Testing Audio -DK Principessa

by kibass91

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3. Rake

Anthony had just taken a long drink of Brandy after spending the entire evening at Lady Danbury's Ball fending off vicious mamas and desperate debutants. He had thought finding a wife would not be so difficult but with each woman he talked to he grew to dread the entire season more.

They simply said what they thought he would like to hear instead of being honest. If he could not get honesty how is he supposed to know if the match shall work?

Suddenly Eloise burst into his office, tears running down her face "Anthony you must help her! She can not marry him! He is old enough to be her grandfather, has no teeth in his mouth, and smells like a pig!" Eloise said in a rush as he quickly stood, trying to make sense of what is happening.

"Eloise what are you talking about?" he asked confused.

Eloise let out a loud sob "Her mother is forcing her to marry him Anthony, she has no choice! Her mother is going to force her to marry a man four times her senior!" she screeched, her face going red.

He grabbed her shoulders, trying to force her to calm down "Who are you speaking of Eloise? I can not help if I do not know who you are speaking of" he said calmly, trying to make sense of her words.

From the way it sounded some poor girl is being forced to marry against her wishes.

Eloise took a deep breath as he guided her to sit and gave her a hanky, she blew her nose loudly before wiping the tears from her face "Peneolope, her mother has practically signed the contract already even though she just met the man tonight. She came to me crying Anthony, she doesn't want to marry him!"

Eloise saw Penelope rush away from her mother, looking incredibly upset. When she saw her sneaking away she followed only to find Pen sobbing in the gardens.

"Pen, what happened?" Eloise asked gently, hesitant to upset her friend further.

Pen turned around and upon seeing Eliose she broke down in horrific sobs "My mama! She's going to make me marry him! She practically signed the papers, he talked as if we were already engaged, that I already belonged to him!" she wailed as she took refuge in Eloise's arms.

"What? Who?!" Eloise asked frantically pulling away from Pen and guiding her to a bench.

Penelope had stopped sobbing hysterically and was now just sniffling "Baron Winfrey! He's almost 70 Eliose! He has no teeth! How am I meant to marry him?" she asked, her voice growing defeated.

"Surely you mama will not…?" Eloise trailed off at the look on Pen's face.

Pen let out a bitter laugh "Are you kidding me? She forced him on me. They must have some kind of agreement. My mother is rather desperate to marry us off before the new Lord Faetherington arrives and I suppose this is her best solution. In her words it is not as if I have any other prospects and this is the only chance, for all of us" she said, her voice resentful as she thought of her mother.

"Maybe Lady Whistledown can help? She helped Daphne escape a horrid match!" Eloise said, trying to be helpful but if anything it made it worse as Penelope began hysterically laughing.

She laughed for a few moments before it turned to tears as she looked away from Eloise "Lady Whistledown can not do anything for this" she said, her voice hollow.

Elois shook her head "You can not know that mabe-" she was cut off as Penelope turned to her suddenly "Eliose I do know it! I am Lady Whistledown!" she said angrily.

Eloise sat in shocked silence for a moment as Pen froze before shrugging "You know what it's right you know, at least someone does before I'm shipped off to the country never to be seen again" she said as she looked at the flowers growing alonge the gardens.

Eloise stuttered for a few moments before asking "Your Lady Whistledown?" her voice sounding dumbfounded.

Pen sighed, her shoulders dropping "Yes, I'm sorry I never told you but Lady Whistledown was something I kept for myself. It was a part of me I never intended to show anyone. It's my way to make being a wallflower with no prospects not seem so empty" she said, looking away from her.

Eloise felt for her friend in that moment, she was angry, yes, but the defeat coming from someone who had always been so happy and kind was a daunting thing. "Pen I'm not going to lie and say I'm happy you lied to me but I am proud of you, you did something amazing. You made something for yourself like no other lady of the Ton has. Not even Lady Danbury! And I refuse to see your legend go down with a horrible marriage. Let me talk to my brother, he has to have something that can fix this" she said, standing up and helping Pen get presentable again before they both went back into the ball.

Anthony pinched the bridge of his nose as Eloise told him about Penelope's situation. The Baron Winfrey had a reputation for Mistresses and unsuccessful pregnancies but none of that was damning enough to end a marriage.

The thought of sweet Penelope married to that man made his blood boil however. How could her mother make that kind of match?

He rang the bell on his desk calling for a footman and had his mother sent for. She arrived rather quickly, her brows furrowing when she saw Eloise's state.

"Mother please take Eloise to bed. Sister, I will do what I can to help Penelope, I promise" he said comfortingly as he handed his sister off.

His mother looked at him confused before taking his sister off to bed, only to return shortly after and demand to know what is going on.

He quickly apprised her of the situation as he poured himself another drink and sat down in his desk with a huff.

"We must do something Anthony, Penelope can not marry that man he had a reputation when I was still a debutant" his mother said with a hand over her mouth as she paced his office.

"I do not know what I can do mother, the Baron would make a bad husband surely but he has no large skeletons in his closet, no bastard from what I hear at least. Though it seems he can not produce an heir if he has already tried with five wives" he said as he swirled his brandy in his glass.

"Penelope is such a sweet girl, she does not deserve that. What would make Portia do this?" His mother asked rhetorically as neither of them could truly find out the answer.

"According to Eloise, Desperation" he said with a scowl. To think that woman is so desperate for her daughter to get a match she does this. Penelope could make a far better match, she was beautiful and kind and would make anyone an amazing wife.

"Nonsense Penelope could make a far better match!" his mother said with a scowl, a protective look in her eyes as she thought of Penelopy.

"I agree, she is very kind and would make any man an amazing wife" he said, putting voice to his thoughts.

His mother looked at him for a moment with wide eyes "You are right, she would. She would make you an amazing wife Anthony" she said, a look of inspiration in her eyes. A look he had seen in his brother's eyes when he saw a particularly strong muse. While his brother was a traditional artist, his mother's art was matchmaking.

He looked at her alarmed and confused by her newest venture "Mother surely you are joking, she is Eloise's age!" he said doubtfully.

His mother rolled her eyes "She is a year older and no younger than most of the women you entertained tonight. You just said she would make an amazing wife" she said as she motioned to him.

"Yes to someone else!" he said dramatically, looking at his mother like she had lost her mind.

"Do not give me that look Anthony Bridgerton! Can you think of any other way to help that poor girl?" his mother asked, giving him a pointed look.

He wracked his brain for a few moments and realized, no he couldn't think of another way, and as the thought settled he took a moment to consider it. Penelope would make any man a good wife, she was witty and charming.

The few times he had conversed with her she had greatly amused him, and if he was truly letting himself consider it she had a very pleasing look. As the thought truly settled he found himself considering it.

"Didn't you say just this evening that you were looking for a wife? You are familiar with Penelope, you know she is liked by the family. Would it be so bad for her to be your wife?" His mother asked, practically putting bait in the trap.

He took a deep breath "No it would not, I believe Eloise should invite Penelope over for tea on the marrow. All this planning does nothing if we do not know what she wants" he said, giving his mother a pointed look not to get ahead of herself.

She smiled brightly and clapped her hands "Good! I will have it arranged tomorrow! Sleep well dear!" she said, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek before leaving. Probably hoping if she was quick he could not change his mind.

Chapter 2

Chapter Text

Penelope opened her eyes and immediately wished to be back in her dreams, they did not haunt her as this morning did.

She had begged her mama to reconsider the baron but she had been clear, this is her only prospect and he is willing to file for a short license. He had business today but he will be calling upon her tomorrow apparently.

It felt like she had one day of freedom before she was due at the gallows.

When her lady's maid entered the room she was forced from her bed. She got dressed in one of the few dresses she could stand, it was a pale green that thankfully did not clash with her hair. If this was her last day of freedom she mid as well enjoy it.

She sat through breakfast in a sort of daze, not really hearing her mama as she droned on. She hadn't even been able to publish an edition of Whistledown as she had hoped. She just felt too empty, how was she to put words to page when she felt like this?

Her mother must have noticed her state as she called for Penelope loudly and when she actually looked up she realized her sisters had left the room "Yes Mama?" she asked, looking towards her mother expectantly.

~~~~~~~

Portia looked at her daughter and she felt a pit in her stomach, she did not want to have to do this but it was for the best.

"Penelope, I know you are not thrilled with this match but it is not as bad as it seems. With his age you are more likely to be left a widow in a few years, he has no heirs so if you provide him with a child you will be in control of it all. It may take some time but you must know it will be better by the end" she said, trying to comfort her daughter.

She knew Penelope should not be forced with that man but he was offering to pay Phillipa and Prudences Dowerys if the new Lord Faetherington refused, he offered to take her in and be kind to Penelope.

He was not the sort to raise a hand to a woman and what she said is true. Penelope would only need to suffer him for a few years until an heir is born. Even if she needed to make sure of it herself.

Her daughter's figure was not pleasing but it was one good for childbearing which the Lord seemed to appreciate so much he agreed to have Penelope with no Dowery.

A widow is better than a spinster in the end.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope understood better after her mother's words, she supposes from her mother's view it would not sound so horrid but she had always hoped for at least a man under 40.

She knew she could not be choosy but she had hoped to have some choice in the matter.

She decided to grasp at the last straw she had "And Lord Winfrey does not mind the lack of dowry?" she asked, hoping her mother had somehow missed that but seeing the delight on her face that hope disappeared.

"No! He is happy to go without it. He has even offered to help your sisters with their doweries if the need arises. He is kind if not appealing" her Mama said happily.

Penelope felt her heartbreak, she was being sacrificed for the sake of her sisters, she always knew her mama did not see her as important but to have such proof caused her pain.

"That is very kind of him" she said, her voice losing what life she had left to it as she quickly excused herself to go and read in her room.

While there a part of her thought about the money she had stashed in her floorboards, she could run. Would she have enough to make a living? She wouldn't be able to continue as Whistledown since she would no longer be a part of high society.

She supposes she will have to see how desperate she is upon her future husband's arrival on the marrow, mayhaps she could stand him for a few years like her Mama said.

Her thoughts were interrupted by an offer for tea from Eloise. For a moment she considered declining but this might be one of the last chances she had to spend with her friend for the next few years.

She asked her ladies maid Rose to escort her over to Bridgerton House across the street. Rose was under her direct employ with her Whistledown money, when her mother had fired the servants Rose had offered her services to Penelope for 'Free' and her mother hadn't questioned it.

She was paid for her discretion as well as her ability to drop off articles when she herself could not.

Penelope valued Rose very much and was happy to say they had a friendship so it was easy to see Rose was unsettled by the state Penelope found herself in.

"My Lady are you alright?" she asked quietly as she escorted her.

Penelope nodded with a grimace "I am fine Rose, thank you for escorting me. I will have Eloise's Lady maid walk me home" she said as soon as she entered the house.

She nodded to the footman as he lead her to the family drawing room. She was surprised to see not only Eloise but her mother as well.

She gave the proper greeting but before she could sit down Eloise was flinging her arms around her "Pen you look terrible! Did you sleep at all last night?" she asked concerned.

Penelope grimaced "Yes, though not very well. Thank you for inviting me to Tea, it is a nice change of scenery" she said as she sat down.

Eloise quickly sat beside her and rushed to speak "I told Anthony about the Baron, he and Mother must have thought of something, they asked me to schedule the tea" she said in a whisper, though a poor one as Lady Violet heard every word.

She shook her head fondly at Eloise "While my daughter lacks tact she is correct. We do have a few ideas but we would like to discuss them with you before going forward" Violet said gently.

Penelope blinked in shock for a moment before shaking her head "Oh no do not feel like you must put yourselves out for me!" she said aghast, she did not want to burden them. She loved the Bridertons!

Lady Violet took her hand comfortingly "Oh dear it is no bother, you have always been dear to me and I would have never dreamt your mother would make you a match like that. We want to help" she said reassuringly, her voice soothing like Penelope wished her mothers would be.

Penelope had always envied Eloise for her family, they were so warm and comforting, and most of all they actually enjoy each other's company. Part of the reason she had been infatuated with Colin was the idea she could one day be a part of this family.

To know they felt close to her as well seemed to breathe some life back into her soul, as well as hope. Lord Briderton had always been a kind and assertive man. He had always found a way to help his own family, just maybe he could find a way to help her.

"I suppose I could hear any ideas you have" she said hesitantly. It couldn't be any worse than running away in the night. As much as she wants to think she would have enough she would probably only last a few months.

She had never had to take care of herself before, she wasn't even allowed out without a chaperone. How was she supposed to provide for herself?

She hoped Lord Bridgerton would have a solution, otherwise she may just have to write a few emergency issues of Whistledown to give her enough funds.

These thoughts were running through her head as Lady Violet led her to an office, leaving Eloise behind in the drawing room much to her friend's displeasure.

~~~~~~~

Anthony tapped on his desk, his thoughts running wild. He knew Mrs. Featherington was currently having tea with his sister and mother and shortly his mother would bring her and the only solution he had to offer was his own hand in marriage, or that of his brother.

A part of him feared corrupting something so sweet and innocent. Penelope couldn't hurt a soul, she was witty and kind. She deserved better than him.

When his mother finally entered his office and he saw her, really saw her, for what felt like the first time he realized how little he would object to her being his wife.

Penelope had firmly been like a sister to him, she had never been an option but now that she was he could see a certain attraction.

"Mrs.Featherington thank you for joining me" he said as he motioned for her to sit.

She smiled shyly at him but he could see a strain in her eyes, he had never seen so little hope in them before "Thank you for attempting to help me my Lord but I do not see a way for you to help" she said reluctantly.

He could see in her eyes how much she wished he could help. He wished so much to make that look go away, to see her smile again. "Why don't you explain what you know of your mother's motivations and I can see what I can do" he said, not outright offering to marry her as he needed to know if the deal was even something her mother would be interested in.

She nodded but still looked unsure before she huffed "May I speak frankly?" she asked.

He nodded making her stiffen her spine "My father left us destitute. We are now at the whims of the new Lord Faetherington who my mother assures us is horrid. But he will honor a gentlemen's agreement. My mother is determined to see us all matched before he arrives. Lord Winfrey has agreed to wave my Dowery and provide for my mother and sisters if it comes to it, even pay their dowerys himself. My mother seems to think with his advanced age that I shall be a widow within a few years and become the controller of his estate as long as I provide him with an Heir" Penelope explained, her voice even as she explained her situation.

His mother had gasped in shocked horror as Penelope sat there, staring at his desk, refusing to meet his eyes.

If money is the main reason for Portia making this match then Benedict or Colin would not sate her. They may be Bridgerton but they have nowhere near large enough inheritances to rival a Baron.

He looked at Penelope once more, taking a moment to really consider his next words as there will be no way to take them back once they are said. One look at his mother and he knew it was now or never.

It didn't take him more than two seconds to come to a decision "Mrs. Featherington there is one solution you have not considered" he said.

Penelope raised her eyes immediately with a gasp "What solution?" she asked, her eyes desperate.

He took in a deep breath, knowing once these words are spoken there will be no turning back "Marry me instead" was out of his mouth before he could stop it. Not that he regretted it.

Chapter 3

Chapter Text

Penelope barely processed the words that came from his mouth as she gaped at him "What?" she asked completely wrongfooted.

"Your mother would not turn down the offer of a Viscount, surely I am a better match than the Baron?" he asked, his voice holding a teasing note to it.

She sputtered "No you are a far better match My lord, far too good a match for me! You deserve someone better!" she said, shaking her head in denial. Anthony Bridgerton could have any woman he wanted! He was Handsome and kind and would make an amazing husband and father.

Anthony furrowed his brows "Nonsense, you are an amazing match. Mother, would you give Mrs. Featherington and me a moment?" he asked, not wanting to have this discussion with anyone else in the room.

His mother gave him a pointed look of warning before exiting the room.

He turned back to her and made sure to look her in the eyes so she could see any trace of falsehood "Let me be frank, the idea of marrying you is quite pleasant. You get alonge with my family, you are incredibly intelligent. You are someone I enjoy spending time with and could see living an amiable life with" he said, giving her a small smirk that made her feel wholly unworthy of him.

"Bu..but I will not be able to please you" she said, her voice going quiet and shy.

Anthony looked at her gobsmacked "Bullshit, Penelope you are beautiful. You have the body of a woman not that of a little girl. You are kind and gracious and funny. You deserve to be married to someone who appreciates all those things about you, someone that you can grow to love. I will not lie and say I am in love with you but I could see us having a beautiful friendship in our marriage that could grow to be more" he said, his eyes passionate as he talked.

She felt tears gather in her eyes, she wanted all that and she knew she would not find it in Baron Winfrey, she had always dreamed of love but maybe friendship would be a better place to start.

At the very least the prospect of marrying Anthony does not make her want to run.

He must have mistaken her silence as his face grew slightly unsure "Is your hesitation because of my brother?" he asked carefully.

She was suddenly filled with a wave of mortification as a scowl come over her face "Was I that obvious?" she said, her voice slightly disgusted with herself.

Anthony looked surprised by her tone as he shook his head "No but it was easy to see for people who know you. Is it because of Colin that you hesitate?" he asked carefully.

She scoffed "No, Colin made his feelings very clear in front of half the eligible bachelors of the Ton. Over the off-season I have had time to think and realize my feelings were for the idea of Colin, not the reality" she said sharply. Just thinking of it made anger course through her.

~~~~~~~

Anthony straightened immediately, did his brother truly disparage a Lady of breeding to the other bachelors of the Ton "What exactly did he say?" he asked carefully. His fists clenched underneath his desk.

She huffed and looked away from him as she spoke "When he was being asked by the other Lords if he was courting me he laughed and said he would never court me, like the entire idea was a joke. He practically declared me unmarriable to half the Ton" she said, her voice quiet as she glared at the floor.

He glowered at his desk as well, this very well may have been the reason she had no prospects this season. The Bridgerton name held weight and if Colin disparaged her others would listen.

He was even more determined to marry her as more and more this problem was beginning to feel like one created by his family. Though he supposes her father's debts couldn't be blamed on him.

He shook his head "We have gotten much off-topic, my offer still stands and if you agree I am prepared to go to your mother with a contract after this meeting. I can offer the same as the Baron can if not more. But most of all I want to see you happy" he said, his voice gentle as he looked at her.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope looked at him and thought about it, as much as she did not love Anthony she would not lie and say he is unattractive, and he had always been kind. He had shown how good of a Lord and Brother he is and she is sure he will make a good husband.

Really what was her choice, a lonely marriage with a man old enough to be her grandfather or a marriage of friendship with a man she could see a life with and a family she had always wished to be a part of?

She takes a deep breath as she realized that compared to this morning her fate had greatly improved. Yes, she was still forced to marry someone she did not love but she had always known there was a slim chance of her ever finding a love match.

Anthony meets all of her previous requirements, under 40, tolerable disposition, and kind. Considering that she is getting quite the match out of this as Anthony is arguably the most handsome Bridgerton brother.

"I accept your offer of Marriage, My lord" she said, her voice growing in strength as she realized things were turning out quite nice for her, all things considered.

He smiled and surprisingly it didn't seem forced "Good, and first thing I demand is you call me by my name. If we are to be engaged we should drop the formalities" he said with a charming smile.

She smiled as well, a flush working it's way up her checks "I would like that Anthony, and in return you must use my name, or you could call me Pen" she said, hoping she was not being too forward but by the grin she received she knew she had made the right choice.

"How about Penny, my brother and sister call you Pen. I wish to have my own nickname for you" he said fondly, enjoying the blush that made its way up her cheeks at his words.

She looked down with a bashful smile "I would like that" she said quietly.

"Good, now if you have no objections I will meet with your mother and get her approval and then on the morrow request a special license" he said, becoming the Viscount once again.

She made a sound of surprise "Are we not to have a courting period? What will people think?" she asked, slightly scandalized.

He shrugged "They will think what we make them think. If they believe we are a love match and the quick marriage is to save you from the horrible match your mother made then we simply need to make it look as such" he said casually as if he had no worry for what people would say.

"Anthony people will think you took liberties" she said pointedly.

He nodded "They might but when no babe appears early they will be disquieted by such a notion and it will fall to the back burner for some juicier gossip" he said, his voice sure of that fact.

She supposes that is true, there might be some talk but when no child comes of it things should calm. It helped that she was the one who would dictate the narrative as Lady Whistledown.

While she was thinking Anthony called out for his mother who quickly re-entered, most likely waiting outside the door the entire time "So what is the verdict?" she asked her eyes wide.

Anthony nodded making his mother squeal as she ran up to Penelope to embrace her "Oh my dear girl I have always hoped you would become a part of this family. Come! We must discuss wedding plans!" Violet said excitedly as she pulled her alonge out of the office.

"We will need to pick a location as well as get you fitted for a wedding gown. And maybe a new wardrobe? Nothing yellow of course" Violet said cheekily making Penelope giggle and nod.

"I would love that Lady Bridgerton" she said with a smile growing on her face.

Violet shook her head "none of that, call me Violet, you will be family soon" she said excitedly as she continued leading Penelopy down the hall.

Penelope realized that it was real in that moment. She would be a Bridgerton, she would be a Viscountess.

~~~~~~~

As soon as his mother and future wife exited the room he let out a breath he hadn't known he was holding as he slowly rose and poured himself a rather large glass of brandy.

He would be getting married in a few weeks time, he would have a wife. At least he knew Penelope, she would make a good wife.

He let himself decompress and come to terms for a few minutes before he had his solicitor sent for so he could work up an acceptable contract to give Portia Featherington.

Chapter 4

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Portia Featherington was not a very kind and caring woman but she did love her girls. She tried her best with what little she had.

She knew Lord Winfrey will be kind and if it's true that he can not sire an heir she will help Penelope sire one elsewhere of decent likeness and then get rid of the man. She did not want her daughter to suffer, she just wanted what was best for her. Or the best she could atian for her.

She wished the girl had any suitors but not a single gentleman had asked her to dance beside the Bridgerton boy and that was out of kindness. He would never take her poor Penelopy, even she could see it. He would simply string her poor heart alonge until any option is gone.

It is better this way, it will secure their future. Or so she thought until Lord Bridgerton requested a meeting and presented her with a marriage contract.

"Lady Faetherington I am prepared to marry Penelope in two weeks time as well as match the deal with Lord Winfrey. If you would accept" he said sharply, she could tell there was no love lost between them.

She sputtered for a moment before collecting herself "My Lord, just to be clear you are saying you would provide for me and my daughters, supplying them with doweries if there is such a need, as well as accept Penelope with no Dowery" she asked, knowing she needed to clarify before she refused the Baron.

Lord Bridgerton nodded and pulled out a contract "Yes, it is all there in writing. If you agree we will both sign this one and a copy for yourself" he said as he handed her the contract.

She took the time to read it over carefully, by the end she was shocked. Penelope had made a match with a Viscount. This was an amazing match as it was without all the extra caveats. She needed to accept.

"My lord I accept" she said as she signed her name with a flourish on both copies before handing him the quiell.

She watched with bated breath as he signed them and dated them, leaving one of them on the table for her as he put the other in his briefcase.

"Since Penelope is still at my home I will take care to personally ask her for her hand and on the marrow I will call for her. After which she will need to go to the Modist with my mother to begin her fitting for her wedding gown" he said casually as he stood and after polite farewells left.

When he was out of the door she sat back down with a huff of shock as she picked up the contract, reading it again in absolute shock.

~~~~~~~~

"Wait what wedding?!" Eloise asked as Penelope and Violet re-entered the family drawing room discussing wedding plans.

Penelope smiled nervously "Mine, it seems your brother did find a solution. He's decided to marry me himself" she said, unsure how her friend will react.

Eloise looked at her in uncomprehension "Your…Marrying Anthony?" she asked slowly.

Penelope nodded "Yes, he was very kind to offer himself in place of the Baron" she said uneasily. Growing more worried that Elois's reaction would not be pleasant.

Violet, bless her heart interjected "yes Eloise, Penelope will be joining the family. You and she will soon be sisters!" she said, making Eloise suddenly smile and squeal.

As Eloise pulled her into a hug Penelope mouthed her thanks to her new Mother by law.

After that Eloise joined their discussion of color schemes and locations. Penelope suggested they hold the wedding here, giving it an excuse to be a bit smaller of an affair. Hopefully that shall keep her mother from going to crazy.

After a while Violet was summoned leaving her and Eloise to talk.

"Thank you for asking your brother for help, before he made his offer I was considering making a run for it. But I was worried I wouldn't have enough funds to last" Penelope said quietly once she knew they had privacy.

Eloise's eyes widened "Truely? I would think Whistledown would have plenty of money" she said confused.

Penelope scoffed "Not when she's a young debutant that needs to bribe several people to keep her secrets as well as pay the publisher. I have enough to last me a few months, maybe a year. My mother has already sold anything of value so I can not sell any jewelry. I was considering putting out a few more issues in the next few days to bring in extra funds. I raised my price this season so it would have given me enough to get by for at least a year or more" she said quietly.

Eloise nodded "I suppose a life of intrigue isn't as lucrative as I thought" she said, some upset entering her voice making Penelope sigh.

"El I am sorry I never told you, I wanted to so many times but Whistledown was the first thing that was mine. Just mine. I had built her, she was a part of myself I never put to use before. A part that I had never showed anyone for fear of their reaction, even you" she said quietly, taking her hand.

Eloise let her take her hand as a tear slipped from her eye "I understand…well that's a lie but I am not angry. Everyone is entitled to some privacy, even from friends" she said softly.

They were interrupted by Anthony "Sorry to interrupt but I was wondering if Penelope would like to go for a turn around the garden with me" he said offering his arm.

Eloise motioned for her to go so she quickly agreed and took his arm as he led her out.

