ghostofskywalker

[ghostofskywalker]

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - 6

Anthony Bridgerton/Fem!Reader

Words: 2,328

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Note: the ruse is taking shape :) this was a fun chapter to write, hope you enjoy!

Series Masterlist • Anthony Bridgerton Masterlist

Dearest Gentle Reader,  

With the social season finally starting to yield early signs of matches, courtships, and other general excitement, there are a few things on the minds of many in the ton, including the rather explosive argument that was witnessed in the hallway of the latest ball, between Lord and Lady Brenton. One would think that they would have found a better place (and time) to air their grievances at each other, especially since the event was being hosted at their residence. But given the glares that Lady Brenton was shooting her husband all throughout the night, I believe it safe to assume that this marriage is not as perfect as they had previously boasted. 

However, a decidedly more intriguing development  is that Viscount Anthony Bridgerton has indeed formed a close friendship with the widowed Countess Y/N Everleigh. They had previously been seen dancing together at Lady Danbury’s ball, but it was this author’s mistake in judging the seriousness of that interaction. In addition to their regular turns about the ballroom floor, the two have been seen promenading together at Hyde Park. It seems that the rest of the Bridgerton family has already accepted the Countess as one of their own, based on the way she was seen laughing and joking with all the present siblings, just before heading off on a walk with the Viscount. One must admit the fact that they make a rather handsome couple, no matter what one’s opinion is on the two as individuals. 

Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers

When you had mentioned he might receive more invitations to society events if they had invited you, Anthony thought he understood what that would mean. He could handle a few extra dinner parties, especially if he got to spend that time with a person that was rapidly becoming one of his closest friends. He might even see his sister more often, as Daphne and Simon were of course included on many of high society’s guest lists. 

However, what he failed to expect was the fact that he would be forced to interact with the most stuffy and boring men that the ton had to offer, and that he wouldn’t get to see you for quite as long as he would have liked. 

Like this dinner party, for example. 

“And Viscount Bridgerton, what is your opinion on Parliament’s latest rulings?” 

Not having listened to any of the words that were said in his vicinity for a lengthy amount of time, Anthony just took another sip of the drink in his hand. “I don’t have high hopes, but things could change at any time.” 

Just vague enough to make the others believe he had actually contributed an opinion, the other men laughed and carried on while Anthony’s gaze moved around the room, searching for you. 

It wasn’t long before he found success, watching you speak with Lady Danbury and a few other women, the wives and sisters of the people he was currently forced into conversation with. Well, they were speaking. You were politely nodding as the chatter moved along, but he didn’t once see you open your mouth to contribute an opinion. He had half a mind to give up on social convention and join you in listening to the ladies’ conversation, but he refrained, not wanting to cause any trouble or scandal. Your reputation had started to improve, but it was nowhere near where he envisioned it being when the two of you first struck this deal.

But it seemed that he had not been able to disguise his distracted countenance, because he heard his name once more in the conversation around him. “Bridgerton! Stop staring at the ladies, it’s impolite.” 

One of the other lords laughed. “You know, it’s just one lady he keeps looking at.”  

None of these men would ever admit to reading Lady Whistledown’s column, but they all knew what was being implied. “Good God Bridgerton, get it together!” an older, pot-bellied Baron replied. “There are a whole host of women out there if you’re looking for a wife, who are younger, more innocent than the likes of the Countess, and who wouldn’t poison you for not liking her dress.” 

Rage burned through Anthony’s stomach at those words. Of course he knew what the ton believed, but to say such brazen things at a dinner party in which you were among the guests was unimaginably cruel. “Since when have you begun spreading slander and lies, Lord Jennings?” Anthony asked, trying to keep his ire in check and his voice even. 

“People talk, Lord Bridgerton, as I’m sure you know,” another man cut in, clearly trying to salvage the conversation. 

“I am well aware of that fact,” he responded, silencing the man with a glare. “However, I was simply under the impression that the honorable and titled men of society did not participate in such trivial gossip.”

“Come off it, don’t act like you’re any better,” Lord Jennings replied. “I would have thought you’d be happy to hear the rumors around the Countess, because it takes the pressure off you to actually respond to the questions about your relationship. No respectable member of society would believe you were actually seeing someone like her.” 

It took every bit of willpower to not let his anger show more than it already had. “And if Lady Everleigh and I were to be courting?” 

Lord Jennings laughed as he shook his head. “Then I’d call you a damn fool.” 

