

"Why are you here, Pen?" Penelope gulped looking away from the man. His eyes flashed with confusion before his gaze went back to Anthony.

"Brother, there are somethings we need to discuss." Colin nodded.

"Miss Thompson has been lying to you, to all of us." Colin shook his head then looked towards Penelope, who hasn't even looked in his direction since he walked into the room.

"Is that what Miss Featherington told you?" Colin questioned with a hard tone lashing out at the only person he could. Penelope grimaced looking towards Anthony.

"She came to me with information that you need to know." Colin scoffed and shook his head.

"There is nothing I need to know. I love Marina and she loves me." Penelope sighed knowing Marina did not love him.

"Colin, she is not in love with you." Colin quirked a brow at the red head not liking the way she spoke.

"How do you know?" Anthony winced wanting to step in but thought it might be better to hear it from the actual source that lives in the house. He motioned for Benedict to watch Colin carefully and also shook his head at his mother who was about to step in. Penelope whipped her head around to the stubborn man.

"She is with child! She has been lying to you since the beginning! You were a means to protect herself and her child!" She snarled out. She hated being so agressive towards her friend but he didn't want to listen. Colin's shoulders sagged at the words his dear friend shot at him while shaking his head.

"No, she would have told me." Benedict raised a brow at his brother.

"You have known the girl for a few months." Colin then crashed to the ground like his strings had been cut.

"Pen, are you sure?" Colin asked from the floor while she looked down at him with tears in her eyes.

"Yes." Colin nodded numbly.

"It is that Sir George fellow, correct?" Penelope nodded as the tears start to fall.

"This is what you were trying to tell me the night of the dinner without actually saying it." Penelope inclined her head even though she knew he didn't need a response.

"I am a fool." Violet had enough as she went over to her son starting to comfort him.

"No, you are not. She is in the wrong." Penelope told him before turning her attention away from the broken man. She looked at the older Bridgerton brothers and stood up.

"I am sorry." She apologized before darting from the room not believing she just broke the heart of one of her closest friends. Anthony and Benedict watched her run before turning to their brother and mother.

"This was not the reaction I was expecting." Benedict commented making Anthony agree with him.

"I think it would have been different if it was anyone but Penelope." Benedict nodded knowing that was the truth, he was sure everything that came to Penelope made their whole family soft.

"I will break off the engagement." Colin announced from his place on the floor. Anthony acknowledged him.

"I think Greece might make the best place to get distance from this." Colin tried sending his brother a smile but came out as a grimace.

"Yes, distance might be the best."

Penelope had made it back to her house and room without anyone wiser. She laid on her bed and screamed into her pillow at the drama. She has had enough of this and she needs to move on from Colin, she decided. Easier said than done for her.

Two days later found Marina with her bags packed and making her way down the stairs with a smile on her face as she spotted Colin. Colin gulped before shaking his head at the girl when she reached him.

"I am sorry, Miss Thompson." Marina's smile fell not understanding.

"What?" Colin grimaced.

"I am not as ready as I thought I was. I am so sorry Miss Thompson." Colin turned and left the Featherington resedence. All the bags fell from her hands as she watched Lady Featherington glared at her.

Notes:

Funny thing is after I had finished the ending someone commented about Pen telling Simon or Anthony and it cracked me up bc someone just guessed my writing

Chapter 6: SIX

Summary:

Getting a little story time along with a fiery Pen. Plus she also breaks!

Notes:

Sorry, some of this might be a little abrupt and the ending might be a little fast or sound incomplete but this chapter was getting a little long. Close to 6000 words! took me about hours to right so apologies for any mistakes

Chapter Text

Anthony stands behind the couch not knowing what to do with Colin, who he was certain had not left his bedroom since he came back from the Featheringtons, four days ago. Lady Whistledown had caught wind of the broken engagement but not the reasoning behind it just two days before forcing his brother's mood to worsen. Anthony wasn't sure how the gossiping woman knew but it could have caused even more scandal had she found out the real reason. Humboldt came in announcing Penelope before the young woman came in looking around and sighing. Violet sent the red head a small smile gesturing to the chair beside her before going back to her embroidering.

"Good Evening Miss Featherington." Penelope curtsied toward the two older men.

"Good Evening Lord Bridgerton, Mister Bridgerton." Penelope greeted back before taking the offered seat.

"I am to assume Colin is still up in his room." Benedict nodded taking a swig of his drink.

"That he is. He has been in there since he told Miss Thompson. Everyone has tried to get him out." Penelope frowned fiddling with her fingers while avoiding all eye contact. Anthony observed the girl closely noticing her shifty movements. She was a bit like this when she came to him not even a week ago.

"What is wrong?" Anthony questioned with a brow raised. Penelope glanced up at him before her eyes darted to Violet.

"I might have sent for reinforcements?" She said in a higher pitch tone. Anthony narrowed his eyes towards the redhead while Violet and Benedict held back laughs. Anthony could not believe the audacity of the young woman in front of him. Benedict had to hand it to the girl for having the gumption to intervene but Violet hid the smile knowing the girl had a similar idea to her.

"And who is the reinforcements?" Penelope hummed still avoiding anyone's eyes before she could comment anything Daphne burst through the doors with a hard look.

"Her." Violet and Penelope announced together. Anthony turned to Benedict with wide eyes. Benedict couldn't hold back his laughter any longer. It took a lot to stun his brother and the tiny girl did just that.

"Why did I have to get two separate letters from mother and Penelope to find out that my brother had not left his room due to a ruined engagement? Not even for food!" Daphne declared storming over to her eldest brother, hands on her hips staring at the man. Anthony's eyes darted to Penelope then to his mother hating the fact that both women decided to send for Daphne.

"Not only that but I had to see it in Whistledown!" Penelope walked over to the angry woman and laid a gentle hand on her shoulder.

"Daphne, there are somethings that we could not put in a letter. Please take a seat and we will explain." Penelope spoke softly making some of the anger drain from the new Duchess. Daphne nodded and sat down on the couch in front of Anthony.

The remaining three Bridgertons watched dumfounded by the way Penelope wrangled an angry Daphne with just a gentle hand and voice so fast. It would have taken any of them longer to get the woman calmed down. The group then proceed to tell her everything she had missed in the last few weeks. Daphne could not believe what she was hearing. She knew Penelope loved the Bridgertons but she had no clue that she would run the risks of ruining her own family for them.

"Penelope, what will happen should they find out you are the one who told?" Daphne questioned making Penelope turn her attention to the Duchess instead of the fireplace she was staring at to give Daphne time to process the information.

"Not entirely sure but my mama would have to put effort into paying attention to me to actually punish me." The Bridgertons frowned collectively knowing Portia Featherington was not the greatest but hated the reminder when it came up so casually out of Penelope's mouth. Daphne looked over to the window to see how dark it had gotten.

"I will come up with a plan to get Colin out of his room. I think it is time for Penelope and I to take our leave." Violet then noticed how late it had gotten and shot out of her seat.

"Penelope, darling would you please stay the night? Daphne, you too. It is far to late to be traveling any where in the dark." Penelope raised her brow at the older woman.

"Lady-" Violet sent the red head a sharp look making Penelope backtracked.

"Violet, my house is just right across the street." Violet stared at the young girl before her eyes drifted towards Anthony. Anthony straightened under his mother's stern stare biting back a sigh know exactly what she wanted.

"Miss Featherington we would be delighted for you to stay and break fast with us in the morning." Penelope pursed her lips glancing from each of the Bridgertons before landing on Violet once more.

"I would love to stay. Could you please send word to my mama." Penelope withheld a wince knowing her mother would not be pleased with her for staying. Her mother has not been happy with the Bridgertons since Colin called off the engagement because it has caused them to fall farther in society. Violet smiled with a nod.

"I will send a note over with Humboldt and I will send a maid up to your room to help you." Violet told the girl before shooing her off.

"Good night Your Grace, Lord Bridgerton, Lady Bridgerton, Mister Bridgerton." Penelope put more force on Violet's title showing her manners before she left for her room. Violet laughed loudly loving this side of the girl. The siblings watched their mother laugh before she left noticing she didn't wait for Daphne's answer. Daphne turned to her brothers.

"How long has that been going on?" Benedict laughed taking a seat beside his sister.

"Since the night of your engagement sister." Anthony scoffed plopping himself into the seat Penelope had vacated.

"Just the part of mother forcing Penelope to call her by her given name. Mother's love for her has been going on since that adorable red headed four year old helped a crying Eloise up from the ground after Colin got a bit to rough with her." Benedict threw his head back and howled with laughter.

"Oh yes! I remember that. I do believe mother adored her from that day on." Anthony smiled wistfully gazing up at the ceiling deep in thought.

"Actually, I am positive it was father that adored her from that day." Benedict stopped laughing watching his brother along with Daphne. Anthony hardly ever spoke about their father and neither sibling wanted to disturb the moment.

"Mother was with Fran trying to put her down for a nap and Father was in the garden watching over the play date mother had set up with the Featheringtons and us. The oldest sister wanted nothing to do with playing with babies." Anthony made a face knowing full well even at sixteen that the girl wanted to appear older even if she was around the same age as Colin. Benedict nodded along with his brother remembering he had to escort the girl home early that day. Daphne watched in fascination hearing this story for the first time.

"The middle one, Phillipa?" Anthony glanced over towards Benedict getting a nod in return before moving back to stare at the ceiling.

"Phillipa was having a grand old time with you, Daphne. You two are the same age, I think. Colin was playing pirates with Eloise while Penelope was over on the side to shy to even think about joining in." Benedict chuckled a little.

"Penelope was huddle up to father gripping his trousers." Anthony grinned surprising Daphne.

"Yes! She was quite taken with father from their first meeting. Father had decided that we all had to join in with the fun so, he made both Benedict and I go over and tell them we were the enemies. Eloise though that sounded more fun and declared that she, father and Penelope were the ones trying to steal the booty." Daphne giggled knowing how Eloise was as a child.

"Father had Penelope on his hip using a stick as a sword and gave one to Penelope." Benedict told his sister while Anthony huffed a laugh rubbing his arm.

"Penelope looked so happy being included that she was whacking everyone she could with her stick. Surprisingly strong for such a tiny girl. Colin got a little to into the game and shoved Eloise a little to hard. Next thing we know Penelope is on the ground helping a crying Eloise up and glaring at Colin." Benedict and Anthony cackled while Daphne still watched her brothers in fascination.

"Poor Colin was being read the riot act by a red face four year old. Telling him how they were younger than him and he should learn to be more careful." Benedict told his sister.

"Father stood there watching the entire thing with a grin before he scooped up both girls up and kissing the top of their heads. He claimed both needed cake for being so brave and standing up for friends." Daphne watched as a tear fell from both her brothers' eyes. Daphne could feel her eyes getting misty.

"Mother was a few days after that." Anthony said not knowing when it had started because he was back at Eton the week after. Daphne wiped her eyes loving any story of her father. Anthony stood up and smiled tightly at his siblings.

"There are a few things I need to go through, I will be in the study." He left before either of them could comment. Daphne turned to Benedict not to surprised by the abrupt change in her brother.

"It hurts him more to talk about father. He had more time with him than any of us children." Daphne hummed.

"I know, I am just surprised by the story time." Benedict nodded, he was also surprised at the story. If his brother could, he would avoid any mentions of their father. The two sat in silence just thinking.

Penelope slowly walked from the alcove she had ducked behind. She had tears falling from her cheeks remembering that first time ever meeting any of the Bridgertons. Edmund Bridgerton was a great man that was taken from them too soon. She walked up the stairs to her room and bit her lip at the dusty lilac color that the late Viscount painted her walls just at her request.

The next morning after breakfast found Penelope dragged behind Daphne and up to Colin's room. Penelope wasn't sure why she was the one Daphne brought with her to confront Colin. She was sure she was the last person Colin wanted to see. She helped break his heart and this was not helping with her proclaim of forgetting her crush.

"Your Grace, I do not think I am the right person to be with you." Daphne scoffed at the girl thinking of all the ways Penelope got any of the Bridgertons to do anything. She was surprised the girl didn't use her skills in a more malicious way but then shook her head because this was Penelope she was thinking about who didn't have a mean bone in her body.

"No, you are the perfect one. You are the one that told him of the lies." Penelope bit her lip to keep from saying anything else. Daphne knocked on the door and peeked in to find Colin lying fully clothed on his bed. Daphne nodded and pulled the red head in with her.

"Honestly brother! All this moping over a stranger!" Daphne announced causing Colin to shoot up out of his bed. Penelope could finally see the resemblance between Daphne and Eloise, she wondered if this is where she got it from. His eyes darted from his sister to Penelope and lingered on the red head.

"She was not a stranger." Daphne raised a brow.

"She was." Daphne stated bluntly before wondering over to his desk noticing all the letters addressed to her brother. She picked up a stack and waved them towards the two.

"Has she been harassing you through letters?" Daphne questioned. Colin shrugged falling back on his bed.

"She has been sending letters for the past week asking about why. I do not have the heart to respond." Penelope pursed her lips before putting her hands on her hips.

"Colin! You should at least respond to one of them. She wants answers and you have them." Colin glared at her.

"Yes, I have all the answers! How does this sound? Dear Miss Thompson, How are you doing after I broke off our engagement? I have been wallowing in my bed due to all the lies you have fed me. Yes, I know you lied. I know about the unborn child in your belly that you were prepared to trick me into marriage for! Oh how do I know about that? Your dear cousin told me because apparently she cares more for me than you ever would. Cheers, Colin Bridgerton." Colin said with sarcasm coating his tone. Penelope gritted her teeth.

"There you go! Write that and send it." Penelope shot back at the man. Colin's eyes narrowed at the girl.

"I could not do that." Colin grunted out while Penelope huffed.

"Why not? It is the truth. She does not even know why you broke off the engagement, at least with that she would know why and would possibly stop sending you letters." Colin scoffed shaking his head. Daphne stood by the desk watching the two with wide eyes. She was thinking bringing Penelope with her might have been a bad idea.

"No." Penelope growled before stomping over to the bed and pulled the man up.

"Tell me why! Why would it not work!" Colin turned his head towards his sister begging her for something he didn't even know what he wanted. He couldn't tell the truth because it would effect Penelope.

"Colin!" Penelope raised her voice gaining his attention. He pulled out of her grasp and started to pace the room.

"Because Pen!" Penelope flung her arms out completely frustrated at the man.

"Because why!" Colin whirled around staring straight at Penelope.

"Because if I tell her the truth, I would be telling her that it was you who told! What do you think would happen once they find out that it was you!" Colin yelled spit flying out of his mouth.

"I can not do that to you! You are my friend Pen and I can not let you take the blame for this!" Penelope gulped. Daphne walked over to the girl as soon as her face paled and sat a hand on her shoulder.

"How about I send a message to get Miss Thompson over so you can talk this over with her Colin? You do not even have to tell that Penelope told. You can claim you over heard the news. Penelope can stay out of the line of fire and you can finally talk it out. It may help get you closure." Colin sighed but nodded. Penelope glanced up at Colin before dropping her gaze to the floor.

"I am sorry Col. I am so sorry that my family has hurt you so much." She murmured feeling horrible about this happening to her friend. Colin hated seeing his friend like this. He pulled her into a hug.

"This is not your fault Pen. It is your family's and you are nothing like them. You saved me from a loveless marriage and our families from a horrible scandal." Penelope with held a wince because neither have been out in a few days. The ton had read the news in Whistledown of the broken engagement and came up with their own speculations of why it ended. None of them painted the Featheringtons in the best of light and the ton treated them like pariahs.

"Thank you for telling me the truth." Penelope nodded her head before she left. She couldn't take the praise after she broke his heart and after he unintentionally broke hers. Daphne watched as the poor girl flee the room before taking a look at her brother, who looked oblivious at the fact that his friend was in love with him. Daphne rolled her eyes. Men.

"You have a good friend in Penelope." Colin smiled at his sister.

"I do. I am glad I have her to call my friend." Daphne closed her eyes praying that her brother gets his head out of the clouds long enough to see what's right in front of him before he's to late. She patted her brother's cheek.

"Let me go write to Miss Thompson." Colin nodded as she turned and left.

The Bridgertons were at the Queen's luncheon. Colin was finally forced from his bedroom due to his mother's insistence that they should act like nothing happened. Daphne thought that Colin seemed a bit better after his talk with Miss Thompson but she was feeling awful about the way she spoke to the young woman. She knew she would do anything for her child even if that meant hurting a man to get protection for said child. Anthony held back a sigh as Eloise started a rant about Lady Whistledown before she came to her actual point.

"We need that woman to give some praise to the Featheringtons." Anthony's head snapped towards his sister along with his other three siblings and surprisingly Simon's whose was more subtle.

"What do you mean?" Benedict questioned. Eloise sighed pursing her lips.

"I mean mostly the younger Featheringtons. Prudence, Phillipa and Penelope did nothing to earn the tons ire, but they are getting the brunt of it." Simon narrowed his eyes watching everyone but the family he married into. He did not like the though of anyone talking bad about his little sister.

"Why-" Colin didn't get to finish his thought as the Featheringtons minus Marina and the Lord. The talk quieted down so you could hear a person breathing across the lawn. Eloise spots Penelope and races to the girl pulling her away from all the eyes staring at her family.

"How have you been Pen?" Eloise asked. Penelope sighed fiddling with her gloves.

"Mother swears were ruined. We have not had a caller for five days." Eloise frowned before pulling the girl into a hug.

"I am sorry about our fight. I did not mean anything I said. I was worrying about the whole Colin and Marina issue." Eloise shushed her friend.

"No, do not apologize for that. I was clearly being a horrible friend for not seeing that you were struggling with something. Also for not taking the time to listen to a word you were saying. I am so sorry." Penelope grinned into her friend's shoulder.

"We are both sorry, I say we just accept and move one." Penelope could feel Eloise nodding along to her words. Eloise pulled back and looked at her friend. Penelope was always pale but she seem paler than usual with light bags under her bright eyes. Her friend has been dragged through the wringer with anyone to lean on.

"I see Colin is finally out of his bedroom." Eloise laughed.

"Yes from what I heard from Daphne, you are one of the reasons behind that new development." Penelope blushed.

"Your sister forced me up with her to talk to the stubborn mule." They heard a loud murmuring. The girls turned towards the noise and watched as Lady Featherington and Lady Bridgerton had a stand off. Eloise flung her arm over her friend's shoulder giving her as much comfort as she could.

"Whistledown announced the engagement was broken off." Penelope hummed not taking her eyes off the two older ladies.

"The ton has taken it too far. I think we need to find Lady Whistledown to fix this whole mess." Penelope looked over to see Eloise standing there with determination in her eyes.

"I think we should just let this run its course. We do not need to add fuel to this fire. I am sure a week from now someone else will make a fool of themselves." Eloise pursed her lips but before she could say anything the Queen's footman came up to Lady Featherington. Penelope's eyes widen as she rushed over to her family with Eloise trailing behind her.

"Lady Featherington, I must ask you to leave." Lady Featherington spluttered before pulling herself back together.

"We have an invitation." The footman shook his head.

"Not anymore." Penelope turned to the Bridgertons with tears filling her eyes but sent them a smile as she followed her family out. The Bridgertons were stunned that Penelope was thrown out of the luncheon since no one knew of the circumstances of the broken engagement. Eloise frowned looking over her family.

"I told you. The ton is talking and coming up with their own conclusions on what happened. We come up smelling like daisies but the Featheringtons..." She trailed off knowing her family knew what she was talking about. None of them knew how bad the gossip had gotten with the Featheringtons.

"That should teach them." Cressida said with her nose raised in the air. Daphne turned to the blonde with a serene look on her face.

"Teach them what?" Cressida sneered at Daphne.

"That they do not belong." Daphne tutted while shaking her head.

"Judge not lest we be judged." Daphne said looking Cressida up and down with pursed lips before meeting the blonde's eye with a small smile. Cressida bit her lip knowing she was beat. Daphne nodded and walked away. Simon wasn't sure what was going on with his favorite sister but he will find out one way or another, he'll just need to pin the girl down so he can get the information.

Penelope's had an exhausting week. She thought last week was bad but this week had to top it. Her family was shamed from being kicked out of the luncheon just the other day, after having a row with Colin over talking with Marina. Daphne had shown up here a few days after the luncheon wanting to talk to Marina in private. Marina had told her that the Duchess had sent a letter to the general and told him about George. Marina had little hope for it to work but Penelope had told her not to give up that if anyone could do it, it would be a stubborn Bridgerton.

Penelope was hoping all this drama would blow over in a week or two but her family does not share her hope, which is why she is walking around the block with Eliza. She needed out of the house since her mother was furious about not getting an invite to anything, things were being thrown. She sighed wiping her eyes and looking down at her feet not wanting to gain anyone's attention.

"Miss Featherington?" A voice questioned. She turned slightly to see the Duke standing behind her. She squinted at the man seeing a sad frown on his face along with a scrap and bruise around his eye.

"Your Grace." She said in a soft voice and curtsied. The frown stayed on his face as he stepped closer to her. He could see the tear tracks on her face. Eliza stepped forward only to be waved back.

"Worry not Eliza. My brother is a married man and would do nothing to hurt me." Simon turned to the dark haired woman with a nod.

"She is correct. I have actually been looking for you. Your footman told me you went for a walk around the block." Penelope's eyes widen.

"He did not announce you did he?" Simon shook his head confused about why she was worried about that.

"No, he asked who I was looking for first." Penelope nodded and motioned to the spot beside her.

"Walk with me?" Simon jerked his head and took the spot beside her. He observed her and couldn't see his annoying, vibrant sister in this pale, sad girl. He knocked his arm with her shoulder.

"You are a hard girl to find. I've been trying to find you since the luncheon." Penelope sighed messing with her cloak.

"We have not been out since that luncheon. Mother has decided we had disgrace ourselves enough with that stunt." Simon darted his eyes around seeing all the people walking around.

"I feel there are things you need to discuss? Would you like a listening ear to vent too?" Simon asked his sister seeing how tightly wound the girl was. She might have had tension in her shoulders at the balls and social gatherings but not as bad as it has become since he last seen her. Penelope glanced over to Eliza who smiled slightly at her.

"I will tell your mother that Eloise has stolen you away again." Penelope sent a small grin towards her ladies maid.

Simon was surprised by the way Penelope's servants acted around and towards her. The footman was practically questioning him on why he needed Penelope and continued until he was satisfied with the answer to tell him where she had gone. Now, her ladies maid glared at his back the entire time they were walking. He was sure if he had made even the slightest move to harm Penelope he would be six feet under. He was sure a lot of the others that worked in the Featherington house would be the same and he wanted to know how she got that devotion from her staff.

"I think we need to go somewhere from prying ears." Simon announced turning sharply in the other direction. Penelope spun around fast.

"Where?" Simon glanced over at the girl.

"My place. Daphne is there but she will give us privacy." Penelope bit her lip not sure this was the best idea but really wanted someone to talk to.

"I have a carriage waiting down the street." With that they both walked in silence. Once they got to Simon's house she followed him in, Daphne was in the sitting room. She glanced up to see Simon and surprisingly Penelope with him. She glanced at her before her eyes drifted to Simon.

"I would like to speak with Penelope alone." Daphne narrowed her eyes but said nothing.

"We have become friends since the start of the season, Your Grace." Penelope told Daphne while the Duchess stared at the girl.

"How did that happen?" Daphne asked making Penelope grin at the woman.

"Would you believe me if I said I save the idiot from the society mamas? I then caught him fleeing." Daphne let out a surprised laugh. Simon smiled at the sound of her laugh it's been a while since he had heard it and it was his sister that brought it out.

"I am sure there is more to this story." Simon nodded. Daphne nodded towards the door.