~~~~~~~~

Upon returning with the paperwork Anthony requested his mother to meet him in his office.

"I assume it went well?" she asked as she entered the room.

Anthony nodded "yes, she signed the papers and agreed, now all that is left is to ask Penny properly. Do you happen to have your ring on you?" he asked, hoping the answer was yes.

His mother's eyes widened she nodded "Yes let me go get it!" she said, leaving in a rush. She returned within a few minutes and looked at the box lovingly for a moment before handing it over to him.

"I hope she loves it as much as I did" she said fondly as she watched him examine the ring. "As do I" he said quietly before closing the box and putting it into his pocket.

"I plan to request a special license, the last thing we need is the Baron attempting something similar to Lord Berbrooke. I hope you can have the event planned on time" he said, straightening his jacket.

His mother nodded "I believe I can, Penelope spoke of having the wedding here. Do you have anything planned for the Honeymoon?" she asked carefully.

Anthony thought of the honeymoon for a moment. He could not simply travel for an extended time in the midle of a London season. As Lord he has responsibilities.

"I suppose two weeks at Aubrey Hall would be manageable. Perhaps plan something longer during the off season" he said.

He knew he would never pressure her so most likely their honeymoon would be spent getting to know each other as people. Then hopefully when she opened up to him more they could take a real honeymoon.

His mother nodded "That sounds like a wonderful idea. Now your sibling's lessons are about to end and I must retrieve them. May I suggest the gardens, it would be a lovely place to propose" she said suggestively before leaving.

He took a moment to summon his courage before leaving the office to find his future bride.

When he found her he could tell she was having some discussion with his sister so he waited a moment till it seemed to finish.

He felt pleased that she so eagerly accepted his presence as they walked out to the gardens.

"Penny I want you to know I will treat you well. I will never dishonor you or mistreat you. I will always be honest with you even when the truth is not pretty. And if you agree to be my wife I promise to always strive to make you happy and I promise to give you the proper respect you deserve" he said as stopped in front of the fountain.

Penelope looked slightly shocked before she smiled, tears coming to her eyes "Many marriages were made on far less. Since we are making promises I promise to always try and be a good wife to you. I will always give you Honesty and I will always give you respect. And in that breath if we are to be married you must know something" she said, glancing away from him as she fiddled with her hands nervously.

He felt a pit grow in his stomach but he motioned for her to continue.

She took in a shaky breath "Well there is no simple way to say this. I am Lady Whistledown" she said in a rush.

Notes:

I am convinced that Voilet had that ring the entire time. It being at Aubrey hall was just a distraction as she knew Anthony both wasn't ready for it and she was not ready to give it up just yet.

Chapter 5

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope knew she had to be honest, especially when he promised her honesty. It was obviously important to him.

When she saw his face she rushed to continue "I know you must be confused but there is still time to change your mind if you want. No licenses have been signed" she said as she continue to wring her hands nervously.

He stayed silent for a moment before he laughed "I should have known! Only someone in your family would know about Marina's condition" he said, his voice amused.

She looked at him shocked "This was not the reaction I was expecting" she said hesitantly.

He snorted "I'm sure it wasn't. Honestly I find myself impressed, for a young woman to make so much of herself so early. I'm almost jealous" he said as he looked at her appreciatively.

She flushed at the look in his eyes "It was nothing, wallflowers can easily blend into the background and make people loosen their tongues. It's not an achievement" she said, looking away from him.

"We will agree to disagree on that matter. One of these days you will need to tell me how you did it" he said impressed.

"Oh, my father's solicitor, he saw my writings one day and offered to have them published for me. Now that he left the country I hire hacks and my ladiesmaid if I can not deliver them myself" she said dismissively.

At that, he looked angry "Hired hacks?! Do you know how dangerous that is?! That stops at once, one of my footmen will deliver your collums" he said, his eyes taking on a protective look.

She raised an eyebrow "While I do not object to this, I suggest not ordering me about before we are even wed" she said, her voice tinged with a warning.

His eyes widened and he nodded "Of course, I apologize I simply wish for you to be safe" he said, his expression chagrinned.

She nodded "I can respect that. I have always admired how you are with your family. You bend over backward for them. I would be honored to become a member" she said slightly surprised he had taken her reproach so well. She had been testing the waters, seeing if he would push back or apologize and he had surprised her, in a good way.

He looked at her for a moment with a smile that caused her heart to warm before he pulled out a small heart-shaped ring box "If that is so Penelope Featherington, will you marry me?" he asked as he got down on one knee and showed her the ring.

She nodded and offered her hand, he slid the ring on her finger and she smiled "I would be happy to marry you Anthony" she said softly as she looked up at him, her eyes wide.

~~~~~~~

Anthony was surprised at how right the ring looked on her finger, it suited her perfectly.

When she looked at him with some of the bluest eyes he had ever seen, he was transfixed by her beauty. He couldn't help but think he always wanted to keep a smile on her face.

Once again he couldn't help but wonder why he never considered her before, she really would make him the perfect wife. The way she had so easily stood up to him and called him on his behavior was amazing.

He needed a woman who would tell him when he is being an idiot. He had made many mistakes because he was determined that he was right. He needed a wife who helped settle that side of himself.

They spent a few more moments in the gardens talking before he escorted her back to her home "I will call on you tomorrow after I send for the license. Then I am sure my mother intends to take you to the Modiste" he said as he walked up to her door, a maid following behind them to keep it appropriate.

"I look forward to it" she said shyly before entering her home.

~~~~~~~~

The next morning Penelope does not attempt to stay in her dream state, she has much more hope for the future this morning as she looks at her hand and saw the engagement ring sitting there. It had five pearls surrounding a diamond in a flower design, she loved it.

She by no means loved Anthony but at least she was excited for the marriage instead of feeling nothing but dread.

When Rose came to get her ready she smiled at her ladiesmaid "I think today is the day for the special dress Rose" she said excitedly. It was a dress she had bought with her own money. Her mother believed it to be with her pin money and had hated the dress on sight.

The dress was a pale pink that had a floral pattern. It was more simple than her mother normally allowed but it actually fit her figure instead of hiding it.

Rose smiled as she helped Penelopy into the dress "You look amazing miss, Lord Bridgerton will not be able to keep his eyes off you" she said excitedly as she helped Penelope do her hair so that the top is pinned back so that her curls flow down her back.

She felt beautiful as she entered the parlor. "Oh good Penelopy you're ready, the Viscount should be here soon. As should the Baron but when he arrives I want you to leave the room. I will handle him" Her Mama said quickly as she rushed Penelope to sit on the lounge.

Penelope nodded "Yes Mama, I believe Lord Bridgerton will ask me to a promenade so perhaps we will be gone before the Baron arrives" she said hopefully. She did not want to see that man again if she could help it.

"Good, I do not know how you got him to marry you but best not let him change his mind" her Mama said nervously.

"Lord Bridgerton seems very serious mama, he did sign a contract did he not? He said he will be applying for the license before he arrives" she said, trying to calm her mother before she begins picking at her looks.

"Wait what contract?!" Prudence asked as she sat up suddenly. Her mother looked over at her with a warning glare "Your sister is due to marry the Viscount Bridgerton. He has already written up the contract and has even offered to help us if the new Lord Featherington turns out to be as awful as I suspect" Her Mama snapped.

Prudence and Phillipa both looked shocked "She's going to marry a Viscount?! Her?!" Prudence asked as she stood up angrily.

Portia's eyes filled with fire "Yes, he's marrying Penelope! Now sit down and do not make a scene. He could be here any minute. And stop pouting, having a Viscountess for a sister will help your prospects. This is a good thing" she said sharpely.

Prudence sighed and looked away pointedly while Philippa gave Penelopy a small smile in congratulations but did not say anything. They all knew when their mama got like this it was best to stay quiet so it did not get directed at you.

~~~~~~~

Once the license was filed Anthony made his way to the florist to pick up some flowers. He decided a bouquet of wildflowers would be quite nice as roses are simply too common.

With flowers in hand he was led into the Faetherington drawing room and almost stopped short upon seeing Penelope. She was wearing a dress that actually suited her figure and insinuated all the curves of her body.

Once again he found himself quite happy to be marrying the woman in front of him.

He coughed to get his mind back on track and offered her the flowers "These are for you Penny" she said with a charming grin on his face. He was actively turning on the charm, hoping his future bride would be affected by it.

He was pleased to see a blush make its way across her cheeks as she smiled at the flowers "They are beautiful Anthony, let me put them in some water" she said as a maid brought in a vase.

"I am glad you like them, I wanted to ask if you would enjoy a promenade in the park with me? If that is okay with you Lady Faetheington" he asked both her and her mother.

Lady Featherington nodded "Of course, Penelope's Ladies' maid Rose will accompany you" she said as she motioned to the young woman who had brought the vase.

He offered his arm to Penelope who quickly took it with a smile.

Before they could leave he turned to Penelope's mother once again "Oh and I have already applied for the license, if all goes well we shall have the wedding in two weeks. As such my mother wishes to take Penelope to the modist this afternoon if that is alright with you" he informed her politely.

Lady Featherington nodded "Of course Lord Bridgerton. May I say I am so happy our families are joining as one" she said with a large grin on her face.

He nodded and led Penelope out to the Park, her ladies' maid moved to follow them.

Notes:

So what did you guys think so far? It's not gonna be a long fic but I am pretty excited for it. I just could not get the writing bug out of my head for this one and I bing wrote this in two days.

Chapter 6

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

As they entered the park Penelope could feel eyes on them. It felt strange to be the center of attention and not hiding in the background. She gripped Anthony's arm slightly uncomfortable with all the stares.

He looked down at her with a comforting smile "If I did not say it already you look absolutely ravishing" she said lowly in her ear.

The way his breath ghosted across her neck caused goosebumps to appear on her arms and heat to go through her making her confused. She smirked up at him "Why? Because I look less like a citrus fruit today?" she said jokingly.

Anthony chuckled and shook his head "No because you seem happy with what you are wearing, and it is a very nice cut" he said, his eyes going over her figure causing that strange heat again.

She blushed and looked away "It may be because I purchased this with my own money. My mother normally chooses all my dresses and their designs. She and I have very different tastes" She said, trying to bring the conversation back to safer waters.

He looks at her for a moment and then smirks "Well then you will simply need to order an entirely new wardrobe while at the Modiste today. You should feel beautiful in everything you wear" he said, giving her that charming grin again.

She shook her head "Anthony you are far too generous" she says, about to deny his offer when he shakes his head.

"It is not generous to provide for one's wife, you will be a viscountess soon and you will need a wardrobe befitting that. Not to speak ill of your mother's style but it is not one would think a Bridgerton would wear. As Viscountess what you wear to events will make a statement. As such I recommend you get plenty in Bridgerton Blue. Though I strongly advise you to get anything you would like. I very much like when you choose your own dresses" he said, his eyes once again looking over her form.

She looked at him slightly shocked before decided not to fight him on this "Is this what it will be like to marry you? Being spoiled beyond compare?" she asked, she was in awe of him.

He smirked "What you call spoiling I call providing for my future bride. It is my job to make sure you are cared for. As Viscountess you will have a rather large monthly allowance to do with what you please, which does not include things like food and clothes. Those are necessities and something I have agreed to provide as your husband. So I expect to find a rather large bill from the Modist on my desk tomorrow" he said pointedly.

She felt herself flush as she looked away from his stare "You truly are one of a kind Anthony. The way you care for your family is something I have truely always admired about you. The way you so easily sacrifice for them without a second thought. To you it is simply your duty while to others it would be their burden. I hope you know that as your wife I want to help you with that burden, not make it larger. I want to be the person you can lean on since you so quickly take the weight of everyone else onto your shoulders" she said, looking up at him with so much emotion in her eyes.

~~~~~~~

He looked at her and couldn't stop the feeling of understanding and warmth going through his heart. Not many had recognized what he did for his family, least of all his siblings.

"Thank you Penny, it was not easy at first but I settled into my duties as I'm sure you will" he said as he led her through the park. He nodded to anyone they passed politely as they continued their conversations.

"Yes, what exactly will be my duties?" she asked, her eyes slightly uneasy.

He smiled at her, trying to give what comfort he could "Well you will be in charge of the household staff as well as my sister's debuts to society. You will help my mother find them good marriages. We will be expected to host one large event every Season which you will be in charge of planning. Nothing that you should find too difficult. You will have my mother to help you, especially with my sister's marriages" he said casually. Hoping if he did not make it seem like a lot she would not see it as such.

"That sounds Manangble, though I feel Eloise will put up quite the fight" she said with a knowing smile on her face. He couldn't help but chuckle as he too thought Eloise would be his mother's biggest issue.

"Ah yes, my most rebellious sister, do not worry too much about her. My mother will handle the remainder of the Season as we will be spending most of it at Aubrey Hall for the Honeymoon" he said casually.

He watched her eyes widen as she flushed once again that beautiful color that he so appreciated "Ah yes, the Honeymoon" she said, her voice coming out high pitch.

He wished to see excitement in her eyes but what he saw was fear and apprehension, though she tried her best to hide it.

He leaned down towards her ear so only she could hear "I have no plans to pressure you Penny, while eventually we will need to have children I am in no rush. We will consummate when you are ready and not before. It will be on your terms. Aubrey Hall is a formality and hopefully a time when we can get to know each other without the interference of society. I am hoping when we truly get to that step to take an official Honeymoon for a month" he said lowly, smirking when he saw the effects of being this close to her.

He felt comforted that she seemed interested and responsive to him. It was a good sign, the time would come but for now she probably didn't even know what the act is let alone how to do it.

~~~~~~~

Penelope felt touched, most men would never be so kind and considerate to her, she felt a tear gather in her eyes as she looked up at him "I…Thank you, Anthony, That is very considerate of you" she said, not knowing how else to respond but with her genuine gratitude.

He scoffed, surprising her "Hardly, any true gentleman would never pressure a Lady before she is ready" he said dismissively. She felt her fondness grow for him, what some men would see as a chore he just saw as the standard.

"Most men see it as their right after the marriage" she said simply as an explanation.

He scowled, probably thinking of more than a few men he knew "Yes well most men do not care if their partner enjoys themselves or not. I find most men to be abhorrent" he said, shocking her.

She had not known woman could enjoy the act, from everything her Mama said it was unpleasant at best and painful at worst. If what he said was true he knew how to make it feel pleasant.

When she looked back up at him he was staring at her with a look she had never seen before, one of desire. It caused Heat to spark in her that she had never felt before, she had felt a rush of heat down her spine but never this strange heat that made her wish to clench her legs together.

~~~~~~~

Anthony smirked at the look on her face and how her entire body flushed, he could tell she was flustered and confused, probably not even understanding her current feelings.

He couldn't help but be enraptured by the picture she gave him. She stood there beautifully flushed, looking up at him as if asking him to sate some desire that she does not even understand. He could practically feel his pants stir.

Before he could move down and whisper naughty things in her ear he heard a yell from behind them "Oi Bridgerton! Who the hell do you think you are snatching my bride!?" a man asked loudly from behind him.

Anthony quickly turned with a glare as he saw the elderly Baron approaching, Penelope made a sound of fear as she took a step back, Her maid rushing to her side.

"If anyone tried to steal a bride it is you Lord Winfrey, I had plans to court and marry Mrs.Penelopy Faetherington this season when I heard of the contract you had made. I simply wished to have the woman of my dreams before she was snatched from my clutches" He said loudly, knowing the several people now staring would spread what they heard.

Hopefully this would spare Penelope's reputation.

The Lord blustered for a moment and Anthony could now understand his sister's rants the night before, the man really had no teeth and stank like a pig barn.

"That is poppycock! I had a contract!" the old man yelled angrily.

Anthony simply raised an eyebrow "And now I have a contract of my own which has been signed and a license which is on the way. I recommend you find your sixth bride somewhere else My lord. Mrs.Featherington is to be my wife in two weeks time and nothing you shall say will stop that. Now good day" he said sharply, standing tall before the Lord.

Lord Winfrey huffed for a few moments but before he could say anything Anthony turned and offered his arm to Penelopy who took it, her eyes wide as she glanced at the aging Lord behind them as they left him behind.

"Woman of your dreams?" she asked softly once they were a distance from others.

Anthony smirked "Why yes you are. And now when said woman of my dreams marries her charming savior the Ton will not assume a scandal. Especially if a favorite writer puts out a piece about the entire incident" he said cheekily.

Penelope fell into a fit of giggles as they continued their way out of the park and back to her home where he left her to prepare for the Modest while he went to his office to do some much-needed work.

Notes:

Cuz u guys fueled my ADHD I have decided to give you a gift in the form of a chapter. Here you go, thank you for the dopamine. lol

Chapter 7

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

For the first time in what felt like her entire life Penelope was enjoying herself at the Modiste. She was excitedly going through Fabrics with Voilet and Eloise.

She was finally getting dresses that fit her figure. The Madame had helped her design ten new ball gowns for various occasions as well as seven day dresses and three winter dresses.

Once they had a decent-sized wardrobe they began designing her wedding gown. She left the discretion up to the Madame as she knew the woman would give her something wonderful, she also had no idea what she wanted. Besides a lack of Yellow of course.

Madame Genevieve also assured her that she would create some lingerie for the Honeymoon, something Penelope flushed at but did not deny it, even if she had no idea what to expect. She would eventually sleep with her husband after all.

As she spent the afternoon with her future mother by law she felt herself relaxing, this would soon be her everyday life. She had always wished to be a part of Eloise's family and now she would be.

The excitement of that revelation kept a smile on her face even after she had returned home.

"Ah Penelope, I take it your visit to the Modist went well?" Her mother asked as she entered the drawing room.

Penelope nodded happily "Oh yes Mama, Anthony has insisted he buy me an entirely new wardrobe to go alonge with my wedding dress. I ordered quite a few dresses in Bridgerton Blue" she said excitedly, happy to rub Prudense's nose in it as her sister had been a right terror to her for most of her life.

As if on cue her sister loudly protested "She get's an entirely new wardrobe and we are stuck wearing the same dresses as last year for the entire season?! This is not fair Mama!" Prudence said loudly, an angry scowl on her face as she glowered at Penelope.

Her Mama glared at Prudence "Darling calm down. I'm sure when the new Lord Featherington arrives we will have new dresses" her mother said warningly.

Prudence looked like she was about to argue but thought better. Penelope did not feel bad for prudence but looking at Philippa it was easy to see her sister was sad.

Penelope decided to take a step in the right direction with her sisters instead of antagonizing them "I'm sure if the New Lord does not arrive in time for the wedding Anthony would be willing to pay for each of you to get a new dress for the event" she said, already planning to use some of her own money instead. She would use her fiance as a cover so her mother does not ask questions.

Phillipa gasped "Do you really think so?" she asked excitedly.

Penelope smiled and nodded "I am sure of it, he has been quite gracious so far" she said, warmth filling her as she thought of Anthony and all he had said to her today.

Her mother narrowed her eyes "Do not overstep. We do not want this marriage to fall through" she said pointedly.

Penelope grimaced "He won't object Mama, I promise" she said, trying to reassure her.

Her mother sighed and nodded "I know, and worse comes to worst there is always the Baron. I spoke with him, he was not happy but he left without a fuss" she said as she sat down with a huff.

Penelope frowned "The Baron accosted me and Anthony on our promenade and demanded to know why Anthony stole his bride. Anthony quite gallantly defended me and declared that he had been planning to court me this season when the Baron made his offer to you. He was quite sweet and it should help any rumors that a quick marriage will cause" she said, knowing her mother would not be happy.

As she predicted her mother was definitely upset by the information and retired for the night.

Penelope quickly went to her own chambers, intent to begin writing the newest edition of Whistledown. She knew she would need to write about herself which would be strange.

Just as she was about to begin writing there was a knock on her door. Penelope quickly turned to see who it was as her sister slipped in the room.

Philippa stood there awkwardly for a moment before bursting into tears and running towards Penelope and hugging her.

Penelope was shocked and had no idea what to say so she just settled for awkwardly patting her sister on the back.

"Thank you! I know you didn't want to marry either of those men! I know Mother is forcing you! Thank you for being a better sister than we deserve!" Philippa wailed as she cried into her shoulder.

Penelope pulled back from her "Philippa calm down! I may not have wanted to marry the Baron but I do not mind marrying Anthony, he is rather kind and gallant for helping me" she said soothingly, hoping her sister would make more sense.

Philippa sniffled, the tears finally stopping "I'm glad you're happy but you shouldn't be in this position. Mother never should have agreed for our sakes" she said, still upset at the whole thing.

Penelope nodded "I can't say I don't agree with you but she was doing what she thought best. And rest assured Anthony has agreed to supply your dowry if Lord Featherington can not for some reason. And if all truly goes to shit as Viscountess I can take in you and Prudence and Mother can go and live with her father" Penelope said, attempting to calm her obviously distraught sister.

Philippa had always been sensitive so it was no surprise that she was so upset.

Her sister sighed in relief "That is good, though I'm just happy that you are getting the match you deserve. When I saw that baron today I realized what mother had attempted to do. I was appalled. I know I have not always been the best sister but I promise to change that" she said, taking Penelope's hands in her own.

Penelope smiled "I would like that very much. I have always wished to be closer" she said quietly.

Philippa pulled her into another hug and Penelope couldn't help but think things were finally looking up for her and it was all thanks to Anthony.

~~~~~~~~~

Dear Reader,

As the season begins I have kept my ears and eyes open for any and all secrets. So it is a surprise to find myself shocked, it seems Viscount Anthony Bridgerton is engaged to be married, yes that is right, Engaged! Why wasn't it just at Lady Danbury's brilliant soiree that the Viscount was looking for a future bride? Could love have bloomed so fast or was it simply a ploy as he would have us believe? Now, I'm sure you must be wondering who the lucky young lady is, this author is shocked to tell you none other than the resident wallflower Mrs.Penelope Featherington! The Viscount and his new bride-to-be were seen promenading in the park, the couple caught many eyes of the Ton when Lord Baron Winfrey accosted the couple to demand why Lord Bridgerton stole his bride! Lord Bridgerton loudly proclaimed that it was Baron Winfrey that was attempting to steal a bride as he had been of the mind to court Mrs. Featherinfton with the intention of marriage this season. He had simply moved quickly when the Barons suit was made known and acquired his Wallflower in due haste. He loudly declared that the license was filed and contract signed, the couple are to be married in two weeks' time. Lord Bridgerton would have us believe the reason for this quick marriage is Lord Winfrey but this author can not help but wonder if the reason for such a quick union is not to avoid scandal. I suppose we will have our answer soon enough when the couple has their first child. In the meantime all there is to do is wait and watch. Maybe our dear Queen will finally name a diamond and give us all something more interesting to discuss than a capital R Rake marrying a Wallflower.

Penelope gave Rose a pound for her troubles as she returned with her profits after delivering the latest Whistledown issue. It had felt so strange to write about her and Anthony.

The strangest part was knowing he would read it and know it was her who wrote it. He will probably be angry at her for speculating about their marriage but it would be strange for her not to.

She had made sure to make the rumer easily go away when no babe is born early and making it seem like she was only writing about it for lack of anything juicer.

Hopefully if Lady Whistledown declares it drab news the Ton will be quick to move on.

Penelope had worried that she would not be able to get the issue out but Rose had offered to bring the next issue to the Publisher and collect her profit which she now added to the hollowed-out book under her floorboards.

She was sure Rose knew what was going on even though neither of them spoke of it. She seemed happy enough to take her tip for her services and her larger than average pay.

Notes:

mind you I am not Lady Whistledown but hat is as accurate as I could get it with the message I wanted to put across. I feel like I did okay.

Chapter 8

Chapter Text

It was during the Queen's ball that she saw her fiance next. Thankfully her mother had chosen gold dresses for the evening that did not clash horribly with her hair.

Penelope glanced around the room but couldn't find the Bridgertons so she gave her full attention to the queen.

The Queen looked over her mothers and sisters without a word before raising an eyebrow at her. Penelope felt like her heart had stopped as the queen's attention was solely focused on her.

"Congratulations on your engagement" the queen said simply before looking away in dismissal.

Her mother nudged her making her force out "Thank you your Majesty, I hope my marriage will be as beautiful as your own" She said respectfully. The queen looked at her shocked before nodding in both approval and a dismissal.

Her mother quickly ushered them away "well done, I think she liked it" her mother whispered quietly as they started making their way around the room.

Penelope glanced back at the Queen to see her speaking with Lady Danbury and some women she knew to be the newly arrived Sharma's. It was after they had left the queen that she saw Eloise and her mother approach her Majesty.

Eloise looked dreadfully nervous standing there but her focus did not stay on her friend long as she saw Anthony behind them, she could not keep the smile from her face when she saw him, something that only grew when their eyes met.

Her eyes stayed on her betrothed until she was surprised by Eloise quickly grabbing her arm "Pen! We must leave. The Queen! I somehow managed to charm her. She seems to in fact like me" Eloise said in a panic.

Penelope grabbed her friend's hand "Eloise calm down, if the queen likes you that is a good thing. Now breath. I think I might have something to distract you this evening" Penelope said quietly so no one else could hear.

Eloise's eyes widened "What distraction!? I desperately need one of those" she said excitedly.

Penelope laughed lightly "Since Anthony and I are on center stage I need someone to get me gossip for my next article. And I will need something good to distract from us" she said, straightening as she saw Cressida Cowper approaching.

Before she could arrive however Anthony stepped in front of them "Penny, would you be willing to grace your future husband with a dance?" he asked casually.

She smiled and took his hand, giving Eloise a pleading look as Anthony pulled her away. Eloise huffed but nodded, confirming she would keep an ear out.

She let herself relax into the dance then, actually enjoying having the opportunity to dance with someone. Anthony was a gifted dancer and she found herself enjoying the movements.

"I saw we were in an issue of Whistledown this morning" he said casually but she could tell he was trying to tease her from the look in his eyes.

She smiled "It was unsurprising given the Baren's very public display" she said casually.

Anthony made a sound of agreement "Yes, such an ungentlemanly way to behave. But I suppose in the end this Rake did get his Wallflower" he said teasingly as he smiled down at her.

She giggled and nodded "I suppose he did, let us hope she can tame him from his Rakeish ways" she said, teasing him right back.

He let out a loud chuckle surprising several people around them as they danced "I believe she can, with time" he said, fondness in his eyes as he looked down at her.

The look on his face made a smile immediately grow on her own. She could live her life happily if Anthony kept looking at her like that.

They were both surprised when the dance stopped, so wrapped up in each other to even notice.

Anthony offered his arm so they could walk the room together and she easily took it. They continued to quietly banter between each other until the horns began drawing attention to the queen.

Penelope clapped happily when the Queen named Mrs.Edwina Sharma as the seasons Diamond.

She now had something new to write about which she greatly appreciated. She had hated writing about herself, she had to throw away many first drafts that spoke about her too harshly. Normally she would not have minded speaking so ill of herself but she knew Anthony would find issue.