“All of you are the ones acting like fools,” Anthony responded evenly. “My relationship with Lady Everleigh is none of your concern, and you would do well to remind yourselves that unkind rumors can be spread about anyone.”

Without another word, he turned on his heel and left, heading straight to the carriage that was thankfully still parked outside and not looking back. The whole ride home he seethed in quiet anger at the audacity of the men he had snapped at, and annoyance that he didn’t get a chance to spend a few moments to speak with you properly before leaving. 

He couldn’t help but wonder if he had done the wrong thing, and if your reputation would only further be dragged through the mud because of what he said, despite the fact that you had no idea this interaction had even taken place. 

***

Other events were infinitely more bearable, like garden parties. When Simon and Daphne hosted one at their estate, not only were you at the top of the guest list, but his entire family was invited. 

You had migrated away from the main conversations happening over fresh hors d'oeuvres, and Anthony watched as you sat down on one of the benches facing the lawn, keeping a careful eye on Hyacinth, Gregory, and a few other children as they laughed and chased each other around. And having had enough of this current topic of discussion, he decided to join you. No one at the table said anything as he got up and left, but he did catch Benedict sharing an amused glance with their mother. 

As he stepped into earshot, Anthony chucked to get your attention. “I told you these events were boring.”

”And I should have listened,” you responded, moving over on the bench so there was room for him to sit next to you. “This one is better than most though.” 

“I will make sure to tell my sister that.” 

“Please do, she is a wonderful hostess and I was honored to receive an invitation.”

Before Anthony could respond, Hyacinth stopped in her tracks and waved excitedly at the two of you. “Anthony! Y/N! We’re going to play hide and seek, would you like to join us?”  

Anthony looked over at you before responding to his sister, wanting to let you make the decision. He couldn’t help but smile when he noticed you doing the same. “We would love to!” you called out, getting up from where you stood and making your way over to them. 

“I’m going to be the seeker,” Gregory said proudly, crossing his arms as he stood on his tiptoes to seem taller. “You’ll have until I count to 30 to hide.” 

You nodded, the smile on your face giving way to a deeply focused expression, and what felt like seconds later the call to hide had been made. Taking off in a direction opposite the other children, Anthony didn’t mean to follow you, but soon the two of you were both standing at the edge of Hastings’ sprawling woods.

Upon noticing him, you grabbed his hand and pulled him along, eventually stopping when both of you were standing between two thick tree trunks. “Are you trying to get us caught?” you asked in a hushed whisper. 

“No!” he responded defensively. “We simply had the same idea when it came to looking for the best hiding place.”

You were closer to him than you had ever been before, even closer than when you had danced together. Maybe it was the fact that you were still holding his hand, but something felt different, and he would be lying if he said that he wanted you to move away. 

You huffed, clearly having already gotten into the competitive spirit. “Well the more time we spend here the easier it’s going to be for Gregory to fi-” 

At that very moment, the sound of footsteps could be heard moving through the woods, and it sounded like they were headed towards you. Not even thinking about what he had done, Anthony brought a finger up to your lips, and for a moment after he worried that you would push him away, but it seemed that you got the message about your stakes in the game. The two of you stood there with bated breath, completely still as you tried to gauge how close those footsteps were to discovering your hiding spot. 

And no, Anthony wasn’t thinking about how soft your lips felt against his skin. You were his friend, something he had no intention of changing (no matter what some members of his family seemed to think). 

Thankfully, your worry was nothing but a false alarm in this instance, and a few moments later a gleeful shout echoed through the space as Hyacinth’s hiding spot was uncovered. The two of you looked at each other with an expectant expression as Anthony pulled his hand back from your face, both expecting that your time hidden was coming to a close in the near future as both Hyacinth and Gregory were on the lookout. 

But seconds passed, and then minutes, and you couldn’t see or hear any sign of the two youngest Bridgertons. 

“Did we go too far?” you eventually asked, voice a low whisper as you tried to scan the area without revealing yourself. 

“I didn’t think so,” Anthony responded, peeking out at the small patch of trees around you. “It seems that they just… forgot to come looking for us.”

A bout of laughter escaped your mouth, and despite being quieter than usual, it was just as infectious. Smiles were soon plastered on both your faces as you realized the hilarity of the situation. “I think we should return to the party,” you eventually said. 

Anthony’s expression was severe and his question was delivered with the utmost seriousness. “Wouldn’t we technically forfeit the game?” 

“I think we would technically be the victors, since we were never discovered,” you said after thinking about the question. “And even if we don’t, I don’t mind letting your siblings win just this once. Besides, I don’t want the carriages to leave without us.”