"I will be here. Penelope take all the time you need." Daphne told the two before going back to her needlework. She could see that Penelope was not doing the best, she was pretty sure she was stressed and needed someone to talk to. If that was to be her husband then so be it.

Simon left the sitting room and took the red head to his study. Since it was a smaller room and had actually sitting area so they wouldn't be so far apart. He plans to get everything out of the girl so she would stop looking like she had the weight of the word on her shoulders. He gestured towards the couch and waited for her to sit before sitting beside her. Penelope licked her lips while glancing towards the door.

"Worry not, Penelope. Anything you say in here will not be repeated." Penelope nodded before taking a deep breath.

"Where do I start, brother? There is so much." Simon grabbed her hand and squeezed.

"Anywhere you want. Usually the beginning but you do not have to." Penelope weighted her opinions before nodding.

"Okay." Everything came pouring out of her mouth. She started with this week and worked her way back wards.

She explained about how it felt to be shunned right after making up with her best friend. How awful it felt to tell her other best friend how the woman he thought he loved didn't love him and was using him. She brought up how much it scared her to bring this up to Anthony since she wasn't sure he or Colin would believe her. She described the pain she was in because of the way Marina had talked to her and told that Colin would never love her like she loved him. She explained the fight she had with Eloise and who no one would ever just listen to her. She felt like she had to scream over people to just be noticed.

He saw her tears start to fall. He gave her his handkerchief. He felt his heart breaking for his sister because this is what she was to him now and no one will tell him differently.

She told him of the crush she's had on Colin for years and how she wants to get over it since she knows he would never see her as nothing but his little sister's friend and his friend. She talked about how much she hated the feeling of jealously she had toward Marina when Colin gave her all the attention. She told him she felt like a monster when the jealously got the better of her. She informed him that she was going to end up a spinster because no one had even looked at her twice this season and probably seasons to come. She told him that only two people danced with her, Colin and Benedict. Then proceed to tell him only a had full of people had talked to her and made a list of them.

Colin,

Daphne,

Benedict,

Anthony,

Violet,

Him

and Cressida.

And Cressida only spoke to her to insult her. She spoke about Violet speaking to her drunk and told her how she wished she was apart of the family. How that broke her heart because she wasn't sure that it would be possible to give that to the older woman.

She spoke about how she and her family were the butt of any joke and how much she hated that they were talked about like that. She explained she hated the dresses her mother forced on her. She told him about all the mean comments her mother made about her, her weight and how she was just never enough for her mother. She informed him how her father wasn't ever truly a father to her and how he had spent a little time with her as a child but not enough to impact her, she was always at the mercy of her mother. She explained how her mother forced her out onto the marriage mart even though she wished for another year. She then dropped a bomb on him.

"I am Lady Whistledown! I, sometimes wish I had never created her! I almost told the whole ton about my best friend and cousin because it was the only way I could think of to stop them from running away! That would have ruined my family more that just the broken engagement and would have taken the Bridgertons down with it." Penelope wailed. Simon blinked not believe this tiny slip of a girl had gone through all this and was behind a scandalous gossip column. Before Simon could think he brought the girl into a hug and rocked the both of them.

"Penelope, sister." A knock sounded on the door, it opened up to Daphne who came in to check on them since it had been hours. Her heart broke for the crying girl, while she had not heard what was spoken about she knew it had to take it out of the girl.

"I will send word to my mother about Penelope staying here for the night and she can inform Lady Featherington." Simon shook his head feeling that if Lady Featherington learned of even a slight relationship with them that the woman would use Penelope.

"Please see if Violet can tell her that Penelope will spend the night at her house while she stays here." Daphne tilted her head but nodded.

"I will see to it." She closed the door as she left. Simon tilted the girl's head up.

"Penelope, you are the most wonderful person I have met. I understand that you feel horrible for what you almost did but you did the mature thing. You waited until you came up with another plan." Penelope shook her head.

"It was the last resort, if Anthony or Colin did not believe me, I would have publish it." Simon sighed.

"But they did believe you. Like you said it was a last resort." He wanted to talk to her about all the other things she talked about but wasn't sure now was the best time. He needed to get this Lady Whistledown thing done since this was the thing that seemed to need addressing.

"I am a horrible person for writing all this stuff about people." Simon hummed as he ran his hand over the soft curls in her hair.

"And why did you? Also why write that stuff about your family?" Penelope sniffled before wiping her face.

"I am a wall flower, brother. I notice things that others do not. People were already gossiping about it and I thought just go a head and write it for all. My family was always the butt of the joke before any of this but also who would write about themselves like that." Simon made an approving sort of noise.

"Hiding yourself amongst the weeds. No one would ever talk badly about themselves so you threw the dogs off your track. Which we will be talking about the way you put yourself down in those papers." Penelope blushed forgetting she was quite hard on herself in the papers.

"I think you need to have a rest and we will talk more about everything you said later." Penelope nodded as Simon stood up.

"We sent word to Violet and Violet is sending word to your mother that you will be spending the night at Bridgerton house." Simon winked at the girl making her stare at the man. She couldn't believe that he was taking this so well and planned correctly to keep her mother from finding out any ties to the Duke. He tucked her hand into the crook of his elbow and lead her up the stairs.

"What happened to your eye?" He laughed and patted her hand.

"Would you look at that, Lady Whistledown does not know all."

Chapter 7: SEVEN

Summary:

Things will start to heat up soon... are you ready for it?

Notes:

This is brought to you by that amazing Season Three Trailer that dropped this morning! I had to get this out there just for that. I hope you all love it!

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope watched the couple for a moment before coming into the dinning room. She was not liking the tension that she could feel coming from the room or the couple. Simon looked up from his paper while Daphne looked up from her plate the two sending the young woman small smiles. Penelope sent a timid smile back.

"Please sit down Pen." Daphne told her going back to her food. Penelope's eyes darted to Simon who nodded his agreement.

"Sit down sister, you need to break your fast. I am sure you are hungry after everything last night." Daphne raised a brow at her husband's term of endearment towards Penelope. Penelope went over to the extra plate sitting between the two. One of the servants brought her a plate along with filling her drink.

"Thank you." The servant smiled at the polite girl before walking out. Simon watched the interaction knowing Penelope was really a one of a kind type of person. Daphne cleared his throat tapping her napkin against her lips.

"May I ask for the full story of how you two met?" Daphne knew Penelope explained a bit last night but this connection between the two was stronger than just a few interactions. Penelope shot a smug grin towards Simon while Simon folded up his paper with an exasperated sigh.

"When I said last night that I saved him and caught him fleeing was the truth. That was our original first two meetings." Simon laughed nodding towards Penelope.

"She was my heroine at Lady Danbury's ball. After your family left I was surrounded. I finally escaped and was about to go into the wrong room when I was slammed into a pillar." Penelope scoffed glaring at the man.

"You were not slammed. I simple pulled you out of your path." Simon rolled his eyes and waved the girl off.

"Tomayto, tomahto." Daphne bit her lip from letting out her laugh after seeing this sibling like interaction. She has never seen either of these two like this before and it was truly entertaining.

"Anyways, for a small girl she was pretty strong, she took the air out of my lungs before stating that I was going to be walking into the lion's den."

"The idiot almost walked into the ladies parlor. I watched him escape the claws of half the ton and he was about to go into more. I needed to do something and that was our first ever interaction." Penelope explained. Daphne stared wide eyed at her guest never knowing Penelope to be so out going enough to pull a man she didn't know out of the way.

"Our second one, she was yet again correct in saying she caught me fleeing." Penelope smiled smugly at Simon.

"He quite literally ran into me. I seem to always catch him running." Daphne giggled behind her hand knowing well that her husband was a runner. Simon laughed thinking of his next meeting with his sister.

"The next one Penelope had actually started it. She overheard me claiming I had to share you attention with everyone." Simon told his wife with his brow raised. Daphne seemed to recall that comment with a grin as she turned to her guest.

"What did you do?" Penelope shrugged with a small smile.

"I asked him if the little green monster was troubling him. Also told him that it was about time to have a conversation with out him fleeing." Simon grinned and Daphne had to look away since this was the longest he has smiled since that night.

"My sister called me out that night. She told me she did not take me for the jealous type and I said something about not liking to share your attention only for her to tell me she did not fully believe me. She turned the tables and she was the one fleeing." Daphne nodded her head slowly recalling that night. She remembered seeing Penelope leaving when she came upon her husband, now she knew the red head was teasing her husband.

"There was another time at Lady Trowbridge's ball." Penelope announced thinking about all their meetings. Simon frowned while Daphne blushed remembering that ball. Simon was running through that night trying to remember what it was they talked about before his frown turned to a whimsical smile.

"Yes! That night Penelope was a blood hound when it came to me." Penelope rolled her eyes but did not interrupt making Daphne look towards her husband.

"She asked if I was going to fight a Prince for you." Simon slid his eyes towards Daphne.

"I told her that Lady Danbury had talked to me about love and letting it slip threw my fingers..." He trailed off looking at his hands in thought.

"I decided to be blunt and told him I had heard of his father knowing he was not a good man. I let him know that I knew what it was like to have hardly any love from family and how hard it was to accept it from others or feeling like you deserved it." Penelope told Daphne with a slight waver in her voice. It was always hard for Daphne to wrap her head around families that did not love their children. Simon cleared his throat drawing their attention back.

"Penelope then went on to tell me that I deserved love. She also told me I had the best person that could show me that kind of unlimited and unconditional love. She claimed you, dear wife, was the epitome of love. Your whole family was and it practically poured out of all of you." Daphne teared up turning towards her friend, because yes Penelope was now more than just a family friend. Penelope blushed and looked away from the Duchess.

"She even said Anthony was included in that." Simon joked. Daphne let out a watery laugh.

"While I was already deep in though over Lady Danbury's words, Penelope's were the ones to hit me. She had hit the nail on the head when she said I felt undeserving of love. When she spoke of you and your family I realized I wanted what she spoke of, that is why I followed you that night. She opened my eyes and I just wanted a sliver of what she had said." Penelope looked between the two and smiled knowing that what ever had caused the riff she could feel between the two was slowly mending. Penelope stood up and left the room hoping that the two would talk more. A footman had stopped her in the hall before she could go any farther.

"My lord had a carriage ready for you when you wanted to leave." She smiled at the man.

"Thank you. I would like to go home now." The man bowed and gestured towards the door only for another to stop her.

"Miss Penelope." She turned to see Rose standing there glancing into the dinning room and back to the girl.

"Rose!" Penelope rushed to gather Rose into a hug. Rose was Eliza's cousin and she had gotten close to the ladies maid when she went to visit with the Bridgertons. Rose squeezed her just a bit harder than necessary but Penelope did not say a word.

"Thank you, this is the longest the two has spoken in a while." Rose whispered into her ear as she pulled away. Penelope waved her hand.

"I am sure that they will fix whatever once and for all. I did nothing." Rose shook her head knowing Miss Penelope did more than anyone but let the girl be.

"Have a safe journey home, I will tell them that you left after breakfast." Penelope smiled and left. As she climbed into her carriage, Mister Henry Granville was stepping out of him. She grinned knowing of the painter and was very excited to see the painting at the Hasting's ball later in the week. Penelope was dropped off in front of her house pleased by the fact Simon took precautions with using a carriage without a crest on it.

Penelope had come out of her room to go look for her book only to find Marina's door cracked open. Her cousin was up and packing which she found odd since she was supposed to be resting.

"Marina? Are you not to be resting?" Marina scoffed.

"I am feeling much better." Penelope stared at her cousin in disbelief.

"I am well Penelope. The tea did what it was supposed to. And with the season finally done, I can go home." Penelope frowned.

"So you are not..." Marina shook her head.

"With child. No, I am sure I would have felt something." Marina took Penelope's hand and squeezed it.

"I am sorry for all the things I have said and done to you. You were right. Colin is a good man with a good heart." Penelope looked down towards their hands not wanting to think about Colin at the moment or the fact that she caused this hurt in her cousin. Her feelings were all over the place when it came to that man.

"You were very good to him. I am certain he will see it one day." Penelope's hand twitched as she thought about that. She did not want Colin to see her one day, she wanted him to see her this season and his attention was turned towards her cousin. She did not want to feel like the last resort to the man.

"What if I did not want him to see it?" She whispered to her cousin. Marina lifted her chin to get her eyes level with her.

"I can understand why you would not want that right now but that may change in the future. It does not matter if it changes or not, it will be your decision." And Marina did understand her cousin's hesitance when it came to Colin. She observed as her cousin did everything to gain even a tiny bit of attention from the man and he was oblivious to the fact while trying to woo her own cousin. Penelope had to be exhausted from trying to gain the attention without actually showing her crush. Penelope smiled at her cousin.

"I am sorry about..." Penelope trailed off but motioned a circle with her free hand above her head. Marina laughed not having the right word for it either but found Penelope did a great job trying.

"Yes, all this." That is when they heard hooves and wheels on gravel outside the house. They shared a look and shot up scurrying towards the stairs. The front door was wide open showing a carriage outside with a man sitting inside. Penelope watched as her cousin went deathly white grabbing the railing.

"Marina?" Penelope questioned before reaching out to steady her cousin. The man steps out of the carriage and handed his card to Briarly, who looks at it with wide eyes.

"Mister Crane. Please let me escort you to the sitting room." Both girls watched the two men wander into the sitting room. Penelope turned to her cousin.

"Mister Crane? Is that Sir George?" Marina gulped and shook her head.

"No, it is his brother Phillip." Penelope blinked before her eyes shifted from the room to her cousin multiple times unsure of what to do.

"We should go sit down." Before they could take a step her Mama along with Mrs. Varley and surprisingly Daphne rushed into the house. The two girls followed the women into the sitting room where her mother started gushing only to be stopped by Sir Phillip serious response to the lack of correspondence.

"This is not who you believe, Lady Featherington. This is George's brother, Sir Phillip." Penelope grabbed Marina's hand and squeezed it hard once Sir Phillip told them that he had grim news.

"My brother George died on the battlefield... several weeks ago, and..." Sir Phillip said raising a letter in the air trying to find more words and then continued to tell them more but Penelope was distracted by her cousin.

Marina pulled away from Penelope snatching up the letter and left the room while others called after her. Daphne chased after her cousin and Penelope decided to follow just in case Marina needed something. She watched as Marina read the letter and broke down telling the duchess that George had loved her and that he was telling her that they could run away together and marry. Daphne the told her that it was found amongst his things.

Marina looked up from her letter to Daphne shaking her head telling her it was because of Daphne that she was the reason Sir Phillip found her and that she would have never known about George. That he loved her and she thought wrong of him but had a reason he did not write back. Marina then left to her room. Penelope turned to Daphne, who was watching her cousin's retreating back not knowing what to say before the Duchess leaves too.

Penelope blows out a breath causing one of her curls to flutter around. This is becoming a bigger mess than she thought. She had forgotten Daphne had used her new Duchess powers to find Sir George. She watched as her mother escorted Sir Phillip to the door and closed it.

A day later found Penelope following her mother and sisters around. Her father had just left for the boxing match with a pep in his step causing both her and her mother to feel a bit conserned about it. She and her sisters were just told that they were to attend the Hasting's Ball with an invitiation from the Duchess herself. Penelope wondered how that could happen when they were shunned from any society party. They were talking about dresses when Mrs. Varley stepped up informing her mother in a not so quiet voice that their credit at the modiste was not the best.

"Nonexistent." Mrs. Varley added. Her mother waved the woman off.

"The girls can just wear something in their closet." The gasped that came from her sisters forced Penelope to hide a giggle.

"Before? Mama, I would rather not attend." Prudence announced.

"Can one wear a dress once it had been worn?" Phillipa asked. Penelope sighed squeezing her eyes closed knowing Phillipa has worn the same clothes before. They wandered into the sitting room to see Sir Phillip standing off to the side. He requested to speak to Marina. Mrs. Varley darted out of the room to get Marina as the rest of them spread out through the room. Once Mrs. Varley quite literally dragged Marina into the room and sat her on the seat in front of Phillip.

"I would like to ask for your hand, Miss Thompson." Marina sat there staring at the man while gripping the sides of the chair. Penelope was sure if she were to look later there would be nail marks in the underside.

"Marry you? I do not understand." Phillip cleared his throat looking vaguely uncomfortable.

"With my brother taking certain liberties with your... virtue..." He trailed off for a moment eyeing all the women in the room. Penelope had to bite her lip to keep the smirk from breaking out. She was loving that a man was embarrassed and uncomfortable to talk about such ghastly things around women. More importantly, unmarried respectable ladies.

"I would merely be doing my duty." He finished after a moment reverting his attention back to Marina. Penelope's mother was ecstatic with the though of a respectable marriage and started to explain why it was a good thing. He had inherited the title and had a good estate to support Marina and perhaps them. Penelope furrowed her brows not believing her mother had the nerve to even say a thing.

"I can not. I do not know or love this man. I will not marry him." Marina announced getting up. Phillip stopped her by explaining that his brother had cared for her and he would have wanted her looked after, supported. Phillip tried to respect his late brother's wishes.

"Thank you for the offer, Sir Phillip, but it is time to take your leave." Sir Phillip ever the gentleman did as was requested. Her mother was not happy with the dismissal from Marina and turned on her. Marina then told her she was finished with schemes such as this. Penelope was impressed with how Marina stood up to a man but also her mother, she wished she had that same confidence that her cousin had.

Later on that day Penelope was passing by her father's study when she heard movement from inside. The door was closed but that wasn't going to stop her since she thought her father was out. She pressed her ear to the door and heard her father preen while dumping something on the desk. Her mother was asking how he got it and her father replied with and inside tip. He then proceed to say it was half of the winnings. Penelope blinked in shock that her father had actually scammed his way to winning. She heard her mother yell for Mrs. Varley forcing Penelope to back up and hide behind the tapestry.

"We are off to the modiste in the morning! The ladies shall have new dresses after all." Her mother laughed walking away with Mrs. Varley. Penelope waited until their footsteps faded away before coming out of hiding. She glanced towards the door debating with herself but couldn't help herself as she stepped into the door frame. Her father was scooping up the last bit of money into the bag.

"Is this wise, Papa?" At her voice her father startled dropping the heavy bag.

"Penelope Anne." Penelope winced at the name. Her father hardly ever used her name, especially her full name.

"Did we ever teach manners into you?" She gently rapped her knuckles on the door while staring straight at her father.

"Father? Is this wise?" She asked again once she showed her manners. He narrowed his eyes at his youngest.

"Is what wise?" She frowned her eyes darting over to the bag he dropped while also seeing a stack remaining on his desk.

"What is going to happen when they find out you fixed the fight?" Her father scoffed not believing his youngest knew what she was talking about.

"What are you talking about Penelope?" Penelope crossed her arms and glared at her father.

"You know exactly what I am talking about. I have heard how the bookies are, if they find out you scammed them, what will happen to you?" He scoffed again before closing the bag.

"You are but a child Penelope. Let the adults handle things." With that he left the study.

Penelope closed her eyes counting to ten in every language she knew before opening them. She couldn't believe her father was this high up on his horse. If she was but a child, she should not have been allowed to be on the marriage mart. She was starting to hate they used her age against her when it suited them. She was certain this was going to come to bite him on the ass. She looked over at the desk and noticed her father left a stack in his hurry to get away from her questioning. She smirked walking over and swiping it up. She flipped through the banknotes and nodded to herself, it looked like there was about 500 pounds in the stack. She glanced back to the door to see if her father would come back then shrugged stuffing the money into her bosom. She then followed the same path her parents took and went up to her room.

Penelope had received a message from Briarly that Eloise and a few other Bridgertons had requested her presence since Francesca had just gotten back to town. Francesca had to be one of her favorite Bridgertons since she was very much like her with her quiet disposition and wall flower like nature. Do not let that fool anyone since she was still a Bridgerton.

Penelope made her way over to the house excited to see everyone together since it had been a while, she also wanted to observe her brother in this type of mad house. She was ushered towards the sitting room by Humboldt but didn't really need it since she could have used the noise to guide her. She stepped into the room where she could see Colin singing and instead of feeling viscous birds in her stomach like she usually did, it was just slight butterflies which made her blink in surprise. She smiled scanning the rest of the room. Francesca was on the piano while Violet and Daphne we standing side by side talking. Over on one couch sat Simon who was folding a paper while Hyacinth and Gregory watched in fascination.

On the other side was Benedict, Eloise and Anthony all on the couch. It looked like Benedict was trying to get a sweet from Eloise only for her to snatch the box back before handing a sweet to Anthony with a small secretive smile. Benedict gasped looking back and forth between the two pointing at them. Penelope giggled walking over to her friend. She snatched a sweet out of the box before Eloise could see and dropped it into Benedict's hand with ease. She had done this many time before with Colin when Eloise did not want to share. Benedict dropped his gaze to his hand in surprise not even noticing when she took a sweet. Anthony watched as Benedict shove the treat into his mouth with a smug smile.

"Penelope!" Eloise squealed jumping up from her seat bringing her into a hug. Penelope winked at Benedict while Anthony spotted the wink and gaped at the young lady in front of him. He hadn't even seen her pluck the sweet from the box or give it to his brother. He was learning so much about this woman that he thought he knew well.

"I have news." Eloise told her before turning to her brothers with a raised brow. Both of them raised their hands getting up from the couch. Penelope shook her head at her friend before Eloise got into her Lady Whistledown theory, who she thought was Madame Delacroix. She explained it made sense which Penelope could not doubt since it seemed plausible enough. Eloise also wanted the both of them to be like her. Penelope truly loved her friend even if she had the opposite out look for her life than she did.

"I do not think I can ever be like her. I am happy you found her but you have a duchess for a sister and that helps you achieve that life easier." Penelope explained.

"With the status of my family hanging in the balance, it is a different story and that will not be changing now or the foreseeable future." Penelope finished with a sad half smile. Eloise pulled Penelope in for a fierce hug hating that her amazing friend thought so little of herself. A squeal was heard from Hyacinth as Simon made a horse noise with the paper horse he made. The rest of Penelope's day was spent between all the Bridgertons.

Madame Delacroix waltz into the Featherington's house carrying boxes. She was glad she had a little bit of a respite from making all those garish dresses but was happy to start back up just to get rid of the bright colors no one else wanted. The two oldest girls ripped open their boxes gushing about how pretty they were and how hers needed to be taken in. She watched the youngest pull out the bright yellow one with a grimace on her face.

"Mine's yellow." Madame Delacroix frowned knowing the girl hated the color but could not change it since her mother did pay for it.

"I hate yellow." Penelope whispered gripping her dress tightly. The Madame heard the girl clearly and decided that she would make something special for the girl. She would put it in the back of her studio until it was time for the girl to break it in. Madame Delacriox smiled to herself as she left thinking of what type of dress she would make.

Penelope was amazed by the decorations of the ball. Daphne had really out done herself this time. She wondered over to the painting and just stared at it. Mister Granville was a great painter and had captured the Duke and Duchess down to the mischievous twinkle in both of their eyes. She took one last look at the painting before moving on to the drink table but before she could even pick one up a voice spoke up.

"Sister." Penelope turned with a smile.

"Brother, your wife really outdid herself tonight. Your painting is magnificent, Mister Granville truly showed his work with you two." Simon grinned at her holding out his hand. He remembered what she said a few nights before and wanted to make sure she had least had one dance.

"Miss Featherington, would you like to dance?" Penelope blushed but nodded.