~~~~~~~~

Eloise found herself enjoying sneaking around the party, it was quite fun compared to speaking to the likes of Cressida Cowper.

Mayhaps she could convince Penelope to write something about her in the next issue? Wouldn't that be fun.

It was on her mind when she passed some rather large curtains with whispers coming from them. Her eyes widened realizing this was precisely the type of thing Pen needed.

She walked passed the curtain and waited off to the side knowing they would eventually need to come out. Only to gasp when Benedict snuck out of the curtains. He turned to her with a shocked look only to glare when it was her "Eloise what were you doing?!" he asked in an accusing whisper as he dragged her away from the curtains.

She couldn't help but try and glance at who was within them only to furrow her brows when she saw it was some Lord, wasn't he that painter fellow that Anthony talks about?

She huffed when she realized they were probably talking about some nonsense that did not matter, she turned to glare at Benedict incensed that he had distracted her.

"I was trying to find something interesting to tell Pen but it was just you!" she huffed as she crossed her arms, her eyes looking over the crowd for something else more interesting.

Benedict rolled his eyes, secretly fixing his attire as his sister was looking away "If you want to find out something interesting stop looking in curtains and come with me to the gardens. I am sure we will find several couples who have snuck away" he said, both trying to distract her and himself from his predicaments.

Eloise looked at him eagerly and nodded, taking his arm as he led her to the gardens.

They did indeed find a few couples, Eloise taking note of who and where to give to Pen at the end of the night. Also taking the time to write how the entire tradition of a diamond is rather ridiculous.

~~~~~~~~

Upon arrival home Penelope and her sisters were surprised by the sight of a parlor full of items. They looked around confused as Mrs.Varley walked into the room "Ma'am, he is here, the new lord Faetherington" she said as a man came down the stairs.

Penelope heard her sisters make comments about thinking he was old and ugly and apparently so did her mother as she gave them a rather scathing glare.

"That is quite alright, you must mean my father. And no offense taken, he was ugly and very old. So old in fact that's why, well, he died. I'm terribly sorry for my late arrival. I made the trip from America. But don't worry I've already started taking care of things. Phillipa, that must be you. Your dowry to that fine Finch fellow is paid. The Late Lord's books are on the way to me now and I have already attempted to get in contact with Lord Bridgerton about a meeting tomorrow. Which one of you is Penelope?" he asked, his voice friendly.

Penelope raised her hand, still apprehensive about him. Something in her didn't trust him and she always followed her gut. Before she could say anything he moved on.

"Congratulations on the fine match. I have taken the liberties of having your things moved from your bed-chamber, Lady Featherington" he said, turning to her Mama.

Her Mama was not happy in the least but the new Lord did not seem to care as he made it clear he would be taking over those rooms as the new Lord in the house before quickly walking away.

Penelope looked toward her mother with a forced smile "It is like you said Mama. The new Lord Featherington is here to provide" she said, both weary and angry that she had almost been married off to an old man for nothing. Though at least she has her marriage to Anthony to thank for it.

The next morning Penelopy gave Rose an extra pound as well as the next edition of Whistledown when she handed over the bag of profits she had made from the last edition. It was slightly surreal knowing she had made that much money talking about her own relationship.

Thankfully the next edition was about the new Diamond as well as about how outdated the entire thing was. She had seen Eloise's incensed writings in the letter she had given her with everything she had overheard at the ball.

Some of it range true and she did want to make a difference. Not to mention Eloise had gotten her quite a few juicy pieces of gossip to go into the next edition so it was with great pleasure she dedicated the next edition to her friend.

She felt good, she had been honest with Eloise, she was doing good work as Lady Whistledown, and she is to be married to Anthony in a little over a week's time.

Part of her wondered if all of this was a dream and she would wake back up into her old life but every day when she woke up and realized it was all real she could not fight the wave of joy that overcame her.

Chapter 9

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Anthony was surprised to see a missive from the New Lord Featherington on his desk requesting a meeting at his earliest convenience to speak of his upcoming nuptials. Well, it seems he has finally arrived.

He penned a quick reply saying he would be open to a meeting tomorrow morning before he calls upon Penelopy. He wished to ask her to the races for the next day.

In the meantime he also sent a missive to Madame Delacroix requesting a rush order on one of Penelope's Bridgerton Blue day dresses. He would happily pay her an extra ten pounds for the rush order and he would be by to pick it up tomorrow.

He wished to both surprise Pen and make a statement to the Ton. His future bride in Bridgerton Blue would make quite the statement.

The next morning he passed the drawing room and heard an excited Eloise going on about the newest Whistledown issue and quickly grabbed one on his way to the Modist.

When he arrived Madame Delacroix ran up to him "Ah Lord Bridgerton you were in luck. I had almost finished just the dress you requested. I was able to finish it overnight and have it ready right here for Mrs. Penelope" she said happily as she handed him a rather large box.

He smiled "My thanks Madame, for the quick work. If you are able to rush a few more of her dresses by the next few days I am willing to pay 10 pounds per dress" he said pointedly.

Her eyes widened considerably as she nodded "Absolutely Lord Bridgerton. I could have two of the Day dresses and one of the Ball gowns finished in two days time. The rest have not been started yet and sadly will have to wait till the wedding" she said, with a regretful look on her face.

Anthony nodded "Completely understandable Madam" he said respectfully before taking the box and leaving.

He made a quick stop at the florist before continuing to the Featherington House. He snorted at the number of carriages at Lady Danbury's home. Could they really not have some originality when picking a wife, to go after the diamond is so plain.

When he arrived at the Featherington house he was happy to see Penelope's ladies' maid. He motioned to her and she quickly ran over "Is there something I can do for you, My lord?" she asked politely.

He nodded and handed her the box "This is for Penelope, I wish for it to be waiting in her chambers after our meeting. I would like to surprise her" he said making the ladies maid smile excitedly and nod.

She quickly took the box with her leaving Anthony to wait in the hall for the footman who had gone to fetch Lord Featherington.

Eventually he was greeted by a surprisingly young Lord.

"Ah Lord Bridgerton! Good to meet you. Please come to my office for a glass of brandy while we discuss things. Do forgive the mess I just arrived last night and am still finding places for my things" Lord Featherington said as he lead Anthony to his office.

The Lord served a rather unremarkable brandy as they both sat down "I was curious to know what you wished to discuss" Anthony said after he took a sip of his brandy.

The Lord looked surprised "Well Penelope's Dowery of course!" he said casually but something in his eyes told Anthony that this man was uneasy.

Anthony simply raised an eyebrow "I have already refused Penelope's dowry. I have no need of it" he said with a shrug. The look of relief that Lord Featherington had in his eyes for a moment was very telling.

He schooled his features quickly "Is that so? Is it truly the love match those papers report it to be?" he asked as he leaned back in the chair.

Anthony nodded "It is indeed. I have already come to an agreement with Lady Featherington about Penelope's lack of Dowery. Now if you would excuse me I have every intention of asking Penelope to the races today with my family" Anthony said as he stood up.

Lord Featherington nodded "Of course! I had plans to bring the entire family as well but Penelope can surely join your family" the Lord said in approval. He looked quite pleased with the outcome of the meeting. Not that it was surprising given the lack of funds he would now need to fork over.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope had just finished breaking her fast when she saw her Mama and Mrs.Varly looking at the large ostentation gun display cousin Jack had put up.

She could tell immediately neither woman was happy with the display in the entrance hall. Truthfully neither was she "Is that cousin Jacks?!" she asked, slightly appalled at the entire thing.

"Cousin!? Did he ask you to call him that?" Her Mama asked, surprised and apprehension in her voice.

Penelope looked at her "Are you bothered by him Mama?" she asked, wondering if she had gotten the same sense of him as she had.

Her mother shook her head "Of course not! The New Lord Featherington has come to shower us with many riches indeed" her Mama said and from her voice Penelope knew her Mama was lying through her teeth.

"If we must endure a few…Dubius style choices in return, alonge with some rather questionable matters of breeding, then…so be it" her Mama said, making it rather obvious what she thought. Penelope wasn't surprised that there were insults within her words, thinly veiled they may be but one would have to be oblivious not to pick up on them.

"I also hear he wishes to convert the morning room into his own personal gaming hell" Mrs. Varly said once her Mama had stopped speaking. Penelope had to use years of practice not to snort at Mrs.Varly's jabs.

"Ah. now that looks splendid, don't you think?" Cousin Jack asked, rather oblivious, or not caring, of the women's opinions.

"It is a happy addition my Lord, though perhaps happier in your own bed chambers?" Her Mama said pointedly, not that cousin Jack cared.

Penelope looked at the guns with wide eyes "Have you shot all of them?" she asked curiously.

Cousin Jack smiled "Every weapon here has a splendid history and is worthy of interest Penelope. But sadly I will need to tell you about them another day as you have a caller in the drawing room" he said pointedly.

Penelope couldn't keep the grin from her face as she realized Anthony was here, she didn't hesitate to go and see him.

He smiled down at her and handed her a bundle of tulips. She smiled and immediately put them in some water. "I was not expecting you today" she said happily as she sat down beside him.

"Well I wished to invite you to the races today with my family. Lord Featherington has said he will be bringing you mother and sisters so I would love to escort you" he said.

She felt excitement rush through her at the thought as she nodded "Of course I would be happy to attend with you. When do the carriages leave?" she asked, mentally calculating how long it would take to get ready.

Anthony checks his pocket watch for a moment "Just under an hour" he said casually.

Penelope's eyes widened "Oh then I must go and get ready, here I will escort you out and meet you at the carriages once I am ready" she said as she quickly stood and ushered him out.

As they passed the gun display he made a face making her snort behind her hand "Not your style my Lord?" she asked teasingly.

Anthony snorted "While I enjoy a good hunt I do not take pleasure in displaying such" he said casually as they walked to the door.

Once he had left she quikly made her way up to her room only to see a wrapped box on her bed. She walked up to it and saw the note 'I thought to make a statement at the races and had Madam Delacroix rush a few of the dresses in your order. The others will come in two days but I thought you could wear this one today. Surprise Penny' she read the note twice before opening the box, she laughed lightly when she saw the Bridgerton blue cloth.

A statement indeed, she thought as she pulled the dress from the box. She quickly moved to get dressed, smiling at Rose as she helped her into it.

"You look beautiful" Rose said warmly as she helped do her hair for the day.

She looked at herself in the mirror and for once did not argue.

~~~~~~~~

When Anthony had gotten Penny the dress early it had been so she would be confident and also to make a statement. He did not however do it so he could see her looking radiant in the dress, that was just a bonus.

He felt himself falter when she came out of her house, her ladies maid behind her.

He quickly made his way to her and offered his arm "You look beautiful" he said, his eyes not being able to stray from the way her curves looked when they were properly extenuated.

She smiled and looked away, a delectable blush working its way up her neck to her cheeks "Thank you, I am rather thankful someone had the foresight to get it for me" she said giving him a small teasing glance.

He chuckled "Yes whoever they may be they are absolutely brilliant" he said, his eyes once again raking over her form in appreciation before he helped her into the carriage with his mother and sisters.

Notes:

So it has come to my attention I was spelling Portia wrong. And I'm just gonna be plain, I thought I was spelling it right cuz I accidentally spelled it wrong on my reference list of names...

Look, I know I suck at spelling and grammar I always have and it's been something I've worked very hard to improve and if u popped over to my first book (Thier Little Mate (Volturi Kings) you would see how far I have come. But under no damn circumstances am I getting a beta writer. I write on the whims of my ADHD and I would never subject another person to that. It's just not fair.

But rest assured I do edit my fics before I post them but if for instance I am miss-spelling something purposely because I think I'm right that's just me being a fucking idiot. And for the record yes I know the mistake I made with the Mrs. And miss I just used it way too much and am not going back to painstakingly fix it when I could be writing new chapters. I fixed Potia tho cuz that didn't come up a lot. If I ever go back and do a second edit again then yes, I will fix it but at this point, it's not that big of a deal. Why we overly complicate the same word in the English language is just stupid. It's said the same! other languages do just fine without this shit! I grew up in America and still I am hopeless at it! What does that tell you? And I was a decent student, especially during the early years.

Long story short, sorry for the mistakes, I am just fucking hopeless when it comes to spelling and grammar, and I will never be getting a Beta writer no matter how many people say I should over all of my fanfics. No, I'm a stubborn potato. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.

Chapter 10

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope felt that strange heat once again at the look in his eyes as he helped her into the carriage, it was like some strange energy connected them until the carriage door was closed.

She shook her head slightly to get rid of the feeling as she turned to the other ladies of the Bridgerton household. She wasn't surprised when Eloise pulled her into a rather exuberant hug "I'm so happy you are coming with us today! I am positively desperate for company" she said as she pulled away.

Violet gave her daughter a light hit with her fan in warning making Eloise's eyes widen "What? I meant no offense!" she said to her mother.

Violet simply looked away pointedly towards Penelope "it is good to see you dear. I was quite pleased to hear you were joining us and may I say you look lovely in Bridgerton blue" she said kindly.

Penelope nodded "Thank you, I find I quite like wearing it" she said with a blush on her cheeks as she ran her hand over her new dress appreciatively.

Violet looked away with a pleased smile. She was quite happy with the match and from the looks she saw them share so were they. She had always known some woman would someday come and take her place as Viscountess but she was happy to see it be Penelope. She had always loved her like a daughter.

Later on in the ride while her mother seemed distracted with Hyacinth Eloise leaned over to speak with Pen. "I saw the latest Whistledown issue, it was a nice change of pace" she said pointedly.

Penelope gave her friend a look of warning "yes but surely Lady Whistledown has not changed her entire writing style. She is after all a gossip columnist and not a revolutionary" she said, her voice low.

Eloise huffed but nodded "Yes yes I know. But I for one appreciated the gesture and her willingness to point out the ridiculous outdated ways of our society" she said as she grabbed Penelope's hand in her own.

Penelope smiled and nodded, gripping her friend's hand back.

~~~~~~~~

As soon as his carriage had stopped he jumped out and went to the lady's carriage. He opened the door before the footman was able and offered his arm to Penelope.

She smiled at him fondly as she lightly took his arm and stepped down from the carriage.

He waited for Benedict to escort their mother before leading the family to their place in the stands. He noticed several men watching Penelope and eyeing her in her new dress. He had glared at each one making them look away quickly.

It seems he is not the only man to appreciate the dress much to his displeasure. Though he can't truly regret it as he looked down at her and sees the way she glows, not just from her natural beauty but because of her confidence.

He would deal with other men's wandering stares to see her so at ease in her own skin. He knew the cruelties she faced at home and to see her overcome them with something as simple as a dress she chose was astounding. It showed her mental fortitude and made him proud to have her as his future wife, she would make an amazing Viscountess.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope wondered why Anthony kept glaring at several men while he led them to the stands. He would go from smiling down at her with a look of want in his eyes to glaring several men down like they had personally offended him.

Maybe he got into some altercation the other night? Yes that must be it, she thought as they finally arrived at the stands.

Penelope smiled when Anthony made sure his family was settled before offering to take her on a walk around the grounds before the races started. Eloise seemed displeased by the offer as she stood up and pointed threateningly at her brother "You can not steal Pen the entire day Anthony! I demand at least some time with my friend" she said.

Anthony nodded "Of course sister, I will need to make some bets, you may have Penny all to yourself then" he said as he offered his arm.

She snorted at the look of disgust on Eloise's face at his name for her as she let him lead her around the yards.

"It seems your sister does not like sharing" Penelope said jokingly as she nodded to several groups of ladies. Even passing her sister Philippa and her fiance who were talking about their wedding with several other ladies.

Anthony huffed "She never has, you would think someone with so many siblings would learn the skill" he said sarcastically.

She laughed behind her hand "I suppose some just never learn. Oh, be prepared my Lord here comes my Sister and her betrothed" she said quietly when she saw Philippa and her fiance advancing on them.

Philippa gave her a large grin "Penelope I didn't get to see your dress before we left, you look amazing!" she said excitedly, genuinely happy for her.

Penelope found herself giving a genuine smile to her sister "Thank you Philippa, you look beautiful as well. And hello Lord Finch it is good to see you again" she said politely towards her sister's fiance.

"Good to see you again as well Mrs. Featherington. My dear Philippa was telling me about your upcoming union. Congratulations to you both" he said respectfully to both her and Anthony. She smiled in thanks, he seemed genuine in his efforts.

Anthony smiled down at her "Yes we are very happy. I'm sure you understand" he said motioning to himself and Philippa.

Lord Finch smiled down at his soon-to-be bride with a look that assuage all of Penlope's fears, he truly was fond of her sister "Yes I do" he said quietly to them. Philippa beamed up at him and Penelope turned to Anthony with a look of thanks.

When their eyes met she felt the smile morph into something lighter as she saw the look he was giving her. It seems her soon-to-be husband felt as fond of her as she did of him.

~~~~~~~~

Eloise rolled her eyes as she saw Pen and Anthony being all romantic. She scoffed and grabbed Benedict's arm to drag him with her "Come brother, I need refreshment" she grumbled as she dragged him behind her.

He protested but didn't stop her until they had gotten away from the stands when he pulled away from her clutches and straightened his jacket "Can you not manhandle me Eloise?" he asked sarcastically.

"Why must it be called Manhandling? I've seen many more women dragging men around!" Eloise said in a huff.

Benedict groaned loudly "Not another speech!" he said as he put his hands over his ears.

She rolled her eyes and punched him in the arm making him gasp and clutch his now injured arm "How dare you?!" he asked mockingly. Sne snorted and looked away pointedly making him chuckle.

"Come on I want to get a look at the wares!" she said excitedly as she once again grabbed him and began pulling him towards the merchant's tables.

~~~~~~~

Penelope was happy to see many people commenting on her choice of color "it seems you were right, wearing Bridgerton blue has caused quite the stir" she said excitedly to Anthony as she clutched his arm.

He nodded "Yes, mayhaps Lady Whistledown will once again make notice of us?" he asked pointedly.

She tilted her head in thought "Mayhaps a small mention. Wouldn't want to make it seem like a bigger deal than it is. Ah, there is my mother with Cousin Jack" she said, waving politely to her mother and cousin.

Anthony also offered them a nod "I met with the new lord Feathering this morning. He seemed quite relieved to find out I was not going to accept a Dowery" he said casually as he continued to lead her.

She raised an eyebrow "Truly? He seemed quite happy to pay Philippa's dowry" she said, the feeling in her gut returning.

He shrugged "It might just be the lack of extra coins leaving his coffers. Many men would be relieved to not have to pay a dowry" he said reassuringly.

Penelope nodded, her eyes looking over the people in the stands as they passed. Taking note of the many suitors following Miss Edwina like puppies while her older sister keeps them quiet at bay.

"I suppose. Oh while I remember it. If my mother or sisters thank you for any dresses just play alonge. I used you as a cover to explain my sudden funds" she said quietly so no one could overhear.

Anthony raised an eyebrow before nodding slowly "I see, and you do know I would be willing to actually buy those dresses?" he asked gently.

Her eyes widened "Oh no Anthony, you have been far too generous already. The dresses for my sisters is an act of kindness from me, I would never expect you to fund such a thing" she said, making it clear she would not allow him to pay for something like that.

He smiled at her then and leaned towards her ear "You will make an amazing Viscountess and an amazing wife" he said quietly, his breath on her ear making a shudder go up her spine.

He smirked at her reaction as he led them back to the stands.

Notes:

Gonna time skip past the rest of the courting as it's basically just public dates and shit. And get to the fun part.

Chapter 11

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope stood on the dias while Madam Delcroix did the last-minute adjustments on the wedding dress.

The past two weeks had flown by in a whirlwind of day dates and wedding planning as each day passed and she got to know her future husband she became happier and happier with the match.

She may not be in love with Anthony but they share a dear friendship, and she does find him very attractive. Mostly she felt herself becoming a happy participant in her future marriage when she realized their views aligned.

A couple can get over not liking the same things or having different personalities but if one's morals do not align there is no point to it. Anthony may be assertive and downright arrogant at times but he believes in being a gentleman and being a good Lord for his family.

Not only does he take on his duties with little complaint he has time to be a caring and doting brother. She could not imagine how good of a father he would be one day.

As she stood there now looking at the craem dress with panels of Bridgerton blue sewn into it she could not help but feel excitement. Two weeks ago she would have only felt dread for her wedding, married to an old man and sent to the country.

Now here she was about to be married to a man well above her station, who appreciates her for her wit and charm, who is kind and gallant, who will treat her with respect and wish to see her happy. How could she want anything else.

"Do you like the fit Mrs.Penlope?" Madame Genevieve asked, looking at Penelope expectantly. Penelope jumped slightly in surprise.

"Oh yes, it's beautiful. Just as the other dresses you made are, I must thank you for the rush order" she said with a large grin towards the woman.

The Madam simply waved her hand in dismissal "It was no issue, I was quite happy to take the rush order. Your man paid my rent for two months" she said with a smirk.

Penelope smiled "Then I am happy to be of help. Speaking of help I want to inquire whether my cousin has paid off the debts of my family as of yet?" she asked carefully. Cousin Jack had been acting strange whenever matter of money comes up. She had seen him quickly exit a situation multiple times now.

The Madame raised an eyebrow before leaning towards Penelope "It would be very unprofessional for me to discuss this with anyone else but as you are a member of the Featherington family I do not see issue in telling you he has paid off half of the debts with a ruby necklace. The remainder is yet to be paid and without an installment soon I will have to stop supplying your mother and sisters in good faith" she whispered, glancing back toward Violet to make sure she wasn't paying attention.

Penelope made a sound of surprise, it seems cousin Jack is paying off many debts with jewelry as of late…

"Well if it pleases you I will pay for my sisters and mothers to get a dress each for the wedding. On my separate account" she said quietly as well.

The Madame raised an eyebrow but did not say anything as Violet returned beside nodding her head.

"Oh, Penelope you look beautiful!" Violet said excitedly as she saw Penelope in the dress. Penelope looked down with a smile "Thank you, I feel Beautiful in it" she said as she ran her hand over the fabric.

"And horrified as I am to say it, Anthony is going to find you irresistible in that" Eloise said with both admiration and somehow disgust in her voice.

Penelope blushed and looked away "I'm sure he will be able to resist" she said quietly with a small smile as she looked at herself in the mirror. Maybe she hoped she was wrong.

~~~~~~~~

Anthony nodded politely to everyone he passed as he made his way back to his home from Whites.

He was happy to notice him and Penelopy have faded into old news as people barely gave him a glance. Apparently there was only so much intrigue for a Rake and a Wallflower. It helped that Penelope had written of them only in passing in her articles.

Though they had been one of the main topics after the races. Her wearing Bridgerton blue was a statement after all and if Lady Whistledown did not mention it people would notice.

It was interesting knowing Penelope was Whistledown, it gave a new light to her. He has always thought her so kind and innocent but she had a darker side to her, one he actually enjoyed. She had a cynical wit that he found quite endearing when she truly showed it.

Each day he spent with her he found himself liking her company even more. He could see just spending hours with her, doing nothing. He imagined nights where he does paperwork and she sits with a book in companionable silence and he realizes how happy that would make him.

He also enjoyed the idea of ravishing her in said office but that would have to wait until she was ready and willing.

He was wrapped up in thoughts of his future bride as he entered his office, took off his tie, and poured himself a drink.

"Welcome home brother, where were you this evening?" Benedict said suddenly surprising him.

Anthony glowered at his younger brother "Do you just sit in my office and drink my brandy when I am not here?" he asked sarcastically as he sat down with a huff.

Benedict rolled his eyes "not always, this room also has wonderful lighting" he said sarcastically. Anthony snorted "You didn't answer me brother, where were you?" Benedict asked, his voice turning more serious.

Anthony raised an eyebrow, not understanding the sudden hostility "Having a drink at White's. Is that a shock to you brother?" he said casually. Not playing into whatever game Benedict was playing.

Benedict nodded "Good, I was worried you were trying to find yourself a mistress" he said jokingly but the look in his eyes was serious.

Anthony narrowed his eyes "I have no intention of finding a mistress, I would never dishonor Penny like that" he said sharply, warning in his voice. The idea he would do such a thing was ridiculous.