“I am rather thirsty as well.” 

“Now that you mention it, I believe I am too.” 

The two of you walked back towards the party arm in arm, laughing when you saw Hyacinth and Gregory sitting next to Violet, the game of hide-and-seek seemingly long forgotten. “You know,” Anthony leaned in to whisper, while the two of you were still just out of the other guests’ earshot. “Disappearing like that probably helps our ruse a little.” 

“Not in a way that’s proper,” you scoffed, but he could tell you weren’t really mad. “Your mother is going to think the worst of me.”

“If anything, she’ll probably blame me,” Anthony responded, a smile spreading across his face as they finally approached his family. 

Daphne was the first to comment on the sight. “And where did the two of you disappear off to?” she asked, raising her eyebrows at her brother. 

“We were playing hide-and-seek,” he responded, as if the answer were the most obvious thing in the world. “I think that since we technically weren’t found, Lady Everleigh and I are the victors of the game. What do we win?” 

Gregory’s eyes turned towards his brother at the moment, but before he could say anything in response, Violet ended any kind of bickering before it even began. “How about the two of you just sit down and have some dessert?” 

At his mother’s suggestion, Anthony turned to where a spread was being set out. Various biscuits, cakes, and other sweet treats were still being arranged on the table, and the two of you were first in line (with the rest of the Bridgerton siblings right on your heels), waiting patiently until the staff had finished setting everything out before diving in. 

“It’s always nice to see them all so happy,” Anthony heard his mother say to Lady Danbury, a sentiment he wholeheartedly agreed with as he watched Benedict and Eloise squabble playfully over the last chocolate biscuit. You had started distributing different treats to Gregory and Hyacinth, as both of them were not quite tall enough to reach through the crowd of Bridgerton siblings to get what they wanted. 

It was moments like this that made him smile the most, and he was grateful that you fit so seamlessly into his life, no matter what the truth of your relationship was.

- end of part six -

series taglist: @maricciardo @imafangirlofeverything @allthegirlsdreamed @captainsophiestark @chrissisheadisinclouds @anxiousgoldengirl @sweatyconnoisseurstrawberry @sky0401 @fallout-girl219 @ifilwtmfc @jackierose902109 @mysticwitchcraftco @galactic3a @pedrosexual @preciousbabypeter

[ghostofskywalker]

Hope your writing block is gone soon! Sending hugs :-D

thank you <3

i think i was psyching myself out a little bc i'll be busier in the fall around when i usually do 31 fics/characters for fictober, so i was trying to overplan everything and start now. once i took that stress away and decided to not do that this year i feel much better, but we'll see how things go!

[ghostofskywalker]

thank you!! i love writing friendships like this 💚💚

Mayhaps a GN!reader who met Tyler while he was just starting out his storm chasing days. And was there, and helped, as he built up and fortified the truck?

thank you so much for the request!! i don't know if this is exactly what you pictured, but i hope you enjoy it :)

words: 1,476

summary: you and tyler have been friends forever, and the two of you spend some time tricking out his storm chasing trucks.

tyler owens masterlist

When you were kids, you had always been the voice of reason, and Tyler never tried to argue with that moniker. You had always thought that after the two of you went to college and started your adult lives that things would be different, but right now, as you stood there with your oldest friend in front of his busted looking pickup truck, you knew that he would truly never change. 

Your eyebrows were raised as you looked between him and the metal monstrosity in front of you. “You’re going to use that to chase storms?” 

“I already have, and it’s great,” he said, a huge smile on his face. 

“Are there any safety features on it?” you asked. Electing to not mention the giant hole in the front passenger floor (which has been covered up by a stolen cut up stop sign since the two of you were teenagers), you couldn’t help but worry that this wasn’t going to turn out well (for both him and the truck). 

Silence. The smile on his face faltered, and you knew when he didn’t have a quick retort that you were not going to like the answer. “I’ll be fine, don’t worry about it.” 

You sighed, plans already running through your head as you considered what could be done to make that death trap of a truck a little safer. He was just lucky you had spent a few summers helping out at your family’s mechanic and body shop, and that you happened to be free this afternoon. 

The modifications were rudimentary at first, especially since neither of you had the money or the connections to get what you wanted. You managed to rig up some simple anchoring devices and attach them to the sides of the running board, but it was clear from the start that these particular supports would not last as long as you wanted them to, and might not even be able to stand up to an F5 tornado, should he come face to face with one. 