"It would be my honor, Your Grace." Simon pulled his sister to the floor and was glad not many people were paying attention to them since it was so early in the ball. They both bowed and curtsied to each other as the music started. Simon was having a great time dancing with his sister and was amazed by the grace she possessed even with the fast tempo dance. Neither one of them started up a conversation because they were pulled away before one even started. Finally, once the dance was over Simon offered his elbow to her. Penelope looped her hand into the crook and stared at it for a second. She realized that the only other man that escorted her off the dance floor was Benedict and the one dance she shared with Colin, he left her on the floor not even attempting to escort her off. Simon wiggled his elbow gaining her attention.

"What has you thinking so hard?" She tilted her head back to look at him and proceed to tell him her observation. Simon hummed while taking her for a round of the courtyard. He did not believe the young man had any intention to shown his sister disrespect since he did stand up for her in front of that horrible lady but it was a slight to her. He told her as much and she had to agree with him.

"Any chance are dance will make it into Whistledown?" Simon teased trying to get her thoughts of the man. She threw her head back and let out a full body laugh causing people to turn in shock at the sound coming from a lady. Simon grinned biting his lip that he had caused a laugh of that magnitude. They had just finished their walk and he had brought her back to the drink table.

"I will have to leave you here, sister dear. I must return to my hosting duties before my dear wife has my hide." He kissed her forehead quickly before walking away. Penelope blinked then shrugged before grabbing a lemonade. She decided to take a turn around the courtyard by herself seeing if anyone had any tasty gossip for her. After about thirty minutes she grew tired of walking and stood by a plant watching as people danced.

"Why Miss Featherington, we meet again at last." Penelope squeaked as a man came into view. She looked up and up until her eyes reached that crooked grin. She knew that grin anywhere.

"Mister Bridgerton, how are you this fine evening?" She asked Benedict. Benedict rocked on his feet for a second before answering.

"I am doing quite well." She laughed watching his eyes flicker around the room before landing back on her.

"Waiting a respectable amount of time until you can leave." Benedict sent her a sarcastic grin and small glare.

"Now, where is that shy Pen? I quite miss her these days." Benedict joked making her grin back at him.

"I think that Pen is gone ever since she had to steal candy because you could not." Benedict huffed out a laugh.

"That would do it." He glanced around again before taking half a step back and bowed towards her. Penelope raised her brow as he came back up.

"Would you like to dance?" Penelope stood on her tip toes looking around which got her a confused stare from Benedict.

"What are you doing?" He questioned. She just shrugged taking his hand.

"I was looking for your mother but could not seem to find her lurking about." Benedict pulled the woman close since this was one of the slower dances, not a waltz but similar. He remembered how she guessed correctly when they first danced. His mother had bothered him until he danced with Penelope, but this time he remembered his promise of dancing with her. He had missed the last few balls but he would make it up to her later.

"Yes, mother is somewhere with Daphne." Penelope side eyed him before taking up her position. Hand on his shoulder with the other in his hand. The music had started and he was again surprised by the red head's grace. She followed him perfectly.

"I had forgotten to say thank you." Penelope brought her attention back on to the man with an inquisitive gaze.

"What for?" Benedict shrugged and twirled the girl around.

"You have done a lot for my family these past few weeks but I will name a few. First for telling Anthony and Colin about Marina. Second for calling in Daphne even though it seemed like mother had that well in hand and also getting Colin out of his room. Third for stealing for me." They broke out in laughter where they almost couldn't hear the music.

"Lastly for every time you threw Anthony off. The amount of times my poor brother was stunned by you had me in stitches." Penelope faltered in her steps for a second but regained her footing. She was surprised at the mention of throwing the Viscount off, she didn't know she had done that. Benedict grinned at the skill it took to lose footing but to bring it back without looking like she made a mistake.

"Really? Did I do that a lot?" Penelope asked making Benedict nod.

"Yes, but more than just him if I were to be honest." She tilted her head not really believing the man but decided not to call him out on it. The music came to a close once again and they bowed to each other. He escorted her off the floor.

"I had a good time dancing with you, Miss Featherington. I hope we can do that again sometime." Penelope nodded her head.

"Same to you, Mister Bridgerton." Benedict nodded to her and left. She watched his back retreat out the door without looking back. Penelope grinned knowing she would not be seeing the man for the rest of the ball. The rest of the ball was like most other ones, the only notable things were Colin coming to talk to her about leaving for Greece in a few days. The other was her sneaking off to give her paper to the print shop only to be shooed away in her carriage by none other than Eloise. She would definitely need to talk to the other girl about that.

Penelope had just gotten back home with her family. Her dress was drenched because even though Lady Danbury had ushered everyone under the canopy once it started raining at the Simon and Daphne's closing ball, she found herself locked in her hiding spot unable to take her eyes off the couple. They had started to argue over something they had to be fighting about early in the week but not even five minutes later they were kissing without a care in the world. She could feel the love they have for each other and she could only hope to have half of what they shared, she'd be happy with a quarter. She walked into the sitting room with her sisters only to find her mother standing in the middle with a missive in her hand. Mrs. Varley was standing next to her mother staring at her with concerned eyes.

"Mama?" All three girls questioned. Their mother whipped around taking in her girls before a sob broke through her lips. The girls rushed over to their mother who they've never seen other than prim and proper, so seeing her like this worried them.

"Your father..." Her voice caught in her throat. They all looked expectantly at their mother not knowing what could have her in this state.

"Your father is gone." Phillipa and Prudence tilted their heads together but Penelope's face had gone pale not wanting to believe their mother.

"Where's he gone?" Prudence asked.

"Dead. Your father is dead." Portia said in a monotoned voice. Prudence and Phillipa gasped falling to the couch while Penelope took one look at her mother and sisters before darting out of the house. Not once looking over her shoulder to see if anyone was coming after her, she knew they wouldn't.

All she could think of was her father. Her father who was her only ally in the house with her controlling and overbearing mother. Her father who would allowed her the freedom to read and study and while he wasn't the most attentive father, he was still her father. The only father she would ever get. That's all she thought of as she pounded on the door of the house across the street that held the feeling of comfort she was searching for. She could feel the pain traveling through her hand and up her arm at the strength she was knocking. The door opened and she fell into awaiting arms.

Notes:

I'm not going to post for a few days to make sure this next chapter is great! So do not be alarmed if there is no chapter out soon.

Chapter 8: EIGHT

Summary:

Who was it that answered the door? Well let's find out shall we?

Notes:

Would you look at that! I wasn't gone as long as I thought! Lol. Can I just say that you guys are amazing! 9,000 views already , 506 Kudos and 109 Bookmarks. I am so grateful for everyone who is reading this and for any of you who comment, kudos and bookmark my story. I love you all and the next chapter is already in the works. I will not waste anymore of your time since I did leave you with a cliffhanger.

Chapter Text

Anthony had just gotten home after drowning his sorrows at Whites after everything that went down with Sienna. He was in his study pacing, debating on what he needed to do to move on from Sienna when the pounding started. He was out of his study and storming towards the door. All the noise was surely going to disturb the house. As he got closer, he could hear loud sobs coming from behind it and heard heavy footsteps coming from different parts of the house. He opened the door in record time and quickly sobered up seeing who was behind the door.

Penelope.

It was Penelope behind the door. Her fiery mane was drooping due to the rain earlier and her face was stark white with no blush staining her cheeks like she was known to have. He couldn't help but noticed the tears falling down her face in waves. Once the door was opened she went to take a step but almost collasped. Anthony caught the girl in his arms before turning back into the house. He shut the door with his foot and leaned against it while pulling her to his chest.

He looked up to see his family in various positions through out the hall. Eloise was frozen at the bottom of the stairs staring at her best friend in horror with a hand covering her mouth with Colin right next to her almost in the same state. Benedict was right behind Eloise with a hand on her shoulder. His mother and his younger siblings were on the balcony staring at them in confusion. Anthony jutted his head toward Benedict and Colin flicking his eyes toward the younger children. With quick nods to their elder brother both men went to shoo their siblings back to bed. Violet had made her way slowly down the stairs with tears clouding her eyes.

"Shhh, you're alright. It's alright." Anthony tried to comfort the girl but all he could hear were the harsh sobs coming from the girl in his arms. He slowly slid down the door getting Penelope to sit in his lap. For once not caring how improper this would look. He stroked her hair mummuring soothing words to her. Anthony could feel the dampness seeping through his clothes from Penelope's soaking dress and the tears falling on his chest. Violet had finally made her way over to them and gracefully squatted down to their level placing a hand on Penelope's head.

"Penelope, sweetheart? What ever is the matter?" Violet cooed at her.

"H-h-hh-"She just shook her head before placing her head on Anthony's collarbone, trying to take a deep breath but could only manage a stutter breath. As much as Penelope wanted to respond the thought of saying those words out loud would make them more real than she wanted them to be. Eloise made a move over to her friend sitting down on the opposite side. She tried to hold Penelope's hand but her friend had such a tight grip on Anthony's clothes she couldn't pry it away.

"Pen..." Eloise didn't know what to say to her best friend, she wasn't used to not knowing what to say. She didn't even know what was wrong to even think of the right thing to say.

"Just take slow, deep breaths Ducky." The old nickname slipped out of Anthony's mouth. The name managed to get him another stuttered breath out of the sobbing girl.

"Copy me. Follow my breathing." He started exaggerated breaths, forcing his chest to rise harder so she could feel him. Eloise just sat by them not moving from her best friend's side not even when her older brothers tried to make her leave. Violet just rubbed Penelope's back to try to help calm her down. None of them have ever seen the redhead this upset, she was always there with her sunny smile and calm temperment. It worried them all to see her like this and what had caused this type of reaction.

"That'a girl." Without thinking he pressed his lips to the crown of her head. He would do this all the time for his sisters and Penelope was family to all of them.

He wasn't sure how long all of them sat there, waiting, but finally Penelope's cries lessened and her grip on his clothes relax. She didn't pull away from the comfort Anthony was giving her but she did turn her head to look at Eloise. Eloise sent a small sad smile towards her friend.

"Well, there are those baby blues." Benedict cooed at her with a small smile. Penelope looked up at him and tried a small smile back but it felt odd on her face. She swallowed before peeking through her lashes at Anthony and slid off his lap with a blush. She didn't move very far from Anthony but Eloise scooted closer to her. Penelope bit her lip while playing with her hands in her lap.

"Papa..." She lost her voice. An inhale came from everyone in the room. Anthony understood without her saying anymore because he knew that pain, the grief of losing a father. Everyone in the room knew that pain. He looped his arm over her shoulders and tugged her closer and again kissing the crown of her head. Eloise gripped her friend's arm tightly desperately wanting to help but not knowing how. Colin was leaning against the wall unable to get closer because the closer he got the more likely he'll fall apart in front of her yet again. Penelope was pleasantly warm between Anthony and Eloise. The warmth was seeping through her bones making her blinks slow before anyone realized she was asleep.

"Brother." Anthony hummed picking his head off the top of Penelope's glancing at Colin. Colin gestured to Penelope and Eloise.

"They are asleep." Violet tutted pulling herself off the floor.

"Poor dears. I will go get a maid to help get Penelope changed and then I will send a message to Portia to let her know Penelope is here." With that Violet walked away.

"I have Eloise." Colin announced hoping his brothers didn't see his hesitation towards Penelope. Benedict waved Colin of taking a step in Anthony's direction. Anthony stood up while scooping Penelope into his arms, he had seen Benedict take a step towards him but for some reason he didn't want him to carry her. Benedict raised a brow but did not say a word.

They followed Colin up the stairs and veered off to Penelope's room. It was the guest room but it turned into her room after one of the sleepovers before their father died. Their father had helped the young girl decorate the room which was done in a dusty lilac color. Their father had pulled all three older sons into helpig decorate the room for a five year old Penelope. It eventually became a family affair. A maid had met them in the middle of the room clicking her tongue.

"Please lay Miss Penelope on the bed and I'll take it from here, sirs." Anthony did as he was told not liking the fact that her bed would be wet after this.

"Worry not, I have her." The maid said with a pointed look towards the door. Anthony sighed and tugged Benedict out with him.

"Study?" Benedict questioned.

"Study." Anthony answered.

Anthony almost sprinted to the study not caring if his brother was actually behind him or not. He rushed over to the decanter and poured himself a healthy amount before shooting it back. Benedict came in after the second glass picking up a glass and holding it out. Anthony poured some into his brother's glass and then added more to his glass. They took their drinks over to the chairs and plopped down on them. Neither of the brothers knew how to process what had just happened in the hall.

They didn't know how long they sat there before their mother came storming in. She bypassed her sons and when straight for the decanter like her eldest and poured herself a hefty glass. She gulped it down, slamming the glass on the wooden table before turning to her sons. They straightened up in their seats at the fire that was burning in her eyes.

"We will help Penelope through this. No matter what." Violet declared. The two shot glances at each other before Benedict cleared his throat.

"Of course we will. Why would we not?" Benedict questioned. Their mother huffed and sat primly on the last open chair behind the desk.

"That blasted woman! She did not even question where her youngest was. Claimed she did not notice due to trying to calm her older two." Anthony gritted his teeth while his grip on his glass tightened.

"You mean to tell me, she did not notice her own daughter running out of her house after receiving horrible news." Anthony growled out. Violet sighed rubbing her eyes.

"Correct." Anthony's glass then broke as he threw it on the ground. Benedict and Violet flinched at the noise before Violet tutted at her son never seeing her son this upset but ultimately ignored the small fit of rage. They had more important things to worry about.

"I agree with Benedict and you, mother. Penelope will receive all the help she needs from us. I do not trust her so called mother to show any care for her."

The next morning was a quiet affair. It was only the oldest Bridgertons at breakfast for now and all of them could still hear the sobs echoing through the hall from last night. Slowly each of the young ones slowly emerged and took their spots, the only one that did not was Penelope. Eventually, Hyacinth broke the silence.

"Is Pen alright?" Gregory whipped his head around to his older brother desperate for an answer.

"She was crying last night." Gregory prompted once no one answered his sister's question. Anthony glanced over to the others that witnessed the whole thing trying to find the right words.

"Penelope is going to be sad for a while." Colin told the younger ones. He had seen both his brother and mother at a loss for words. All three whipped their heads towards Colin.

"Why?" Hyacinth asked. Francesca frowned at her brother trying to think what would have Penelope in a fit like last night. She observed her older siblings who all wore devastation on their faces before turning to her mother, whose face was blank similar to when her Papa...

"Who died?" Francesca asked gently. All of her family turned towards her with wide eyes. Eloise cleared her throat.

"Why do you think someone died?" Francesca raised a brow at her sister.

"Well, Penelope is usually hard to rattle and something had to happened to make her break like last night. You all have a look on your face like you know exactly what she is feeling. Mother is also blank and the only time she has gone blank was when Papa..." Francesca trailed off not wanting to say the words. She saw the surprised expressions on her family's faces.

"I just assumed." She finished meekly. Anthony took a deep breath and nodded his head.

"Lord Featherington passed sometime last night. We are not sure what happened since Penelope could not say much or quite possibly did not know much." Gregory and Hyacinth frowned at that. They stole a glance at each other from across the table giving tiny nods in agreement. They both knew that they would help Penelope however they could.

Just then their topic of conversation made her appearance. She was dressed in a simple day dress that they had kept here for times that she had to sleep over. Her hair was put up in a simple updo and while she was cleaned up, they could tell she did not sleep well. Her eyed were puffy and red along with the small dark circles under them. The new arrival caught Violet's attention as she gracefully shot up out of her chair and went over to Penelope.

"Oh my darling." She cupped the girl's face and kissed the center of her forehead. Penelope gave the woman a watery smile as tears stung at her eyes wanting to fall. Unable to believe this woman who, was not even related to her... Penelope stopped that thought for a moment letting her eyes trace over each one of the Bridgertons. She was unable to believe that all of these people who weren't related to her treated her as family, unlike her actual family.

"Come break fast with us." Violet told her pulling her to the seat she usually occupied between Colin and Francesca. Colin bumped shoulders with her once she sat down. She glanced up towards him with a small smile while one of the servants placed a plate filled with food in front of her. She took several bites as she watched the family interact before she took to moving the food around her plate losing all her appetite. Colin tapped the table beside her hand making her look up at him. His blue eyes were staring at her but even with his stare no blush rose to her cheeks.

"I will be leaving after breakfast." She tilted her head trying to think why he would tell her this but then remembered his trip to Greece.

"I do not want to leave after what happened last..." He was cut off by Penelope placing her hand on his arm.

"You will not be cancelling your trip because of me and my troubles." Colin stared at her since he could hear the steel in her voice that she has only shown when they fought in his room.

"You need this time for yourself, after everything that happened to you." Colin nodded his head knowing that if he changed his mind now, she would probably throw him on the boat herself.

"Alright, I leave right after breakfast. Would you see me off?" Penelope let out a sigh of relief. She wasn't sure if she would have been able to handle Colin staying while she worked through her feelings for him and her own father's death. She blinked at the added though of her father and she held back the tears she could feel fighting their way to the surface.

"Of course." With that Colin was absorbed into a conversation with Benedict and Eloise while Hyacinth and Gregory caught her attention. After everyone was finished with their food they all wandered out to the steps were a horse was waiting with a stable hand. Colin and his family took their turns saying goodbyes while Penelope stood off to the side listening to all of it but gave them the privacy of not watching any of it. Actually, she was watching her own home which looked sad and lifeless before catching sight of Marina staring out one of the windows. She was about to do something to catch her cousin's attention but was side tracked by Colin.

"Will you write?" Colin asked her. She blinked up at him at the abrupt question, not believing he would ask that.

"What?" She could have been more articulate about this but he had caught her off guard. It was frowned upon to have correspondence between two unmarried man and woman.

"Please, Pen. While I know my family will try to write, I know you will actually do it. It will be great to hear from a friend while I am away." Penelope bit her lip and nodded hestaintly. Colin grinned at her and pulled her into a hug. Penelope froze not really sure what to do since one of the only people to hug her had been Eloise and never a man. She glanced back to her house to see Marina turn away before she looked over to the Bridgertons, who were watching the two like hawks. It was not proper for this to be happening but none of the older Bridgertons were protesting. She pulled her arms free and wrapped them around the man.

"You can write me anything Pen. I am a listening ear... or well a reading eye." Colin laughed at his dumb joke before continuing and squeezing her tighter.

"Even if it is to vent to or tell me your feelings about your father. Anything Pen. Alright?" Colin wasn't sure why he wanted to make sure she wrote to him but it might be just to prove to himself he didn't ruin this friendship with her. He could feel Penelope nod against his side before he pulled away. He bowed at her causing a small giggle to erupt from the girl.

"Goodbye Pen." He said but a strange sensation took over his lower belly, that somehow this goodbye might not be permanent but will change everything.

"Goodbye Col." Penelope responded with a curtsy, feeling this was closing a chapter of her life and her feelings towards this man. She wiped her face once she felt the tears falling as she left for her house. She could hear final goodbyes being exchanged from her favorite family.

The Bridgertons watched as Colin wandered over to Penelope talking in low tones. Daphne and Simon had made their way to the house standing beside them all. Simon raised a brow seeing how close the two were standing but not planning to say anything yet. He did however nudge his friend with a teasing grin.

"I did not see you make an appearance last night." Anthony grimaced flicking his eyes to his brother-in-law. His mind flashed back to seeing a man answer Sienna's door and all the glasses surrounding him at Whites.

"I was feeling unwell. My apologies, sister." Daphne waved her brother off knowing that if he didn't want to come he wouldn't. They all took notice of when Colin wrapped his arms around the red head he was talking too. All of them were to stunned to speak about the action and most of them were questioning Penelope's slow reaction time to the hug. It looked like she wasn't sure what to do with her arms.

"Poor dear." Their mother cooed holding her hand to her chest. Daphne and Simon looked towards the woman wondering what she was on about, but Colin had pulled away from Penelope drawing their attention back to the two. They could all hear the two saying their goodbyes and couldn't help but image hearing a door close in the silence the farewells left. All the older ones shared a concerning glance at that while feeling their hearts break seeing Penelope wipe away tears as she left. Anthony kept his eye on the red head making sure she made her way into the house before focusing back on his family. Colin finished saying his goodbyes with the rest of the family and took his leave. Violet walked over to her married daughter taking her hand.

"Are the two of you off to Clyvedon?" The married couple shared a look before shaking their heads.

"Staying in London might help give us time to enjoy each other." Daphne said with a grin. Violet clapped her hands, happy with having her daughter close then ushering the younger kids into the house before they got to rowdy in the street.

"What of you brother? Any plans?" Benedict asked crowding between the couple and his older brother. Anthony gave a small roll of his shoulders.

"Nothing of note." He said watching the Featherington house wondering how they were going to be without Lord Featherington.

"Other than finding and promptly declaring my intentions to my new Viscountess, of course." He told them not even noticing the looks the three had sent him. He had been thinking about this since Sienna had broke it off with him. Other than thinking about Penelope, this was running through his mind all night.

"Is the Viscount ready to find and declare his intentions?" Benedict questioned.

"You heard that right, Your Grace? And which young lady?" Simon joked and asked. Anthony finally gave sister and brothers his full attention.

"Does it matter?" Daphne huffed at her dense brother.

"I have determined the difficulty... Love itself." All three raised their brows at him.

"Removing all romantic relations shall make me all the better. No distractions from my responsibilities or being waylaid from the sensible path." Anthony declared. Daphne pursed her lips hating Anthony's mind at the moment.

"Perhaps he will learn." Simon said hoping the man does but if he knew Anthony he would take the long and hard way to it.

"Perhaps not." Benedict added before wandering over to Eloise. Anthony rolled his eyes at the two because he knew they said it just to test him. Anthony squinted towards the Featherington's before looking directly at Daphne.

"Sister, since you will be in London for the foreseeable future. Will you check in on Miss Penelope Featherington, from time to time?" Both Bassets perked up at the question.

"May I have the reason why?" Anthony licked his lips.

"Lord Featherington has passed." Daphne gasped covering her mouth. What she knew from the things Penelope would causally drop in conversations about her family that she would have no support there to help her. Daphne looked up to Simon who had his thinking face on before she turned to her brother.

"She was distraught last night. She was pounding on the door and then collapsed into my arms sobbing. She was nothing like the Penelope we know and I am worried about how things will be in that house." Daphne nodded knowing Simon would agree with her.

"We will help." Anthony nodded and left. Daphne hooked her hand into Simon's elbow pulling him to the carriage. Once in its confines Simon whipped his head to her.

"She must be hurting. We will do whatever we can but we can not let her mother know. Penelope did not explain but seemed to not want her mother knowing we are close with her." Daphne nodded knowing well why she would be cautious.

"Lady Featherington is a very good opportunist. If she found out about us, she would use Penelope to get to us." Simon nodded as their carriage took off.

Chapter 9: NINE

Summary:

A little something happens, but not what you think.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Anthony and Benedict sat down in the study after dinner in Aubrey Hall. While the family had been at their ancestral home since a few days after Colin's departure, Benedict and Anthony arrived later. Benedict three weeks ago and Anthony a week and a half and both of them were already tired. They've broken up many fights and was targeted for Eloise's rants. She had taken to a daily rant updating them all on Penelope. This reason is why they've escaped to the study and poured themselves drinks. They sat back in their respective chairs taking a swig with a sigh.

"I will be sending an invitation to Miss Penelope Featherington asking her to join us here." Benedict chuckled.

"Eloise must have wore you down." Anthony shook his head. He had been thinking about this since the day after seeing Lady Featherington still dressed in bright if slightly muted colors while she barked orders at everyone in sight. He was hoping to give them a little time together but once he heard of the things Penelope had written to his sister, he knew he needed to sent that invitation soon.

"No, she may have been the thing to finalize my decision though. I have been thinking on this for the last few weeks." Benedict raised a brow.

"If that is what you want to do." Anthony sighed sitting his glass down.