Benedict nodded "Good because soon she shall be my sister and u know how protective we Bridgerton men are of our sisters" he said pointedly.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope felt nervous on the night before her wedding. She had no idea what to expect. As she sat in her small desk wringing her hands, thinking about all the small touches and feelings that Anthony has given her.

Her mother surprised her by knocking on her door that night, she rarely takes the time to check on her so it was surprising.

Her Mama walked into the room with a grimace "My dear I suppose it is time we had this talk" she said as she sat down with a huff.

"What talk Mama?" Penelope asked confused.

Her Mama huffed again but now Penelope could tell it was from awkwardness, not anything she had done. "The wedding night talk. It is every mother's duty to properly prepare her daughter for their wedding night" she said, finally meeting Penelopy's eyes.

Penelope gaped making her Mama glare "Close your mouth Penelope! Let us both get this over with as I believe neither of us will enjoy it. Now I'm sure you realized men and women have different…parts" Her Mama said in a rush.

Penelope nodded, both curious about this discussion and horrified.

Her Mama took a deep breath, probably summoning some inner fortitude "Men have…Penises, and when they are aroused it gets hard. When it does he puts it in a woman's private area. The same place you urinate from. It shall be painful at worst and unpleasant at best. Just lie back and bare it and wait for him to be done. For most men it doesn't take very long. To get with a child a man must put his seed inside you, otherwise your womb will never quicken" she said stiffly.

Penelope stared at her with wide eyes, slightly terrified yet also confused. This was not how Anthony described it, he implied it could be quite pleasurable.

She decided not to ask her questions when her Mama stood up with a nod "That is all you need to know for the act, the rest you will learn with experience and time" she said walking towards the door.

She was about to leave when she sighed, her face resigned as she turned around "It is a Lord's Duty to get his wife with child but it is common that men find their pleasure elsewhere. You must not be shocked when the Viscount entertains a mistress. But you are well within your rights to demand he do it discreetly and out of your sight" Her Mama said gently, as if breaking the news of a death.

Penelope felt pain in her heart at the thought but she could tell her Mama was not telling her this to be cruel or hurtful like one of her jabs but to prepare her.

She nodded "Thank you for telling me all this Mama, it has been enlightening" she said carefully.

Her Mama quickly nodded and left the room without looking back.

Penelope let out a sigh as she was alone, suddenly much less excited about the next day. Though she was comforted by the fact Anthony would not expect her to lie with him. He had made it sound like he didn't even expect it during their honeymoon.

Those thoughts comforted her uneasiness and she just tried to enjoy the last night in her room. She had already packed up all of her private things, especially those under the floorboards, but it was now hitting her that this would be the last evening in her childhood bedroom.

Mayhaps the last evening of her childhood. She took the time to acknowledge that before finally allowing herself to go to sleep.

Notes:

Okay just gonna say something here. As a proud autistic bitch I think it's pretty clear I try and stick to accuracy unless it just doesn't work for the story. And while my brain will give me leeway with a full on fantasy show with dragons, Bridgerton is supposed to be set in the real world with real-world accuracies.

Yes, it's a show, blah blah blah, I still try my best here. My brain allows for nothing less. So I must say that the white wedding dress wasn't a thing until Queen Victoria, like 50 - 75 years after the Bridgerton Era which is supposed to be taking place in 1814 (S2). Hence she does not have a fully white dress. The dress was still mostly cream as that was common but the whole pure white dress thing wasn't popularized until Queen Victoria's wedding. Also fun fact she is freakishly short, look it up.

Now, I know any of you fellow nero spicy history nerds are going, Amber, you are right but what about lingerie, that wasn't popular till the 1900's? You mentioned that. And yes I did because sexy underwear as a thing was always a thing. It just wasn't actually lingerie and I don't know the old-timey word for it.

Thank u for coming to my Ted Talk. lol

Chapter 12

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The entire day seemed to go by in a blur as she was washed, pressed, and dressed, by several servants before being put in her wedding dress and made to sit for two hours while her hair and makeup were done.

When that was finally done she was shoved into a carriage and walking down the aisle before she really knew what was happening.

She remembered the look on Anthony's face when he saw her, the look of pure awe. She had worn a flush the entire time she said her vows because of his stares. Thankfully she did not stumble during her vows. Though Anthony did once.

She had simply smiled at him encouragingly and he straightened and continued.

Everything was so quick that before she knew it she was being kissed in front of the Ton, sealing their marriage vows. She felt a rush go through her as his lips touched hers for the first time. She found herself wanting to feel it again as soon as he pulled away.

She smiled as Anthony led her back down the Isle, she laughed as he twirled her in their first dance, and their second. She couldn't keep a smile off her face during the meal. And when two hours passed for the reception she felt like time finally caught up to her as she and Anthony left the wedding for Aubrey Hall.

She let out a deep breath as the night finally ended "Is it just me or does it feel like we haven't had a moment to breath since this morning started?" she said with a astonished laugh.

Anthony chuckled "Yes it has been rather hectic. I wish you could have seen your mother when she realized there was not a single yellow flower in the entire building" he said with a cheeky grin on his face.

Penelope couldn't stop the snort she let out, much to his delight.

After that they settled into a comfortable silence, her hand held in his the entire time.

Anthony noticed the energy slightly shifted from companionable silence to uncomfortable silence the closer they got to Aubrey Hall "You have not forgotten what I said have you Penny? Nothing will happen until you are ready" he said, having an inkling what was bothering her.

She grimaced "I know you will not pressure me Anthony, that is not my concern…" she said, hesitating to elaborate but with an encouraging look from him she continued.

She huffed and summoned her courage "My mother spoke with me last night about what to expect and I find myself confused as it does not align with your description of events" she said, looking away awkwardly.

He raised an eyebrow "Could you elaborate, I would be happy to answer any questions you have" he said encouragingly.

Penelope closed her eyes "When we spoke in the park you said you were the type of man to make sure your partner has as good of an experience as you but from what my mother described there is no pleasure in the act for a woman" she said, her voice quiet and unsure.

Anthony found himself hating Potia Featherington even more in that moment "Can I guess something alonge the lines of lie back and bare it?" he asked reluctantly. Grumbling when she nodded.

He gently grabbed her face so she was looking at him, once he had her full attention he began speaking "Your mother was wrong, I can only believe she spoke of her own experiences and meant no ill will but Penelope, when you allow me the honor to make you mine I will make it an incredibly enjoyable experience. The act itself will hurt in the beginning, there is no avoiding it but I know how to make it as comfortable as possible and that pain fleeting" he said reassuringly.

He saw the way his words affected her and couldn't help leaning down to her ear, letting his breath ghost against the sensitive skin of her neck "Trust me Darling, I will have you screaming in pleasure in our marriage bed, never pain" he said, his lips ghosting against her ear before he pulled away.

The look on her face tested his resolve, she look absolutely wanton, her eyes blown wide. Her breasts heaving as she took in deep breaths. A delectable blush making its way up her face.

He ran a thumb over her cheekbone for a moment before pulling his hands away, if he continued to touch her soft skin he did not know if he could stop. He coughed, breaking the tension "On second thought I think it best I don't answer any more of your questions as I find it more and more difficult to uphold my promise and not ravish you here and now. I will send for my sister on the marrow, she can answer any further questions you have" he said reluctantly pulling away from her to get some distance.

She simply flushed and looked away making him give her a smirk.

~~~~~~~~~

When they arrived at Aubrey Hall Anthony took the time to introduce her to the servants. Thankfully she still had Rose with her, she would not know what to do without her trusted ladies maid by her side.

That did not stop her from happily getting to know all the staff now under her care. She would need to spend the coming days truly getting to know them and what each of their duties were.

Once she had been introduced to the staff Anthony showed her to some temporary chambers so she can relax before dinner. Her official chambers were still being finished and would be ready by tonight.

She happily took the time to get her bearings as she changed out of her wedding dress, smiling at the beauty of it before putting on a simple day dress that Rose had picked out.

Once she was dressed she walked up to the window and looked at the grounds, this was to be her home. She had never seen Aubrey Hall before even after years of friendship with Eloise.

She took a moment to breathe in the air and appreciate that she was now Lady of this house. It felt strange to think about it but it was true.

~~~~~~~

Once Penelope was taken care of he quickly made his way to his own chambers, changed out of his wedding attire before penning a quick letter to Daphne requesting her presence tomorrow for Lunch, or dinner if the letter does not get to her on time.

Thankfully he had rather quick responses since he had footman dedicated to delivering his missive directly after writing them instead of sending them through the post. It helped when you paid your staff well.

He took a moment to collect himself, his new bride was rather tempting and she had no idea of it. He refused to go back on his promise but she was not making it easy for him, and he had a feeling his struggles would only grow with time.

Eventually he had to stop his thoughts and go and request dinner in the family dining room. He left Penny to get her bearings until dinner came and he had her called for.

When she entered the room he could tell some of her earlier confidence had left and in its place was a rather shy woman. He smiled at her, trying to help her relax as he pulled out her chair for her and sat down in his own seat.

She smiled up at him shyly, a blush on her cheeks before she looked down at her plate. Oh, this just wouldn't do.

Once the food was put out he had the servants leave and give them privacy "Darling you have no reason to be nervous" he said as if speaking to a wounded animal.

She flushed "I know, I just can not help it. Whenever you look at me I just feel this heat and I do not understand why!" she said in frustration.

He couldn't help the wave of pride and arousal that went through him, she did not even realize what she was feeling, what she was saying.

She looked away from him again and took a rather large sip of her drink "Like right now when you look at me like that" she blurted out, almost as if she said her thoughts aloud.

He smirked "That heat is rather simple Darling, it's want. And when you're ready I will be happy to explore all those feelings with you" he said, his voice low as his mind thought of all the dirty things he wished to do to her.

She gasped lightly and her eyes met his, there was an unexpected fire there "And if I want to explore with you now?" she asked challengingly, suddenly not so shy anymore.

He felt himself grip the table to keep his composure "I would ask what exactly you want to explore" he said carefully.

She looked up at him with heat and desire in her eyes, and a determination to get what she wants "I rather enjoyed when you kissed me, why not start there" she said as if it was an order and not a question.

He felt a stirring in his pants as he leaned over, his eyes dancing with promise "Why Mrs.Bridgerton are you asking me to kiss you?" he asked, a teasing note in his voice but under it was so much promise.

She looked at him boldly "No, I am telling you to kiss me, Husband" she said, completely breaking his composure as he sprang out of his seat and Stalked up to her. He pulled out her chair making her let out a surprised squeak which he found incredibly endearing before he picked her up and deposited her on the table.

He stepped between her legs and pulled her face to his, claiming her lips much more fervently than he did earlier. He had a mind to be somewhat gentle as he absolutely ravished her mouth. When he knew she would need to breathe he kissed down her neck, biting into her flesh lightly before soothing it with his tongue.

He was thoroughly enjoying the sounds he could get from her as her hands desperately clutched his jacket, bringing him closer to her so he was flush against her body.

He knew he needed to stop so with a slight growl in the back of his thought he worked his way back to her lips and pulled her into a gentler kiss, he let his lips linger for a few moments before gently pulling away, smirking down at the sight she made.

"How was that for a Kiss Darling?" he asked as he slowly stepped away from her and back to his seat.

Notes:

Okay I'm just gonna say it cuz it needs to be said. I will never have descriptive smut in this book. I'm all happy to do lead-up or some foreplay shit like that but you will never see the full-on smut which is more like porn in these books.

When I was new to writing I did a few and it just aint for me. The comments haunt my nightmares some days and while some people are okay with being a porn writer it just aint my thing. Or better statement, if it was it would just be that, If I'm gonna write porn I'm gonna write porn. But I'm trying to write a book here not a porno. Lol

Also sorry if the wedding was to short or you guys I just am not that type of bitch. I'm considering eloping for my own wedding because that shit just seems like too much bullshit.

Chapter 13

Chapter Text

She sat panting on the dining table, utterly wrecked. She had never known such pleasure was possible and he had only kissed her.

She took a moment to appreciate the feelings before sliding off the table and back into her seat. She had the fortitude of mind to smirk at her husband "It was rather pleasant" she said teasingly making him chuckle.

"Yes well I think that is as far as we shall explore for the evening until you are able to speak with Daphne. I would not want to overstep before you are truly able to understand everything you are feeling" he said, his tone sobering them both.

She nodded, thankful he was so understanding, what she didn't know was he was using every ounce of restraint he had, especially as the markings of their activities were slowly becoming more prominent on her throat. It took every bit of self-control to calm himself.

"I would never want to break the trust you put in me, though rest assured as soon as you speak to my sister I would be happy to do any exploring that you are willing" he said suggestively before pointedly looking away from her towards his plate as he began serving himself food.

She blushed and quickly moved to do the same. She stayed quiet as they ate, feeling slightly awkward once again.

"I was hoping to show you the house and then spend some time reading in the library" he said casually.

She smiled at him and nodded "I would like that. Do you have an extensive library?" she asked curiously. And just like that they were able to talk amiably as if they had been friends for years.

The time passed quickly and before she knew it Anthony was showing her around the house. He showed her several drawing rooms, and other public areas of the house before he began showing her the areas designated for family.

He showed her the family parlor where there was still toys left laying in the corners from the last time they were there, the room obviously had much love and use.

He showed her his families chambers before he lead her to a separate area of the house "Now, I know it is traditional for us to take the Lord and Lady's suites but I can not take them from my mother and I do not wish to stay in the room my father had so I had our chambers moved to this area of the house. Hopefully to give us privacy from the rest of my siblings" he said pointedly as he showed her to the opposite side of the house than she had been at before.

He showed her a smaller more intimate sitting area that had bookshelves lining an entire wall, on the opposite wall was a fireplace and a rather cozy-looking sitting area. She also saw above the fireplace was a blank space where a painting would go.

She motioned to it and he smiled "I want to put a portrait of us up there. I thought this would be a nice area to have to ourselves" he said, a blush finally making it's way on his face as he looked away.

Penelope smiled to herself, rather proud to see a blush from him "I love it, is there any other areas?" she asked excitedly.

He nodded and proceeded to show her a small dining room, two bedrooms that could be converted into whatever she pleased or rooms for any children they may have. She had blushed rather deeply at the thought before he showed her to a room he was rather nervous about.

He opened the door and motioned for her to go in, when she did she gasped, there was a large writing desk to one side of the room and on the other was a lounge area. The entire room was lined with bookshelves which were all empty.

"I thought this might be your writing room. You may fill the shelves with as many books as your heart desires" he said as he motioned to the shelves.

She stared around the room in shock, tears began gathering in her eyes as she realized what he had done for her.

Upon seeing her tears his eyes widened "Please tell me those are good tears?!" he asked slightly panicked.

She nodded and immediately wrapped her arms around him, burrowing herself in his chest. She rather liked it there. "Yes they're good tears. I find myself overwhelmed with fondness and gratitude towards my husband" she said into his chest.

He chuckled and wrapped his arms around her, kissing the top of her head as she stayed in his chest "You know I could find myself getting used to this" he said quietly as he held her.

~~~~~~~

After he showed her the writing room they retired to the library and read together for several hours but now was the time he would show Penny her chambers. It was slightly nerve-wracking as he led her to the door. Thankfully her chambers were directly across from his, well his new ones at least.

He opened the doors and motioned for her to go in, when she did once again he heard a gasp of astonishment.

She looked around with wide eyes "There is a wardrobe through that door. I had the room given a rather large vanity and even a smaller desk in case you have any thoughts you would immediately like to put to paper" he said, standing at the doorway.

She smiled at him brightly "It's beautiful Anthony, thank you" she said, her voice warm.

He smiled at her "I am glad you like it. I want it to be your space, It will be somewhere you may come whenever you wish to have time for yourself. The servants have been ordered to leave you be if you ever happen to be in here" he said, his eyes looking around the room.

She raised an eyebrow "That is very kind but you make it sound like I will not be here often" she said, her voice asking a question that her words were not.

He smiled at her, feeling nervous once again "I was hoping that you would sleep in my chambers with me, and I do mean sleep and nothing more. I wish to wake up with my lovely wife in my arms if she so permits it" he said gently, not wanting to push if it made her uncomfortable.

~~~~~~~

When she saw him standing there, ready to give into her wishes, giving her a space just for her, she felt a warmth grow in her heart for him.

She smiled at him, letting that warmth consume her, hoping that her emotions were in her eyes and clear for him to see "I would love that Anthony" she said quietly.

He smiled brightly making the warmth in her heart grow even more before he motioned across the hall "My chambers are just across the hall, why don't you ready yourself for bed and I shall wait for you there?" he asked carefully.

She nodded, a blush on her cheeks now that the realities were settling in. She was both nervous and excited, he gave her a rakish smirk before quickly going into his own chambers, notably leaving the door open for her to enter when she pleased.

She let out a shaky breath and made her way into the wardrobe, she jumped when Rose entered the room to help her undress "Are you okay miss?" she asked carefully.

Penelope nodded "Yes, he is not asking me to perform the act, simply to sleep in his bed. I am just nervous, no man has ever seen me in my sleeping attire besides my father" she said, her hands fisting her dress.

Rose smiled understandingly "Trust me Miss, he will find you most pleasing. But why don't I choose one of your nightdresses that will conceal your modesty better?" She asked, leaving the option up to Penelope.

She nodded, feeling relief as she realized she would not simply be in a thin shift that did not leave much to the imagination. While her nightdresses were still rather revealing it did give her some modesty.

Though as she saw her shoulders practically bared to the world, only a thin strap holding up the dress she felt slightly less confident than before. At least the material was thick enough to not be seen through and the skirt reached midway past her knees to her ankles.

It was not exactly revealing but it was formfitting which she found she quite liked. She felt confident, at least until she was in front of his door.

She took in a deep fortifying breath before slowly entering the room, when she moved the door she saw him lying in bed with no shirt making her stop mid-step to simply stare at him.

She had never actually seen a shirtless man before and Anthony was certainly a good specimen to start with.

He made a sound in the back of his throat reminding her where she was which made her wince before looking away as she closed the door quickly.

"Oh don't get shy on me now Darling, I feel quite proud of myself that I please you" Anthony said casually as he got out of bed and walked up to her.

He grabbed her cheeks gently and brought his lips to hers. It was sweet and gentle with much less heat than the kisses before.

She found herself smiling at the gesture as he pulled away. His eyes raked over her body "you look beautiful" he said quietly.

She smiled and this time leaned up to press her lips to his in a quick kiss before quickly walking towards the bed, smiling back at him shyly.

He followed her movements with dark eyes before moving to join her, he couldn't help himself from pulling her into a few more kisses before eventually she settled in his arms, head lying on his chest.

Chapter 14

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Anthony woke to the feeling of something on his chest moving, it took him a moment to realize what it was but when he woke to the sight of red curls sprawled out across him and the bed he couldn't stop the smile on his face as he wrapped his arms around Penny's body and relished the feeling of her in his arms.

He loved the look on her face as she lay on his chest, her breath running across his skin. He could feel her legs tangled with his as she slept practically on top of him.

He took a moment to appreciate the vision before him before slowly rolling her over so she was beneath him.

She made a small noise of complaint before sinking back into the sheets. He smirked and began kissing up her neck slowly, when he heard her let out a small series of giggles he grinned and kissed his way up to her lips.

She melted into his arms as he kissed her, he loved the feeling of her there. Eventually he pulled away "Well good morning my beautiful Wife" he said down to her as she blinked sleepily up at him, a blissful smile on her face.

"Well hello Husband" she said in an adorable morning voice as she tried to burrow her way into his chest, it seems his new bride was incredibly cuddly in the mornings…

~~~~~~~

Daphne furrowed her brows in worry when she received a missive from Anthony requesting her for Lunch.

Simon looked at her in concern as he held their son in his arms "What is it?" he asked curiously.

Daphne sighed "My brother has requested me to go to Aubrey Hall and meet with him and Penelope for lunch. I have no idea what for as they should be enjoying their honeymoon" she said confused.

Simon hummed, agreeing with her that it was strange. She huffed and stood up "Nothing to be done, I shall go and ready myself. Would you and Auggie like to come with me?" she asked, giving her husband and son each a kiss.

Simon shook his head "No, we will enjoy a father-son day! You go and have a good lunch" he said, motioning for her to go.

She smiled and went to dress, within an hour she was in a carriage heading to Aubrey Hall. what for, she had absolutely no clue.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope found herself enjoying waking up in her husband's arms. She also found herself enjoying their intimate breakfast in their personal dining room.

The room was small with only a round table that would seat four people, though really only three as the table was against the large windows showing a beautiful view of the gardens and countryside.

She found herself quite content to drink her tea as Anthony reads the paper, watching as the country awaken with the sun.

"Enjoying the view?" Anthony asked casually, putting down his paper.

She nodded with a smile "yes, it's not often I went to the country. While there are more Featherington estates the only one my father hadn't sold that belonged to us was the house in London. We stayed there year-round unlike you and your family who come here during the off-season" she said, her voice quiet.

She couldn't help but remember the many months she had missed her dearest friend while her family was in this very house. She had never faulted the Bridgertons but it had been lonely.

He grabbed her hand from across the table making her turn to him "Well now you will spend the off-season in the country as well" he said warmly.

The realization caused an immediate smile to grow on her face. "Yes, I suppose you are right. I think I could get used to it" she said with a happy sigh as she squeezed his hand.

The rest of the morning was spent in each other's company, they played a few rounds of chess, read in the library, and were just having lunch set out on the terrace when a carriage rolled up.

Anthony kissed her head as he pushed her chair in for her "it seems Daphne is just on time, stay here Penny, I'll go get her" he said casually before leaving her at the patio table alone.

She didn't mind it though as a gentle breeze wafted by, bring the scent of flowers from the gardens.

~~~~~~~~

Daphne felt her initial worry lesson as she saw the expression on her brother's face. Surely marital bliss could not have been ruined yet if he looked that happy.

"Brother, I was surprised to get a summons from you. Would you like to explain why you requested me to join you on your Honeymoon " Daphne said pointedly. Anthony blushed making her have to hide a small laugh behind a cough.

"First off sister this is not my official Honeymoon, this is for tradition and the Ton's eyes. On that note I called you because Penelope has several questions that I thought you better to answer than I" he said awkwardly, avoiding her eyes.

She slowly rose an eyebrow before nodding in understanding "I see, and where is Penelope?" she asked carefully. She was beginning to get a better understanding but it was obvious she wouldn't get the answers she needed from her brother.

"She's waiting on the patio as lunch was just served, I had a plate fetched for you as I came to greet you" he said casually as they both began walking through the house. This was her childhood home after all.

When they made it to the patio Daphne smiled brightly and opened her arms in invitation "Penelope you look amazing" she said as she leaned down and pulled the surprised girl into a hug before quickly taking a seat beside her.

Penelope blushed "Thank you, Daphne. You look very nice as well" she said kindly, smiling at Anthony when he sat down.

Daphne smiled to herself when she saw the looks they shared, there was definitely something there.

They shared a casual lunch together before Anthony quickly left them to walk the gardens.

Once they were alone Daphne turned to Penelope "Now, I was told you had questions. What exactly do you wish to know?" she asked carefully.

Penelope stiffened slightly "Well I suppose I have been having feelings I do not understand. My mother told me some things but she didn't exactly answer many of my questions.." Penelope said drifting off.

Daphne winced "Ah yes, my mother didn't answer many questions either. I suppose I can answer any questions but it would be easier once I understand what you know and…what you have done so far" she said pointedly.

She knew what it was like to be left ignorant and she would do what she could to help Penelope, it truly was a horrible feeling.

Penelope flushed slightly in embarrassment as she looked away "Anthony has promised not to do anything until I ask. He has been rather gallant. Though we have shared a few kisses and he has made me feel…strange" she said, her arms wrapping around herself.

Daphne nodded with a smile "Good, I would expect nothing less of my brother. Okay so you have kissed, I'm assuming what you felt was like a heat, possibly a strange feeling in your womanhood?" Daphne asked, trying to be as respectful, but blunt, as possible.

Penelope's eyes widen in slight horror but she nodded "Yes, and I do not understand why. When my mother spoke of the act she said that a man's member goes inside of a woman, that it is painful. That I shall not get much enjoyment from it but when Anthony even touches me he makes me feel pleasure?!" she asked, her resolve breaking.

Daphne couldn't keep the appalled look from her face "Wow, and I thought my mother's speech was bad. Though at least she gave you the logistics" she said scathingly.

Penelope snorted "My mother has never been gentle, now please, just tell me what I should know. What do you wish you would have known when the time came? I feel so naive and I hate it!" she said in exasperation as she ran her hands through her curls.

Daphne began laughing making Penelope give her a look "I'm sorry I just can't stop picturing our mother's faces if they knew we were speaking like this!" she said between laughs. That broke Penelope's resolve as both women broke out into fits of laughter.

Once things had calmed Daphne turned to Penelope and grabbed her arm as they continued down the gardens. She told her then of what it was truly like to be with a man, especially one with the experience such as their husbands.

She told Penelope to embrace the pleasure but do it at her own pace, there are many things to explore before they have to get to The Act, Penelope had gone red for most of the conversation but by the time Daphne left Aubrey Hall she was sure that there would be no further problems. Well unless her brother acts like an idiot.

Notes:

For the record I tried to keep the sex ed accurate to at least most of the knowledge of that period.

So just in case there are some unaware bitches out there let me correct a few things. and maybe give a bit of a sex ed class because ironically most of this wasn't actually taught in sex ed. (and I grew up in IL. one of the more liberal states)

1. there r actually 2 holes. the pee and the fucking do not happen in the same hole but the pee hole is itty bitty and u won't get nothing but infection up there.