“Don’t worry about it,” Tyler said from underneath the truck when you had voiced your concerns once more, tightening the connection as you affixed sturdier racks to the roof of the cab. “I want to get a new truck down the line anyway.” 

When he rolled out from under the carriage, your eyebrows were raised. “Where are you going to find a truck that’s got the features you need? Especially if you don’t want to be a ‘stuffy suited weatherman’ like you told me?” 

Tyler laughed when you brought up the career everyone had been suggesting for him, especially because he had gone to school for meteorology.  “I want to do something more than get a desk job,” he said. “Maybe I’ll be one of those people that gets famous for storm chasing.” 

“I could see that,” you mused. He certainly had the looks and general charisma to be successful, and based on the way he’s always been able to smile his way out of any problem that crossed his path, you could see people online being enthralled with him. “You have to come up with some kind of cool name though.” 

“What about The Tornado Man?” 

“I don’t know about that one.” 

“Oh! Or Doctor Vortex?” That one, if you were being honest, sounded more like the name of a comic super villain than a storm chaser. 

Laughing, you just shook your head. “We can workshop a name for you later. Right now I want to make sure you don’t get blown away the next time you’re out in the middle of a twister.” 

***

Unsurprisingly, the decade-old truck you had spent teenage summers drinking beer under the light of the stars in did not last long when placed in the paths of tornadoes at least a few times a month. You hadn’t been there on its last ride, but you couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness when Tyler told you about it. The two of you were sitting on the couch in his living room, and pizza had already been ordered for movie night. “I’m going to miss that thing,” you said. “Even though I never wanted to be seen with it.” 

Tyler’s laughter was infectious, and soon the two of you were nothing but guffaws and giggles. “Damn,” he said. “You didn’t even ask if I was okay.” 

“I did too!” 

He smiled, and you just rolled your eyes in response, having known him long enough to be used to the jokes he made. 

“So,” you asked quietly, wondering what the response was going to be. “What are you going to use to chase now?” He had indeed been correct on his offhand statement before, that he could be someone that gets famous for all this. Now, after only six months of posting videos on YouTube, he was getting more and more recognition for his actions. The Tornado Wrangler was the name that had eventually been settled on, one that had taken an entire six pack and a rainy afternoon to come up with (and it was your idea, thank you very much). 

“I got a new truck,” he said, eyes lighting up. “And I was hoping you’d help me trick it out.” 

“I don’t know,” you said. “If the modifications we made before only lasted you a year, I wouldn’t want to ruin a brand new truck. At least the old one was so ugly looking it didn’t matter what we did to it.”

“And if we had some better gear?”

You paused before responding to him. There was a selfish little part of you that wanted him to stop this, because you had seen enough to know just how dangerous some of these storms are. But you were not going to join the cacophony of voices already voicing that opinion on a regular basis (namely, his family), so this was the second best option. You knew that this made him happy, even if you didn’t understand how anyone could ever enjoy it. If you could in some way keep him safe (or as safe as one can be in situations like that), maybe his new truck wouldn’t flip three times with the strength of a particularly strong storm (like the old one did). 

“Alright,” you said. “I’ll help.” 

The smile on his face only grew at your words. “We can start now if you’d like.” 

“Lead the way Owens,” you said, allowing  him to lead you to where the truck was parked. Secretly, you were a little more excited than you let on. 

His new truck was nice, and the movie playing inside had been long forgotten as the two of you worked. You didn’t ask where he had gotten all these cool new gadgets, and you seriously hoped that this vehicle would be able to withstand what Tyler was about to put it through. 

It was like deja vu, as once again you were standing in the bay of the pickup truck and attaching things to the sides, and Tyler was underneath the chassis. “So,” he said. “Are you gonna come chasing with me one day?” 

“I don’t know,” you called down to him. “With all your new toys, will there even be room for me?” 

“Of course, I’ll just kick Boone out and you can do all the camera work.” 

You laughed. “I don’t think he’d be okay with that.” You had recently met the people that Tyler worked with to create his YouTube videos, and you loved every single one of them (you just weren’t sure how they’d feel about you being their replacement).

“Eh, he’d be fine,” Tyler laughed. “But seriously, if you want to go chasing with me sometime, just say so. I’d hate for the person who helped me put all this together to never get to experience it in action.” 

You usually weren’t a thrill-seeker, not to the extent that he was. You weren’t usually timid either, but something about storm chasing had never really appealed to you. It was a lot more dangerous than riding a tall coaster or zip lining after all. But now, as you spent this time with Tyler working on the truck, you kind of wanted to experience it, to understand on a deeper level why he loved doing it so much. 