"It is. We have heard from Eloise how much Penelope is struggling." Benedict hummed but if he had a response it was cut off by Eloise. She slammed open the study doors to see both Anthony and Benedict sitting having a drink. She slams the letter down on the desk in front of Anthony.

"I can no longer take it! Penelope is in mourning and her mother is acting like nothing has changed. She is not allowing my friend the chance to grieve properly! Not a minute to herself !" Anthony and Benedict watched as their sister worked herself into a tiff. The men took another sip watching Eloise pace back and forth letting the girl tire herself out.

"We need to get her here! She needs to be around people who care about her!" Anthony hummed eyeing his sister from the rim of his glass.

"And pray tell, what is your plan?" Anthony questioned while he already had a plan of his own, he couldn't help but annoy his younger sister and to see if she had a better plan. Eloise scoffed.

"Of course!" Benedict smirked setting his glass down and leaned towards Eloise.

"Does you plan involve stealing the girl way in the night, sister dear?" Eloise pursed her lips her eyes narrowing at Benedict before she turned her attention back to Anthony.

"She needs to come here." Anthony blinked at the command. Eloise sighed putting her hands on her hips.

"She needs to come here. We will give her the space, love and care she would need. She is family." Benedict gestured at his brother to put their sister out of her misery making Anthony sighed.

"I will send a letter to invite her to spend sometime here with us." Eloise clapped her hands as jumped at Anthony crushing the man into a hug before pulling back once she realized what she did. She flattened down her dress.

"That is wonderful. Good day brothers." Eloise left the room before the two brothers chuckled.

It's been a month. A month since her father died. A month since Marina found out she was still with child and accepted Sir Phillip Crane's proposal. A month since her life got turned on its head. All of the family were in mouring clothes which meant only a slightly darker color to her mother. If they were going by the tons expectantions then they should have black dresses and they should have left to their off season home to mourn for a year or in this case until next social season. She wasn't surprised about the way her mother went about this since there was really no love lost between her father and mother. Penelope did not want a marriage like that, she wanted at least friendship between she and her husband.

Everything in the house was the same but completely different all at once. Anytime she would run into one of her sisters they would burst into tears, which Penelope understood. The one reaction she couldn't understand was her mother's, who snapped and verbally attacked anyone within speaking distance. Penelope had tried to keep to her room after the third time she was accosted by her mother but ended up getting yelled at that she should stop being so selfish.

The only thing that she felt kept her sane was the letters. Three different people wrote to her. Colin being the slowest since he was still on his way to Greece, also only two letters have been exchanged since he left. Daphne was the second, she writes to her at least twice a week. Her most loyal was Eloise who she feels like sends her a letter every day. She's sure she does the same. All three of them had told her she was allowed to vent and express herself to them. She took them up on the offer while she told the first two a little of her feelings, she ranted and raved to her best friend. It was the only thing that gave her some comfort.

"Penelope!" The girl in question sighed before turning around to find her mother. It was a bit hard since she didn't know where her mother was.

"Penelope Anne!" She picked up her pace finally finding her mother standing in the middle of the drawing room with a letter in her grasp and a hand on her hip. Penelope came to a stop a few feet from her mother.

"Care to tell me why you have a letter from Viscount Bridgerton?" Penelope tilted her head not knowing why Anthony would be sending her a letter.

"Pardon?" Her mother narrowed her eyes.

"You heard me. Why is the Viscount sending you a letter?" Penelope shook her head.

"I am uncertain of what you mean, mama." Her mother threw the letter towards her. Penelope looked down at the letter where her name was written on the front in sharp font.

Miss Penelope Featherington

She turned it over to see the wax seal broken. She unfolded it to see the bottom of the letter and in the same font read Viscount Anthony Bridgerton. Her eyes flickered to her mother who was watching her with a sharp eye. Penelope decided to read the whole letter because she was confused why her mother was asking since it seems her mother already read her letter. Her eyes skim over the words until one thing catches her attention.

I would like to extend an invitation to you, Miss Featherington, to join my family and I at Aubrey Hall for two months of the off season.

"So you have gotten to that part." Her mother laughed harshly. Penelope took a deep breath and looked up at her mother.

"Mama, I was not expecting an invitation from Viscount Bridgerton. I can send him a letter apol..." She was cut off by a glare from her mother.

"You can not decline an invite from a Viscount. It is improper." Penelope sucked on her teeth feeling dizzy at the different emotions that her mother was jumping to.

"I do not know how you got the invitation, but it would be a slight not to accept it." Her mother told her making her nod slowly. Penelope had to guess that etiquette had over ridden the anger her mother had earlier.

"I will send a letter to confirm?" Penelope trailed off in a questioning tone which got a firm nod from her mother.

"Yes! That would do. One less person to worry about..." Her mother murmured as she walked away. Penelope stood staring at the spot her mother had stood feeling so very drained from this most recent conversation with her mother. She shook her head and went to her room. She sat at her desk to write her reply to the Viscount because the sooner she wrote the message the faster she could leave.

"Miss Penelope?" Penelope glanced up to see Briarly standing in the door way. Penelope scrunched her brows.

"Yes, Briarly?" The man waved his hand towards the letter.

"Your mother has tasked me in taking your letter to the post once you are finished." Penelope nodded and signed her name in a loopy fashion before folding it up. She carefully handed the letter to the footman.

"Please be sure to seal it for me." Briarly nodded and promptly left the room. Penelope looked around her room with teary eyes but took a deep breath.

She hasn't had the time to grieve properly since that night at the Bridgerton house. Marina's situation had taken the lead which made it easier to forget what had happened. Once her cousin had left nothing had been around to stop all the thoughts on her father's death, even if she really couldn't express them properly. Her eyes darted to the floor board where the things for Whistledown were hidden and that stack of money her father had forgotten to collect. She had warned her father but like most men, she was ignored. A knock on her door frame startled her away from the floor seeing Eliza standing there.

"It's time for tea." Penelope sighed but nodded her thanks to her ladies maid.

Today was the day that Penelope would travel to Aubrey Hall. Penelope's sisters had found out that Penelope got the chance to go and was relentless in their instance on going. They had pestered both their mother and Penelope on asking if they could go to but to Penelope's surprise her mother nipped that in the butt quickly. Eliza was helping her pack the last few essentials into her bags.

"I think that is everything." Eliza stated clasping the trunk shut. She looked up to see her charge flicking through the brightly colored dresses.

"I don't think you'll be needing such things during the off season." Penelope sent her a small smile.

"No, I do not think so. I find it strange that I have finished my first season and so much had happened but nothing at the same time." Eliza laid a hand on her shoulder.

"I feel this next season shall surprise us all." Penelope turned to hug her ladies maid.

"I will miss you these next few months." Eliza hugged back.

"I have no doubt but you will be with those Bridgertons that you will not even notice I am gone until you return for the season."

"Penelope!" Eliza pulled back from the girl with a sigh.

"We will be down with your things, now shoo." Penelope grinned at her and took down off down the stairs. There stood her family, Briarly, and two people she's never seen before.

"Miss Penelope Featherington, I presume?" The man questioned. Penelope dipped her head as he smiled at her.

"I am Buck your coachman for the trip." The man then nudged the woman beside him.

"I am Gabrielle, I will be your companion. Viscount Bridgerton sends his apologies for not sending any of his family." She watched as her mother narrowed her eyes at that but Penelope jumped in before her mother could say anything.

"I understand Gabrielle. Life as a Viscount never stops." The woman sent her a small grateful smile.

"Well, Gabrielle and I will head to the carriage and give you a moment to say goodbyes." With that the man dragged the two outside making Penelope grin. She was actually excited to spend this time with them since they seemed like great company. She turned to her family, they were all looking at her.

"Mama, Prudence, Phillipa." Her mother stepped forward.

"I want you to be on your best behavior. Understand?" Penelope sighed.

"Yes mama." Her sisters just nodded in her direction and Penelope couldn't hope for anything better.

"I will see you all soon." Penelope told them before going out to the carriage and saw Eliza and Briarly loading up the last of her items. Both of them bowed to her.

"Have a safe trip, Miss Penelope." Briarly offered before helping her into the cabin. With that they were off. At first it was slightly akward in the cabin with Gabrielle with neither one of them talking until Gabrielle spoke up.

"The Bridgertons are very excited for your arrival." Gabrielle wanted to know why this one girl was so speical to the Bridgertons, she was all the house could talk about this week. The two most excited had to be Eloise and Gregory, the boy wanting to spend time with his crush and that is what she had to be to hear the boy gushing over the girl. Penelope turned her head from watching the houses pass by.

"I am excited to see them. I know it has been a month but I truly missed all of them." The woman grinned tilting her head.

"Anyone in particular?" Penelope nodded not realizing the teasing grin on the other woman's face.

"Yes, Eloise. She is my best friend." Gabrielle's grin ticked down for a second.

"Ahh, I think little Gregory will be so hurt." Penelope let out a tiny giggle thinking about the boy's cute little pout.

"Yes well, let us not tell the poor boy." Gabrielle laughed.

"They talked about you a lot. I'm sure I know more about you than I know of myself." Penelope could feel her cheeks heat up before clearing her throat.

"How long have you been with the Bridgertons? You do not look much older than I." Gabrielle watched the girl blush and then change the subject.

"Two years. I started the day after my 18 birthday and if you couldn't tell I am a maid. Viscount Bridgerton sought me out for acting as your escort since we are around the same age." Gabrielle wanted to stop after giving her the answer but the way the young woman was staring at her made her add more. Penelope hummed playing with the skirt of her dress.

"I am thankful that Lord Bridgerton had the forethought of that otherwise I am certain my journey would have involved akward silence and stilled conversation." Gabrielle was not sure what to make of this girl. She had never intracted with many upper class people other than the Bridgertons before but her brother had warned her about their employers being the exception to the rule. Now as she watched the girl she was sure her brother was not expecting Miss Penelope either.

"How did you find employment with the Bridgertons?" Gabrielle tilted her head as this girl was trying to keep the conversation going and not even the Bridgertons tried to get to know her to this extant.

"Buck. He's my brother and had been working for the family for four years before me." Penelope gasped before tilting herself back in her seat trying to gain a glance towars the man at the reigns. Buck seemed to have heard her gasp from over the sounds and looked down at the red head, he sent her a charming smile before looking back to the horses. Penelope then tossed a glance towards Gabrielle, who was trying to muffle her snickers.

"I can see it. Both of you have different shades of blond hair but your eyes are the same shade of brown and your noses are similar." Penelope couldn't believe she had missed those similarities when she first met them.

"Not many people put it together." Penelope nodded not feeling as bad about her observation skills.

"Can I ask why none of the Bridgertons joined us on this journey?" Gabrielle nodded.

"Viscount Bridgerton had an emergency with one of his tenants. His plan was to stay at the hall and allow Lady Bridgerton or Miss Eloise with Mister Benedict to come collect you. Then he had to leave and Miss Hyancith came down with the sniffles and he did not want to leave Lady Bridgerton to care for a sick child and two other ones by herself." Penelope understood immedictaly. Last time Hyacinth had gotten sick, she was even more stubborn that she usually was.

"No need to say more. I recall the last time Hyacinth got sick." Gabrielle laughed at the horror in Penelope's tone.

"You've experienced that monster she turns into then?" Penelope sighed dramatically.

"I do, sadly I was over when she was sick and she found me. She clung to me the whole day and I ended up getting sick right along with her." Gabrielle covered her mouth, Hyacinth had been sick around her last year and clung to a handful of her family members.

This was how the rest of the journey to Aubrey Hall the two girls laughing and talking with each other. Gabrielle understood then that this was the reason the Bridgertons talked about the young girl all the time. Gabrielle could say anything to Penelope and felt like she had the red head's full attention, not part of it like most but all of it. Gabrielle felt like she could tell Penelope her darkest secrets and they would be hidden under lock and key in the girl's head. She was sure given enough time she would be exactly like the Brigdertons in their obsession with the red head. The carriage finally came to a stop and the girls realized the sun was setting. The door swung open revealing Buck standing behind with a wide grin towards the two while his hand was held out.

"We've arrived. So sorry for interrupting." Gabrielle rolled her eyes as Penelope grasped the helping hand as she stepped off the carriage. Penelope stood next to Buck waiting on Gabrielle to follow when the door slammed open and before Penelope could look up someone tackled her into a hug.

"Oh you are here!" Penelope laughed patting Eloise's back. She glanced towards the door to see most of the Bridgertons standing there with the youngest seeming to be dancing with energy. Penelope opened her arms wider which seemed to be all the children needed to rush down the stairs and at her. They engulfed the girl to the point where the ones out of the hug couldn't even see Penelope was.

A throat was cleared forcing the hug to end, they turned towards the door to see Benedict and Violet standing there. Violet had to hold back a gasp at seeing Penelope, the month was not great to the girl. Penelope's face was paler and had proment dark circles under her eyes, her hair looked less shiny and vibrant than the beautiful copper red it usually was. All in all she looked exhausted and Benedict came to that conclusion along with his mother.

"Penelope will be here for the next two months. I am sure there will be plenty of time to get caught up but for now let us get Penelope set up in her room and let her rest before dinner." After that everyone scattered grabbing Penelope's things leaving Penelope, Buck and Gabrielle standing alone shrugging at each other.

"Well, thank you Gabrielle, Buck, for accompany me safely here." Buck bowed and Gabrielle patted the girl's shoulder.

"You may call me Bri, Gabrielle is such a long name. It was no trouble for me or my brother. I hope to see you around." Penelope nodded at her before Gregory came around with a bag in his hand and his elbow positioned eagerly.

"Miss Penelope may I escort you to your room?" Bri giggled and pulled her brother away. Penelope smiled at the boy.

"Of course Mister Bridgerton." She answered tucking her hand into his elbow. They followed the trail of Bridgertons with Benedict settling on her other side.

"It seems my duties have been stolen." Benedict said shooting a playful glare at his brother, who was preening.

"He was just faster than you." Penelope stated making Benedict gasp.

"Are you calling me old, Miss Featherington?" Penelope sent him a closed mouth smile while Gregory laughed.

"No, I never said anything about age, but you did." Penelope shot back as they entered the upstairs hallway.

"Anthony should be back tomorrow. He will give you a tour of the hall." Violet said from behind the trio. Penelope craned her head to see Violet and sent her a small smile. Benedict winced at how fragile that smile was and could not believe her family didn't notice it.

"I believe you are in good hands with my children. I will leave you to it and will see you at dinner." Violet said sending a look towards Benedict. The man caught the look and knew he was not to leave her side until the children had left.

"Of course, thank you Violet." Violet smiled brightly at the girl before turning back the way they came. Once she was out of sight Penelope turned to Benedict.

"Why is Lord Bridgerton giving me a tour? I have visited many times before as a child." Benedict glanced down at the red head before tilting his head from side to side.

"Yes, that is true but mother insisted on it. It has been years since you have visited and I think she wants to refresh your memory."

"I can give you the tour, Miss Penelope." Gregory jumped into the conversation. Penelope smiled at the boy. She knew it was something the Lord or Lady of the house to give a tour but she couldn't tell the boy that.

"I know you could but do we want to disobey your mother's orders?" Gregory frowned thinking hard as Benedict couldn't help but still be impressed by Penelope's skill with his youngest siblings. Gregory sighed before shaking his head.

"No, mother hates that." Penelope nodded her agreement.

"Yes, I am sure any mother would." With that they stopped once they found the girls in front of a door. They smiled at her and glanced towards the boys.

"We will be going into a lady's room. You two will stay out here." Hyacinth said in a crackling voice. Penelope pulled out her hand and patted the boy's hand before walking forward to the girls. Francesca pushed open the door showing a big room with a large bed made up in shades of purple.

"This is what we call the purple room, we thought that since you had the lilac color in your room in London it would not make you so homesick and to give you comfort." Francesca said softly. Penelope blinked the tears out of her eyes not believing this family would think of something like that.

"Anthony was actually helpful for once. He was the one to suggest the room." Eloise huffed out not wanting to take credit for something none of them but her oldest brother thought of. Penelope rubbed her eyes unable to keep the tears at bay. Her mind flashed back to the conversation with Simon about the Bridgertons being so filled with love and the way Anthony shows he cares, not with words or physical touch but through the small ways like this. Eloise placed a hand on her shoulder.

"I will send up a maid to help put your stuff away and help you get ready for a nap. You must be tired after your trip." Penelope grabbed her hand and squeezed, she was so grateful for her friend.

"That sounds great." Penelope croaked out. Eloise took both her sisters' hands and dragged them out of the room. As the door clicked shut Eloise turned furious eyes on her older brother but he shook his head with a finger to his lips.

"Not here." He told her looking towards the door and their younger siblings. She huffed and went searching for a maid. Once she found one she went to find her mother, who seemed to be in her private rooms. She knocked and waited for the muffled 'come in'. Her mother was sitting doing her embroidery.

"Penelope may not be down for dinner." Violet turned to her daughter.

"I would hope not, poor dear looks exhausted." Eloise nodded her agreement.

"I am glad you noticed too. I got her to take a nap but I do not think she will wake up until morning." Violet hummed not in the lest bit surprised.

"She may sleep into the afternoon. Bri told me she kept nodding off in the carriage but would snap awake as soon as her eyes closed." Eloise sighed but understood her friend hasn't been comfortable enough to sleep properly .

Dinner was a quiet affair. No one wanted to break the comfortable silence that started after they realized Penelope was still asleep. It seemed everyone thought if they made a noise above a whisper would some how wake the girl. Hyacinth's eyes darted from her oldest brother to her mother then to Eloise, she did this a few times before stopping on Benedict. She opened her mouth but was intrupted by Anthony strolling into the dinning room. He shuck off his over coat and handed to the footman that followed him into the room. Anthony glanced around the table noting silence and the serious faces. He took notice that the table was lacking a red head.

"Did Miss Featherington not make it?" Anthony questioned. They all glanced at each other before looking towards Benedict. They had decided he was their spokesperson for the night.

"She did, she is currently asleep. Brother, she looked absolutely exhausted." Anthony frowned taking his seat at the head of the table. He could remember how tired he was when his father died and couldn't blame the girl for taking the chance to sleep long and hard.

"She looked sick." Hyacinth croaked which made Anthony shoot up from his seat and over to his little sister. He put his hand on her forehead and feeling her face but pulled away once she start to wriggle away.

"Not me, we already knew I was sick. Penelope looked sick. I do not think she noticed but we all did." Hyacinth told her brother. Anthony scanned the table seeing all the nods of agreement before he went back to his seat.

"Her smile was not as bright as it usually was." Gregory announced his brows scrunched up.

"She was slouching." Francesca peeped looking down at her plate.

"That is not the best friend I know. Her family did a number on her with leaving her alone." Eloise spoke up. Anthony pursed his lips looking between his mother and Benedict.

"I would not be surprised if she got sick soon." Violet told him in warning. Anthony remember Daphne getting sick soon after their father died because she was helping them out with the others that she had exhausted herself. Benedict turned to him.

"She had bags under her eyes. I could see them from the stairs. We sent that invitation right in time." Anthony nodded and took a drink.

"Alright. If she needs space or even a nap, you all scatter and give her what she needs. She might even want a distraction. She is here to come to terms with what happen. Not to be your entertainment. Understood?" He would not let his younger siblings crowd the girl.

"Understood." Echoed through out the dinning room while up in the purple room a small snore sounded.

Notes:

I am sorry not a lot happened in this chapter but it was a struggle to write this one but the next one I hope has more to it.

Chapter 10: TEN

Summary:

First days at Aubrey Hall

Chapter Text

The next day didn't start for Penelope until well into the afternoon. She didn't want to get up as she snuggled into her pillow preparing to fall back to sleep when hurried footsteps out side her room forced her to crack open her eye. Her eyes roamed around the cream and purple room before she shot up straight remembering she was at Aubrey Hall, with her favorite family.

She rushed around the room grabbing all the things she needed to get ready for the day. She would have to thank which ever maid put her things up for her since it made getting ready even quicker. She forwent a corset since she was putting on a simple day dress. She sat at her mirror braiding her hair into two simple french braids and pinning the ends so they crossed each other. She looked at her reflection to check to make sure she didn't miss any hair before nodding in approval. She slipped on her shoes and left her room.

She craned her neck around the hallway trying to remember which way they had brought her last night. It had been years since she was here that maybe Violet was right in getting a tour of the Hall. Shrugging her shoulders she took a left and went straight down the hall. She hoped to run into someone soon so she wasn't wandering for too long. She walked for quite a while before sighing realizing she was most definitely lost. She went to turn around to go back as she ran right into someone. Both of them fell to the floor with a thud.

"Oh! Miss Penelope, this is where you ran off too." Penelope glanced over to see Bri pulling herself off the floor looking at her. Penelope blushed and grabbing the offered hand once Bri had planted her feet.

"Yes, I was trying to find the stairs but it seems like I have forgotten the lay out since I was last here." Bri grinned at the girl.

"Well, a couple more feet you would have found the servant's stairs." Penelope laughed dusting off her skirt.

"Then I should give myself a gold star for almost finding a staircase." Bri laughed along with her and motioned to follow her back the way Penelope came.

"Let me show you the way to the dinning room, lunch was just served." Penelope stepped beside the young maid as they walked.

"I have to give my thanks for crashing into me. I was hoping someone would find me at some point to save me from being lost." Bri giggled.

"Don't worry. I'll happily crash into you whenever you need." Penelope noted carefully the doors and turns they were taking before they made it to the main staircase. Once they were on the main floor, Penelope could hear the loud laughter making it easy to follow the noise to the right room.

"Next time, just ring the bell in your room. I'll be happy to help you get ready." Penelope snapped her head towards the maid in confusion.

"Pardon?" Bri grinned and patted her shoulder.

"It seems that Lady Bridgerton heard of our connection on the trip and thought you might like a familiar face to help you. I will be your ladies maid while you are here." Bri winked at her and left without allowing Penelope a word. Penelope thought about it and was thankful for Violet because that was exactly what she needed, a friendly face. The doors to the dinning room were open but Penelope used the manners that were instilled in her and knocked on the door. The noise abruptly stopped as all the heads whipped towards her.

"Good afternoon." Everyone chorused.

"Pen!" Hyacinth yelled jumping up from her seat and running towards her. Penelope heard three distinct throat clearings but the young girl ignored all of them as she latched on to her.

"You should come sit beside me." Penelope grinned at the girl and agreed. Hyacinth then dragged her down to the opposite end of the table. Penelope could see the small glare Gregory sent the girl.

"Hy, Penelope is a guest." Francesca told the young girl making her pout with a hand on her hip. The older Bridgertons watched in amusement since they knew how much Fran loved etiquette.

"So?" Francesca frowned back at her sister.

"So, that means she needs to sit in the chair beside Anthony. That is where a guest is supposed to sit." Penelope looked up to see Benedict and Eloise poised to move from their spots. She glanced towards Anthony, who was watching all of them with a raise brow and realized he wouldn't be helping diffuse this situation. Anthony was not going to step in this time since he wanted to see how this would end. The only other adult that could help was focusing on her food. Violet knew her children and they could solve this on their own.

"Fran, that is only for dinner parties. Pen is family." That comment from Gregory seemed to take the wind out of Francesca's sails. Benedict and Eloise sent her small smiles before sitting down in their seats. Hyacinth smirked and pulled her down into the seat next to her. Gregory smiled at her and waved his hand over the food.

"Lunch is less formal, pick whatever you like." Penelope smiled at him and started to place a few things on her plate. A slice or two of a sandwich and some fruit.

"How did you sleep, dear?" Violet asked from across the table. Penelope chewed her food before putting her napkin to her lips and wiping.

"I slept well." Penelope turned her head to Anthony. He was watching their conversation without looking like he wasn't. Penelope sent the man a smile knowing he could see her from the corner of his eyes. He really needed to work on this skill.