2. the vagina is a self cleaning organ, putting soap and a bunch of shit up there is how u get more yeast infections not less.

3. if you are young and have not let someone at the kitty yet, don't. make them work for it. trust me us girlies who gave it up early experienced a lot more sex than orgasms. Men will do what they can so u mide as well actually get something out of it instead of trying to hold in a fart for 5 minutes while he pistols in and out.

4. You can actually tell what phase of your cycle you are in by the consistency of your vaginal fluid, I'm not gonna go into detail if u want to know more look it up. But if you have an irregular cycle and just can not track it, that might be your best bet.

5. while men have a 24-hour energy cycle women have a month-long energy cycle meaning while guys go through the day, with energy and then taper off we will have more energy at certain times of the month than others. Plan your schedule accordingly.

I had to learn all these things the hard way, hope I skipped that for some of you. The amount of us who are left completely unaware of our bodies just pisses me off so here you go.

Chapter 15

Chapter Text

Eloise smiled as she read the next article of Whistledown. While Pen was on her honeymoon it was Eloise's job to get her articles printed and collect the profits.

Pen had left the next three Lady Whistledown articles for her to publish this week while Eloise would send Pen a letter with anything new happening in the Ton and she would write the editions for next week.

Thankfully with Anthony's approval Eloise had a trusted footman who dropped off what she needed to the publishers, apparently she was not allowed to set foot on that side of town.

She would have disobeyed her brother but Pen promised to try and convince her mother to lighten up for the remainder of the Season when they return. Something well worth it to Eloise.

Though she supposes this next article might just be payment enough. When she had asked Pen to put Cressida Cowper in the next Lady Whistledown she hadn't thought her friend would be this vicious.

She was to send the article to the printer tonight so it could be out by tomorrow, Eloise almost couldn't wait to sit back and watch the chaos.

Dearest Readers,

As this Season has truly begun I find myself pleased to make note of our favorite Wallflower and Rake walking down the aisle. It seems the former Miss Featherngton even convinced her mother to drop the horrid Yellow dresses. I will say dear readers I did fear the poor girl would be made to walk down the aisle looking like a citrus fruit. Lucky for the New Viscountess Bridgerton her mother-by-law intervened and she walked down the aisle in a rather gorgeous gown of pale cream with accents of Bridgerton Blue, a marvel by Madam Delacroix to be sure. I'm sure many young brides can not wait to have their wedding gown designed by the infamous Modiste owner as her work for the new Lady Bridgerton was a true masterpiece. Viscount Bridgerton certainly seemed to agree as his eyes barely strayed from his bride the entire evening. This author surely does not need to speculate any longer on if that particular match was one of love or scandal. It was quite clear in the way the new couple looked at each other.

While I wish the only thing I had to report was about the happy marriage between a Rake and a Wallflower, but it seems the Ton is abuzz with secrets. Why this author just a few nights ago spotted Cressida Cowper sharing some very inappropriate stares with her footman! It seems even a match with the New Barren Featherington could not keep her wandering eyes away. This author wonders how much more was shared between Miss Cowper and her footman than a stare? Though surely Lord Fife would put her to shame as he seems to enjoy frolicking in the gardens with none other than Miss Veronica Danfield. With all this scandal this author can not help but wonder if there will be any more quick marriages upon us?

Eloise smirked as she folded the newest issue into an envelope before handing it to the Footman Anthony told her to trust.

Mayhaps tomorrow was a good day to take a walk through town with her mother? It would be best to have a good view.

~~~~~~~

Penelope bit her lip as she walked up to his office, she knew he was in there. Most likely working on correspondence but Daphne had just left and she wanted to experiment.

She knocked lightly before opening the door, Anthony immediately smiled upon seeing her "Is Daphne gone?" he asked as he put away what he had been working on.

Penelope nodded as she bit her lip "Yes, and I find myself rather enlightened" she said before looking away from him to glance around his office. It had been one of the few rooms he had not shown her the inside of.

Anthony raised an eyebrow "Oh?" he said suggestively.

She smirked at him as she stepped forward rather bravely if she did say so herself. "Well I was told there are things we can do to test the waters so to speak" she said stopping before his desk.

She could see as his eyes darkened "Oh, and did you have anything in mind?" he asked as he pushed his chair out from his desk. Before he could get out of his chair however she moved in front of him and placed herself on his lap.

He raised an eyebrow in surprise as she looked at him with heat "I was thinking anything above the skirts" she said slightly breathless.

Anthony smirked, his eyes raking over her "I can work with that" he said right before he pounced on her and brought her into a fiery kiss. He pulled her flush against him making her squeak.

She gasped as he kissed down her neck to her breasts, moaning at the feelings he was eliciting from her.

~~~~~~~~

Eloise nodded to her Mama as they sat on the outer patio of the tea shop. She was paying just enough attention not to be rude as she eagerly waited for the delivery boys to begin passing out the latest issue of Whistledown.

She had to stop herself from making a loud sound of victory when she finally saw them. She quickly paid the boy for his troubles and smiled at the newest article.

It was exhilarating knowing she had a part in it, she now understood the excitement Pen must have felt.

The excitement turned to absolute rapture as she watched Cressida Cowper walk down the street. She pretended to read the issue but realy her eyes watched the blonde harpy as she slowly realized people were being to stare at her.

Cressida quickly bought a Whistledown pamphlet from one of the boys only to gasp in horror as she read it, her mother quickly ushering her away as she read it as well.

Eloise smiled as she handed it to her mother "it seems Mama, that there is some news" she said, badly hiding her satisfaction. Not that anyone would think much of it. She had never been fond of Cressida.

Honestly she would feel bad if it was anyone else, but Cressida was a viper that loved to tear anyone down, she had rarely been the source of said gossip and cruelty. It was satisfying that she was finally getting a taste of her own medicine.

Eloise sat back and watched as the Ton reacted to the news for a few days and reported it all to Penelope for the next edition.

Eloise had a front-row seat as Cressida was refused entry to the Featherington house by a very satisfied Portia Featherington. It would seem lord Featherington has pulled out of that particular betrothal.

Eloise was happy knowing that was Penelope's goal with the issue of Whistledown. Her friend had not wanted Cressida to be in charge of her sisters and head of her family. Penelope may be joining the Bridgertons but that did not mean she stopped wanting to protect her sisters and mother.

Eloise understood, she would never abandon her sisters to the likes of Cressida Cowper either. Eloise understood what it was like to be in that position. At any point a choice of a man could change your entire life.

Anthony could have picked anyone and they would be in charge of her entire life, thankfully it was Pen so all things considered Eloise was pretty happy but she had always feared one day waking up and her entire life being ripped from under her.

She had already felt that once when her father died. It was something men could never understand, as a woman we have no choices we just get told what is to happen and expected to be fine with it. Well she was not fine with it. Well, at least until it was Pen.

Pen would never force her into a horrible marriage or out of her childhood home. Pen would be kind to her mother and to her siblings.

Pen would be a good wife for Anthony and a good Lady of their house. Even if Eloise did not like sharing her friend.

~~~~~~~

The servants at Aubrey Hall were surely scandalized by the sounds they would hear from several rooms in the house.

It seems after their first exploration Lord Bridgerton took to stealing his bride away into any room he could to ravish her, while respecting the boundaries his bride had set of course.

Penelope had yet to let him under her skirts but he found himself enjoying everything she was willing to give. She was incredibly responsive and while she did not let him go under her skirts she was happy to sit on top of him and rub herself against him while he showered her with kisses. It was one of their favorite past times.

When the newlyweds were not doing such acts they were known to take walks on the grounds, play board games, and read together.

It seemed even if it was not a conventional Honeymoon it was still enjoyed thoroughly.

Chapter 16

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope smiled to herself as she sat in her writing room. It had been a week since her wedding and she and Anthony had grown closer by the day.

It helped that each night they slept in each other's arms. Slowly friendship was turning into something more, at least for her. She wasn't sure what Anthony felt but she hoped he felt the same.

Currently they were apart to get some work done as she needed to respond to Eloise with the next Whsitledown Article and he had business that he needed to attend to.

She snorted when she actually got around to reading Eloise's response. It seems their plan worked. She had seen the way Cousin Jack was acting with Cressida before the wedding. He seemed about ready to propose.

Penelope could not allow that to happen under any circumstances and if she needed to ruin a certain viper of a girl for the sake of her family? Well, that wasn't even a choice.

It was times like these when Penelope could see herself as her mother's daughter, she had the ability to be absolutely ruthless for those she loved. It was one thing Penelope was happy to get from her mother, well that and the hair. When she wasn't being put in colors that horribly clashed with it that is.

As she finished reading Eloise's letter she began writing the newest edition of Whistledown.

Dear Readers,

This Auther has noticed a certain pattern when it comes to Prince Fredrick of Prussia as two years in a row he has courted the seasons Diamond. Will this Season end like the last with the Diamond choosing another or will the Prince finally have his match and the Queen finally have her Win? I am sure like myself you all are eager to find out. In the meantime this author would like to congratulate Miss Edwina Sharma on making such a good match. It is not every day one catches a Prince.

It can also be noted that the newly arrived Lord Featherington is no longer pursuing Miss Cowper, it seems he is now up for grabs once again Ladies. Though this author wonders if his quickness to find a bride isn't a sign of ungentlemanly behavior. This Auther will surely be looking into it. Oh and of course congratulations Lord Fife and the new Lady Fife on your recent Nuptials. Though this author hears tales of the ceremony being at gunpoint, apparently Lord Danfield was not very happy with his new Son in Law.

Penelope smirked as she left the ink to dry to go and find her husband.

She figured he would be in his office so that was the first place she checked. She knocked and opened the door to put her head in only to frown when she saw he was not present.

She huffed and considered going to find him but she knew most likely he would return shortly so instead she moved to sit in the small lounge area in his office.

She refused to poke around his desk, that would be absolutely atrocious of her. Even if a part of her was curious.

Instead, she looked at the artwork alonge the walls, there were several beautifully landscaped but it was one particular drawing that caught her eye. She tilted her head and stood up to inspect the hand-drawn sketch that seemed to be framed.

She felt like she could recognize the woman in the drawing as she got closer, until suddenly she did recognize her and her stomach dropped. There, on the wall of her husband's office, was a hand-drawn framed photo of his past lover, his mistress .

She felt like she had freezing water dumped on her as this realization settled. All of a sudden she no longer wished to spend the morning with her husband. She quickly left, closing the door gently behind her.

She did not run back to her rooms and cry, she calmly walked down the halls, her face made of stone as she simply walked back to her writing room. Once there she calmly sat down in her desk chair and stared out the window.

It only took a minute before the tears began running down her face, her hand immediately moved to muffle her cries as she completely broke down.

~~~~~~~~

Anthony knew something was wrong immediately upon seeing his wife. He had not seen that expression on her face during their entire relationship, it felt wrong.

She looked wrong, she smiled and she acted fine but her eyes were empty. It was like she was playing a part but when he had attempted to ask her what was wrong she just said nothing before saying she would be busy in her writing room all afternoon.

He frowned thinking about how she left the room without even touching him, normally they would share an embrace or a kiss but she had sat across from him and made polite conversation. It reminded him of something but he could not place it.

By dinner he couldn't stand the feeling as she sat at the table, moving the food on her plate but not eating.

She was worrying him.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope could barely look him in the eye, she knew her pain was ridiculous. So he had Lovers? She had known that.

She had a crush on his brother for years, who was she to judge? This logic did not help her when she looked at him and saw the beautiful opera singer he was once in love with.

As she sat across from him at lunch she wondered if he would make her his mistress, if the generosity she had seen from him was also received by her? Did he have her set up in a house somewhere in the Ton? Waiting to return from their Honeymoon to call on her? If so at least he was being discreet.

Her mother's words came back to her then and at that moment she felt a deeper understanding for her mother, why she was so cold. Was this her life? Constantly aware that the one man she would be permitted to care for and be with was with others as well?

She shook her head as she tried to stop the thoughts in her head, she knew it was irrational. He had a past, she knew this. For some reason it hurt now though, in a way it hadn't before.

It did not help that she was everything Penelope wished herself to be, she was beautiful and talented.

It was why now sitting at the table across from her husband who she could barely look at she felt herself grow sick every time she thought of putting a bite of food in her mouth.

She ended up just moving the food around her plate, hoping her stomach would stop betraying her.

"Penelope please tell me whats bothering you" Anthony said, his voice pleading.

She fought tears as she smiled at him "I am fine Anthony" she said, trying desperately to keep a pleasant smile on her face. She must have failed however.

~~~~~~~~

"Darling please tell me, I can see something is wrong. I can feel it" he said pleadingly.

He saw the pain in her eyes before she quickly hid it and looked away, but he was already up, hand reaching for her on instinct. He grabbed her cheeks gently and turned her to look at him.

She takes in a deep breath as she closes her eyes but does not pull from his hold "Anthony, I need you to know I understand if you need a mistress and I can look the other way but I need you to be honest with me. I can not take it if you hide it from me" she said, not opening her eyes as a tear ran down her cheek.

His back immediately stiffened as he straightened "Penelope why the hell would you think I want a mistress?!" he asked roughly.

She opened her eyes and wrenched her face from his hold as she stood up and took a step away from him. He immediately stood as well, not understanding what had even given her this idea.

She angrily whipped the tears from her face "I am not an idiot! As I said I can handle it, I just need the truth" she said, her voice going sharp. At that moment he understood why the way she had been acting and looked so familiar, it was the same way her mother acted around her father.

That thought alone made his blood run cold "Penelope I do not have a Mistress and I will never have a mistress. I care about you too much to do such a thing, I would never dishonor you like that. Now why the hell did you think I had a mistress, did I do something to give you this idea?" he asked, not understanding why but desperately wanting to reassure her.

The last thing he ever wanted was for their marriage to resemble her parents.

Penelope looked at him then and she looked so vulnerable he just wanted to hold her but he was afraid she would reject his touch like she did before.

She looked away from him then "I went to your office to look for you and decided to wait. I was admiring your artwork…." she said quietly. Suddenly it made much more sense.

He had forgotten that picture was even there, it had just begun to blend into the background by this point. He told her as such but it did not seem to fix her fears as he would have hoped.

"I will have the picture removed Darling, you must believe me I haven't even seen Siena since last season. We had a rather cold falling out. I have been with no one else since our courtship" he said gently.

This time when she looked at him he could see the pain in her eyes as she sniffled slightly, the tears gathering in her eyes. "If it is not her it will be someone else" she said quietly as she looked down.

"Bullshit!" he said loudly surprising her as she looked up at him.

"Why the hell would you ever think that?" he asked, his voice growing more forceful.

She sighed and wrapped her arms around herself "I can not satisfy you. My body…" she said, shame coating her words.

He shook his head and walked directly up to her, picking her up and putting her onto the table like he had the first night they got married. He grabbed her face gently and made her eyes meet his so she understood every word to be true.

"Penelope your body is fucking perfect. I don't care what horseshit your mother fed to you your whole life, you are beautiful. I can not get enough of you, just being able to kiss and hold you drives me insane and I eagerly await each moment you allow me to be with you as they are some of the best moments of my day. You have the body of a woman, not a little girl. I find myself struggling not to take you on every surface of this house because your body calls to me" he said, not moving his eyes from her.

He watched as the sadness was replaced by heat as he pressed himself against her, showing proof of his words.

She pulled him into a kiss then but he pulled back to move towards her ear "I will never have a mistress, all I want is you and the moment you allow me to show you unimaginable pleasure I am here and ready because you are worth it" he said in a growl as he began kissing down her neck.

She leaned her head back exposing more of her beautiful neck to him "Show me" she moaned out making him groan before doing just that.

Notes:

They did not do the do, for the record. lol

Chapter 17

Chapter Text

The last week of their honeymoon was spent in absolute bliss. After their rather fun experiment in the dining room the two newlyweds were closer than ever. Though they had yet to fully consummate their marriage they both found fun and new ways to please each other.

Eventually though real life once again called and they were forced back to London for the remainder of the Season.

Penelope found herself sad to leave Aubrey Hall, she had grown slightly attached to it in the two weeks she had been there. She could truly see building her life there with Anthony. Though she was excited to see her family, both the new and the old.

She leaned into Anthony as the carriage pulled away, he smiled down at her and wrapped his arm around her before leaning back to get comfortable.

She took the time to just breathe and be at peace with Anthony, knowing there will be very little of that when they reach London. They would have enough time to have lunch with the family and then they were expected at the queen's engagement ball which she is hosting for her nephew and Miss Edwina Sharma.

Penelope was quite nervous about her debut as Viscountess Bridgerton but she knew how to pretend she knew what she was doing. Usually the rest worked itself out.

Before they knew it the carriage was entering the city, Penelope grimaced at the hustle and bustle. Anthony chuckled and pulled her up on his lap as he started kissing down her neck "What, miss the country already?" he asked teasingly.

She giggled and leaned into him "I miss when it was just the two of us" she said, pulling him up to kiss her as she ground down on him. She had grown in confidence over the past week and now she found herself instigating many of their intimate moments.

He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her flush against him "You best stop that Mrs.Bridgerton, unless you want my family to see you absolutely ravished when we arrive" he said lowly before biting into her neck causing her to moan loudly as he smothered the burn with his tongue.

He trailed his lips up her neck before bringing her into a final kiss before pulling away and putting her back down in her own seat.

Penelope huffed as she fixed her hair, attempting to make it look like she hadn't just been considering letting her husband finally consummate with her in this very carriage.

It had been something on her mind as of late, she knew she wanted to but something was holding her back. Physically she was more than ready but emotionally there was still a block there.

A part of her considered that maybe it was her soft heart not wanting to lie with someone until she knew she loved them. She knew she felt something for Anthony, they had been spending so much time together and each time it feels like he steals another little bit of her heart and fashioned it into something new before putting it right back into her chest.

Mayhaps that feeling was love, she did not know. And maybe that was the problem, she did not know and it left her scared to let him in that last bit.

Before she could really get wrapped up in her thoughts the carriage door burst open and her friend was practically launching herself into her arms.

"Pen your back! I missed you so much! You are never allowed to leave me again!" Eloise said loudly as she held onto Penelope.

Penelope laughed loudly as she held onto her friend as well before eventually patting her on the back "Okay Eloise I missed you as well but I would like to get out of this carriage" she said, her voice strained as Eloise squeezed the life out of her.

Eloise grunted as Anthony pulled her off his wife "Give my wife space to breath sister" he said jokingly as Penelope gave him a smile of thanks while Eloise punched him in the chest to get him to let go.

While Anthony grunted and released his sister, Penelope quickly exited the carriage with the help of Benedict. Eloise following right begins her and left Anthony grumbling as he climbed out.

After that the hugs and greetings began as they entered the entryway where the majority of the family was waiting.

Penelope hugged each, though when she got to Daphne her new sister-by-law gave her a questioning look that made Penelope smile sheepishly. Daphne smirked at her and gave her a nod of encouragement that left her feeling embarrassed as Violet pulled her into a large hug.

"Oh my darlings I have missed you both so much! Come, you must be starving!" she said excitedly as she left Penelope to the dining room where lunch was being served.

Penelope may miss the country and the quiet but there was something unique about a Bridgerton family meal, when there were no true outsiders and the family were just themselves.

Penelope had always wished to be a part of it and now she was, she participated in Benedict and Daphne's needling of Anthony while quickly gossiping with Eloise who told her all about the reactions to the lady Whistledown articles.

She was almost excited to go to the ball tonight and see the reaction of the Ton herself.

"So I have been looking at several townhouses and I think I have it narrowed down to two" Violet announced loudly causing everyone to freeze.

Anthony looked at his mother gobsmacked "Whatever for?" he asked confused. Penelope grabbed his hand under the table to help keep him calm, knowing how protective he is of his family he would not like the idea of them anywhere else.

Violet raised eyebrow "For me and the children to live now that you are wed" she said as if it was obvious.

Penelope didn't wait for Anthony this time and immediately jumped to stop what was happening "Violet I insist you not leave. Me and Anthony would never kick you out of your home. There is more than enough room for us all" she said, absolutely refusing to take no for an answer.

~~~~~~~

Anthony saw his mother about to protest and immediately backed up his wife's words "Mother I insist you all stay, this will always be your home. I have already spoken with the staff to have the third floor converted into private chambers for me and Penny. We shall have our own space but still have you all close" he said, glancing at his younger siblings who immediately began pleading with their mother to agree.

It did not take much to break his mother's resolve as she huffed "Fine we shall stay but you still need to do something with your bachelor lodgings" she said pointedly, though she had a small pleased smile on her face that told him he made the right choice.

Anthony squeezed Penny's hand who had stayed firmly in his during the entire conversation, prompting her to look at him with a small smile which he returned before turning back to his mother.

"Why don't Benedict and Colin take over that apartment, it has two rooms. I had used one for my office but if they are amendable" he said pointedly to his brother who was watching the entire interaction amused.

Benedict's eyes widened before he nodded "Sure, why not. I'll turn the other room into an art studio" he said with a shrug.

Violet gave her son a glare making him raise him raise his hands in surrender "I'll put a bed in there for Colin!" he said making the children laugh.

"You better, the last time your brother wrote he said he would be returning soon" Violet said warningly.

Anthony raised an eyebrow "Oh, did Colin say if he received our letters?" he asked, hoping his brother had already heard of his marriage. He knew his wife's feelings for his brother had soured and died but he did not know where his brother stood.

Eloise scoffed "Not at all, he didn't answer any of my questions and he didn't seem to hear of your marriage otherwise there would have been congratulations in the letter" she said with a huff as she crossed her arms.

Penelope grabbed her glass of wine, her voice whispering "Yes, congratulations is absolutely what he would have to say" she said, her voice sarcastic.

He snorted and lifted his glass to her before taking a drink himself. Her cheeks went red when she realized he had heard her but he just found it amusing.

"Hopefully he enjoys his new apartment when he returns, preferably with a room not taken over by his brother" Violet said, once again looking at Benedict pointedly, knowing her sons well.

Benedict tipped back his glass, drinking the entire thing in one go "Fine mother, I will simply have to paint in the living area" he said with a shrug, smiling when his mother was distracted by Gregory throwing food into Hyacinth's hair.

Chapter 18

Chapter Text

Penelope felt slightly nervous when she entered the ballroom on Anthony's arm. Though it calmed when she saw people look away from them rather quickly.

Thankfully it would seem they were finally old news. Especially when the newly engaged royal couple was in attendance.

Penelope found herself faking confidence perfectly as she approached the Queen, her and Anthony bowing at the same time as if they had practiced it before, they said quick pleasantries to the queen before they quickly left her presence.

"For one so eager to challenge her Majesty you do seem to be rather afraid of her" Anthony said lowly into her ear as he walked her around the room.

She glared at him lightly making him chuckle even more "Yes well what I say as myself can come back to hurt the people I care for" she said pointedly.

He nodded then, growing more serious "I understand, I was just poking fun darling" he said gently, immediately her annoyance melted as she cupped his face and brought him into a quick and chaste kiss "I understand and forgive you. Now I believe it is time to dance with your wife" she said as she pulled away.

He smiled down at her before pulling her onto the dance floor.

~~~~~~~~

Eloise had to thank Pen really, having to find information for the Whistledown articles was a very good reason to escape her mother. And while Mama may not like it Anthony would understand why and not stop her.

She made her way around the shadows of the room, hopefully going unnoticed. She could see a few people whispering but mostly they were commenting about what other people were wearing.

She did make note of Lord Feathering talking to several gentlemen and turning down their offers to invest in his Mines. She made note of the interaction as Pen had asked her to keep an eye on him.

Once she left the men drinking in a huddle she got a look at the newly engaged couple. She was watching the look on their faces only to notice Edwina looking at her future husband lovingly but his eyes moving to her sister every time she looked away. Why, wasn't that interesting?

She would need to keep an eye on that during the next few balls. Though as Eloise watched Edwina's older sister she noticed the woman would look at the prince as well but also her brother, Anthony.

Sometimes she would watch Anthony and Penelope dance and her face would turn to stone.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope stood waiting for Anthony to grab them some drinks when Lady Danbury approached "Ah Lady Bridgerton, how are you?" she asked politely.

Penelope smiled, actually liking the older woman "I have been well, and you? I'm sure you must be proud of Miss Edwina for snatching up such a good match?" she asked politely but her eyes were teasing.

Lady Danbury smirked at her "Proud? Indeed. Though I can not say I am not eager to have some calm after the last few weeks. It must have been very pleasant in the country" She said suggestively.

Penelope blushed but couldn't hide the fond smile that came upon her face "It was, I did not predict how much I would enjoy it. Now, tell me what did I miss during my Honeymoon" Penelope asked quietly.

Lady Danbury chuckled and quietly started insinuating things that would definitely stay on Penelope's mind as she searches for new things to write about.

Lady Danbury was eventually pulled away and Penelope was left to watch, thankfully she noticed it was not impossible for her to slip back into being unnoticeable. Though it wasn't as easy to stay unnoticed as before, it did happen.

She was able to hear a few interesting conversations before she caught sight of her friend. She could see as Violet tried to get her to talk to a Lord only for her to quickly make her escape after the dance ended.

Eloise looked absolutely miserable as she ran from her mother and potential suitors. If they were not careful she would gain a bad reputation from this but forcing her to do it was not the right call either.

She knew as the new Viscountess she was in charge of her new sister's marriages, she respected Violet's opinion and would never keep her from the process but the more she thought about the more the thought that Eloise coming out into society this year was a mistake for the family.

Honestly, it had confused her, with Daphne they had waited until she was 21 for her to participate in her first season yet with Eloise, who was obviously uncomfortable and wishing to wait, was pushed into her first season at the age of 18?

Penelope knew why her own Mama had pushed her and her sisters into early debuts but why would the Bridgertons? It felt more like a recipe for disaster than anything else.

These thoughts stayed in her mind the entire evening even when Anthony had returned.

When they returned to the house Anthony said he was going to retire to his Office for a bit so Penelope went and got dressed for bed, though before she could go to sleep she pulled on a dressing robe and made her way through the house to Anthony's office.