“Once you take it out for a test run, then maybe we can go,” you said.

“You’ve got yourself a deal.” 

Tyler smiled often; it was an expression that you were so used to seeing on him at this point that you sometimes didn’t even notice it. But right now, as he looked up at you with his legs still under the truck, you thought that this was the biggest smile he’s ever worn in his entire life, and you couldn’t help but grin just as wide.

- the end -

i no longer have a taglist! if you're interested in being notified when i post, you can follow my library blog @ghostofskywalker-library and turn on notifications!

[ghostofskywalker]

anyone have advice for getting rid of writer's block

[ghostofskywalker]

THANK YOU! hyacinth is one of my favorite bridgerton characters ever, i love her <3

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - 5

Anthony Bridgerton/Fem!Reader

Words: 1,939

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Series Masterlist • Anthony Bridgerton Masterlist

Anthony and his family had already been here for quite some time, but you had not yet arrived at Hyde Park.

Not that he was keeping track of course. 

However, without your presence, he didn’t know how long he would be able to fend off the various ladies that crossed his path, and how long he would be able to keep Gregory and Hyacinth from bickering loud enough that everyone within two kilometers could hear them, like they had on the carriage ride over. 

Speaking of his youngest sister, where had she run off to? She wasn’t antagonizing Gregory, as he was currently attached to Colin and Eloise, the three of them deep in conversation as they looked around the park. Benedict and his mother were walking a few steps behind him, discussing some kind of artistic venture that his brother planned on undertaking in the near future. 

But from what he could see, Hyacinth was nowhere to be found. 

Not wanting to alarm the rest of the family (as it would be quite embarrassing for everyone involved if he made a scene only to find out that his sister had simply been speaking to Penelope Featherington), Anthony walked slightly faster, eyes sharp in their attention when he heard a rather familiar voice. 

“It is lovely to meet you, Miss Hyacinth. Is the rest of your family here as well?” 

There you were, standing at the outskirts of the park and conversing with his sister, who was holding her bonnet in her hands. If Anthony had to guess, it had been blown off her head, and Hyacinth had peeled off from the rest of the family in an effort to retrieve it. 

“Hyacinth!” he called out, and you both turned to look at him as he made his way over to greet you. “Next time, don’t run off like that.”

“But the wind took my bonnet!” she said, a defensive expression forming on her face. 

“If it happens again, just say something before you take off,” he admonished, taking care to ensure his tone was not too harsh. “I hope you didn’t run anyone over in your haste.” 

“She did nothing of the sort,” you confirmed, a smile spreading across your face. “In fact, Hyacinth has been the picture of kindness from the moment she introduced herself, and I was just about to ask if she wanted to accompany me through the park. You are of course more than welcome to join us, Lord Bridgerton.”

Anthony watched as his sister’s eyes grew wide at the offer. “Can I?” she asked excitedly. 

“Of course,” was his response. “And I would be happy to accompany you as well.” 

At the second part of his sentence, Hyacinth’s expression soured. “I am old enough to spend a few moments on my own, brother,” she said, and Anthony couldn’t help but laugh at her annoyed expression. “You don’t have to follow me everywhere.”

“I know that,” was his response. She was right, but there was another reason that he wanted to stay in this general vicinity. “But since it was I who invited Lady Everleigh to the park today, I would also like to speak with her.”

His sister’s eyes grew even wider as she took in his words, something he wouldn’t have even thought possible. “Wait, this is the Countess? Daphne’s friend?”  

“I am also your brother’s friend,” you said, laughter bubbling from your lips as you caught Anthony’s expression of brief annoyance.  “And I would love to be your friend as well, Miss Hyacinth. You can call me Y/N.” 

“Wonderful!” his sister practically shouted, taking your hand in hers and beginning to drag you back towards where the rest of the assembled Bridgertons were gathered. “Come on, we should go and see the rest of my family, they’ve all been dying to meet you!” 

“Wait, Hyaci-” Anthony started to say, but it was too late. You were already being swiftly moved towards where Colin, Eloise, and Gregory stood, even though Anthony would have much preferred it if you had gotten a chance to promenade with him before he introduced you to everyone else and they took over your attention. But he should have known that Hyacinth would not leave you alone so easily, especially not since you asked to be her friend. 

He walked a few paces behind as his sister immediately brought you up to the rest of the family, beaming the entire time. “Everyone, this is my new friend, Lady Y/N Everleigh,” she said proudly. “Apparently, she is also Anthony’s friend.” 