"I think the familiar colors helped settle me." Anthony paused mid bite in surprise. He didn't want his suggestion to get out to the young girl. He heard Benedict quietly snort making him turn to his brother only to see him staring at Eloise. He then turned to his sister who was pouting with her arms crossed.

"Eloise let that little tidbit slip last night." Benedict murmured to him and Anthony bit back a sigh. He knew his brother did nothing to stop their sister. Anthony could still feel Penelope's eyes on him as he flicked his eyes to her and inclined his head making her turn back to his mother. Anthony took a deep breath at the feel of her eyes and resumed his eating. Benedict watched his brother for moment before going back to his food. The table went back into its noisy mess of talk until the last bit of food was taken away.

"Lady- Violet?" Penelope spoke softly not wanting to bring much notice to herself. Violet could not hide the feeling of satisfaction that Penelope was remembering to call her by her given name instead of title. Violet swiveled in her seat to face the red head and noted the faint blush staining the young woman's cheeks.

"Yes dear?" Penelope licked her lips.

"I think I need that tour you mentioned last night." Violet smiled brightly at her.

"I will let Anthony know." She told Penelope with a slight twinkle in her eye and promptly went over to Anthony. Anthony startled at the sudden appearance of his mother at his side. Violet bent over positioning herself close to his ear.

"Penelope will be needing a tour. It has been quite awhile since she has visited that I think she would need a reminder." Anthony narrowed his eyes not liking the hidden mischievous tone he could hear in her voice but would not deny his mother's demand. Anthony glanced towards the red head avoiding everyone's gaze to look around the room.

"Of course mother. Tomor-" His mother glared at him.

"Now. I am sure she would love to move about without trailing after someone." Anthony sucked on his teeth but nodded at her command.

"Yes, mother." He stood from his seat and made his way over to the girl. Benedict peered at his mother with narrow eyes.

"What was that about mother?" Violet twirled around to her second eldest.

"Pardon?" Benedict waved his hand towards Anthony.

"Mother, I know what your scheming face looks like. I see it on Eloise's every other day. What are you planning?" Violet patted her son's hand with a sweet smile.

"I do not know what you are talking about." She said walking away. Benedict pursed his lips and turned towards Eloise who had disappeared. Benedict groaned looking to see the only people left were Penelope and Anthony. He debated for a minute what he should do but decided to follow the pair if only for his own peace of mind.

Anthony watched his siblings basically scatter as he passed by on his way to his guest. He knew his talk from last night to not bombard Penelope got through to all of them. He stopped a few feet from her and clasped his hands behind his back.

"Miss Featherington." He announced his presence not wanting to startle the girl. She spun towards him with wide eyes.

"Lord Bridgerton." The two stared at each other for a moment. Benedict watched the two unsure of what was happening. After the brief moment Anthony stuck out his arm.

"Mother has told me that you may need a tour to refresh your memory of the hall." Penelope nodded standing from her seat. Anthony looked down at the tiny girl forgetting how short she actually was. She barely grazed his shoulder standing at her full height.

"That would be wonderful. I thought I remembered the lay out... sadly I got lost once I was ready this afternoon." Penelope admitted tucking her hand into the crook of the man's elbow.

"I understand that. It has been years since you have been here." Anthony stated remembering the last time Penelope was here. Eloise had demanded that their father invite Penelope over to visit, they were six.

"Why do we not start at the front of the house and work our way in?" Anthony suggested which got him a nod of approval from Penelope. They walked towards the front door and Anthony flung his free arm wide.

"The tour starts now." Penelope giggled at his antics while Anthony smirked at the fact he got her to laugh. He was glad his dramatic action got the reaction he wanted from her. Benedict peered around the door frame not sure why his brother was acting this way towards the girl.

Anthony showed her around the downstairs area pointing out the formal sitting room, the dinning room of course and the parlor that as of right now only Benedict and he used after dinner but told her that they usually could be found in the study if they were needed. Penelope nodded along because her Papa preferred his study to the parlor when he did not have to entertain.

"Miss Featherington, are you alright?" Penelope looked up at Anthony with a frown.

"Yes, sorry. I was just remembering that my Papa liked to be in his study than the parlor when he was not entertaining." Anthony hummed not wanting to interrupt her thoughts so he didn't move until she was ready. He watched as her face smoothed out from her pinched express and he continued the tour.

"Here we have the study, if you ever need anything I will most likely be in here. Benedict may also be found here." Anthony reiterated to make sure the girl got it into her head where they could be found. Penelope smiled at the man.

"Of course." She answered and peeked her head in the door. It looked exactly like it did when the late Viscount used it. They moved on to show a few extra guest rooms before Anthony paused knowing this was the room he may have to drag her from. Penelope glanced around to see that they were quite close to the servant stairs and kitchen. Anthony huffed out a laugh tapping on the door handle.

"I have a feeling that once you remember what is behind this door, I will lose you and we will never finish the tour." Penelope cocked her head looking at the door.

"I have two months here. I am sure I can finish a tour before coming back to this room." Anthony sighed and pushed open the door. Penelope could not believe she had forgotten about the massive library that Aubrey Hall concealed inside it's walls. She stepped in with her eyes darting from wall to wall that was littered in books. In the far corner sat a desk and chair, off in the middle of the room sat a couch with two end tables and a coffee table, and scattered about were multiple chairs. Penelope walked further in and trailed her finger across one of the shelves with a small nostalgic smile.

"I can not believe I forgot about the library here. I can reach some of these shelves now." Anthony stood just inside the room taking in the girl running her fingers along the spines of the books. He could remember Penelope's tiny child form trying her hardest to stretch to reach the bottom shelf for some book only for one of the older children to pluck it out for her. Benedict smiled from across the hall remembering the same moments his brother was. Penelope abruptly turned and made her way towards her tour guide.

"We should leave before I get sucked in and I make my tour guide's words true." Anthony blinked out of his thoughts as Penelope curled her hand back into his elbow. Anthony jerked his head and they were off back to the stairs since he had shown her all the rooms on the first floor. They made it to the landing only to hear another pair of footsteps echoing behind them. The pair whip around to see Benedict pausing half way up the stairs.

"Brother, what are you doing?" Benedict thought he was doing a fine job sneaking behind the two but the stairs just had to betray him. Benedict plastered on his charming crooked smile before facing his brother.

"Oh, just stretching my legs." Benedict didn't have a better excuse. Penelope grinned at the lie while it was harder to read Anthony, Benedict was like an open book to her now that she's become Lady Whistledown. Benedict's eyes moved away from hers and Anthony's and his smile straightened out for a brief second before returning. She wasn't going to call the other man out on it though.

"Just stretching your legs?" Anthony questioned with a raised brow and just like Penelope, he knew the tells of when his brother was lying.

"Yes, I was taking a break from sketching." Without looking at each other, the two on the landing gazed down towards Benedict's hands only to see clean hands. They both looked at Benedict with matching expressions all while Benedict gaped at the two not really believe he just witnessed. Benedict wasn't sure if the two of them would be a blessing or a curse. Penelope smiled sweetly at him and motioned for him to her.

"Well, since you are just stretching your legs, you might as well join us." Anthony shrugged slightly towards his brother showing him it was up to him if he wanted to join or not. Benedict darted between his brother and the usually shy girl before moving to the landing with them.

"I heard that Mister Granville took you under his wing." Penelope said following Anthony up the rest of the stairs. Benedict glanced at the girl not sure how she knew but just assumed one of his family members told her.

"He did." Anthony then announced all the rooms on the family wing starting with his and working his way through the whole family's, he mentioned that Gregory and Hyacinth were still in the nursey, before stopping at her door. She noticed that he had placed her in the room next to Eloise's. She tucked the thought of her being in the family wing away for further perusing later.

"Mister Granville must have taken notice of your potential, I hear he does not take a shine to just anyone. I will be seeing some of your works in Petworth." Benedict blushed at the compliment Penelope sent towards him. Anthony peered out of the corner of his eye watching his brother stutter under the praise and held back a laugh. Never before had he seen his brother like this and it was all because of Penelope. She watched the man splutter but followed along with Anthony as he gestured towards the informal sitting room, the multiple guest rooms, and the nursey. They stopped at the end of the hall next to a window. She glanced out to see the two youngest running around while Francesca and Eloise sat under a tree reading under a sunset sky.

"The last floor is mostly storage and servant quarters. I can show you the stables tomorrow if you would like." Penelope turned and shook her head.

"No, I am sure I can find that one on my own." Penelope said with a smirk pointing out the window just past the other Bridgerton children and just down a path to see a large stable. Benedict barked out a laugh while Anthony just sent her a small nod. They watched out the window as Gregory chased Hyacinth around the tree before Eloise stuck her foot out and tripped the boy. Penelope shook her head at her best friend's antics as a someone cleared their throat behind them. They turned to see a maid looking at them with a confused smile.

"Lady Bridgerton says it's time for dinner." As the group made their way down to the dinning room and came face to face with Violet, who was wearing a small smirk and her eyes were twinkling with delight. The three shared a look not sure what she could be scheming about but decided to not mention it at the moment.

It took all of two days before the Bridgerton children descend on her. She was surprised they had held out that long. It started with Eloise pulling her to the library to show her the new set of books Anthony had allowed her to get. Penelope was sure it was a start of a bribe but wouldn't say anything to her friend. They spent that morning reading under the tree that Penelope had seen them under that first day. Then Hyacinth came along begging her to come play with her. That was the end of the quiet at Aubrey Hall and Penelope couldn't have been more thankful for it. It unnerved her to see the family so quiet.

Penelope was never seen without one of the siblings dragging her somewhere. She didn't mind since it did help keep her thoughts of her papa away. Right now though she was looking for a place to hide away since she was just slightly overwhelmed at the moment but didn't want to be completely alone. She wandered the halls glancing into rooms before shaking her head until she reached the informal sitting room where Benedict was seated sketching away. She gently rapped on the door frame causing Benedict to look up from his art.

"Penelope, what can I do you for?" She twisted her fingers looking around the room.

"I need somewhere..." Penelope trailed off. Benedict made a noise of understanding.

"You need somewhere away from all the noise." Penelope bit her lip.

"It is not because I do not like your family. I really do love them." Benedict chuckled and waved the girl off.

"I get it. They are sometimes overwhelming and what you just went through, it gets tough sometimes. You could be fine one second and then the next you want to get away from it all." Penelope licked her lips happy that he somehow put her feelings into words.

"I know I was like that when... the younger ones do not remember since they were so young. Do you want to stay here? I plan on drawing." Penelope nodded quickly and slipped on to one of the chairs. They sat there for the rest of the day. Benedict drew and Penelope just watched his hands sketch and just watched the day go by through the window. Later that night she found her solace on the couch in the library where she could read and think about her father.

Chapter 11: ELEVEN

Summary:

We finally get more Anthony and Pen interactions!

Notes:

I am loving all the comments! I love talking and reacting to your comments, they certainly make my day. A lot of them make me laugh as I write a response. Also we are so close to 15,000 views!!!!!

I may be throwing my writing schedule out of wack now since I have an unexpected day off and my work schedule has been changed but I promise I will keep writing. Now on to what you are really here for.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope hummed pulling the blanket closer to her person while flipping to the next page of her book. She was currently in her place of solace, the library, very late at night. She's been in here almost every night for the past two weeks. She had thought it was only going to be a few nights a week but the comfort she felt here was even better than the purple room the Bridgerton's gave her. Bri had found her fast asleep on her third night in the library and brought down a blanket for her even if the ladies maid begged her to go back to her room when she started to get tired. Her friend has woken early to make sure she was up and back in her room before anyone woke for the morning. It's becoming a routine for the two and no one knew that she was hardly in her room.

A few nights later found Penelope slipping out of her room once she was sure everyone had retired for the night. She used the servant stairs with a single candle lighting her way until she came to the library door which was ajar enough to let her slip through.

Anthony huffed dropping the ledger on the table and rested his head in his hands. He had read this piece of paper multiple times and the numbers were still running together. He ruffled his hair before sitting back in his chair. He needed to get through at least three more documents before he could go to bed and feel productive. He could do them during the day but with his family running around it was harder to do. He glanced down at his father's pocket watch and tapped on it. Anthony then remembered what his father would do.

He gathered up his work along with his quill knowing where he was going had some ink in the drawers. He quickly lit a candle and left the study. He walked down the hall and into the library with only the thought of a change of scenery. His father would tell him that, anytime he found the man in random spots through out the house. He went over to the desk and started to set up but before he could even set the documents down an extra light startled him. The documents fell and scattered on the floor. Anthony was not expecting anyone up so he turned to see a equally surprised Penelope. They both scrambled to the ground picking up the pieces of paper. Anthony would have to straighten them back out later.

"I am so sorry." Penelope apologized over and over while picking up the paper. Anthony tried to calm the girl but nothing seemed to register to the her. Once all the documents are cleaned up and placed on the desk, Anthony straightens.

"Miss Featherington, what are you doing down here so..." Anthony asked turning around only to see the girl has fled.

"Late." He finished in a whisper. All that's left from this late night encounter was the still lit candle on the coffee table. He looked around noticing a few things he didn't have time to see earlier. A blanket was folded neatly over the back of the couch. A few books stacked on the end table, one book in particular had a small sheet of paper sticking out of the middle. Another candle sat on the other side of the coffee table that was slready melted half way. All he could think was that Penelope must come down sometimes to read away drom prying eyes and then he wondered hou often she was down here. Anthony looked back at the desk and shook his head. He wouldn't be able to finish this tonight and went up to bed.

Penelope had avoid the library and the Viscount for the past three days. She was embarrassed that she had scared Lord Bridgerton the other night, she didn't even know he was there. During breakfast she sat by Gregory and she could feel the man's eyes burning into the side of her face but she made sure not to turn in the direction of the head of the table. She then promised the two youngest she would show them a new game after they did their school work.

Anthony sat in his usual spot, elbows on the table and his fingers interlocked with his head resting on them. He couldn't help but turn his gaze on the redhead. He knew she was advoiding him and the library. How did he know she was advoiding the library too? He had sat in the library for the past two nights waiting for her to appear but she never did.

"You are staring again, brother." Anthony's attention moved on to his brother. Benedict stuffed a piece of toast into his mouth watching him. Anthony's gaze turned back to the redhead who was being pulled out by Eloise. He thought she was looking tired again.

"Why have you been staring?" Benedict questioned. Anthony though on that for a moment.

"I have questions." And he needed answers. The only one who had those answers was the girl. Benedict raised a brow not liking the answer but knew that was all he would get out of his brother. As Anthony finished his breakfast, he decided tonight would be the last night he would wait for the girl in the library before he would leave it be for now.

Penelope need to go back, she wanted that quiet time she had found in the library. She had fun with everyone once she taught Gregory, Hyacinth and Francesca the cup game. Francesca picked up on it the quickest since she was musically inclined but the other two picked it up fast too. After that they spent hours trying to master it so they could make it around the circle five times without messing up.

Eloise had gotten tired of the loud noise early on and had moved to her own bedroom. Violet had stopped by wondering what the racket was and left with a smile listening to the giggles. They were also visited by the two eldest, Benedict stayed and cheered them on while also booing when someone messed up. Anthony took this opportunity to go for a ride since everyone seemed to be distracted.

Now, Penelope was tired of hiding behind her smile all day and she needed her safe space to be herself. She waited until far into the night before she took the all to familar path down to the library. The door was open like it usually was and she ventured in using the candle to check around her. She didn't see any other lit candles or see anyone lurking around so she sat her candle on the table before pulling the blanket around her. She then picked up the book with the paper bookmark and leaned over plucking the lit candle to light the other on the table.

Anthony had shown up again that night. He had gotten a few documents done but couldn't finish since he was waiting for Miss Featherington to appear. The longer he sat there and the farther in the night it got the more he thought of leaving since it seemed she wasn't going to show. With a sigh he gathered up his materials and snuffed out his candle taking a few minutes to adjust to the dark. That is when he heard the light footsteps outside the door so he moved to sit in the desk chair waiting with bated breath. A light flickered as the girl in question wandered in checking around with the candle before she settled into the couch. When she lit the other candle he made his prescene known by softly clearing his throat. Penelope gasped dropping her book on her lap leaning forward seeing a vague black outline sitting behind the desk.

"Miss Featherington." Anthony greeted. Penelope gripped her chest willing her heart to slow from the fright.

"Lord Bridgerton." She responded back as he relit the candle on the desk bring his features to light. Penelope twisted the blanket on her lap.

"How long..."

"I am sorr..." The both of them started but stopped realizing they were interrupting the other. Anthony being the gentleman he was motioned for her to continue.

"Please continue Miss Featherington." Penelope licked her lips.

"I am sorry. I did not realize someone was here. I can leave if you like?" Anthony shook his head.

"Please do not, least of all on my account. The library's a free space." Penelope nodded loosening her grip on the blanket. She wasn't sure what she should do since she was sure that this was most improper should anyone find them.

"How long have you been coming down here?" Anthony asked watching her. She gazed at the man before looking over his shoulder.

"Since the second day here." Anthony hummed leaning back in the chair.

"Does anyone know you come down here?" Penelope did not want to answer since it might get Bri in trouble.

"You do not have to answer. I am sure someone knows because even I do not know where the staff keeps the blankets." Penelope grimaced realizing that the blanket had ratted her out.

"I would like to apologize on my part. I did not mean to scare you from the library the other night. Had I known you were here I would have looked for another place to work." Penelope tilted her head glancing down at the desk that had a stack of papers on it. She looked up to see Anthony staring at her.

"You have nothing to apologize for. It is your house, you should be able to go where you please." Anthony narrowed his eyes at her.

"And you are a guest. I know you know of the places you are allowed and not. This is most certianly one of the places you are allowed without any permission." Penelope was in uncharted terroitories with the Viscount. He wasn't taking her apologies the way he was supposed to and now he was turning it on her. Anthony couldn't understand why the girl was making this so hard.

"Why are you working in here?" Penelope blurted out. She wasn't sure what she wanted to say but this was not it even if the question was bouncing around in her head since the run in. Anthony scratched the back of his neck turning his head from the redhead.

"The study... My father's study was a bit... suffocating." She watched the man stumble through his thoughts but did not move her gaze off of him. Anthony wasn't sure why he was explaining to her instead of just saying he wanted a change in scenery.

"I needed a new place to work. My father... sometimes he would be in different rooms when I went looking for him. He... he would say 'I just needed a change in scenery' and I thought... maybe that is what I needed too." Penelope smiled slightly settling into the couch much more relaxed than she had been. Seeing the great Viscount Anthony Bridgerton stumble and mumble through his explanion made him even more human than she was expecting. She knew that he was flawed and he was more than just his title but this just proved to her that he just like her.

"My father hated taking work out of the study." Anthony peered at the girl from the corner of his eye at her comment.

"He was under the notion that the reason he had a study was to work in there because why have one if you do your work elsewhere." Anthony turned back towards her at that. Penelope let out a harsh laugh.

"I wish he had kept it all in the study like he said." Anthony wasn't sure what the girl meant but he could tell she was finished with the conversation.

"My apologies. If you do not mind, I am going to finish this chapter I have been trying to read for the past week. I will be out of you hair after that." Anthony bit his lip looking down at the sheets of paper and back at the girl.

"As long as you do not mind me finishing my work." Penelope shook her head distracted. Anthony turned his attention back to his work.

An hour later found Anthony reading the last document in his stack only for him to pause. He hasn't heard a page turning in quite awhile. He looked up to see Penelope fast asleep with her head resting on her chest and her book laying limp in her hands. Anthony read the last of his document and signed it before moving over to the girl. Somehow the blanket had ended up on the floor, so he picked it up drapping it over his arm. He took the book from her hands and used her bookmark to mark the page sitting it on the side table. He then gently manovered the redhead to lay across the couch and laid the blanket over her. He sighed grabbing his work and snuffing out all three candles leaving the girl to sleep.

The next few days had Anthony working in his study but his mind kept going back to the small redhead curled up on the couch reading her book. He had walked by the library every night to see the girl in the same spot. He wasn't sure why he kept going to check for her but it was like his feet had a mind of their own. Sighing, Anthony dropped his quill and rubbed his eyes. He's going to have to find another spot to work because the study wasn't helping.

He bit his lip while bouncing his leg thinking before he jumped up and quickly packed up his work. He rushed off to the formal sitting room and unloaded his stuff only for him to sit there for an hour without processing a single word of the document in front of him. He groaned letting his head fall back onto the chair and figured that he was going to have to go back into the library even if he didn't really want to bother the girl that had taken up residence in the room.

He once again packed up and wandered down to the library. The door was open with it's sole occupant gone in a new fantasy world. He rapped on the door softly trying not to startle the girl. She whipped around to face the door. Penelope bit back a grin seeing Anthony standing at the door sheepishly with his documents clutched to his chest. She's never seen the man so unsure of himself before and she didn't like seeing the man like that.

"Come in, I am in need of some company." Penelope told him softly even if they both knew she was lying about her need.

Anthony sent her a half smile before rushing over to the desk. Penelope stood up from the couch bringing the blanket with her and brought over the candle to light the one on the desk. He nodded his thanks and pulled out the ink from the drawer. She tightened the blanket before retaking her spot on the couch and opening her book yet again.

Before she could get sucked back in, she was distracted by mumbling. She tilted her head listening to the sound then turned to see Anthony with his brows furrowed and his lips moving. She had to hold back a laugh, never would she had expected Anthony to mutter under his breath while he worked. She watched his facial expressions change many times as he read through the page. Anthony glanced up as a giggle escaped the girl.

"Miss Featherington?" Penelope blushed knowing she let a laugh slip from her mouth.

"Lord Bridgerton?" She questioned him back hoping to distract him from her lapse. Anthony raised a brow as his title fell from the girl's lips.

"What ever is so funny?" Penelope brushed a stray curl away from her face. Anthony followed the hand and couldn't help but noticed how pretty her hair was when it was loose. She cleared her throat pulling him away from her hair and gave himself a mental shake because this was the girl that he's known since her childhood and she was his little sister's best friend.

"Do you know you talk to yourself when you work?" Anthony blinked at her and shook his head slowly.

"I do nothing of the sort." Penelope snorted at the indignant tone of his. She then repeated what she had heard from the man and ended it with a click of her tongue.

"No, you certainly do not talk to yourself." She told him with a small sarcastic shake of her head. Anthony gawked at the audacity of the girl in front of him. She had never done something like... then shook his head because she has done things like this before. Ever since she had told him about Miss Thompson and Colin, she's been different, speaking out or adding a small quip here or there. She was starting to grow into herself, he realized.

"Apologies, my lord. I should have thought before I spoke." Anthony waved off the apology.

"Nothing to be sorry about. You were just proving to me that I was wrong." He placed the sheet of paper back onto his pile. He tapped the desk with the reminder of Colin, he realized he didn't get to thank the girl in front of him for keeping his family from scandal.

"Miss Featherington." Penelope looked up from where she was watching the man's fingers tap to his face. It was very unfair that all of the Bridgerton men were handsome because their faces were very distracting when they were trying to talk to you face to face.

"Lord Bridgerton." Anthony frowned and figured that should be remedy also.

"You may call me Anthony in private and around family. It seems everyone else is on a first name basis, other than me." Anthony tacked on. Penelope pursed her lips with a single nod.

"Anthony, you may call me Penelope since everyone else calls me by my first name. It only seems fair." She quipped back. Anthony bit back a smile at the quick wit the girl is becoming comfortable with.

"I would like to give you my thanks."

"Pardon?" Penelope squeaked out staring at the man with a blank stare. She wasn't sure what he was thanking her for. Anthony thought she looked adorable when she was confused.