~~~~~~~~

When Anthony heard the knock on his office door and then it opened he assumed it was his mother but was pleasantly surprised to see his lovely wife. While he thought she looked amazing in her Bridgerton blue ballgown he preferred her like this. Cleanfaced and wearing something simple and informal.

"Darling I wasn't expecting you, do you need something?" he asked, seeing a look on her face that indicated she wished to discuss something.

She bit her lip as she fiddled with the sleeves of her dressing robe "I wished to discuss something with you and see what you thought but if you are busy I can come back later" she said, her voice slightly unsure.

He raised an eyebrow and motioned for her to sit on the lounge chair as he moved to join her. He didn't want her to feel like they were in a formal meeting by sitting at his desk.

"What is it Darling?" he asked, grabbing her hand in his. She smiled down at their hands before squeezing his "I know we discussed your mother continuing on in her duties for the remainder of the Season, and I agree with that but I do not agree with the way your mother has been handling Eloise. I know she means well but if she continues to push like she is Eloise will only resist even more" she said, her words coming out quickly.

He sighed but truly took the time to consider her words. His sister was being extremely obstinate, not that he expected less from her, but it had still been a nuisance. But Penny had a point.

Every time he or his mother pushed Eloise pushed back harder, he did not want to force his sister into a marriage, truly from Daphne's reaction he would not want to know Eloise's. He wished to see all of his siblings happy and if they continued the way they were he did not believe Eloise would be.

"What do you suggest?" he asked after a few moments. Penelope's eyes widened and she sat up slightly, obviously not expecting him to agree with her.

"Well first I would say to stop pushing her, and make that clear to everyone. If Eloise is going to marry she will have to do it on her terms. Make it clear she can not be rude or cause any scandals but her marriage will be her choice and no one will force her hand. You know how Eloise is, no other way will work" she said giving him a rather pointed look.

He grumbled "Daphne was a pain but she did not make things this difficult" he said, annoyed his sister was this stubborn.

~~~~~~~

Penelope raised her eyebrow "yes and Daphne was 21 and was ready when she took her Debut, Eloise begged for more time and was made to present herself at 18. Those are two very different situations" she said, not allowing him to ignore the rather large differences.

Anthony winced but slowly nodded "I suppose you are right, Daphne was excited about her debut. Eloise was about to feint" he said quietly.

Penelope nodded "I remember, I purposely sent out the Whistledown issue to help her. She was petrified. She was nowhere near ready for that or for the season" she said, not wanting to hurt him but being blunt.

Anthony grimaced "Mother said it was necessary after last year" he said reluctantly.

Penelope nodded, she understood that in a way "And that can be understood but wouldn't it have been better to give it a year or two for things to calm down? Pushing Eloise is just asking for a scandal, you know she will snap and she won't care who sees" she said, Penelope knew her friend very well.

Anthony let out a long sigh as he ran his hands over his face "Do you suggest we do not participate during the next season?" he asked, thinking that might actually be best.

Penelope shook her head "No, it is too late for that. If we pulled Eloise out for a season the Ton would assume her with child and she would be ruined. No, now that she is out in society she is out but I believe the lessoning of pressure will make it better. At least make her more able to hold her temper" she said, you could not un milk the cow after all.

It was done and now they needed to deal with it.

Anthony stood up "I agree with you, now the hard part. We must discuss this with Mother" he said with a look of trepidation, though Penelope could tell it was mostly in jest.

She snorted but nodded "Yes, that will truly be the difficult part" she said with a snicker.

Chapter 19

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

"I agree" Violet said with a resigned sigh as she sat down in the lounge chair suddenly.

Penelope looked at Anthony in shock as he gaped at his mother "You do?" he asked shocked.

Violet nodded as she pinched the bridge of her nose in between her fingers "Yes, Eloise is nowhere near ready. I pushed her too soon and now her prospects may pay for it. Come now, do not be so shocked! All I want for each of you is to make a love match, I do not wish for Eloise to be unhappy, I am her mother" she said to Anthony.

Penelope giggled behind her hand at Anthony's dumbfounded face "Well now that that is settled I believe we can all rest easier. And Violet you did not ruin her chances, do not be so hard on yourself. My own mother forced Prudence into a corset so tight she feinted in front of the queen, trust me, you are a good mother" she said as she looked at Violet pointedly.

Violet smiled at Penelope and stood up, pulling Penelope into her arms "Thank you, sweet girl. Now I must go to bed, I believe everything is in good hands" she said, hidden meaning to her words before she left.

When the door closed Anthony looked at her for a moment before standing and walking to the door. Penelope furrowed her eyebrows in confusion until he locked the door. Confusion turned to excitement as he walked up to her with dark eyes "Do you know how good of a Viscountess and wife you are?" he asked before pulling her into a kiss.

She melted into his arms with a smile, when he pulled away she looked up at him coyly "No, why don't you show me, husband" she said lowly before moving up quickly and biting his bottom lip.

Anthony let out a growl before he picked her up and deposited her on her desk, she felt herself flush at the action before he was on her.

~~~~~~~~

The next morning at breakfast Violet causally looked at her second eldest daughter and said "Eloise, it has come to my attention that you were not ready to begin your first season. It is more than obvious that you are not happy and that you do not want to marry so Penelope, I, and your brother have discussed it and we agreed you shall not be made to do anymore seeking of a husband" It was quite easy to see the delight on her daughters face at this announcement.

Violet couldn't help but be happy for this decision as she saw some of the tension leave Eloise for the first time since the season has begin.

"Truely, I will not have to dance with Lords who see me as a cow to buy?" she asked excitedly.

Violet rolled her eyes as she watched Penelope laugh behind her hand and Anthony as gained a look of acceptance on his face "Now while I will not be forcing you to entertain suitors you must remain polite and not cause a scene. If a Lord asks you to dance be polite, dance, and then simply leave his presence if you do not enjoy it" She said warningly.

Eloise frowned for a moment before shrugging "I will take it!" she said excitedly, suddenly eating her breakfast much quicker.

Violet smiled at her daughter before her eyes moved to the newlyweds at one end of the table. They were sharing quite a few looks and words with each other.

Violet smiled when she realized her son and his wife reminded her of her and her late husband. Even if the marriage was born from necessity it was turning out to be a love match. Even if neither of them saw it yet.

~~~~~~~~

When Breakfast ended Eloise pulled Penelope to the side and whispered "I know you have something to do with this, thank you!" before pulling Penelope into a tight hug and going to run off somewhere.

Penelope shook her head as she made her way to her chambers, something she only really used as a personal space and writing room since she mostly slept in Anthony's. Once the third floor was done she would have an official writing room, though they would be officially sharing a single bed chamber then.

The third floor did not have enough space for two full-bed chambers and everything else Anthony is insisting gets put up there and Penelope did not mind. If the worst happens and she needs to sleep somewhere else she can always use one of the guest chambers.

In the meantime she was writing Lady Whistledown in her chambers on a rather nice writing desk Anthony had put in there.

She was in the middle of her next article when she was summoned by a footman. Apparently her sisters were here to see her.

Penelope quickly put away her things before going to see why her sisters had visited, she knew they had no plans.

As soon as she entered the drawing room Philippa was up and pulling her into an embrace "Oh Penelope you look radiant! How was your honeymoon?" she asked excitedly.

Prudence also gave her a quick hug but didn't say anything "It was beautiful. From all of Mama's tales of the country I thought it would be horrid but it's actually quite peaceful" she said with a large smile as she motioned for them to sit.

"Truly? It was not boring?" Prudence asked doubtfully.

Penelope shook her head "Oh no, I got to spend the days doing what I pleased when I pleased, No Mama to scold me!" she said jokingly making both her sisters laugh.

"How has Mama been?" Penelope asked once they had calmed down.

Philippa grimaced while Prudence scowled "Mama was absolutely dreadful! She got a bit better when Cousin Jack stopped chasing after that Cowper slag" Prudence said as she rolled her eyes.

"Prudence!" Philippa hissed making Prudence raise her hands in surrender before huffing and crossing her arms.

Penelope raised an eyebrow, not at all shocked by her eldest sister's behavior, though she was intrigued by her words.

Philippa leaned forward to whisper "Mama has been tense as of late. She seems very worried about Cousin Jack marrying. Thinks whoever he chooses will throw us out on the street" she whispered, glancing around nervously to make sure no one overheard.

"Didin't she say the same about the New Lord Featherington? Do not worry I am sure Mama just fears the control being ripped from her hands. I'm sure Cousin Jack would not throw you out on the streets" Penelope said reassuringly.

Prudence nodded but Philippa did not look convinced "How about I go over there for Tea later today. I have some more duties to see too but once I am finished I will head over and speak to Mama, see if I can get any idea on what is happening" she said to Philippa.

Philippa smiled, her eyes showing her thanks, if her sister is this concerned Penelope wondered if she should actually be worried.

Later on after she had finished her next Whistledown article she mentally prepared herself for a visit with her mother.

It was strange not needing an escort anymore, thankfully though the Staff simply let her in and told her where her mother was when she asked. She was happy not to be treated like a sudden guest in the home she had grown up in.

She entered the parlor to see her Mama and Mrs.Varly entertaining an older gentleman making her freeze "Oh, Mama I did not realize you had guests" she said surprised.

Her Mama immediately stood and smiled she pulled Penelope into a quick hug before motioning to the man on the seat "Penelope this is Mr.Brooks, he is taking a look at some Jewelry for me. Mr.Brooks this is my youngest daughter Penelope, the new Viscountess Bridgerton" she said introducing her to the man who paid very little attention to her besides a polite nod which Penelope returned.

The man seemed more focused on doing his job which Penelope could respect.

"Mama I just came to see if you wanted to have tea but if you are busy we can schedule another time" she said politely. She did not want to interrupt her mother's business.

"Oh Nonsense, Mr.Brooks should only be a few moments and then we can have tea. I'm sure there is still a book or two over there of yours" Portia said motioning to the sitting area by the window.

Penelope debated just leaving but decided to sit and observe instead. She had learned her skills as Whistledown in this very room after all.

She simply nodded and went to sit down, pulling out a small novel that she kept in her reticule. She pretended to read as her mother sat back down and waited for the man to finish.

It seems her skills had not dulled as she watched Cousin Jack enter the room, the man's reaction to Mr.Brooks was very interesting. It was obvious to see he was nervous and did not want him looking at that necklace.

She watched as Cousin Jack poured a drink for himself when Mama refused to have the man leave, Penelope could see the man wanted to snatch the necklace to get it away from them. Everything about his demeanor was raising alarms in Penelope.

When Mr.Brooks said it was rare to see stones that fine Penelope immediately began putting together Cousin Jack's reaction as her Mama ushered Mr.Brooks out.

"That Necklace must be worth quite a decent sum for you to be protective over it Cousin Jack" Penelope said casually from where she was sitting. She wanted to see how he reacted to her statement.

Cousin Jack immediately jumped slightly "Oh, Penelope I did not see you there. Yes it is quite valuable and I am quite protective over it. If you will Portia" he said, holding out his hand expectantly for the necklace.

Penelope could tell her Mama did not want to part from it but with no other options did.

As Cousin Jack quickly left the room Penelope felt her suspicions raise once again.

Notes:

That's right, two chapters in one night, who is she? Well, I just finished this book tonight so you guys can expect steady updates for the next week or so until it ends.

Tho there will be a second epilog book that goes into the sibling's relationships and Anthony and Penelope's marriage and kids and shit. But that will come eventually because I'm moving on to another genre. But I made sure to finish the book first because I try to be nice to u guys. lol

Chapter 20

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Once Cousin Jack had left Penelope watched as her Mama quickly came over and sat down "Is everything all right Mama…With Cousin Jack?" Penelope said, her voice slightly uneasy.

Her Mama huffed "I do not know! He keeps desperately looking for a wife and the second he does he will have no more use for us!" Her Mama said worriedly.

"Has he made any indication of doing such?" Penelope asked slowly, worried her Mama might be overreacting. Even if she felt her suspicions raised Cousin Jack still didn't seem the sort to cast them out.

Her Mama waved her hand "He is completely dismissive of us now but as soon as he has a young beautiful wife to turn him to her ways we will have absolutely no sway" she said, her voice showing her worry.

Penelope slowly nodded "I suppose, but I do not believe him cruel" she said, somewhat doubting herself.

~~~~~~~~

Anthony was once again in his office when his wife found him, except this time she was worried, he could see it in every line of her body.

He immediately stood and moved to bring her into his arms "Darling what is wrong?" he asked gently as she sank into his arms.

She sighed into his chest "I just went to see my mother, she's worried about the New Lord Featherington and while I do not believe he will cast them out something does not sit right with me. He is hiding something, the way he acts is strange and I do not trust it" she said, her voice unsure.

"You worry for your mother and sisters?" he asked, knowing what had to be upsetting her.

She nodded into his chest "yes, I know it is silly but they have no one else to worry for them" she said quietly.

He found himself tightening his hold on the woman in his arms on instinct. She was so kind and loving. Even after all the hardships her family has put her through she still wishes to protect them. He also felt proud that he was the first person she came to, trusting him to help. And help he will.

"I will have some men investigate the new Lord Featherington. If you think he's hiding something I trust your judgment" He said casually as he slowly pulled away and began writing out the missive he needed to do as he said.

~~~~~~~

Penelope watched him so simply trust her and move to help her and she felt warmth fill her for this man. He did not hesitate even for a moment, he simply jumped in the fray to help her without a second thought.

"Thank you Anthony" she said quietly, her voice coming out low as she still felt shock running through her.

He shrugged, not looking up "Of course, and do not worry about your sisters, the original agreement still stands. I already have 15,000 pounds each set aside for their doweries. And if the worst happened we could take them in, though your mother would be temporary" he said as he continued to write.

She felt her heart practically stopped "15,000 Pounds!? Anthony that is much too generous, Our doweries even when my father was alive was only 11,000 Pounds!" she said, absolutely gobsmacked by him.

He looked up at her with a smirk "Darling, do not worry yourself. I am already prepared to pay each of my sister's doweries which are 30,000 pounds each. And if it makes you feel any better Daphne did not take her dowry so that is what I am using. It was already money set aside for this purpose" he said, his words soothing as he could tell she was genuinely worried. Though he didn't tell her he actually put Daphne's dowry in trust for her and he had in fact taken the money from his rather extensive fortune.

Penelope looked at him unsure for a moment but when she saw the look on his face she knew he would not change his mind. She sighed but nodded "Thank you, and I can promise you my mother will never live with us. I absolutely refuse" she said with a shake of her head. Trying to lighten the mood.

He smiled and stood up, pulling her into a kiss "Now that is what a man loves to hear" he said cheekily before sitting back down.

She shook her head and looked at him with a fond smile, she had never thought she could be so lucky.

When she saw he was done with what he was doing she moved slowly towards him before pushing his chair out of his desk and placing herself on his lap "What are you doing?" he asked with a large grin as his arms went around her waist.

She smirked "I believe my husband deserves a reward for his generosity" she said lowly into his ear before biting the lobe as she pulled away making him shudder and tighten his grip on her.

~~~~~~~

Anthony woke up to something tickling his nose, he smiled when he saw the red curls going in every direction. He slowly stretched before giving his beautiful wife a kiss on the head as he pulled her body closer to his own.

He always loved Penny in the morning, she would have so little inhibitions, and she so enjoyed being close to him in the mornings, she would try and get as much contact as possible in the mornings.

She was quite adorable in the mornings when she would rub her face into his chest as if he were a pillow, grumbling whenever he tried to leave her.

He enjoyed his wife in his bed for a few minutes before finally having the willpower to pull himself away. He did have work to do.

He smiled when she curled herself around his pillow as soon as he was gone. She would probably sleep for another hour or so before getting up for the day.

He quickly dressed and made his way to his office, his wife had asked something of him and he would not disappoint her. She had immediately come to him with her issues, something he had worried about.

Penny was rather independent and Anthony had worried she would try and fix all problems on her own, something he knew she was capable of but shouldn't have to do. He was her husband, it was his job to keep her happy and safe, it was one of his most important duties now and he took his duties very seriously.

The fact her first instinct was to come to him spoke volumes, it showed her trust in him. He knew thiers was not a match of love which he found to be very prudent but it was a match of friendship and now one of trust. Well and of course Lust, he most definitely lusted after his wife, whenever she let him explore a new part of her he became even more enraptured.

Every day with his wife his fondness for her grew, and as such when she came to him with concerns he took them seriously.

Penelope had always been a good judge of character, she is smart enough to know if she needs to worry so for her to be this concerned he knew it was not merely some hunch.

It helped that he also got a bad feeling from the new Lord Featherington, his actions just did not line up with his words and Anthony had learned long ago that was never a good thing.

Quickly Anthony contacted a few of his trusted men that had done good work for him in the past to keep an eye on the new Lord Featherington. After he worked to hire two men to go and investigate these so-called Mines.

Once that was done he finished balancing some books before leaving to go and break his fast with his lovely wife.

~~~~~~~~

Portia knew when something wasn't right. Men were never good at being subtle and Jack Featherington was just as bad at lying as her husband was.

It was strange how eager he was for a wife, she knew there had to be a reason and what other reason could it be then to displace them? She needed to secure her and her daughter's place in the household.

Penelope was safe, she was married to a Viscount, Lord Bridgerton is a good man and will be good to her daughter, she could tell Penelope was happy when she saw her the other day. Her Daughter seemed to be shining from the inside, something that pleased Portia greatly.

Penelope while not her most beautiful daughter was a good girl, she had even come by this morning to reassure her that Philippa and Prudence's doweries would still be paid by Lord Bridgerton if the need arises.

He had even offered to take her daughters in if it comes to it, and help her find comfortable lodgings, though she knew it would not be at Aubrey Hall or any of the Bridgerton's nicer properties.

Penelope was a good girl but there was no love lost between Portia and the Bridgertons. Lord Bridgerton would safeguard her girls but he would not protect her. That much she knew.

It settled her heart to know her girls would be okay but that still left her, she was the only one who would make sure she came out okay.

Portia Featherington was not a very smart woman and while she had once had great beauty those days were past, but no one should ever underestimate a desperate woman. Especially not one with as little remorse as she.

Notes:

The next chapter is gonna be mostly fluff, just a heads up. lol

And incase any of you accidentally skipped it I did post two chapters last night so if your a little out of order that would be why.

Chapter 21

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Anthony had noticed a pattern of sorts, especially after the third floor of the London house was finally finished and he and his wife now shared bed chambers and wardrobes.

Penelope would often be seen re-wearing her dresses quite often. He knew she only chose to wear the dresses he had bought her as they were chosen by her and not her mother but he had thought she would have gotten more. He had told her a complete wardrobe after all.

Eventually he chose to poke around the wardrobe and counted the number of dresses his wife had. He scowled when he finished. This would not due.

He knew if he told Penny to go to the Modiste and order double the amount she has now she would never agree. Penelope was a very frugal woman for being the daughter of Portia Featherington.

He knew his wife would never order enough to actually fill her wardrobe herself. How is she supposed to live off seven day dresses? Wear one every day of the week?

Penelope was now a Viscountess and she needed a wardrobe to fit that station. With that in mind Anthony made his way through town to the Modiste.

Once arrived he was surprised to see more than a few women already at the Modiste, it would seem Penelope's raving of her wedding gown had boosted the Madames clientele.

Madame Delacroix quickly came to him "Lord Bridgerton what can I do for you today, I hope Miss Penelope liked her dresses" the Madame said politely. Probably wondering what a man was doing in her shop.

He smiled politely "My wife absolutely loves her new dresses but it seems when she was here she did not buy herself enough of them despite my very clear instruction to spend all of my money" he said jokingly.

Madame Delacroix laughed "Yes, Miss Penelope insisted when your mother tried to convince her to get more. Is that something you were hoping to correct?" she asked, her eyes gleaming.

He nodded "Yes, I wish to order a rather large quantity of dresses for my wife, and I do hope for it to be a surprise so if we could keep this between us I would appreciate it" he said, glancing around at the several women watching them who were practically swooning.

The Madame seemed to notice as well as she led him to a back office where she pulled out a parchment and began taking his order. He requested five more ballgowns, ten more day dresses, five evening dresses for more formal dinners and such, as well as three more winter dresses.

"This order will take me at least a few weeks even with the new staff I have hired. I will have to use Miss Penelope's last measurements. Do you believe she has stayed a similar size?" Madam Delacroix asked as she wrote.

Anthony nodded "I believe so but I can have her and the other woman of my family come in for a few new dresses for the next few balls. That way you could remeasure her and see what type of fabrics she may like" he offered, he had already been meaning to refill the accounts for such an endeavor anyways.

Madam Delacroix nodded eagerly "Yes that will be perfect, I already have a few ideas that would look amazing on Miss Penelope's figure" she said excitedly.

He nodded before reaching into his side bag and pulling out a bag of coins he had grabbed before coming to the Modiste "This should cover the order and any dresses my mother and sisters will be needing. Now I must be going, have a good day Madam" he said respectfully before leaving.

On the way back home he stopped at the florist and picked up his beautiful wife some flowers.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope groaned and tried to get comfortable as she felt a stabbing pain in her abdomen. She wasn't all the way awake yet so she did not realize she had gotten her monthly's.

The sudden movement beside her made her mind wake up and catch up very quickly as she gasped and sat up. She lifted the blankets and grimaced at the sight of the sheets. She gleaned nervously at Anthony who was waking up beside her, obviously concerned by the sounds she had been making.

She had no idea what to do, she knew as an experienced man her husband had most likely been experienced with this sort of thing, she only had a few moments to decide before her window closed and she was left sitting in the bed, clutching the blankets to her waist to make sure he could not see the stain as he finally blinked the sleep from his eyes.

"Darling are you alright?" he asked concerned as he sat up as well.

She nodded, not being able to speak, she was both mortified and terrified. She had no idea how he would react. He had been so sweet as of late, he had even brought her flowers the other day without any reason.

He was amazing and she didn't want anything to ruin it, she knew men could get squeamish around such matters and when men feel weak they can lash out.

"Penny, your worrying me, what's going on?" he asked, leaning up and moving towards her only for her to cring away. She watched as he recoiled from her, worried he had scared her.

She instantly felt terrible, he hadn't done anything, she did not want him to think he had done something wrong.

She quickly took his hand and pulled him back "I'm sorry, I'm just embarrassed, you didn't do anything. I'm uh… having womanly issues" she said, her hand releasing his and fisting the blankets to keep them firmly where they are.

Anthony relaxed when she pulled him back but stiffened when she told him what was bothering her. She immediately looked away and stared down at the sheets.

He surprised her by chuckling "Darling you have no reason to be embarrassed, it's not as if you can control it" he said with a shrug before kissing her gently.

"Now, I will go and have breakfast in bed ordered for you and have the maids draw you a bath while they change the sheets" he said, kissing her on the top of her head before quickly getting out of bed and pulling on a dressing robe.

She watched him leave the room in shock, everything she had ever learned said men were completely disgusted with womanly issues, it was half the reason most married couples had separate chambers.

Her father had often completely avoided the house when she and her sister would have their monthly's, though in his defense even she wished to escape during those times.

She shook her head at her own dramatics, Anthony would never act like that. He was a gentleman and a good man, he would never treat her as some type of leper.

Slowly she rose from bed and changed out of her shift and into a clean one, using a cloth to clean herself. While she did this Rose quickly entered the room and took the sheets before reassuring her that she would get the special tea she made for these times.

Rose was quite good at having a brew for any occasion and they often helped with the moods and the pains of her monthly cycle.

She enjoyed breakfast and tea in her steaming hot bath, something she thanked her husband for as the heat helped with her cramping.

~~~~~~~~~

Eloise couldn't hide the snicker as she watched Anthony flee the third floor like a ghost was chasing him.

She knew it was most likely Pen's time as she had just finished her own and usually Pen's arrived right after, did Eloise think it was strange that she knew the timing of her friend's cycle? No, she did not.

The sight of her brother's face had kept her so amused throughout the day that she barely noticed as Pen's mother spoke quickly to Prudence before sending the girl out unchaperoned to the gardens.

That definitely caught her attention as she watched Protia say something to Lord Featherington before sending the man away. Eloise debated following the man but she figured it was a bit too dangerous, the risk of being caught unchaperoned herself was not worth it when she could simply follow the obviously scheming woman.

Mrs.Featherington definitely did not make it hard as she started collecting people to take a trip to the gardens, the very same direction she had sent her daughter and Lord Featherington.

Eloise looked around for Pen or Anthony but neither were in sight so she quickly followed the woman. Eloise had quickly put together what Portia was doing, even if she hoped she was wrong.

Eloise watched in mortification as Portia Featherington ruined the reputation of her eldest daughter for the sake of her marrying the New Lord Featherington. What kind of mother would do that? Well, considering she almost sold Penelope to the Barren she already wasn't looking like the best mother.

Eloise watched disgusted as Portia preened and Prudence squealed in delight while Lord Featherington wallowed in self-pity.

She knew Pen would be horrified when she learned of this, Eloise was not looking forward to being the one to tell her.

Notes:

Yep, I didn't shy away from it. lol

Chapter 22

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

When Penelope saw her sister on the arm of cousin Jack she was incredibly confused mounting on horrified. She had clutched Anthony's arm tightly, her nails digging into his jacket.

Anthony had wrapped his arm around her waist in comfort as he also saw what she did. He stayed by her side as her support.

As soon as she saw the look on her mother's face she felt a sinking in her gut, and when Eloise walked to her and whispered to her everything she had seen she wanted to throw up. She leaned into Anthony, trying to hide from the world in the safest place she could find.

How could her mother do this? How could she ruin Prudence like this? Why was Prudence going alonge with it? Why was Cousin Jack?

She barely remembered the rest of that evening, it felt like it was all a blur of emotions as she fought to keep her mouth shut and a polite smile on her face until they were on the carriage ride home.

She didn't understand her mother, just the other day she had reassured her that all would be taken care of and now she does this? What was she thinking?

~~~~~~~

Portia felt like she had it all figured out, she had secured her future. Prudence would be easily controllable, she has no idea how to run a household. Plus she was the most manipulatable of her daughters.

She had thought her place secured until the moment Jack Featherington opened his mouth and showed his empty pockets. It all made sense after that. His absolute panic at the sight of an appraiser, why he was so desperate for the Cowper girl until he had no other choice.

She had thought she was securing her future but she might have just set all her chances aflame. She stood and panicked for a while as she paced. Lord Featherington watched her the entire time.

She knew there was a solution, there had to be. She just needed to think of one.

Suddenly she stopped and turned to the nitwit with a brilliant smile on her face "I think I might know just the way to solve all of our problems" she said, knowing exactly what they needed to do.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope spent the next few days in a state of disbelief, she had to act fine with everything but she was not.

One of the worst parts was being forced to write a Lady Whisdtledown article about the entire thing. She had already been considering ending the publication at the end of the season and nothing could make her decision easier than being forced to once again invite scandal on people she cared about. Though she made sure Prudense would not come off as the guilty one in the situation, it did not make Penelope feel any better.

Dearest Readers,

It seems once again scandal is afoot for the Featherington family. It would seem that the young woman Miss Prudence Featherington is now engaged to be married to her cousin, Lord Jack Featherington after the two were caught alone unchaperoned. The couple were most notably found by the young woman's mother, Dowager Bareness Featherington. This author has to wonder if this was all some sort of setup by the Dowager, not that it matters as the young couple will now be married regardless to save face. Already they have been spotted on a promenade through the park, Lord Featherington looking absolutely miserable as his young beautiful bride talked amicably with several women about their upcoming nuptials.

One can't help but wonder how loud the screaming was from the Featherington house the evening of the entire scandal. Surely the New Lord Featherington can not be pleased to be trapped in a marriage with his cousin, even if the blood relation is not scandalously close this union is already dripping in scandal all on its own. I suppose we will all simply have to wait and see if the couple makes it down the aisle.

Penelope was growing very tired of writing about herself and her family, she hated the idea she could hurt them but it would be too obvious if she did not write about these events when they are so well known and public.

It made her resent Lady Whsitledown as a whole, and made her happier to be putting down that particular quil.

She still wanted to write, maybe some short stories or possibly children's books. She didn't know yet. She just knew she would always be a writer but being Lady Whistledown was not for her anymore.

~~~~~~~~

It was a week after the engagement that Penelope finally had her sisters over for tea. She needed to know what was happening, and she wanted to know if Prudence was truly okay.

When her sisters arrived Prudence did not stop raving about her upcoming marriage to the point where Penelope snapped.

"Prudence do you not even understand what Mama did to you?! She ruined your reputation, everyone thinks he sullied you, do you think such a reputation will suit you as a Bareness?" She snapped, growing tired of her sister's complete unawareness.

Prudence huffed "No one will question it once we are married" she said, not happy that Penelope was ruining her good mood.

"And what if you aren't married? Most men do not like being forced into things and Cousin Jack has not been looking very thrilled as of late. Do you not understand that Mama has risked your reputation, used you to secure her place?" Penelope said, angry that her mother would do that to her sister.

"What other choice did she have? She did it to protect us" Prudence spat angrily.

Penelope rolled her eyes and huffed "Prudense, Anthony is prepared to pay for each of you to have a 15,000 pound dowery, he has even offered to take you both in if it comes to it. Mama knows this. She knows your futures are completely secured, she did this for her own future, not yours" she said angrily.

Penelope knew her Mama did not do this for her daughter but for herself. She was willing to throw her daughter down so she could walk across her back, she always had been.

Both Prudence and Philippa gaped at Penelope, neither had known any of that.

Prudence shook her head "it does not matter, our position is secured, just this morning Mama promised to go to the Modiste tomorrow for new dresses. And she said Jack got me some new jewels to wear at the next ball!" She said, her voice rough but her eyes pleading for Penelope to drop the subject.

Penelope knew Prudense would eventually come to terms with what she learned but for now it was easier for her to play ignorant.

Penelope knew while Prudence was not the smartest woman around she was not as stupid as others believed her to be. She just hid behind a mask of idiocy. In their own way each Featherington wore a mask, it was the Featherington way.

The tea calmed from there and after another hour Penelope escorted her sisters back to their home. It was so strange to be the one doing such things now.

Even though she is the youngest, as a married woman she was technically the highest ranking Lady out of her sisters and considered by society more of an adult than they. The politics of it all was incredibly strange. Penelope was tempted to write about it as Whistledown but decided not as it might point to her identity.

After escorting her sisters back to their home she took a moment to greet the servants she passed before heading back home.

She did not realize the carriage that was now parked infront of the Bridgerton House as she was wrapped up in her thoughts.

~~~~~~~~

Eloise was happy to avoid Pen's tea with her sisters and instead went to wait for her friend to return so she could steal her away. Her brother had been hogging Pen as of late and Eloise was not having it.

As she waited in the entrance hall she was suddenly swept up and spun around, she at first screamed in fear before it turned to excitement as she realized it was Colin.

"Colin your back!" she said excitedly as she returned his embrace. Colin laughed joyfully "Of course I could not stay away forever now could I?" he asked teasingly as he ruffled her hair making her smack his hands away.

"Well no but we had no idea when you would return, have you received our letters?!" she asked excitedly. While she was happy to see her brother again a part of her knew the return of her third eldest brother would not be happily met by all.

Colin shrugged "I received a few, I'm sure I didn't get them all. I traveled so fast it would be quite hard for a letter to catch me" he said jokingly.

Eloise nodded slowly "So you haven't heard the news?" she asked, slightly hesitant.

Colin raised his eyebrow "What news, is there news? Did I miss something?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Eloise felt her stomach drop, so he didn't know, and she had to be the one to tell him?! Why her?! Why not anyone else?!

Just as she was about to delicately explain to her brother how Pen is now married to Anthony her friend comes strolling in the door, not paying either any mind as she casually made her way up the stairs.

"Pen, what are you doing here?" Colin asked with a confused grin.

Penelope's relaxed demeanor disappeared in a moment as her shoulders stiffened and she slowly turned to them, a fake smile plastered on her face.

Notes:

Dun dun duuuuuuunnn

Chapter 23

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

It took all of her mother's training for Penelope to plaster a smile on her face and turn to face Colin "Colin, I wasn't expecting you to return so soon" she said, not knowing how to proceed.

Colin looked at her in shock "I wanted it to be a surprise, not that I am not happy to see you but why are you here?" he asked confused, looking around the entrance hall. Not understanding what possible reason she could have to be walking so casually through his home as if it were her own.

Penelope sighed, not wanting to have to deal with this, she met Eloise's eyes for a split second before summoning her courage "I live here. Now if you would excuse me" she said turning sharply only for him to grab her arm to keep her there.

She wrenched her arm from his hold, his touch making her cold, no one should be touching her but Anthony, Colin's touch just felt wrong compared to her husband's.

Colin raised his hands in surrender and took a step back "Wow Pen it's okay, what do you mean you live here, why do you live here? Did something happen with your family?" he asked, that confused puppy dog face that used to charm her on full display, now she just felt pity for his confusion and unawareness.

She huffed and crossed her arms and went to speak but Eloise cut her off "That's the news I was talking about Colin, Pen lives here now" she said, her voice slightly panicked as she looked around for help.

Colin nodded slowly "Okay but why?" he asked with more hesitation in his voice now.

Penelope decided there was no use postponing the inevitable "Because Anthony and I are married" she said simply, as if it was no big deal. And to Colin it shouldn't be, he never had any interest in her anyways. He made that very clear.

~~~~~~~

Colin had found inner peace while traveling, he had left to find his purpose and figure out what he wanted and while he most definitely wanted to keep traveling and seeing the world he wanted to do it with someone else.

Sometimes his mind would picture a redhead when he pictured this 'someone else' but he would dismiss that quickly.

He had enjoyed his time of freedom but he was excited to return to the warm embrace of his family, he wanted to tell Pen all about his travels and he wanted to chase his siblings through the gardens.

That all came to a sudden halt as he heard the words from Pen's mouth, she's married, she's married to Anthony, his brother.

His mind came to a halt, his entire being felt cold like he would never know warmth again before he was suddenly filled with rage. "You Married Anthony?!" he asked, horrified.

She recoils as if he had hit her "Is it so disturbing of an image? Me married to Anthony?" she asked, her voice glacial as well.

He didn't hear as his sister quickly left the room to go and fetch the family when he nodded "Yes! You married my Brother!" he said loudly, he felt a wave of anger as he thought of his brother and Pen, married, kissing, loving one another. This had to be a sick joke.

As the mental image of his brother and Pen together entered his mind Anthony rounded the corner. Colin didn't think as his fist clenched and he swung out at his brother, knocking him down in surprise as he clutched his jaw.

~~~~~~~

Penelope felt murderous as she watched Colin attack Anthony, he was screaming something but it took a moment for Penelope to get past her own anger to hear it.

"She was mine damnit! You can't have her! You don't deserve her!" Colin said gruffly as his fist flew down at Anthony. He landed a few solid blows before Anthony gained the upper hand and threw Colin off himself.

Colin went to lunge back at his brother again but Penelope stepped between them, her rage fueling her as she glared down the boy she had thought she once loved.

"You are deluded if you think for a moment I was ever yours Colin Bridgerton!" She snarled, she was ready to claw his face or any other unseemly act of violence she could think of if he took one step towards her husband.

Colin looked at her shocked but angry as he shook his head "You sure as hell aren't supposed to be Anthonys!" he spat, glaring at the man she knew was behind her.

Penelope glared at him "Maybe not originally but the only one who gets to decide that is me! And I would choose Anthony over and over again over you. Do you want to know why Colin?" she said, her voice calm but inside she was anything but.

He looked at her in alarm "Pen you can't mean that" he said, his voice pleading, he gave her a look that would at one time make her melt, now all she felt was annoyance that he was trying to manipulate her so. She could see it so clearly now that the facade she had built was finally gone.

She snorted bitterly "I mean it in every sense of the word. At one point you could have had me, I was right there but instead you besmirched my reputation and named me unmarriable in front of half the ton! And don't get me wrong I am happy you did it!" she said, her facade of calm finally breaking.

Colin suddenly looks both ashamed and confused as he looked at her, not understanding what she was saying, and ashamed of his own actions.

"When you mocked me for all the eligible bachelors of the Ton the image of you I had built up in my head came crashing down and I could see you for the selfish immature child you are. And if it had not been for that I never would have the life I have now. I would not give up this life, this marriage, for anything or anyone" She said, her shoulders straightening as she realizes the truth in her words.

She was happy, probably for the first time in her entire life she was truly and utterly happy and it was because of Anthony, he made her happy. He made her want to wake up beside him and spend every evening in his embrace, she wanted forever. Life did not feel like enough time to spend with Anthony.

Colin looked at her shocked for a moment before he laughed, an angry bitter laugh of mocking "You can't be serious, you can't love him!" he said accusingly, so sure of his words.

His words caused a sudden wave of anger to overwhelm her as she yelled out "I love him more than you are capable of understanding! You need to accept it Colin, I am married and in Love with Anthony!" she said, her voice sharp but sure.

"You do?" was asked from behind her making her turn with wide eyes as she looked at her husband.

Her husband who was looking at her with such wonder and awe in his eyes she couldn't contain the large smile that split across her face as she realized, she did.

She nodded "I do" she said simply, before all reserve left her and she found the most natural place in the world, his arms.

She wrapped her arms around her neck as she leaned up on the tip of her toes, pulling him down into a deep kiss. She poured every ounce of love and care into the kiss as she clung to him, her body trying to mold to his own as he did the same. Both of them attempt to be as close as possible as they kiss.

They forgot about Colin and Eloise who were now gaping at the scene, they forgot about the screams that had drawn the family to the scene. Neither of them really cared however as Anthony picked his bride up off the ground, not breaking the kiss as her legs immediately wrapped around his waist as he made his way up to the third floor.

The only thing the family heard was the door to their personal floor closing loudly.

As they continue to embrace Penelope kissed down her husband's neck, leaving marks as he held her against the wall. She could feel him against her and she let out a breathy whine as she ground against him.

Anthony growled in the back of his throat causing her to ache for him "Anthony, I'm ready" She said breathlessly against him, she had nothing holding her back anymore, she loved him.

It was so obvious to her now, especially after she saw Colin again and felt nothing. A part of her had worried there would be lingering feelings but there was none. The childlike crush she had for Colin did not compare to the love she felt for Anthony.

Anthony groaned against her neck "Darling are you sure?" he asked, needing to be sure before he lost all composure.

Penelope pulled his face up to meet her eyes "I love you Anthony, I'm ready" she said quietly but loud and clear to him.

He kissed her fervently before pulling away "I love you, it scares the hell out of me but I do" he said, his voice coming out slightly vulnerable.

She grasped his cheek before slowly kissing him, this wasn't heat, it was a slow affirming show, a way of her saying that even though it's terrifying they will do it together. They will do everything together.

Notes:

Yes they did do the do. Lol

And I figured I wouldn't leave u guys on the cliff hanger for long.

Chapter 24

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Violet watched her eldest carry away his wife in shock which soon ebbed away for anger, anger at her third-born son. She had heard most of the argument and she knew what her son had said.

"Colin, while I am glad you are home you would do well to remember that your brother is the Lord of the family and as his wife Penelope is now Viscountess. I recommend you go get cleaned up and rest and on the marrow you give both a rather large apology" she said sharply before gently guiding Eloise out of the room so she could find out the full scope of what happened.

She was glad to see Anthony and Penelope finally realizing they loved each other but she wished it had come because of a better reason.

~~~~~~~

Penelope woke to the feeling of Anthony kissing alonge her bare chest, she giggled at the ticklish sensation.

He grinned up at her through his lashes "I very much like waking up to find no barrier between us" he said as he slowly moved up her body to bring his lips to hers.

She smiled into the kiss and wrapped her arms around him, enjoying the feeling of their bare bodies rubbing up against each other "You know I quite enjoy it as well" she said with a coy smile.

Anthony made a growling sound in the back of his throat that immediately made her arousal spike.

An hour and a half later they finally made their way out of bed, she sat at her vanity getting her hair into something manageable, eventually settling for a simple braid "You know, I now understand why people keep marital relations such a guarded secret for young women. On one hand you have men who are absolutely awful at it and do not care for their partner and on the other you have men that can give their partners such an enjoyable experience they will want to do nothing else. They are scared we would all want to get married even more or never get married at all" She said sarcastically as she braided her mass of curls into something manageable.

Anthony snorted from the wardrobe "That, and it would force men to have to actually be good in bed in order to find a bride, could you imagine the Horror?" he asked sarcastically as he walked out, lacing up his slacks.

Penelope broke out into a fit of giggles "Of they would riot, could you imagine if it became well known to young women that pleasure is even something they can have?! As women we are taught it will be wholly unpleasant so we are happy when it is simply a tolerable experience. The Standard is very low" she said as she rolled her eyes.

She got up and made her way into the wardrobe, picking out one of her favorite day dresses.

She got the dress on mostly by herself but needed help with the laces. Before she could call for Rose Anthony came up behind her and helped her finish up her dressing.

He gave the bare skin of her neck a kiss before pulling away, she smiled and turned to him, giving him a slow kiss.

She was so content in the bliss of their happiness she almost forgot what was waiting for them out that door.

Reality came crashing back when she walked into the dining room to see a very quiet family, and Colin, he sat glaring at the food on his plate like a toddler.

Once again she felt nothing but annoyance at the sight of him and simply chose to enjoy the breakfast, she sat down at her spot to Anthony's right. Anthony gave her hand a comforting squeeze before pushing her chair in for her and taking his own seat at the head of the table.

"Good morning you two, I hope you slept well" Violet said cheerfully from the other end of the table where she sat directly across from Anthony.

If anything the silence became even more awkward as Colin glared down at his breakfast as if wishing it would catch flame.

Penelope smiled at her mother-in-law "We did, thank you" she said politely, hoping the subject would change soon.

As she said that Colin loudly scoffs causing Penelope to raise an eyebrow in question while Violet and Anthony glared at him.

"Is that supposed to mean something Colin?" she asked pointedly, she would not back down. Normally she would fold easily under pressure but she had grown after Colin left. She was not the same wallflower she was when he left.

Colin rolled his eyes "I'm sure you had a very pleasant evening" he said, his voice holding a note to it she did not like. Disgust and judgment.

She straightened up "Is there something you are insinuating Colin?" she asked her voice growing cold.

He didn't seem to hear the danger in her voice, or he didn't care as he glared at her "I just never realized what a whore you could be" he said angrily, his voice cutting.

Penelope was more shocked than angry but her husband it seems is very angry by that statement. Violet on the other hand loudly said her son's name in admonishment but before she could intervene Anthony was already handling it.

~~~~~~~~

Anthony acted on instinct as he raised from the table and grabbed his little brother by the scruff of his neck and dragged him to his office through the house like an inpatient pup.

How dare he say that to Penny, how dare he judge her, how dare he throw accusations as if that is not his wife!

He hadn't realized he had been saying this out loud as he dragged his brother alonge until Colin snapped out "I know! Okay I know! Now get the fuck off me!" as he tried to get out of his hold.

Anthony didn't let his brother go until they were in his office where he threw him down onto the sofa. When Colin went to stand Anthony pushed him back down "Fucking Sit!" he snapped, trying everything to contain his rage so he did not do or say something out of hand.

"Do you see what I'm doing right now Colin, I'm taking a moment to breathe and calm down before I do or say something I will regret, currently I'm considering throwing you out that window for the words you just hurtled at my Wife " He said when he finally was calm enough to speak with words instead of fists.

Colin looked at him defiantly "yeah I know, I messed up!" he snapped.

Anthony laughed at the fucking idiot sitting in front of him "You are 23 years old Colin! Grow the fuck up and be a man! You acting like a spoiled toddler who got their toy stolen after they left it in the dirt and someone came and picked it up that actually knows its fucking worth!" he yelled, how the hell was Colin this immature for his age?

Colin lost some of his anger then and started to look like a chastised child.

"You are going to apologize to my wife and then you are going to keep your mouth shut and be nothing but respectful to her. I don't care if you throw a hissyfit in private or to me but you will Never speak to Penny like that again. Is that understood?" he said, he was the Viscount now, not Anthony.

Anthony was a fun brother who would give anything for his siblings, the Viscount was the head of the family and the protector of said family, and now the protector of his wife. He never thought the day would come he would have to protect his wife from his family.

Colin looked sucker-punched but slowly nodded "I understand, I'll apologize to Pen when we are done here" he said quietly his eyes staying on the floor as he sat with his arms crossed.

Anthony nodded and took a step back "Good, Penny is my wife and she deserves your respect, if not as your brother then as the head of this family" he said as he walked to his desk and pulled out the folder his father had left him.

He had pulled this very folder out of the safe the other night to refresh his memory on the specifics as he was sure Benedict would come around eventually.

Colin slowly stood and followed him until Anthony motioned to the chair in front of his desk. Colin sat without a word, his shoulders now hunched.

Anthony opened the file and moved to the page specified for Colin. He put the parchment in front of his brother slowly "That is the inheritance Father has given you, I have followed his wishes so far and when you one day marry you will be given a sizable property to build a family as well as a very generous sum to fund your life. I have always intended to follow fathers wishes and it would pain me to go against him but I will for the sake of my wife" he said pointedly.

Colin's eyes widened in fear and anger "You wou-" he started saying but Anthony interrupted him.

"I would do anything and everything to protect Penelope, the day she became my wife I swore an oath to protect her above all others, to guard her and keep her safe. And while I gave my family an oath and I would never leave you to rot, I am fully within my rights to keep cutting that inheritance smaller with each insult you lay before my wife. She is undeserving of any of them and I will not let your spoiled antics cause her pain" he said angrily, his voice strong and sure.

Colin was turning red as he huffed "Spoiled?!" he said, absolutely offended on his own behalf.

Anthony laughed mockingly "Yes spoiled, you have never had to work a day in your life, everything you have is because someone else got it for you! You walk around demanding things and getting angry when people tell you no, you ignore the things right in front of you, that you have mistreated the entire time you had them, until the moment someone else wants them. And then you throw a fit like a child because things didn't go your way. You are spoiled Colin. In every definition of the word. Or would you like to go and complain to one of our servants that your brother is threatening to cut your hefty inheritance if you dare call his wife a whore again! Go ahead and see how much sympathy you get!" Anthony snapped, losing his temper completely as he pictured his wife's face when her one-time friend hurled insults at her.

Colin sat gaping for a moment, finally cowed by Anthony's blatant anger.

Notes:

Thank you so much to Flowerspot and Lady_Maya_Dionach_1996_73 for being my very gallant defenders in the comments. I thought it was very sweet of you.

Honestly tho when people act with so little logic I just have to laugh. I don't even get offended, if someone wants to offend me they have to actually have a logical argument, otherwise my autistic ass just won't engage. It's why I don't get too many Trolls, I can't give them what they want, I will just refute all their claims with pure logic and then their heads explode. Lol

Chapter 25

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Violet had moved to Anthony's seat as soon as her husband had left, dragging Colin with him. Violet apologized profusely for Colin's behavior but Penelope wasn't angry. She wasn't even shocked.

Penelope was resigned, she knew any thought of a friendship with Colin was unrealistic. She could never be friends with someone who thought so little of her. Who would treat her the way he has. She deserved better than that.

Worst of all was his insult had absolutely no merit, she was a whore for sleeping with her husband? If anything people would call her a prude if they knew how long she and Anthony had waited.

The ridiculousness of the insult helped her get over it quickly, she was angrier about the fact he acted like that at the table with the children around, that made her angry.

Hyacinth and Gregory had no idea what was going on and were quietly whispering questions to a flustered Eloise while Violet was distracted apologizing to her.

"Violet you have nothing to apologize for, Colin's actions and words are his own. Now, I think you might have some questions to deal with" Penelope said quietly motioning to Eloise who was very out of her depth.

Violet's eyes widened as she saw her children, she quickly gave Pen's hand a squeeze before moving back to her original place to speak to the children.

Penelope sat and simply ate her meal as she waited for Anthony to return, she refused to let Colin ruin her morning, it had been delightful until he ruined it.

The meal continued in relative silence until Anthony and Colin returned. Colin refused to meet her eyes "I apologize for my behavior, it was disrespectful and abhorrent and simply not the actions of a gentleman. I promise it will not be repeated" he said, his voice sincere but almost empty.

Penelope stared at him for a moment until eventually his eyes met hers, she could tell he was angry, but also sorry about what he said so she simply nodded.

Anthony walked up to her and kissed her forehead before pulling out his own chair and taking a seat.

Violet motioned for Colin to do the same. Eventually he did and the rest of the meal was spent quietly, Colin did not look up from his plate the entire time and immediately left without a word once he was done.

Before he could leave the room fully Anthony stopped him by clearing his throat "So you are aware your new lodgings are with Benedict, you both now share my old apartments" he said simply.

Colin stood frozen for a moment before simply nodding and walking away. After a few moments Violet followed behind him, intent to have a conversation with her son.

~~~~~~~

Eloise was both angry at her brother and felt pity for him. She always knew Pen had a crush on Colin, and she always knew Colin probably had a crush on Pen beneath all of his stupidity.

Her brother was an idiot, he didn't see what was in front of him until it was gone.

She had watched the way Pen's entire body language changed the moment she knew Colin was there, Eloise hadn't expected excitement from her friend but she hadn't expected that. Penelope then showed her anger.

To someone else it probably wouldn't be noticeable until she was screaming but Eloise could see it immediately, it was why she had ran for her family. She had run into Anthony first before eventually finding her mother.

By the time she was back things had exploded, though she was both disgusted and happy for Penelope and Anthony, they seemed to be closer.

After the entire thing she had explained the situation to her Mama, at least what she knew which she gathered wasn't much.

She had expected Colin to brush it off, she hadn't expected him to lash out at Pen. Pen was too nice, she didn't deserve Colin's anger. She had wanted to smack her brother and had been about to before her brother dragged him from the room.

She had been satisfied when he apologized but ever since Colin has taken to avoiding the family, and when he was around he was almost always silent. He especially would not speak or even look at Anthony or Pen.

Eloise thought he was being dramatic but her mother told her to stay out of it so she did. Though she had been the one to fill in both Benedict and Daphne when they had both been brushed off by Colin. Though Colin had been nicer to Benedict, seeming to find him a good drinking buddy.

The days passed like this until eventually it became normal and Eloise was distracted by other things.

She still had to get information for Lady Whistledown and did not have time to worry about her brother's dramatics.

Sadly it would seem the Prince and Miss Edwina did not find some great scandal as she had hoped and instead simply married and left for Prussia with Miss Edwina's mother while her sister went back to India.