"You prevented quite the scandal with my family. If you did not come to speak with me and ultimately Colin, we would have been at the height of a scandal. Not only would Colin have been tricked into a marriage and taking care of child that wasn't his but my family would have been affected by that. So, thank you very much Penelope." Penelope sniffled and lifted her chin avioding eye contact with Anthony. She wasn't planning on being thanked again for this, Colin had thanked her for telling the truth and Benedict had thanked her for everything that had happened. Now, she was being thanked by the Viscount himself.

"I had known you were speaking up even though it did hurt your family's reputation, but Daphne really drilled into my head that it could have been worse on you had it came out that you had told." Penelope glanced over when she heard his voice break. He hated that it took his sister to make him think about the risk Penelope had put herself in just to protect his family.

"Thank you, Penelope." He told her when he finally caught her eye. Penelope closed her book and placed it on the table. She needed to step away, so she stood up leaving the blanket on the couch.

"You are welcome. I love your family and could not let my family's lies hurt the people I care about. Now, if you would excuse me." Without waiting for a response she left the room and back up to hers. It was a bit too much for her at the moment. Anthony groaned and scrubbed his face because he still managed to run the girl off... again.

The next night found Anthony at the desk in the library. He was most definitely in uncharted territories now since he wasn't sure if this was the right thing to do. He just hoped he would not make the girl uncomfortable with his presence yet again. The door cracked open to show Penelope glowing in the candle light. Her eyes immediately found him and she sent a hesitant smile which he copied.

"Anthony." He gave her a slight nod.

"Penelope." She walked slowly to the couch before taking a seat with her body turned towards him.

"I feel bad for rushing out last night." Anthony watched as the girl shook with nerves or something he wasn't sure he could identify. He wasn't sure if he should speak up or let her continue.

"Benedict and Col both thanked me but I was not expecting you to do so." Penelope bit the inside of her cheek trying to figure out how to put her thoughts into words that made sense. Anthony did not know that either of his brother's said anything to the girl but was happy that they did.

"We were just talking about our fathers' when you thanked me. I was unprepared for the gratitude I could hear in your voice." Anthony slowly got what the girl was trying to say because he did the same thing.

"I understand." Penelope glanced over at the man and could see that he did understand. She always forgot that this man in front of her knows exactly what she was going through. They may have had different types of fathers but you still lost a father.

"I was overwhelmed." Anthony nodded getting the feeling she had to explain even if he had got what she was saying. With that last thing neither of them talked as they started doing their own thing. Both of them had similar thoughts of enjoying the company even if they weren't speaking to each other.

Notes:

Oh and I apologize for the last part, I had hit a writers block last night and that was the best I could get.

Chapter 12: TWELVE

Summary:

At long last! We may be getting a bit more Penthony action... but who really knows.

Notes:

I am so sorry for the delay! I will try to get back to posting more regularly. Honestly I hope this chapter does it's self justice for the wait you all had to do. I was blind sided being offer a manager position at my work and while also being sick on top of that, didn't have much brain power to spare. THEN SEASON THREE CAME OUT AND MY BRAIN TURNED TO MUSH!!!!!! Can we talk about how good that was and they are horribly repulsive for making us wait for the other half. "They travel in packs." Hahahaha also we got so much subby Benedict. And the fact they kept the line from the book at the end!!!!!! Sorry for the rant I will let you get to the story.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope smiled as she heard the familiar sound of paper shuffling. She had to admit to herself she enjoyed having someone around even if they never talked. It made her feel less lonely as she did her own thing. She peeked out of the corner of her eye to see Anthony hunched over his work which was becoming a common scene she's observed as the night grew. She went back to her new book until her stomach growled making her blush and mentally scolding it.

Anthony's head shot up at the noise. He knew that it was Penelope's stomach since it wasn't the first time its happened. He had noticed it happening more and more as the nights went on. He turned his head to see her arm curled around her stomach and as she started to look up, he swiftly moved his head back down to his work. He would have to fix that.

The next night found Anthony making a detour after dinner. Benedict watched as his brother went in the opposite direction than the study which pique his curiosity. He followed his older brother to the kitchen once he peeked in he could see his brother talking to their cook, Beatrice and a maid, the maid their mother turned into Penelope's ladies maid if he remembered correctly. Benedict watched as secretive smiles inched there way on to both servants' faces before they nodded at his brother. Anthony jerked his head in a form of a nod and left out the other entrance.

Bri shifted slightly to catch the dark head of someone hiding into the doorway. She nudged Beatrice beside her jutting her chin towards the door. The cook squinted before putting her glasses on and rolled her eyes.

"Mister Benedict." Beatrice scolded causing Benedict's face to peer back at them from the door frame. The cook placed her hands on her hips and tapped her foot.

"What would your mother say about spying?"

"Miss Bea!" Benedict sent the older woman a charming smile, which did nothing to impress her. Bri thought it was a brilliant smile and now knew that if the rest of the family had that same smile how they became so sought after.

"Young man, it seems you have forgotten that I was here when your father was barely out of leading strings." Benedict did forget but wouldn't say anything about that. He didn't plan on getting caught spying on his brother, again.

"Do you need anything Mister Benedict?" The woman questioned. Benedict shook his head.

"I do not. I just wanted to tell you dinner was delicious." Beatrice raised a brow not believing a word because she knows dinner was not one of his favorites.

"Truly? Here for seconds then?" She questioned making Benedict shake his head quickly. He could barely stand his first helping.

"No ma'am. Good night." And with that the man bolted from the kitchen. Bri snorted turning to the older lady.

"What was that?" Beatrice sighed patting the young girl's shoulder and starting on what Master Anthony requested from her.

"Welcome to the Bridgerton Madhouse." Bri stared at the cook who shrugged her shoulders.

"Your first two years was mostly uneventful which I was surprised to have. Now, the Bridgertons are about to make up for lost time." Beatrice had her fair share of Bridgerton brand of chaos since she was hired by the late Viscount. Then he was married and started popping out kids, being part of the Bridgerton staff was not for the faint of heart. Bri made a strangled groan but was then remembered she just had Penelope.

"I'm thankful that all I have is Penelope." Beatrice made a condescending hum making Bri's spirit plummet.

"What?" Beatrice shrugged.

"That girl grew up with all of them." Bri was getting a sinking feeling in her belly. The cook pointed a knife at her.

"Let us not forget who Master Anthony asked this for." Bri groaned knowing she was stuck right in the middle of the whole thing. Beatrice just laughed loudly.

Later that night found Penelope in her spot on the couch but Anthony was no where to be seen. It was unlike the man to be late, for the past week he'd been here before her. She was about to get up to go find the man when the door swung open. In the doorway stood Anthony with a shiny silver tray than his normal stack of work. Penelope raised a brow at the tray as it was placed on the coffee table.

"What is this?" Penelope asked tapping the lid. Anthony shrugged and pulled the desk chair over to sit across from her. He pulled the lid off with a ease and sat it on the opposite side. The tray had an assortment of cheese and meats along with crackers. Penelope sat up straighter to see a better view of the tray and scrunched up her face not understanding why he had a snack. Anthony hid a chuckle at the look she was giving the tray.

"I was starting to feel a bit peckish these past few nights." Penelope tilted her head towards the man, not truly believing his words.

Anthony bent over and plucked a piece of cheese from the platter leaning back in his chair. He popped the cheese in his mouth eyeing Penelope.

Penelope pursed her lips and was about to ignore the food before her stomach made its self known. She could see Anthony's raised brow and now she knew she couldn't hide that she was not hungry. Huffing, the girl grabbed a cracker and stacked some meat and cheese on it and bit a piece off. Anthony reached back over and picked up more with a smug grin. Penelope narrowed her eyes when she noticed the grin.

"No work tonight?" She asked hoping to remove that stupid grin from the man's face. Anthony hummed as he finished the food in his mouth.

"I thought tonight I may join you instead." He needed a break from all the papers he was going through. Usually, he was a bit slower in his work but he wanted to stay in the library and that was the only way he could think of at the moment. Penelope cocked her head to the side not expecting that answer.

"In reading?" Anthony made a noise in agreement as he grabbed more food. Penelope shrugged a shoulder.

"What will you read?" Anthony paused a cracker halfway in his mouth. He wasn't sure what to read, it has been a while since he has read for pleasure. Penelope smiled gleefully at the dumbfounded expression on the man's face.

"It has been quite sometime since I read for pleasure." Penelope hummed and stood up walking over to the bookshelves.

"What is your favorite genre?" Penelope asked looking through the shelves. She was thinking to herself about what she though Anthony would like, he didn't seem like a person that would like philosophy but she didn't want to assume. Anthony chuckled as he heard the quiet mutter making Penelope pause for a second before continuing her perusing.

"Philosophy is not my favorite, you are correct. I hated every last second of it when we got to it in my literature course." Penelope's hand froze on a book before she whipped around to stare at the man. Anthony was sitting on the chair, his legs stretched and crossed out in front of him and his arms crossed loosely on his chest, looking like he did not just divulged a piece of himself to Penelope. She blinked owlishly at the man trying to think of a respond.

"Literature course?" She squeaked out. Anthony shrugged leaning his head on the back of the chair.

"It was one of my majors other than History." Anthony was surprised by the bewildered look on the girl's face. Anthony did not strike her as the history or literature sort.

"Did you not know?" Penelope shook her head rapidly. She did not know he majored in either of those, she had assumed like most first born sons it would be business or law. Anthony smiled sadly at the redhead.

"Father let me pick my own majors, as long as I took the classes needed for my role when he..." Anthony trailed off. Penelope sent him an understanding smile. Anthony rolled his shoulders and cleared his throat.

"Anyways, I took my classes that was needed for a Viscount even though I wanted to pull my hair out in my Arithmetic course." He shot Penelope a grin.

"I appreciate most literature even if I can not stand Philosophy." Penelope hummed not taking her eyes off the man because she needed to pay attention in cause he spilled even more hidden secrets to her. Anthony stared at the girl, who was staring at him, and he wasn't sure why she was.

While they were in their staring contest Penelope thought about what she had learned of Anthony the last two and a half weeks that they had shared the library. The man muttered while he worked; he ruffled his hair when he was stressed or confused; he tapped his foot while distracted; he still uses his father's advice; and now she learned he majored in History and Literature. She was not expecting to learn any of this in such little time or even at all. Anthony was starting to worry about the girl as she had not blinked in quite sometime so, with him being the gentleman, he looked away first.

"You can pick the book out for me. I trust your judgment." Penelope blinked rapidly trying to give moisture back to her eyes as his voice knocked her from her thoughts. Penelope glanced down at the book her hand was still on "Absentee" and pulled it from the shelf. She walked back over to the couch holding out the book.

"It is a relatively new book, and you might enjoy it." She shot him a sheepish grin. Anthony looked down at the book he had just taken from her.

"Have you read it?" Penelope nodded pulling her legs up and tucking them under her. Anthony watched the movement before darting his eyes way with his heart pounding. He should not be looking at the girl like he was about to do, she was his little sister's best friend and her age to boot.

"It is about a young lord whose mother attempts to buy her way into high society and his father is in debt because of his wife. The young lord goes to Ireland to see the country but when he returns he has to help pay off his father's debts." Penelope described the book to him and he couldn't help but see a similarity to the Featherington family. They spent the rest of the night eating the snack tray and reading their books.

Penelope hummed as she walked down the path towards the stables. She stopped for a second as the sun broke through the clouds and tilted her head up towards the beam. She loved the feeling of the warmth spreading through her body. She then continued on her way. The red head was unaware that she had an audience gazing at her from the second floor window.

Anthony, Benedict and Gregory had spotted Penelope out the window. All of them had been looking for her since she had not shown up at lunch. They couldn't tear their eyes from the spot the red head was standing. She had looked like a fae standing there in a darker green day dress and the way the sun had reflected off her hair making it look as if it were made of fire. Benedict eyes lit up as he patted his brothers' shoulder before running off with a shout of excitement. Gregory's head followed his retreating brother before sending a questioning look to his eldest brother.

"I am not going to question what is going through his head." Gregory huffed turning back to watch his Penelope make it to the stables. He tilted his head as he watched the woman stop just outside the doors and turn her head to the left. He scooted closer to the glass almost squishing his face to it trying to see what Penelope was staring at.

Anthony raised a brow at his brother and followed his gaze out. He had found what the youngest had seen but with one added difference. A stable man was drawing closer to the girl, a bale of hay in his hands and his sleeves drawn up with his shirt unbuttoned. Anthony let out a low growl before turning sharply leaving Gregory baffled before he raced after his brother. He was sure Anthony would be more entertaining than Benedict would be.

Penelope unaware that anything was happening watched as Buck came closer. She hadn't seen the man since he had brought her to Aubrey Hall but now she actually had a good view of the man. He did look quite similar to his sister but with blonder hair and tanner skin, possibly due to his work outside, but his brown eyes sparkled like Bri's did. She had to be honest with herself that he looked attractive especially with that bright smile when he saw her in the doorway.

"Miss Featherington!" Penelope grinned and waved at him.

"Mister Buck, how are you?" The man sat the bale of hay down giving her a full view of him. Her eyes drifted from the naked forearms to the unbuttoned three buttons on his shirt that showed a peek of his tanned chest and traced the sweat backwards up his neck.

"I'm doing fine. We have a pregnant mare that looks ready to pop." Buck said pulling the red head's gaze back to his face. Penelope blushed at her gawking of the man in front of her.

"Truly?" The only time she was around horses other than the races that her father took her to, were the ones at her great aunt's place. Buck chuckled at her excited tone.

"Yup. It's the Duchess of Hastings' mare." Penelope turned towards the stables and peered in but saw none of the horses. Buck chuckled again before lifting the bale back up.

"I was actually bringing this to her now, if you'd like to come?" Penelope nodded frantically making Buck grin at the eagerness of the young woman. He jutted his head into the stable.

"Come on then." Penelope followed the man to the third stable and unlocked the door placing the bale just inside. He held his hand out to the red head with a gentle smile.

"Try to be quiet. She startles easily now." Penelope gripped his hand as he lead her inside to see a beautiful grey mare with a black mane. She could see what Buck meant when he said about to pop as her stomach was protruding on both sides. Buck gently tugged her hand to come closer.

"Miss Featherington, this is Aspen." Penelope couldn't tear her gaze from the horse that had turned towards the two humans when she heard her name. Buck pulled her hand towards the nose of the horse and spread her fingers so that they were straight.

Anthony was making his way to the stables as he glared at the stable hand bringing Penelope inside. He was only a few feet from the building. Anthony stormed in but tried to stay as quiet as he could since he could see the door to Aspen's was open. He peeked into the stable to see the man's hand spreading Penelope's hand open. Anthony sucked on his teeth with his arms crossed over his chest and watched the two closely since he didn't want to startle the horse into hurting any of them. Gregory panted as he finally got the chance to catch his breath because he had to keep up with his brother's long strides. He glance up to see Anthony's set in a glare and followed his gaze to Penelope and Buck.

Penelope looked up at Buck with her brows drawn together. Buck let go of her hand and took a slight step back. She then felt a hot breath on her hand making her whip her head back around to see Aspen sniffing her hand. Penelope was trying to herself still but it was getting hard to keep herself from bouncing in her spot when Aspen placed her nose on her hand. The horse than nudged her hand which made Penelope start to pet her nose.

Buck smiled before a creak grabbed his attention and he looked up to see Viscount Bridgerton glaring at him. Buck gulped and took a bigger step back from the girl. Penelope saw Buck step back and turned towards the door to see the reason the man step back. Anthony was looking nothing like the man she was getting to know in the library, he was in full Viscount mode. Penelope sent Anthony a blinding smile and hoped it didn't show how nervous she actually was. Gregory peered out from behind his brother and blushed at the smile.

"Anthony." She whispered drawing the man's attention. It worked as Anthony blinked at the smile the young lady was sending him. It made his heart skip a beat even if he could see her hand shake with nerves.

"Aspen is beautiful. I do not doubt why she was Daphne's." Anthony's eyes flickered to Buck, who bowed his head and scurried out of the stable. Penelope watched Buck's retreating form with a puzzle expression.

"Aspen was the foal of Mother's mare. She was the last one Father..." Anthony shook his head while Penelope and Gregory stared at the man. Gregory was surprised by the information his brother brought up about Father since he knew next to nothing about the man while Penelope stepped away from the horse, placing her hand on Anthony's fore arm but Anthony ripped his arm away. Penelope snatched her hand back feeling like she was burnt. Gregory glanced between the two before slowly back up and darting back to the house because even though he was ten and two he could feel the start of tension between the two.

"Anthony, what is wrong?" Penelope questioned.

Anthony motioned to her to leave the stable and she nodded stepping out. She turned to see Anthony pulling apart the hay and laying it out for the mare. Her heart skipped a beat as he kissed the horse's head and a scratch behind the ears before he left closing the door. He jerked his head towards the door waiting for the girl to start walking. Penelope bowed her head and started her journey towards the hall. Anthony took a deep breath and followed after her.

Penelope could feel the anger seeping out of Anthony and she had no clue why he was angry at her but she knew she didn't like it. She doesn't think she did anything to the man to make him angry with her. Anthony was just as unsure as Penelope to why he was so angry, he knew he didn't like that the stable hand was alone with Penelope. He watched as the girl turn her head again looking like she wanted to say something but would turn away again. He stared at the back of her head trying to figure things out. He was responsible for her while she was in his care. He nodded his head, nothing more than that responsibility for her. Penelope could feel his stare on the back of her head and she had enough of it.

"What is wrong?!" She yelled as she whipped around towards the man. Anthony stumbled to a stop at the sudden pause and yell.

"Nothing is wrong, Miss Featherington." Penelope raised a brow at the title.

"It is Miss Featherington now, my lord?" Penelope snarked back hating Anthony's regression. Anthony huffed and started walking forward. Only to be stopped by Penelope darting in front of him. If she wasn't so confused and angry with him she would have stopped to think before continuing this fight with the man hosting her for a few more weeks.

"You can not tell me that there is nothing wrong, when you scared Buck away with all the glaring you were doing." Anthony clenched his jaw at the sound of the man's name coming out of her mouth with such ease. Penelope glared at the tall man in front of her with her arms crossed over her chest. Anthony shook his head and started to open his mouth.

"You better not tell me it was nothing. Just tell me why." Anthony looked down to see the glare that was aimed at him and thought she looked like a disgruntled kitten. He could tell she hadn't had a whole lot of practice with her glare. He glanced up to see clouds rolling in and sighed.

"You were unchaperoned with a man." Penelope raised her brow at what she thought was a stupid answer.

"That is your only answer?" Anthony did not want to tell the girl he was unsure why he was upset.

"Yes, he was not dressed appropriately." Penelope thought back to her perusing of Buck and blushed. Anthony watched the blush on her cheeks darken.

"You are my responsibility until you are back with your mother. What just happened was improper." He pressed out hoping to get the girl's attention back. Penelope glanced back at him and nodded her head sagely.

"I see. I apologize for not thinking of that in the first place." She could see where he was coming from because if they were around the ton this could have caused a lot of problems for her.

"Let us get inside before the storm comes in." Penelope spoke looking up at the growing grey clouds. Anthony sighed in relief realizing Penelope had dropped the topic. He fell into step with the small girl making his steps half ones. They were almost to the hall when the rain came crashing down on them. Anthony quickly took off his coat and held it above his head.

"Ducky." Anthony commanded pulling Penelope closer to him and re-adjusting the coat over them. Penelope was startled by the nickname that had slipped from the man's lips without his knowledge.

They ran into the hall and closed the door as the thunder crashed. Anthony dropped his coat making it drop with a wet thud and he turned to Penelope only to see her giggling behind her hand. She was drenched her hair had gone flat and limp against her head and her dress was now sticking to her like a second skin showing off the curves he's never seen on her before. Shaking away those thoughts, he pulled his eyes quickly to hers which were sparkling with mirth.

"Why are you giggling?" Penelope let out another round of giggles. He was dripping wet, his hair like hers had fallen limp and was plastered to his head.

"We look like drowned rats." She snickered out as Anthony ruffled his hair which started even more giggles. His hair was now sticking up at odd angles. Anthony started chuckling as Penelope's giggles turned contagious. He pulled on the now straight lock of Penelope's.

"We look better than rats." Anthony got out while they stood there looking and laughing at each other.

Unbeknownst to the pair two people had heard the laughter and had come to investigate the noise. Benedict and Violet stood in the door way taking in the dripping pair. Violet couldn't help the beaming smile that crawled across her face at the fact that her oldest was laughing and looking relaxed. With Penelope she added to her thoughts making her smile even brighter. Benedict leaned against the door frame seeing a side of his brother he hadn't seen in quite a long time. It seems that it was thanks to Penelope that he is like this and Benedict was glad to see glimpses of the carefree Anthony back. They watched as the two shivered which snapped both out of their giddiness.

"You are cold. I will call a maid to start a warm bath for you."

"You must be freezing."

Their two watchers smiled as they heard the two talking over each other before Penelope stepped forward and started to rubbed her hands over Anthony's arms trying to give him warmth. Anthony stared down at the girl not knowing what to do with the fact someone was worrying over him being cold. Penelope peered up through her lashes making Anthony swallow before he took a step back.

"Fetching a maid." The two darted out of the doorway as Anthony rushed out while mumbling under his breath. The two peeked back around to see Penelope froze to her spot not even turning her head to follow the retreating man. Benedict shared a glance with his mother unable to stop his mind from racing at what he just witnessed. Violet grabbed her son's arm and walked the other direction from her oldest.

"Mother." Was all Benedict to get out. Violet laughed pulling him with her to the dinning room. Violet sighed happily while Benedict pulled up a chair and slumped into it.

"Did we just..." Violet patted her son's hand.

"There there dear." Benedict huffed letting his head fall to the table. Penelope and his brother was so close he was surprised his mother said nothing about it.

"There is hope yet for making Penelope official." With that Violet practically skipped out of the room. Benedict pouted knowing drama was about to start stirring and he was going to be dragged into it yet again.

That night Penelope made her way to the library. Anthony was already in his new seat stretched out, reading from a book. Penelope smiled happily and took her seat and went through her normal ritual before settling into the couch. Anthony peered over his book once he heard the girl sigh only to be caught as she looked over at him.

"I talked to Buck after dinner." Penelope raised her brow not thinking he would do that after what happened today.

"I apologized and explained myself to him." Penelope beamed at him which brought a smile to his face.

"He explained how excited you were about Aspen. He let me know that any day we can expect a new foal." He watched as she leaned forward.

"I made sure to tell him to let me know once she has it. That way I can take you to see it and give it a name." He could see her vibrating in her chair, so he opened his arms as she threw herself at him. It was awkward while still in the chair and both of them weren't very good at hugs but it still felt nice. Penelope scampered back to her seat a few seconds later.

"Thank you!"

Notes:

Two things!

One: I am trying to figure out when she should tell Anthony of being Lady Whistledown ... I have something but I am unsure if that would be good

Two: I tried to find a book to give to Anthony but I am not into literature like that so it was stressful trying to find it. So if it is inaccurate I apologize but I might through some early 1900 one in there to just so I have more in there, but if you have book recs so I can mention them, it would be greatly appreciated

Chapter 13: THIRTEEN

Summary:

These are the last few days in Aubrey Hall- what things will our favorites get into

Notes:

Apologies for the last bit it was rushed because it is almost 2a.m. here. I tried but man am I tired, have fun with the longest chapter I've written on this story.

Chapter Text

"Penelope."

"Penelope." Anthony called out peering into the informal sitting room. He had already been to the dining room, the study, and the library and couldn't find the girl. He frowned wandering further down the hall and gently knocking on the door of said girl's room.