Pen had put out a Lady Whistledown article congratulating the couple and the Queen on a successful match of the Season and of course admonishing Lady Mary's parents for being completely horrid people. They had very publicly shown their colors during the wedding.

At least it had given Pen some drama to write about because Eloise was failing at finding anything of note. She could find some secrets here or there, enough to keep Pen's family out of the limelight but not anything big enough to really cause a stir.

~~~~~~~~

Penelope returned from another tea with her sisters to find a surprise in her wardrobe, she blinked in shock at the abundance of dresses now hanging in it.

She slowly inspected the new dresses and they were in her size, and quite beautiful. She thought they would all look lovely on her.

She knew instantly who had given her these as it could be no one else but her very caring husband. She shook her head with a fond smile, warmth filling her as she felt this strange happiness that made her want to jump around and squeal.

After a few moments of enjoying the happiness she smirked as she made her way over to the very back of her wardrobe where she kept her undergarments. She moved the normal stays and shifts to find the lingerie Madame Delacroix had given her before her wedding.

It was a lace-up corset with stockings that connected by a garter, there was nothing covering her womanhood. Normally an undergarment like this would be worn under a petty coat but it was obvious the corset was meant to be viewed as it was made of a beautiful dark green silk with small details.

Normal undergarments are simple as they are not meant to be seen but this was meant to be seen.

When she had first understood what it was for she had blushed and shoved it into the very back of her wardrobe but as she and her husband became more intimate she found herself excited to try it.

She just needed an occasion and her husband gifting her an incredibly generous wardrobe seemed like the occasion to finally break them out from their hiding place.

Once she had it on, with some embarrassing help from Rose, she put on her dressing gown and asked an amused Rose if she could collect her husband.

As soon as Anthony was in the room she was on him, he grinned into the kiss before pulling away "I see you found your surprise" he said, his voice low.

She smiled up at him before biting her lip "Yes, and now I wish to thank you properly" she said as she slowly stepped away and began to unravel her dressing robe.

Anthony looked like he was going to follow her but stopped when he saw what she was doing, as her robe came undone and dropped to the floor his eyes darkened as his face gained a predatory look to it.

Penelope felt a shiver go down her spine and wetness in her core in response to that look, it made her feel like prey but in the best way. It only took a few moments before Anthony was picking her up and tossed her on the bed.

~~~~~~~~

Anthony pinched the bridge of his nose as he stared at his accounting books.

He had been in an excellent mood after the previous night with his wife when he was informed that his brother had attempted to take a rather large sum of funds from their accounts. What for he had no idea.

His brothers could each take out up to 200 pounds without permission, for them to take out anything over that was unacceptable and they knew this, they had always respected this and if they wanted anything larger they would come to him personally.

His brother must not have realized this was not simply a rule he had created but something he had put in place at the bank as well.

The first time he speaks to his brother in two weeks was to admonish him. He was growing tired of Colin's dramatics, especially as he sat in front of him completely unrepentant.

"I wished to make a business investment" Colin said with a shrug, not seeming to understand the situation.

"You can not simply make a large investment without my permission Colin!" he said, exasperated beyond belief.

"Why ever not?" Colin asked with a glare, his voice coming out rather offended.

Anthony looked at him gobsmacked "Because it is my money! I am incredibly generous but did you really think I would allow you to take 2,000 pounds from my account to invest without my say so!? What is it your investing in anyway?" Anthony asked, completely shocked by his brother's behavior.

Colin refused to meet his eyes as he said "I was investing in Lord Featherington's ruby mines, but it seems I was mistaken in thinking our family money was shared" he said, his voice turning sharp.

Anthony raised an eyebrow "You are mistaken in thinking that. If you want to make an investment then go and get a job and invest money you earned yourself, or invest after you are married with your Inheritance. Otherwise you are not entitled to my money" he said sharply before motioning to the door in a dismissal.

Colin glared at him before leaving the room in a huff, once he was gone Anthony decided it was time to see what his men could find on Lord Featherington.

Notes:

Okay so for all intents and purposes 1 pound then is like 100 pounds now. (I'm also American so my math is not perfect. Just a rough estimate). So a 200 pound limit is like a 20,000 pound limit today. And 2,000 pounds is like this little shit just tried to take out 200,000 pounds and is sitting here like "what?! I don't get what the big deal is"

Yeah Colin isn't my favorite Bridgerton, I don't hate him or anything but he's an easy plot device in this case.

Also if you guys have not figured it out yet I do some red herring plots in my books. Throw your crafty bitches off the scent. Lol.

It's both Red herring plots and leaving myself options for later, they are great like that. So duel purpose. And yes Kate was one.

Chapter 26

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope was surprised when her mother announced that Lord Featherington was throwing a ball, she was surprised they had those sorts of funds but she supposes Cousin Jack had been on the hunt for investors lately.

She wore one of the new ball gowns Anthony had made for her. As she walked into her family home she was surprised by the amount of finery, everything of value had been sold as far as she knew, though Philippa and Prudence had mentioned their mother spending more money as of late.

When she saw Cousin Jack he seemed happier than before, though he paid very little attention to Prudence and spent more time watching her mother. Penelope felt unsettled at the looks Cousin Jack kept giving her mother, they were looks of lust.

Penelope tried to put it out of her mind as the ball continued.

Anthony pulled her onto the dancefloor mid-way through the night and leaned down in her ear "I found out what Lord Featherington has been hiding and I am confronting him soon, will you stay with my mother while I handle it. I promise to tell you everything tonight" he said quietly.

She pulled back and met his stare for a moment before nodding, she knew she could trust him. Normally she would have liked to be consulted but at least he was informing her and not keeping her in the dark.

Once the dance was over she made her way to Violet's side while she watched her husband and Cousin Jack enter a sitting room alone.

Penelope could see her mother watching from a distance with wide eyes.

~~~~~~~~

Once Anthony had Lord Featherington alone he let the pleasant expression drop from his face.

"Lord Featherington, it has come to my attention that you have been spreading falsehoods" Anthony said sharply, watching the other man squirm.

"I do not know what you are speaking of!" Lord Featherington said quickly covering up his momentary lack of composure.

Anthony scoffed "Do not bother lying to me, My Lord. I had men checking on you the moment you walked into my wife's life. I had men sent to those mines you seem so proud of and I know they are as dry as the Desert. I know you have been taking several investments from Lords of the Ton even though your mines are dry. I know that even the jewels you have your new bride wearing are fake" Anthony said, laying it all out for him.

Lord Featherington looked like he was going to fight the truth for a few moments before he glared "What do you intend to do about it?!" he asked with fake bravado covering up real fear.

Anthony raised an eyebrow, almost amused by the man before him "On the marrow I will reveal all your misdeeds, and you shall be ruined. Drink up my Lord, you have one night before your life comes crashing down" Anthony said before leaving the room and the Lord to process his words.

He knew like the coward he was Lord Featherington would run, it was the easiest way to keep Penelope's sisters and mother out of it. If the little weasel ran there would be scandal but the blame would not fall on those women.

After he was done dealing with that unpleasant business he made his way back to his bride and pulled her into another dance.

Penelope looks at him curiously but he shakes his head, hoping she will understand and wait until they are home. He would make sure to fill her in fully once they are safely within his home and away from prying ears.

~~~~~~~~

Portia watched as Lord Bridgerton entered the downstairs parlor room with Jack. She nervously wrung her hands as she waited out of view of people but where she could see the moment either Lord left the room.

She had been so excited when her plan worked, she could not resist throwing a ball but mayhaps she had drawn too much attention.

She sighed in relief when Lord Bridgerton left the room only a few minutes after entering it. She waited an appropriate time before entering the room only to find Jack leaning against a table, drinking a glass of bourbon as if it could save his life.

"What did Lord Bridgerton want?" She asked carefully as she closed the door behind her.

He ran a hand through his hair "He knows everything. He had me watched, had men investigate the Ruby Mines, he knows everything and he has proof. He intends to reveal it all tomorrow" He said, his hand shaking with a slight tremor.

She gasped in horror, her hand immediately moving to cover her mouth as she processed his words. She had been so sure it would work, they had been so close.

Jack drinks the entire glass of brandy, pours another and drinks that before standing up straight "We must leave, tonight" he said simply.

"We can not simply run off in the night! What of my young ladies!?" she said in exasperation.

"This was always the plan, we must get the money into the chests. We can finish the evening and catch the first ship to the Americas in the morning. We can send for the girls once we arrive" he said, his voice growing more sure.

He must have seen the hesitation on her face because he moved up to her and held her face in a show of affection "We must go Portia, we have no other choice. We will be ruined by morning and then everyone will come to collect their money. There is no other choice, the girls will be fine. Penelope will look after them" he said reassuringly.

She felt so unsure, she did not trust this idiot before her, she knew he was not a good man, he was a coward. She did not want to leave her girls but what choices did she have?

They would be ruined come morning regardless, what could she do for her girls then, nothing. Penelope will look after her sisters, she made that clear already but Portia will be left to return to her horrid family.

She did not want to return to the whims of her birth family and she did not wish to become ward of the next Lord Featherington. At least the one in front of her is rather controllable and seems to fancy her.

Her girls would be fine, but she would not be if she stayed. Her mind made up she looked up at him and nodded "Alright, let us begin packing and finish the evening. We can leave tonight as soon as the guests are gone" she said quietly.

He smiled and in a certain light it was charming "In some ways this is a relief, I will not need to marry Prudence, and we can be together" he said as he pulled her into a kiss. She did not fight him as he kissed her but she felt nothing as his lips moved against her, but she had spent years playing alonge and she could again.

Once he was done he quickly left the room and she took a moment to herself, she felt a tear run down her face before she shook her head, straightened, wiped off the show of weakness and walked back out into the evening to host her last ball as Lady Featherington.

~~~~~~~

Penelope knew something was happening as soon as Anthony had left her but that feeling solidified as she saw the look on Cousin Jack's face.

That feeling doubled when her Mama pulled her into a strong embrace before she left for the evening with her husband. Her Mama was not one for grand shows of affection.

When they returned home Penelope practically dragged her husband to his office for an explanation as the feeling did not leave her. She just knew something was wrong, something in the air had shifted.

As Anthony explained the depths of her cousin's lies so many pieces of a puzzle slotted together and began to make horrifying sense. She began to see the lies her Cousin had been weaving, where the sudden influx of money came from.

It was bad enough he was lying but to take investments he knew full well would never be repaid and spend it on a Ball was disgusting.

As she sat and digested the news there was a sudden knock on Anthony's office door, Anthony called for whoever it was to enter only to reveal a footman "My Lord, Lady Penelope's sisters request her presence at their home. They did not leave an explanation" the man said nervously.

Anthony nodded and Penelope immediately stood, the feeling in her gut once again making itself known. It had only been an hour or two since they had left, what could have gone wrong already?

They both quickly made their way back across the street, all the guests seemed to have left already. Penelope immediately spotted her sisters standing in the entryway of the Featherington house looking uneasy.

"What has happened?!" Penelope asks sharply as she approaches.

Philippa stepped forward "We can not find Mama, or Lord Featherington. We checked the entire house, you know Mama never leaves without saying something, especially not this late" Philippa said anxiously, glancing at Anthony but focusing most of her attention on Penelope.

Penelope saw her husband close his eyes for a moment and take a deep breath, he most definitely had the same thought she did.

Penelope quickly made her way to her Mothers chambers, knowing that if she had left she would never leave her dresses behind.

She stormed her way through the house, not caring if any of the servants saw her as she barged into her Mothers rooms and further to her wardrobe. She opened the double doors and let out a breath as she saw half the wardrobe empty.

She heard Anthony come up behind her as she stared in bitter acceptance, she knew her mother was gone. She had left with Cousin Jack.

"Well, I suppose I know what the last issue of Lady Whistledown will be about" she said calmly as she turned to her husband.

Notes:

Since I started this book i've been playing with the idea, what if Portia actually left when he offered to take her to America? I know she refused on the show but that was because she didn't know what would happen to her daughters, she knew she was all they had so she stayed but if she knew they would be taken care of? Knew they had Penelopy to watch over them? I feel like that bitch would have jumped ship in a second. So I had her do exactly that.

Chapter 27

Chapter Text

The night her mother and Cousin Jack left Penelope had her sister grab anything they would need for the night and stay at Bridgerton House in some of the guest chambers. It would be highly inappropriate for them to spend the night in the house alone with no man of the house present.

Technically Anthony was the closest available male relative to take them in so everything was proper.

Philippa had broken down in tears when Penelope explained that their Mama had left with Cousin Jack while Prudence had stared in shock before entering a state of emotionlessness.

Violet had helped get her sisters to bed, showing them more motherly love than they were used to while Anthony and Penelope began to plan in his office before retiring for the night in each other's arms.

They had two days before word began getting to people's ears of her Mama's and cousin Jack's disappearance and so it was time for her last issue of Whistledown to go out. It was best if they controlled the narrative.

To My Wonderful Readers,

It would seem once again that my suspicions were correct. The New Lord Featherington is most certainly not a gentleman. On the eve of the Featherington Ball Baren Jack Featherington and Dowager Bareness Portia Featherington left London with the Ton's money! Yes, that is right the Ton's money, it seems Baren Featherington was penniless and the Mines he so proudly boasted about had run dry years ago. This did not stop Baren Featherington from collecting several Investments from the esteemed members of the Ton. Investments he surely knew would amount to nothing. It is rather convenient that as soon as these new Investors came forward the Featherington's personal funds seemed to prosper. It would seem Ladies and Gentlemen that we have been had. The Baren Featherington has taken the money of several esteemed Lords in good faith and absconded on a ship on the very next morning after the Featherington ball. And do not forget that he absconded with all of that money as well as his fiance's mother!

The poor girl must be devastated by the betrayal on all sides, surely the deeds of a corrupt man can not be blamed on the innocent girls he left behind to fend for themselves. Although it would seem their sister Viscountess Penelope Bridgerton has taken her sisters under The Bridgerton's care. She will surely get much backlash for it, though I can not help but respect the New Viscountess for her dedication to family, something her own mother is sorely lacking.

I will admit dear readers that I find myself growing weary of the constant backstabbing and betrayal of the Ton, I believe this very well might be my last time writing to you all, though do not forget I will always be watching and listening, I can not help but grow tired of the games you all play and the secrets you all keep. I picked up my quail to expose the truths you all keep hidden, to expose the hypocrisies and the darker sides that people keep hidden behind the mask of society and I have done just that. I have shown you all who you are, I have done my job and now I shall rest. I wish you all well dear readers, and for all those who hide their intentions and secrets in the shadows I recommend you bring yourself out in the light as I am sure I will not be the last Lady Whsitledown, best keep on your toes dear reader for no one knows what the future holds.

After the Whistledown article went out Penelope got to work getting her sister's things to Bridgerton House.

She collected anything of sentimental value from the house before giving Anthony the all-clear to sell everything in it. They needed to pay back the debts Lord Featherington had now made in one way or another and the best way was to sell the house and all the items in it.

The staff were dispersed through the several different households that Anthony had as well as some of his dear friends who were in need of workers.

Once that was settled Anthony took care of selling everything while Penelope helped deal with the social fallout with Violet.

The Bridgertons and her sisters would go out to promenades during the day only to have half the Ton whisper behind their backs and the other half avoid them like the plague.

Her sisters were putting on a brave face up until the point the Finch's pulled out of the engagement, then Philippa became an absolute mess. While Philippa was in hysterics Prudence was just going through the motions in a state of grief and disbelief.

When Prudence wasn't in a state of emotionlessness she was angry and crying. It was not a very pretty sight.

~~~~~~~~

Eloise was slightly shocked that Penelope had officially given up Whistledown, she understood given everything that has happened but a part of her was angry. She had loved being a part of Whistledown.

While Eloise wanted to ask her friend about it she knew it was not appropriate, she can see the strain her friend was under with the family drama she was centered around.

Eloise had seen how their family was ostracised once again for helping Penelope's sisters, it wasn't their fault what that simpleton did. Not that society seemed to agree.

It would seem her feelings were not as hidden as she thought when her friend finally snapped "Eloise please just spit it out, whatever it is!" Penelope snapped as she loudly put down her cup of tea.

Eloise huffed "I suppose I am simply not a subtle person. Okay fine, I want to know why you gave up Whistledown" Eloise said with a huff. She knew she was caught, it was best just to get it out now rather than wait.

Penelope sighed "It was time, I didn't need her anymore" she said with a shrug.

Eloise pursed her lips, not liking the answer "What if other people still needed her?" Eloise asked quietly.

Penelope raised an eyebrow at her "Eloise you don't need Lady Whsitledown. I know it was an obsession for you and then you began to enjoy helping me with it but it was never going to be forever. Being Lady Whsitldown is not something I want anymore, I want to be a wife and have a family, I don't want to be a wallflower anymore" Penelope said calmly.

Eloise understood her friend's reasons but she wasn't ready to stop writing, her thoughts must have been on her face because Penelope smiles at her "You know, you do not need Whistledown to begin writing, you can write as yourself, or at least write for yourself" she said simply as if it were so easy.

She crossed her arms with a huff "You know it is not that simple" she said with a scowl.

Penelope rolled her eyes "And why not? I did it? I told you over and over again that Whsitledown was for me but that does not mean you can not make something for yourself. I know you want to write Eloise, so write. There is nothing stopping you. You will not be forced into marriage anytime soon, so why don't you write?" Penelope asked pointedly.

Eloise took a moment to consider her friend's words, why didn't she write? There really was no reason for her not to anymore.

~~~~~~~

As the Season comes to an end Anthony finalizes the sale of the Featherington house and uses the money to pay off the majority of the debts Lord Featherington left behind. Most of the larger investors are now taken care of and the smaller ones will have to make do with the coin he could get from the rest of the finery in the house.

Anthony did pity them but in the end they had made a poor investment, the only reason Anthony is paying off the majority is because they made it under false pretenses. Any Lord with half a brain would investigate their investments before making them.

Honestly Anthony thought it was ridiculous that the Ton was somehow acting as if they were at fault for that man's dirty dealings. Anthony absolutely refused to pay off that man's debts with his own coin.

It was only fair for them to sell the rest of the man's possessions to pay off his debts, including selling the house but he would go no further. He was already doing more than most would even consider.

Anthony knew his wife was sad to see her childhood home go but she knew it was for the best if they ever wanted Penelope's sisters to be accepted into society again. Something he knew would be an issue, especially for Prudense as the entire Ton thinks her ruined.

Anthony had expected people not to blame Penelope and her sisters for this entire mess but the intelligence of those in high society continues to disappoint him as they continue to ostracise the Featherington girls as well as his family for aiding them as is their duty.

At least with the largest of the debts now paid tempers will cool and everything will blow over, he is just happy this happened during the end of the season. They can close up the house and escape to Aubrey Hall.

Hopefully upon their return sense will once again fill the heads of the people of the Ton.

Chapter 28

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Penelope works with the household staff to have Bridgerton house closed down for the season, this was the first time she would be doing this so Violet was with her assisting in the process. Something Penelope greatly appreciated.

Violet had been a great help with everything that had been happening, especially with her sisters.

Especially with Philippa, her sister had been a complete wreck after the Finchs pulled out of the engagement. She could be heard sobbing three halls over.

She knew it was mainly Lord and Lady Finch that were contesting the match after the amount of scandal surrounding their family. They also probably assumed the Dowery was no longer going to be provided.

Penelope took a deep breath before entering her sister's temporary room "Philippa can we talk?" she asked gently to her sister who was crouched by the window staring out.

Philippa sniffled but nodded. Penelope made her way to the window seat and sat next to her sister "Philippa I know you are upset but it is not as bad as you think" Penelope said gently.

Philippa turned to her with a glare "I will not be allowed to marry Albion! How can you say it is not as bad as I think?!" She asked angrily.

Penelope raised her hands "Because you may still be able to marry him" she said before her sister could go into a trade.

Philippa lost her anger as she looked at Penelope doubtfully "How? His parents refused to go through with the match?" she said confused.

"It may take time but I believe next season our reputation will be much repaired, if Mr.Finch is still unaccompanied and you both want to continue your courtship I will personally speak to the Finch's, hopefully the promise of a 15,000 pound dowry will do the trick and after a short engagement you both can get married by the end of the Season. I know you have waited a long time to marry him but if you can wait a little longer I believe everything might just work out" Penelope explained gently.

She watched as hope once again filled her sister as she grinned before scrambling to get up "I must write to Albion and tell him the news! Thank you Penelope!" she said, bringing her into a quick embrace before she scrambled to find a piece of parchment.

She watched her sister for a moment before getting up and going to find Prudence, she found her sister packing her belongings with a scowl on her face.

"It shall not be so bad Prudense, Aubrey Hall is beautiful, you shall spend the off-season in a country estate" Penelope said, trying to cheer her sister up.

Prudence simply glared at her "I know you're trying to help but I would like to be left alone to pack before being carted off into the country. There is nothing you can say that will make Mama running away with my Fiance after ruining my reputation better" She said tensely.

Penelope nodded, knowing when to retreat. She quickly left her sister to finish packing and went to make sure the rest of her own things were packed.

After a final sweep of the house she took a deep breath and took in the now cleared-out home. It was so strange to not hear people bustling all over the house. Everyone had already cleared out, she was simply waiting on Anthony who was securing his office.

It felt strangely normal for her to have closed up the house even though she had never done it before, it was like she was learning a dance she had already watched people perform her entire life, she knew the moves and sometimes she would stumble but she got her footing quickly.

She was lost in thought as she felt arms wrap around her waist as Anthony pulled her into his chest.

She smiled up at him "Your first London Season as Viscountess, how do you feel?" he asked teasingly as he grinned down at her.

She let out a soft sigh "Surprisingly good, even with everything that has happened I still think we did well" she said warmly.

She leaned down and pulled her into a quick kiss before pulling away and offering his arm.

She grabbed it and let him lead her out "Let us hope next season has fewer perils than this one" she said sarcastically as he walked her down to the ladies' carriage where she could already hear Eloise and Prudence bickering.

~~~~~~~

Colin had felt like an absolute fool when he heard what Lord Featherington had done. He hated having to admit Anthony had been right but he hated watching Pen and her sisters suffer more.

He could not believe that man would run away with her mother, what kind of gentleman does such a thing?

He wasn't willing to apologize to his brother but he did do an act of kindness by bringing many of the young gentlemen he knew to Will Mondrich's gentleman club as a way to thank the man for good advice, even if he didn't take it by choice.

It had helped him feel slightly better about himself, not that it lasted. Watching Pen handle the entire situation with her family with such grace truly made him feel like an ass.

He had been such a right asshole to her and she had done nothing to deserve it.

Even if he felt bad for how he treated her it still hurt to watch her and his brother be in love, the two of them worked so well together that it made him want to hit something.

Eventually it got to the point that Benedict had to go a round with him and tell him it needs to stop, that he can't continue to act like this at Aubrey Hall. It wouldn't be fair to Pen and Anthony, or the family.

Colin hated that he was right.

He took the cowards way out and asked his mother to get him funds to go traveling again, he didn't want to cause issues but he could not stay with them. His mother had understood and gone to Anthony who allowed him the money to travel.

When Anthony gave him the money Colin asked him not to tell Pen until he was already gone.

"I will wait to inform the family until we arrive at Aubrey Hall, may I ask how long you intend to travel?" Anthony asked, keeping the conversation as quick and simple as possible.

He ran a hand through his hair as he met his brother's eyes "I don't know, however long it takes for me to think of you and Pen together and not want to punch something. Look, I know I can't stay, it wouldn't be fair to anyone. But I can't help how I feel and every time I see you and her it makes me angry, but it also hurts. And I just want some space for as long as it takes" he said with a shrug, probably speaking the most to his brother than he has in weeks.

Anthony looked at him for a moment before nodding "Okay, I understand. And I need you to know me and Pen didn't get married to spite you. I just realized how amazing she was and when the opportunity presented itself I took it. I would be an idiot not to" he said with a shrug.

The truth in his words hurt, Colin was the idiot that didn't recognize the opportunity when he had it, he thought it would always be there.

The conversation did not last much longer as he got the money he needed and left quickly. He watched from down the street as his family entered their carriages, he watches as Anthony led Pen to the ladies' carriage.

He watched as his family slowly pulled away until he could no longer see them. He took a deep breath and began walking back to his apartment. He had a ship to board in the morning.

~~~~~~~

Penelope felt guilt for how little she felt upon learning that Colin would be traveling once again and not joining them in Aubrey Hall.

She felt bad for the children but she couldn't help but thank him for not coming, she didn't need the dramatics. She had plenty of her own to deal with.

Upon actually seeing the property both Philippa and Prudense seemed to grow considerably more excited about the off-season. When she showed them to their rooms they had both squealed in delight and gone to change and relax before dinner.

When she finally had a moment alone Penelope made her way to her and Anthony's side of the house and smiled when she entered their little oasis. She couldn't help but be filled with warmth as she remembered her honeymoon, getting to know her husband over calm afternoons and peaceful mornings.

She was glad to return to their intimate dining room where they can see the grounds first thing in the mornings.

She was so enraptured by the view she was surprised to see several of the Bridgerton siblings now filling the grounds as they yelled for others to join them.

By the time Penelope was outside most of the family had gathered and she could see Benedict explaining some type of game to her sisters involving mallets and colorful balls.

"Whatever are you doing?" she asked with a grin.

Anthony looked up at her with absolute glee on his face "We are playing Pall Mall, care to join us love? It is a family tradition" he said, holding out a blue club for her.

She raised an eyebrow and pretended to consider it before nodding "Of course" she said happily as she walked up to join them.

What a wonderful end to the season