"Penelope?" He questioned knocking once more but got no reply. Sighing, he traveled to the stairs once more only to run into Benedict and Hyacinth. Benedict raised a brow while Hyacinth hurried over to Anthony.

"Such a heavy sigh brother." Benedict commented. Anthony pursed his lips and pulled Hyacinth into a side hug.

"Have either of you seen Penelope?" Hyacinth grinned leaning almost nose to nose with her brother.

"Oh, it is Penelope now?" She teased.

Hyacinth has noticed things about two of her favorite people in these last few months. She's not sure if anyone else has noticed but she certainly has. Anthony has been less uptight around the family and he seems to gravitate towards Penelope when she is around. Just the other day Penelope started a game and asked if Anthony would join, which to almost everyone's surprise he did but took a seat right next to Penelope. She's also observed that when either of the two would talk the other would focus their whole attention on them.

"Well, I couldn't go around all summer calling her Miss Featherington." Both siblings made condescending humming noises.

"I believe you." Benedict sassed while patting his shoulder. Anthony glared at the both of them.

"Have either of you seen Penelope? Yes or no." Hyacinth shook her head gripping on to Anthony's arm. Benedict shook his head following Anthony back downstairs.

"Why are you looking for her, brother?" Hyacinth asked. Anthony sighed peeking his head into the formal sitting room only for it to be void of life.

"I need to find her so she can go see the new foal. I promised her." Benedict could only stare at his brother. While he knew Anthony keeps his promises, his brother was a hard ass when it came to the horses on the property. Last time they had a foal Anthony told everyone not to bother the baby or they would have chores to do.

"Can I go see the baby?" Hyacinth begged. Anthony looked over to see her puppy eyes staring at him but he just shook his head.

"Later. Penelope is leaving in a week so I want her to see it before she goes." Hyacinth bit her lip wanting to protest but whatever spell Penelope has over her brother was so much more fun to watch. She let go of his arm and bounced in her spot.

"I will help you find her." With that she took off yelling Penelope's name. Benedict laughed at the confused look on Anthony's face along with the actions of his youngest sister. Anthony stared at his laughing brother for a moment before heading towards the study.

"Where could she be?" He mumbled taking a peek into each room he passed. Benedict cocked his head following his brother's movements before hurrying after him.

"Have you checked the kitchen? From what I am told she likes to talk to both Miss Bea and her ladies maid." Anthony paused just outside of the conservatory. He remembers Penelope mentioning how funny the two women were when they took a break from reading. He vaguely remembers since Penelope was giggling and he couldn't take his eyes off how her face lit up when she told him of something that happened with the three of them. He also couldn't take his eyes off her bouncing bre... shaking himself out of the thought and turned the other direction. Benedict furrowed his brows seeing the slight daze on his brother's face, he had to wonder what put that look on his face.

"Right. She enjoys their conversations." Both men walked past the stairs again hearing two distinct voices hollering Penelope's name. Anthony sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose.

"She must not be inside if she can ignore the yells of Gregory and Hyacinth." Benedict glanced at his brother who looks very close to loosing his patience as he paused yet again at the foot of the stairs. Benedict was about to speak up when feet stormed down the stairs.

"Penelope!"

"There she is!" The youngest screamed, scrambling past the older two and launched themselves at the red head. Anthony breathed a sigh of relief turning to see a flushed Penelope holding on to the children. He stared at the scene and couldn't help but have a flash image of a tiny girl with dark red curls and a slightly bigger boy instead of his siblings.

"Anthony was looking for you!" Hyacinth announced breaking Anthony from his stare to see Penelope looking at him. He shouldn't be thinking like that.

"Anthony?" Penelope questioned. Anthony smirked at the red head.

"Hyacinth was right, I was looking for you." Penelope tilted her head with a small confused smile.

"Yes, I was taking a stroll with Fran and El." She told him making him close his eyes. He should have realized when he found none of the three.

"I should have known." He murmured as they caught each others eyes. All of the other siblings were surrounding the two watching them. Eloise knew something was happening with her best friend but wasn't sure what it was while Francesca watched with a secretive smile, she was enjoying watching the two dance around each other but not seeing it. Hyacinth grinned evilly as she jumped over to her brother.

"Anthony plans to take you to see the new foal!" Anthony glared at his sister for ruining his surprise but stopped when he heard her gasp.

"Aspen had her baby!" Penelope squealed bouncing on her toes. Anthony chuckled and watched the excited girl.

"She did. Would you like to go see?" Penelope nodded her head rapidly while Anthony stuck his elbow out for her to take. Penelope swiftly tucks her hand into it as they make their way out of the house.

"No fair, I wanted to go too." Was the last thing Penelope and Anthony heard as the door shut behind them.

Penelope huffed plopping herself into the couch in the library, tonight's dinner was one of the most chaotic one she's ever experienced since arriving here. Anthony chuckle at the dramatic scene he had walked in on. She sent a small glare at the man in the doorway.

"Pardon me sir, this is no laughing matter! I do not think my mind could take any more names since it is chalked full of all kinds!" Penelope said gripping her head as it fell dramatically back against the couch. Anthony still chuckled at her before taking a seat on the other side of the couch.

"I would like to apologize for my family..." Anthony trailed off thinking back to dinner before nodding his head.

"All of them. I can not believe mother started the whole thing." Penelope laughed dropping her hand and opened one eye to glance at the man.

"All of them? Are you including yourself into that apology?" Anthony grimaced pulling on his cravat before clearing his throat. He was certainly another instigator in this.

"Yes." Penelope huffed out another laugh.

"I, now know where they all get it from. Violet may have started it but you and Benedict both egged each of them on." Penelope remind him raising a sharp brow at him. Anthony bit his lip because he certainly did that along with Benedict. All his mother had done was ask the gender of the foal and what the names he had planned for it. He let it be known that he gave naming rights to Penelope and that was when Benedict put his names in the ring. Everyone went crazy with shouting out names.

"I only said I gave you naming rights." He watched her purse her rose petal lips and couldn't keep his eyes from them.

"I do not take you for a liar, Anthony Bridgerton." Anthony jerked his eyes to hers not expecting her to say that to him.

"Pardon?" Penelope smirked liking that startled look on the man in front of her.

"You are excused." She snarked at him making him frown.

"What?" Anthony was terribly confused. She sighed and took pity on the poor man.

"Do not think I did not hear some of your very own questionable names you would throw out just to get some reaction from each and every sibling." Anthony sat there staring dumbfounded at the redhead. He could not believe she had actually caught him. There were so many names and voices that he didn't think anyone would have noticed... except for, apparently, Penelope. She turned her head fully to see Anthony just staring at her.

"Hoofer, Lankey, Sir Horsington... Just to name a few." Penelope giggled out knowing there were worse names just to get a rise out of Eloise or Benedict but he didn't say them loud enough for her to hear. She only knows since Eloise and Benedict couldn't keep the disgust off their faces. Anthony cleared his throat turning from the girl before she could see his cheeks starting to heat. It was rather embarrassing to have been caught.

"I believe I was the only one to catch you, besides the couple names you through at Benedict and El just for them." Anthony rubbed the back of his neck and waited until his cheeks grew cold before turning back the grinning girl. He threw a narrowed look towards her.

"I do not think you helped by declaring a few times to leave the poor foal nameless!" Penelope let out a full belting laugh that made her whole body shake with mirth. Anthony couldn't help but smile at the laugh since he had never seen the girl laugh like this and it was all because of him. His eyes grew soft the longer she laughed it was so much different from the soft laughs or the bell like giggles she would let out.

Benedict was looking for his brother. It had been a while since they had sat down for a drink. They usually did it a few times a week for years but now it has been about a month since the last time it happened. But his brother wasn't in his study though so now he was on a wild goose chase for his wayward brother.

"Maybe he turned in for the night." Benedict murmured to himself.

He wouldn't put it past Anthony since Penelope and his brother were in the stables longer than any of them had thought and didn't come out until a few minutes before dinner. He had seen the way his brother trailed after Penelope and the dopey look on his face as he watched her gush about the foal with all his younger siblings. Anthony was absolutely smitten with the redhead and couldn't even realize it. Now, Benedict knew exactly what his mother saw when she would make those many, many remarks about Penelope. Benedict sighed and knocked on his brother's door, only to receive no answer.

"Anthony is not in there either?" A voice questioned causing Benedict to jump and see Eloise standing just a few feet behind him.

"Christ, Eloise." Eloise folded her arms over her chest and stared at him.

"He is not in there either?" Benedict tilted his head.

"Either?" Eloise shrugged motioning to her cracked door down the hall.

"Pen is not answering either. I was hoping to talk to her." Benedict frowned glancing back and forth between his sister and the two unopened doors. He was sure now that where ever Anthony was, Penelope would be with him but he wasn't sure if he should let Eloise in on that little bit.

"I will go look for Penelope. I am sure whatever conversation can hold until the morning." Eloise narrowed her eyes at her brother. She knew when she was being brushed off since her older siblings did it often enough. As much as she wanted to protest she knew Benedict knew something she didn't and if he wanted to keep it a secret, he would lead her astray every time. If it was Colin she would have easily fought until he gave up and let her come with him but it was not.

"Fine." With that Eloise stormed off to her room leaving Benedict to take one more glance at the door before leaving on his search. Benedict had an idea where they could be since now that he knew Penelope was without a doubt was with his brother.

He made his way back down the stairs and made his way to the only place that could give enough distractions to the book loving girl. The closer he got to the library, he could hear murmurs which turned into actual words and finally laugher. He squinted his eyes in the dark hallway seeing a figure standing off to the side. He wasn't sure who it was but the figure looked feminine in shape. The closer he got the louder the laugh became until he was almost face to back with the figure.

Peering in he could see multiple candles flickering, the light danced across the dimly lit room. His eyes caught the copper red hair which was slightly pinned up preventing the hair from falling into the gir... Benedict tilted his head squinting at the red head and realized girl did not really describe Penelope anymore. She had grown in these last few months that he didn't even see her turn from girl to a woman. It made him blink and wonder if Anthony had saw the change.

"Why would she do that?" He heard Anthony question while watching the back of his brother's head shake.

"Prudence. She swore up and down that she heard papa saying it was possible." Benedict raise his brow wondering what conversation he had walked up on. He then saw Penelope giggle before pointing at his brother.

"Yes! I am sure that was my face exactly when Phillipa told me she was going to knock on the tree and demand the fairies to take her." She sighed.

"She did it but Prudence had told her, she had to go higher since fairies did not want just anyone to reach them." Benedict eyes lit up in recognition because he does remember two of the Featherington's in casts or slings.

"Why would she..." Anthony had trailed off at the look that Penelope had sent him.

"As much as I love my sisters, we both know Phillipa is not known for her critical thinking skills. Prudence may not look like it but she is a mastermind when it comes to getting Phillipa to follow along with her." Anthony nodded. Penelope hummed.

"Where was I?... Yes! Phillipa climbed as high as she could get before she tried knocking on the tree. I had come out in all of my six year old glory and commanded her to come down, that she would get hurt." Benedict could see Anthony leaning in closer getting into the story.

"She ignored me and decided to take both hands off the branch she was on and started to bang on the tree demanding to let her in. She was not on a stable branch so when she started to shake the tree the branch broke on her." Benedict without his notice followed his brother's action and started to lean in but was stopped by a hand.

"Mister Bridgerton." A harsh voice whispered. He looked down to see Penelope's ladies maid standing right in front of him. He blinked at her confused at why she was standing here.

"I am very glad the tree was not to tall but she did land on me. I ended up with a broken arm and bloody chin and she walked away with a dislocated shoulder and broken wrist." Benedict was finally glad to find out how that incident happened. He looked down again to see the maid watching with a wistful smile. He needed to know why she was watching. He gently grabbed her wrist and pulled the young lady to the formal sitting room. He let go of her and sat down motioning to the seat across from him. Bri stared at the man before gently sitting and let Benedict stare at her.

"Why were you eavesdropping?" He questioned once he looked away from the intense eyes the girl had. Bri pursed her lips while crossing her arms.

"I could ask you the same. A little strange to be watching your brother? And a female guest?" Benedict froze not expecting this to be turned back towards him. He thought about the guts of this woman but had to agree with his mother's choice making her Penelope's ladies maid.

"I was looking for my brother and I was made aware that Penelope was not in her room either. So, I knew if I found one, I would find the other." Bri slowly uncrossed her arms and sat up. Bri was unsure of this Bridgerton, he doesn't interact with her very often.

"You're not gonna tell on Miss Penelope?" Benedict let out a light laugh.

"No. If she is the reason why Anthony is looking more relaxed then how could I?" Bri relaxed a bit.

"I was assigned to Miss Penelope. She is mine to watch over while she is here." Benedict was impressed with how serious the maid took her duties.

"I knew Miss Penelope was making herself at home in the library. I would find her sleeping in there the first few weeks here..." She trailed off thinking if she should say more. Benedict sent her a reassuring smile.

"Then my brother shows up." Bri nodded rubbing her hands on her legs.

"Yes, and Miss Penelope seemed to relax more. I would just pass by to check on Miss Penelope and every time they would just look like they were enjoying the other's company." Benedict nodded.

"They seem good for each other." Bri groaned knowing they do but neither seems to realize that.

"They do!" Benedict grinned while standing up.

"Thank you for explaining." He started out the door.

"I hope they get their heads out of their asses soon." Bri said just loud enough for Benedict to hear. He let out a hearty laugh.

"How did your parents react?" Anthony asked. Penelope let out a harsh laugh.

"Mama was beside herself while she was not crying, she was scolding all of us for doing something so stupid." Anthony nodded. He could see Lady Featherington doing that.

"Papa on the other hand seemed like he did not care." Anthony frowned, his father would have been up in arms if he or his siblings had gotten hurt like that. Penelope seen his frown and sent him a half smile.

"Do not look so sad, I was used to it." Penelope shrugged not really to upset about how her papa treated all of them. That didn't make Anthony feel better while he knew Lord Featherington wasn't the best, he wasn't expecting how inattentive he was.

"That's how I got that scar!" Penelope announced point back at the scar on her chin. Anthony looked back at her chin to see the thin white scar. The rest of the night they talked and laughed about the antics their siblings had gotten into and any scar either of them had.

Before they knew it they had fallen asleep, Anthony had stretched out with his head flung over the back of the couch while Penelope at some point laid her legs over Anthony's with her resting on the arm. Bri had came by a few hours later to check on them only to see them like that causing her to smile and rush to grab another blanket and pillow for Master Bridgerton. Once she had her items secured she went back in, where they didn't move an inch. She unrolled the blanket and draped it over Anthony then gently lifted his head placing the pillow under it. She then grabbed Penelope's favorite blanket and tossed it over her and tucked it in with that done she snuffed out all of the candles.

Anthony was avoiding Penelope and she was doing the same. For the past two days they've been making sure not to get stuck in the same room, which means they haven't been to the library since the morning they woke up on the couch together. Neither had moved much in their sleep but their legs had ended up intertwined much to both of their embarrassment. Everyone had noticed the strange tension from the two and how they seem to fall back into old patterns.

On the first day Anthony locked himself in his study to catch up on his work, which was already done but no one would know, and Penelope wrote a letter to her mother letting her know she would be back by the end of the week. She hadn't gotten any letters from her mother even if she had sent out one every two weeks. Penelope had manage to stretch out that letter to keep her busy most of the first day.

The second day was harder since both of them had no reason to be locked up in a room. Anytime they found themselves in a room they would make sure they were on opposite sides or engaged the others into conversations. It was easier for Penelope since most of the younger Bridgertons hovered around her whenever she was in the room. Eloise had taken up most of the morning that second day throwing question after question about debuting. Penelope could tell her friend was nervous at the rate the questions came tumbling out and the rant that soon came after she answered all of the questions.

Now, was the third day, Francesca had taken pity on Anthony as she observed her brother gazing at a distracted redhead, who was talking simultaneously with the youngest, and had asked his help with some questions from the work their governess had left her. Sadly, it was Arithmetic which was the bane of Anthony's existence but he glad helped. Benedict pursed his lips watching the two, trying to figure out what had happened the night he had found them. His eyes trailed to the door and saw the Penelope's ladies maid. He raised a brow once he got her attention and motioned slightly to the two which caused her to frown.

Bri watched the non couple for a few seconds trying to pinpoint when this could have happened. The two had started this two days ago and it was strange not to see the two orbiting around the other. She watched as Penelope turn her head towards Anthony before jerking her head back but not before she saw a blush staining the redhead's cheeks. Bri's eyes widened with the answer she was looking for, she quickly grabbed a drink from the tray just outside the door and walked over to Benedict.

"Mister Bridgerton." She said handing him the glass of lemonade. Benedict stared at the glass making Bri huff and shove the glass in his hand before anyone noticed the interaction.

"I know what happened." Benedict took a sip humming.

"I went to check on them a few hours after our conversation. I found them both asleep on the couch." Benedict coughed and covered his mouth. Everyone glanced in their direction making Bri smile and pull out a napkin.

"Do be careful, sir." Benedict took the napkin and waved to others off.

"Continue on." Benedict turned his head looking at Bri expectantly.

"Now, what do you mean asleep on the couch... together?" Benedict's broke off into a higher pitch whisper at the end. Bri shrugged.

"They were at other ends of the couch when I got there. I put blankets over both but tucked in Miss Penelope's to try to avoid..." Bri trailed off gesturing towards the tension they could feel in the room. Benedict narrowed his eyes taking yet another sip.

"They must have moved in the night." He said with the glass covering his mouth. Bri pursed her lips looking over the two in question before turning and snatching the napkin away from the man.

"Yes, but maybe not as much as you are thinking. Miss Penelope is still a shy thing, if it was what you I don't think she would be even be in the same room as him." Benedict nodded but stared at the strange maid, who likes to snatch things from him. Benedict open his mouth but was cut off.

"Bri, can you come with me to the stable?" Bri snapped her attention to the younger charge with a smile.

"Of course, I would like to visit my brother." Out of the corner of her eye she caught Anthony's hand clenching into a fist at the mention of Buck. Bri filed that way to exam later on. Penelope turned towards Anthony.

"If that is alright with you, Lord Bridgerton?" Anthony winced at the proper title. Everyone had seen the wince knowing something was definitely going on now.

"You are welcome anywhere, Penelope." Anthony said softly making Penelope frown softly hating that she was being petty when it seemed like Anthony was not.

"I would like to get another look at the baby before bestowing him with a name... if I still can name him, that is?" Penelope said twisting her fingers. She hated this gap between them now even if she was still embarrassed about that morning. Anthony nodded solemnly. While he may be avoiding being in the same room as her, he wouldn't be rude to her. He did miss his nightly routine with her.

"He is yours to name, Ducky." Everyone blinked at the nickname, only two siblings knew of the nickname, but were surprise by the use of it. A pair of dark brown eyes narrowed at their brother. Penelope wasn't sure what to do in this situation, which was becoming normal when it came to Anthony, even with as much as she is learning about Anthony because she only knew one man in her life and he wouldn't react like Anthony would.

"Thank you." With that she scurried out of the room with Bri trailing behind her. All three girls turned towards their eldest brother staring at him in disbelief. His head turned from where he followed the retreating redhead to see three sets of blue eyes staring at him making him lean back into the chair.

"What are you doing?!" Hyacinth yelled with Eloise and Francesca nodded along. Anthony looked towards his only back up to see one set of eyes glaring at him while the other look just as surprised as him.

"Doing what?" He questioned. The three huffed before Eloise balled up the newspaper in her hand and threw it at his head.

"Go with her, you ding bat!" Eloise huffed. Her friend was upset again and she could tell it had to do with her brother even though she wasn't sure what he could have done. Anthony flinched as yet another ball hit his forehead.

"No name calling. I was not invited." Francesca huffed at her dense brother. She wasn't sure what Penelope saw in him but she will support this if that was what the redhead wanted.

"Of course she would not. You two are not really talking to each other. She should not have to ask for you to come along." Anthony furrowed his brows not really understanding what his sister meant.

"That is rude to follow if she does not want me too." Hyacinth smacked her palm to her forehead.

"If you do follow you have the chance to show her that she is worth it! This will give you a step in the right direction to fixing whatever you broke!" Anthony frowned not liking how they think this was his fault. He glanced over to see Benedict looking impressed by the three.

"I did not break anything." Gregory glared harder at his brother.

"Perhaps it was the both of you, but it seems you have to do the fixing since Pen is too shy to approach it first." Anthony stared at his little brother not expecting this to come out of the young man. The girls turned to their brother with bright smiles.

"Greg gets it! Now off with you." Hyacinth exclaimed jumping up and going towards Anthony. He pulled him up with surprising strength and shoved at his back.

"Go go go! She should have just gotten to the stables." Francesca smirked leaning back on the couch watching her sister push their eldest brother, she made sure to catch his attention before he left.

"You may just get there before Buck finds out she is there." She watched as his nostrils flared as he escaped out the door. She had caught his reaction to the comment Bri had made and knew that this would be the best way to get him to go. Benedict raised a brow at his younger siblings, impressed with their skills.

"Nice." He said with a chuckle.

Penelope was in the pen with Aspen and her baby watching how the baby was following his mom like a little duckling. Her mother would have been screaming at her if she could see her now, sitting crossed leg in a dirty pen, nothing a proper lady should do. The foal turned his attention from his mother to her at her laugh. He walked over and stared at her making her giggle. She noticed he had a distinct white patch on his grey fur starting from the tip of his right ear down to his nose. Penelope hummed moving her head back and forth then smiled.

"Huh, you are a special little guy." She said as the foal pushes his head into her chest. She petted his head.

"That he is." Penelope whipped her head to the gate to see Anthony leaning on it, elbows on the ledge with his hands dangling into the pen. She wasn't expecting him to come to the stables, he seemed as dead set on avoiding her as she was.

"Would you mind if I..." He motioned around the pen. Penelope shook her head.

"It is your stable." Anthony frowned and didn't move.

"I know it is, but you did not ask for company." Penelope sighed hating that he didn't just waltz in. Why is he like this, her father wasn't.

"I would appreciate the company." A whinny neigh came from the foal currently in her chest. She laughed and continued petting his man. Anthony smiled at the sight of them.

"Human company." And when there wasn't a response Anthony opened the gate making a beeline to the girl. Penelope sighed laying her head on the foal's head.

"He is just so cute!" Anthony smiled not taking his eyes off the redhead using the side of the pen as support.

"I am sure he will miss his friend when she leaves." He really will miss her. Penelope opened an eye looking up towards the man to see him staring at her.

"I will miss him too." Penelope smiled at him and any of the tension dissipated. While it might have been embarrassing to wake up next to the other, both knew that it was more about missing the other once she left. It was just a convenient excuse to use to keep them from being sad. Anthony settled down by the foal and girl as close as he could get without being improper.

"So, have you figured out a name?" Penelope hummed.

"I think I have. I wanted to do my family's tradition of the same letter." Anthony pursed his lips looking towards the blushing girl.

"Ah, a P name it will be then." Penelope laughed knocking his shoulder.

"No, I mean A, like Aspen's." Anthony nodded liking that idea. Penelope thought for a moment.

"And yours." Penelope mumbled but Anthony heard her and let out a laugh. Penelope blushed again before tapping her chin thinking of all the A names she could think of.

"Asher." No movement from the foal.

"Aster." Again no movement even Anthony winced at that name.

"Aaron."

"Axel."

"Archer." This continued on for an hour before Penelope sighed laying her head on Anthony's shoulder and he lays his on hers. The move made butterflies flutter in both of their stomachs but they ignored them.

"I think I have one name left and then I will be out of A names." Penelope said. Anthony hummed, he was impressed she found enough names to fill an hour.

"I do not even know that many names, let alone one's starting with A." Penelope made no move.

"Adler." She said with a tired croaked voice. The foal's head moved to stare at the two. Penelope let out a smoky laugh. Anthony blinked in surprise at the excitement shot through him.

"Of course, the last name I could think of. You are going to be a right handful Mister Adler." Adler let out a neigh making Penelope laugh again. Anthony gritted his teeth as another shot ran through him.

"Now, I will be leaving in a few days good sir. I want you to give Mister Buck as much grieve as you can. You got that?" Another louder neigh sounded. Anthony winced knowing that the foal was going to follow that command to a T.

"But take it easy on ol' Anthony here. He is not as young as Mister Buck is." Anthony let a squawk of indentation forcing another smoky laugh from the redhead.

Today was the day. The day Penelope will leave her favorite family. She had waited for her mother's letter but didn't recieve one leading her to believe that they were waiting until she got back to go to the summer home. She was finishing her breakfast before she started her goodbyes. A sharp knock sounded through the dinning room making all eyes snap to the footman.

"Sir, a letter has arrived." He said handing it to Anthony before leaving the room. Anthony frowned before openeing the letter which only deepened the more he read. Everyone was watching the man waiting to hear what the letter was. He sighed stuffing the letter into his pocket.

"I am so sorry Penelope." Penelope tilted her head confused.

"Why are you apologizing?" Anthony ruffled his head before turning to her completely.

"It seems that one of the harvesters fell and broke a leg. I need to go and assess what can be done and I may need to bring Benedict with me. I wanted to be to travel with you and Bri today or even Benedict but that is not possible, again." Penelope, forgetting that they were in fact in front of others and not in the library, picks up a grape from Anthony's plate in front of her and pops it into her mouth.

"Alright, it was a situation you could not perceive. You have more important responsible than riding a day in a carriage with me." Anthony went to open his mouth but closed it at the glare he got from the redhead.

"No, I was fine the first time with Bri and I will be fine again." Penelope understood fine that these things can be helped. Anthony nodded his head feeling bad about doing this again to his friend, because she was now a friend to him.

"Once we are finished, we will say our goodbyes and then be on our way." Penelope agreed before picking another grape off his plate. Everyone watched the interaction feeling that something was brewing, especially with how easily Penelope took something off of Anthony's plate. Once breakfast was done everyone traveled out to the front. They watched as Buck placed the last trunk into the carriage before they all turned to Penelope. She stood there with a smile on her face before she flung her arms wide... The Bridgertons decend on her in a group hug. After a moment they broke away and each of them gave her hugs and a goodbye.

"Bye Pen, I will miss you."

"Bye Pen, I will miss you more."

"I better get a letter in the next two days or I am storming over there and dragging you back."

"Have a safe trip Penelope. You will be missed here."

"If you need anything Penelope, write me. Even if it is just a ear to listen."

"Penelope dear, have a safe trip and remember you are always welcome here." After pulling away from Violet, Penelope turned towards Anthony. They stare at each other for a moment before Anthony opens his arms wide letting Penelope rush over and lock her arms around him.

"I will miss you, Ducky." Penelope squeezed him as she felt a gentle peck on the top of her head.

"I will miss you, Anthony." She felt him squeeze her.

"Try to go easy on them. They mean well." Penelope told him, she wasn't full of herself but she was sure he would brood for a few days without her. She knew for sure Eloise and the two youngest would.

"I will try. You make sure to take time for yourself if you need it." Penelope nodded into his chest.

The Bridgertons watched the oldest and the redhead say their goodbyes while holding their embrace. None of them could hear what was being said but they could see Penelope's body start to shake before she pulled away from the hug. If any of them watched closely they would have seen Anthony wipe a tear from his face.

"You be safe on your trip home. I do not want anything happening to you." Penelope sniffled while smiling.

"You too. Benedict, make sure he stays intact! That goes to you too!" Penelope hollered and got a thumbs up in return. Penelope walked over to the carriage waving at the family.

"Thank you! I will miss all of you and can not wait until the season starts to see you all again!" With that the family waved as the carriage rumbled down the path.

"Do you mind if I rest?" Penelope asked Bri who shook her head.

"Not at all, I have things to keep me occupied."

Penelope closed her eyes as she thought about the last two days after her make up with Anthony. They had library time that night, where they talk about non sense that if it wasn't so late would have been questioned if anyone heard them. The rest of the time was like all the other days except the Bridgerton's had become clingy with her but she didn't mind it. She slowly drifted to sleep with the rocking of the carriage.

Penelope watched as the carriage slowly pulled into her home. She was hoping to spend one night in her own bedroom before leaving to the summer home. The carriage pulled to a stop and Buck jumped out to help both girls out. Eliza came through the door shutting it behind her.

"If you can just leave the trunks by the door." Buck nodded and started taking the trunks over. Penelope ran over and hugged her ladies maid.

"I missed you!" Eliza hugged the girl and was glad to see her looking so good. After a hugging both Bri and Buck, they left for the journey back to Aubrey Hall. Eliza looked around before dragging Penelope behind her and closing the front door. Penelope looked around seeing everything draped with cloth and nothing was echoing through the house. Penelope turned to look at Eliza in stunned disbelief while Eliza laid a hand on her shoulder.

"They've gone to the summer home." Penelope gaped at her.

"Without me?" Penelope said in a small voice. Eliza nodded.

Chapter 14: FOURTEEN

Summary:

What is under that cliff?

Notes:

Sorry! I didn't realize that I hadn't posted in over a month! I will work on getting the chapters out more frequently. I love all the comments and I am positive one of the comments were spot on with this chapter. The chapter isn't too long and I have something at the end that I need answered but now on to what you were waiting for!

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope laid in her bed thinking over the last few hours. Her mother and sisters had left to the summer home not even a week after she went to Aubrey Hall. She received not one letter from her mother to notify her that she was leaving London or even to ask about Penelope herself. Eliza had told her she had received a letter from her sister, Phillipa two days before, informing the ladies maid that Penelope would be arriving at the Featherington's London home and no one would be there to receive her.

Eliza had handed her the letter to let her read. In it, she had explained that she had thought that their mother was just going to send a carriage to meet Penelope at the house but found out that their mother had no such notion. Their mother also explained that she hoped the Bridgertons would demand Penelope to come back once they knew she was alone. Phillipa explained that she wasn't going to be taking a chance due to the possibility of plans changing. She mentioned she was hoping Eliza could be a help once Penelope realized that she was alone.

Penelope was surprised that her sister would think so far ahead and cared enough to send help to her. Phillipa in the letter had explained that she knew Eliza and her were very close and would take care of her. She had also enclosed another letter in with Eliza's that was made out to Penelope. She still had yet to read that one since the emotional upheaval was strong over the past hours. Penelope couldn't understand why her mother would practically abandon her and why her sister went through so much trouble to help her. What was she going to do now? While she was happy Eliza let her know in private what was going on, she wished she had ran out and after the carriage that could take her back to her favorite family. Penelope tossed and turned with these thoughts through out the night until the sun broke threw the drapes. A light knock on the door distracted her from her thoughts.

"Miss?" Eliza called before slowly opening the door. Penelope gazed at the door watching her maid slide into her room. Eliza frowned at the state of her friend and charge, while Penelope looked better after her stay with the Bridgertons, she had dark circles appearing under her eyes again and she could tell she hadn't slept a wink.

"Oh, Penelope." Eliza cooed rushing to the young girl's side. Eliza knew she had to think of a way to help the red head. Penelope fell into her friend's side feeling like her strings had been cut once again.

"I went to the market last night and got a few things to eat for us." Penelope looked up at Eliza watching the woman ramble. She had never seen her do this before but knew she needed to figure out a plan so her friend could have the time off she deserved.

"Rose was grabbing a few last minute things too. Apparently the Duke and Duchess decided to stay in London..." Rose's name kept bouncing around in Penelope's head.

"Rose?" Penelope knows who she was but she could feel the threads of a plan forming. Rose would be very helpful. Eliza paused watching a tiny spark form in her charge's eye. She knows this spark and decided to stay quiet knowing Penelope is forming a plan.

"Is there a possible of seeing her today?" Penelope questioned after a long pause of silence. Eliza raised a brow but nodded.

"I could make it happen. Might take me a few hours but I'm sure I can do it." Penelope pursed her lips letting all the pieces of her plan slide together.

"Perhaps I can send a letter with you. You could visit your cousin and hand the letter off for her to give to my brother or Daphne..." Penelope trailed off. Eliza grinned knowing Penelope would be looked after if they could get the letter to the Duchess or even better if the Duke would read it.

"It'll take less time than to send it by post." Eliza agreed. Penelope nodded sharply before jolting up and going to her writing desk. All she needed to do was to explain that she would like to come talk to them and then she could explain in person what was going on because she was not going to explain in letter form. She signed her name and blew on it before sealing it. She turned in her seat to see Eliza pulling out a old day dress of hers.

"I'll assume you would like me visit my cousin as soon as possible?" Penelope smiled sweetly at her making her huff a laugh.

"This dress should make it easy to get on without help and I know you know how to do your hair. I'll take this and be on my way." Eliza said taking the letter from her hand.

"You need to stay inside. There is food in the kitchen and do not answer the door for no one." Penelope nodded. If anyone found out she was completely alone in the house it could be trouble. Eliza patted her head.

"I shouldn't be but a few hours." With that Eliza left the house. Penelope sighed looking back at her bed with a smile. She could use more sleep and now she had one less worry at the moment. She took the dress off her bed laying it on her chair and snuggled back into bed.

It had taken Eliza less than an hour to reach the Duke's London Home. She prayed as she went to the servant's door and knocked. She was hoping it was her cousin to answer the door so she could get her charge in a safe place. She went to knock again as the door opened only to come face to face with a man.

"How can I help you?" Eliza withheld a sigh.

"Can I talk to Rose?" The man tilted his head before ushering her inside. He motioned to her to wait before walking further into the house. Eliza chewed her lip as she looked around the place. It was a nice big kitchen, better than the Featherington's and was glad that her cousin was here. She like Rose would follow her lady anywhere and she hoped Penelope knew she wouldn't be getting rid of her anytime soon.

"Eliza, what are you doing here?" Eliza whipped towards the voice. Rose was standing in the doorway gaping at her.

"Can't I come and see my favorite cousin?" Rose was not much than Eliza and were attached at the hip growing up so, she knows Eliza's tells. Rose raised a brow.

"Uh huh, you seen me yesterday." Eliza wet her lips and smiled but Rose glared at her putting her hands on her hips.

"Don't you dare lie to Eliza Isabelle. Why are you here?" Eliza sighed looking at her cousin. Rose watched as some tension drained from her shoulders.

"I... need help." Eliza shook her head before handing her cousin the letter.

"Not me, Miss Penelope needs help. I know how close she and..." Eliza trailed off motioning to the letter.

"We need you to give this to your employers please. I will wait for a response but I can not wait for too long." Rose watched her cousin fidget and was concerned for her since it really wasn't like her.

"I'll bring it right to them. I'll get John to get you something to drink while you wait." Eliza nodded and sat on the stool next to her. Rose walked quickly out and motioned to John.

"Please, get my cousin a drink." John nodded. Rose knew where Daphne was. Just like the past two weeks the woman liked to sit in the sitting room and watch the people pass by. The Duke sometimes joined her if he wasn't busy. Thankfully, when she got to the room the Duke had joined his wife. She quietly cleared her throat making both heads snap to her.

"Rose, is something the matter?" Daphne asked sitting up straighter. Rose pursed her lips and waved the letter in the air.

"My cousin is here and has come with a letter from Miss Penelope." The Duke's attention then snaps to the letter in the woman's hand. He stands swiftly and takes the letter from her. He tears into it and skims making his brows furrow.

"I thought she was with your family?" Daphne frowned and snatched the letter from her husband's hand.

"She was for two months. She left for home a day or so ago, at least that is what the letters told me the other day." Daphne then reads the letter which gives her no information expect that Penelope is in London and wants to talk to them.

"Rose, can you please bring your cousin in?" Rose nodded but did not take a step. Daphne watched her ladies maid for a second.

"May a speak freely?" Simon motioned to her.

"My cousin was supposed to have the off season off. She is only needed when Miss Penelope is in London or she travels to where she is needed during the season." Daphne nodded, knowing well since that is was Rose did before she married.

"She is again with Miss Penelope on the off season. I feel something very wrong is going on since she insisted to wait for a response but told me she couldn't wait to long. She takes her responsibility to Miss Penelope very seriously." Simon and Daphne shared a look knowing something is wrong when it comes to Penelope.

"Please, go retrieve your cousin." Rose rushed out leaving the married couple to stew in their worry.

"Whatever is wrong, we will help Penelope." Daphne said seeing the growing concern in her husband's eyes. He flicked his gaze to her and sent her a small smile while squeezing her shoulders. Rose came in holding her cousin's hand.

"This is Eliza, she is the ladies maid to Miss Penelope." Both nodded at the young woman.

"Eliza, can you tell us if Penelope is in danger." Daphne asked. Eliza pursed her lips while shifting from side to side.

"She isn't in immediate danger, no." No one spoke since it looked like Eliza was piecing together what she could say and couldn't.

"Miss Penelope is in a tight spot. She wants to explain in person instead. But I feel like I need to inform you that she is alone at the Featherington residence..." Before she could get more out Simon was out the door and demanding the carriage be pulled around. Daphne watched Eliza as the tension drained from the woman's shoulders.

"How long has she been alone?" Eliza turned to Daphne.

"She arrived yesterday. I have been with her since but today she has been alone about two hours now." Daphne nodded and got up.

"Rose please instruct the others to make up a room for Penelope." Rose nodded and scurried away. Daphne hooked her arm through Eliza's and pulled her along.

"Thank you for telling us. I know Penelope likes to do things her way but now we can bring the carriage along so we do not have to make two trips." Eliza was taken to the carriage where Simon was brimming with a burning energy. Both women were helped into the carriage and he tapped the top before sliding in. The ride was a quiet and short one before they were pulling into the Featheringtons. Simon went to open the carriage doors but was stopped.

"I told her not to open the door to anyone. I will go and fetch her before opening the main doors." Simon's eye twitched with a need to race up to make sure his sister was okay but allowed the young maid to go.

Eliza could tell she only had minutes to go get Penelope before Simon stormed the castle, so to speak. She ran through the servant's door and up the stairs to Penelope's room. With a brief knock, she allowed herself inside only to hear the tiniest of snores. She whipped around to the bed to see Penelope flopped on the bed with her red hair splayed about. She hated waking the girl but had too.

"Penelope..." She gently shook the girl. The girl twitched and mumbled but did not wake. Eliza rolled her eyes since she had done this since she was four and ten.

"Penelope Anne, you need to get up." Eliza shook her a bit harder making her crack her eye open.

"Eliza?" The woman hummed while pulling the blankets off the girl.

"Up you get. Put on that dress and fix your hair. I'll be up to retrieve you in a bit." With that she flew down the stairs and opened the main doors only to jump back frightened because of Simon standing there.

"Apologies Eliza. I did not mean to frighten you." Eliza waved him off and motioned to the trunks still sitting in the hall.

"These are Miss Penelope's. I didn't get the time to unpack her things last night." Simon nodded and grabbed one taking it outside. Eliza turned back and went to retrieve her charge. She slipped back through the door to see Penelope all dressed and working on her hair. Eliza gazed around the room looking for anything that might have been missed the first time they packed but found nothing.

"Miss, the Duke and Duchess is here. I believe they plan to take you back to their home." Eliza was not told of this but it was plain to see that they would take the girl kicking and screaming if they had too. Penelope paused mid twist and looked to the woman.

"What?" Eliza shrugged.

"They read your letter and thought you were in danger. I let them know that you were not but you were in a tight spot and that you were alone." Penelope bit her lip and knew she couldn't yell at her friend since she was doing what she though was right. Penelope sighed and finished her hair as a yell of her name was heard. Eliza laughed and opened the door wider.

"The Duke almost stormed the house once we arrived. You better go down to show that you are not injured." Penelope got up when another shout was heard that sounded close to the stairs. Penelope left followed by Eliza only to be caught on the stairs by none other than Simon.

"Sister! There you are!" With just a few steps he had swept Penelope into his arms. Eliza watched as Penelope melted into the man's embrace and she could feel the last tension drain from her shoulders glad that Penelope will be looked after.

Simon could feel his chest becoming wet and the small girl in his arms shake. He wasn't sure what was going on but he was not letting her out of his sight. Without thinking he lifted the girl and took her downstairs and to the carriage. He wasn't letting her waste another minute in that house. Daphne watched her husband maneuver himself and the redhead into the carriage before settling into the corner. Daphne looked out to see Eliza standing at the door of the carriage.

"I will set everything to rights here." Daphne nodded.

"You are welcome to come visit your cousin, whenever you please." Daphne told her making the maid nod before she went back into the house. Daphne glanced at the two before her and tapped the top of the carriage. She could hear Simon murmuring to the red head before they headed off.

Once they arrived home, Penelope had fallen asleep. The coachman opened the door for Simon as he carried the girl into the house then to the room she'll be staying in. Daphne came into the room shooing her husband off once he laid the girl in bed. She took off her shoes and took down her hair then brought the blankets up and over her. With that Daphne left the room too.

"Let us know when she wakes." She murmured to Rose and set off to find her husband.

A few hours later Rose had sent word that Penelope had wake up and plans to lead her to the dinning room once Penelope freshens up. Daphne and Simon took up one side of the table leaving space for the young redhead on the other side. The two were holding their breaths waiting on Penelope. Simon was waiting to find out who he had to hunt down while Daphne was waiting to smother Penelope in care.

Rose walked in with Penelope walking slowly behind. Penelope was a bit embarrassed to see Simon again since she had clung to him, cried like a baby and promptly fell asleep on the poor man. She had to guess that he had to be the one to carry her to the guest room too. She stood in the doorway fiddling with her day dress unsure what to do in this moment. Thankfully, Simon took it into his hands.

"Penelope! Please come sit." Simon motioned towards the empty seat in front of them. Penelope quickly went and sat down while someone brought their dinner. She knows that she'll have to talk to them about what has happened. Daphne grinned at her and took a bite of food.

"So, how was my lovely family?" That set off the rest of dinner with that one question. Daphne knew of the things her siblings had written to her about how something was happening between the young lady in front of her and her eldest brother. She wasn't sure if something was truly happening or the two now had a common ground to each other. No matter what it is, Daphne approved of it since Penelope definitely looked better than before and with what she read of the change the redhead had on Anthony. After the dessert plates were collected, Simon took a sip of his drink before leaning slightly towards his sister.

"Sister, it seems we need to talk." Penelope sighed hating that he was right. They had put it off long enough and she didn't want ruin the hospitality that was given to her.

"Now, I will state that whatever happened you are still welcome here." Simon told her, forcing away the bit of weight that started at the thought of voicing the problem. Penelope didn't want to burden the newlyweds for too long.

"You can stay as long as you like." Daphne added almost like she read Penelope's mind. Penelope twisted the napkin in front of her trying to figure out where to start. She can't just come right out with it. Daphne and Simon waited patiently for the girl to start.

"I have not received any letters from my mama." The two glanced at each other and then the girl not sure what was about to be said. While they are furious about Lady Featherington writing her daughter, they weren't sure why she started with this.

"I had sent her one inform her I had made it to Aubrey Hall. I then sent one a few weeks later letting her know I was doing relatively okay but still never received one in return." Now that Penelope was thinking about it she addressed it to the London home instead so, perhaps that is why she never received word.

"I then sent her a letter a few days before my return home but again I did not receive a reply back. The day i returned home I was once more with Buck and Bri on the journey." Daphne held her hand up forcing Penelope to pause.

"Who is Buck!" Simon demanded before his wife could utter a word. Penelope stared startled at the man, wondering what he was on about. Daphne sent him a chilling look for interrupting her but he shrugged it not liking the fact is sister was with some unnamed man.

"He is a stable hand who retrieved me the first time along with his sister Bri." Simon looked to Daphne for confirmation which got him a nod in reply.

"We talked about him early, dear. He was the one to show Aspen to Penelope." Simon crossed his arms not liking that again this man was with his sister when he thought one of the brothers show her. Daphne waved off her husband and turned back to the girl.

"Why wasn't someone from the family with you?" Penelope gave a tiny shrug.

"First time something had come up with Anthony and Hyacinth was sick. You know how the girl does when she is sick." Daphne nodded a bit dumbly with the casual way Penelope used her brother's name, usually she would stumble through it like she wasn't sure she could use it. If Daphne had to guess it was the closeness between the two that made it the name come to her easier.

"The second time, one of the harvesters fell and broke his leg. Anthony and Benedict left to help as soon as I was in the carriage. I am also confident that if Eloise had joined me, she would have tried to sneak away with me instead of going back to Aubrey Hall." The couple had to agree to Eloise sneaking away just to spend more time with her friend.

"I see, please continue." Penelope nodded but actually did not want to continue. They watched as the redhead twisted the napkin so hard that you could almost hear the strain of the fabric.

"I... Once we pulled up to the house Eliza was there to greet us. She had instructed Buck to leave the trunks by the door. She then pulls me into the house after saying goodbye to Buck and Bri..." Penelope clicked her tongue while flicking her eyes to the two in front of her. They both had furrowed brows forcing her to turn away.

"The house was closed up, sheets thrown over every piece of furniture..." Penelope jerked back when Simon slammed his hand on the table before he stood from the table. He didn't want his sister to finish because he knew where she was going and didn't want to see her cry again over her damn family. Daphne grabbed his hand and pulled him back over to the table.

"Go on." Penelope bit her lip with a nod.

"Eliza informed me that mama and my sisters had left to our summer home soon after I had left." Daphne had let go of Simon's hand in shock letting him pull away and started to pace. He was mumbling under his breath.

"She did what." Daphne demanded in a soft tone. Penelope barked out a harsh laugh.

"She left as soon as my foot was out the door! Phillipa was the one to think of me enough to send a letter to Eliza so I did not have to learn the truth by myself!" Simon paused in his pacing at his sister's yell.

"You know, mama told my sister that she was hoping that the Bridgerton's would take pity on me and take me back to Aubrey Hall! She did not even wonder what would happen if things changed! Phillipa did though!" With that Penelope jumped up.

"Once I found out I should have chased that carriage!" Daphne slowly gets up and towards Penelope. She pulled the younger towards her in a hug.

"Why did you not?" Daphne asked. Penelope pulled out of the hug to stare at her. Penelope asked that question to herself multiple times.

"I..." Penelope tilted her head trying to put her thoughts together. Daphne placed her hand on the back the redhead's head.

"I did not want... to go back and tell An..." Penelope shook her head. Daphne shared a look with Simon with the girl's slip up.

"I did not want to go back and face them. I would have to tell them that my own mother did not want me." Penelope could feel the shame at saying it out loud and the tears burning at her eyes while staring at Daphne.

"I did not want to be a burden to them." She announced to them as the tears started to fall. Simon rushed over crouching down to the girl's level and brushed a strand of hair from her face that had fallen in her rant.

"You will never be a burden to anyone. Not me, or Daphne, or any of the Bridgertons, we will never think of you like that." Simon waited until those baby blues glanced in his direction.

"Do you understand that? Not everyone is your mother." She sniffled but nodded.

"I can go send a letter to Anthony and..." Daphne was cut off when Penelope gripped her wrist and shook her head furiously.

"Please, do not tell him. I do not want him to know." Daphne nodded knowing that would be her reaction.

"Alright then you must stay here. I am sure Simon would be happy to have someone else here once I can no longer entertain him." The couple laughed while Penelope tilted her head.

"I know he would never tire of you." Daphne laughed.

"Well, I may need you to distract him instead."