Both you and Eloise tried to hide your laughter at her words, but Hyacinth did not seem to notice. “And these are some of my siblings, Colin, Eloise, and Gregory. Benedict is over there, conversing with my mother. Benedict!” she called excitedly. “Come meet the Countess!” 

Moments later all of his present siblings were crowded around you, all happily chatting as Anthony watched. Not that he was worried any of them would bring up the rumors about the demise of your husband to your face, he still found himself wishing that he was the one to introduce you to his family (and not his youngest sister, as friendly as she was). 

He was so lost in thought that he didn’t even hear his mother approach, her voice eventually pulling him away from his thoughts. “Hyacinth certainly likes her.” 

”I would guess that the rest of them do as well,” he responded, gesturing to where you were smiling with Benedict and Eloise before leaning down to whisper something in Gregory’s ear, immediately causing him to laugh so hard he snorted. Of course he knew that his family would like you, but he wondered if he would now have to compete a little more for your time, something which may affect the scheme you were currently embroiled in.

Violet regarded her eldest son with curiosity. “Then why do you look so glum, my dear?” 

He didn’t know how to answer his mother’s question, not truly, so he settled on laying the groundwork for your ruse. “At the last ball, she confided in me that she does not have many friends, so I thought we could promenade together this evening,” he said. “However, Hyacinth interrupted before that could happen.” 

Violet just smiled as she took her son’s arm and gently led him a few paces out of earshot of you and the rest of her children. “There will be more than enough time to promenade after the Countess is done introducing herself to the rest of the family,” she said. “I will make sure of it.” 

“Thank you, mother.” 

But of course, he should have known that would not be the end of the conversation. “Anthony, may I ask you a question?” 

“Always.” 

“Why have you never seriously considered looking for a wife?” 

Out of all the questions that his mind had come up with potential responses for, that was not one of them. “The well-being of the estate and of my family is of the utmost importance,” he said. “As much as I know you wanted me to participate more earnestly in the marriage mart, there hasn’t once been a young lady present at these events who I truly wished to speak to beyond simple pleasantries. I always believed that when I began my search for a wife, love would simply not be a factor.” 

Violet did not say anything right away, letting the weight of her son’s words weigh over the two of them for a few moments. “And has that changed at any recent time?” 

Now, he thought. Now was the perfect time to begin this whole ruse. 

“I believe it has,” he responded, looking out at where you were still speaking with his siblings. 

“Then you should tell Lady Everleigh how you feel,” his mother hummed. “I can’t guarantee that things will be easy, and she may not even be looking to remarry, but I’ve noticed a change in you since the two of you danced for the first time.” 

“Hopefully it is a good one.” 

Violet grinned. “I can assure you that it is the very best kind, my dear.” 

Anthony stepped away from his mother right as she called her children back to her, and he approached you as everyone else pulled away. “It seems I now have to ask once more if a sister of mine was holding you hostage,” he said, a smile spreading across his face. 

“And I will once more assure you that no one in your family could ever do such a thing,” you laughed. “However, I do believe that I was promised a walk with you.” 

“Well, there is no time like the present, right?” He offered you his arm after speaking, the same way you did when you showed him around your home. 

Conversation flowed with perfect ease as the two of you meandered through the park. He enjoyed your company immensely, and it seemed that telling Violet about his plans to promenade with you was the right choice, as none of his siblings felt the need to interrupt your time together. 

“My mother will not be surprised by any news of us courting, and my whole family seems to love you,” he said quietly. “I think it very much possible that we will be able to succeed in the impossible endeavor of lying to everyone we know.” 

“I believe our scheme is already working with the other members of the ton as well,” you said softly as you passed a small group of people. “There are many eligible young ladies present today at the park, and yet none of them have dared approach you.” 

“And I have high hopes for the fact that the rumors around you will at least be less suffocating than they were before,” he responded sincerely. 

“I suppose we’ll have to wait and see,” you said. “Maybe I will be invited to more dinner parties now that we have been seen so many times together.” 

“As I said before, I think you should still decline those. They’re dreadfully boring.” 

You laughed, and he couldn’t help but smile at the sound. “You might receive invitations as well,” you said. “And because I am not in a place where I can refuse any kind of societal summons, I would simply have to drag you along with me.” 

“I suppose that is the price I must pay for all the help you’ve already been to me,” he said gravely, but the solemn expression he tried to wear never actually reached his eyes. If it meant ensuring your good standing in society, he would suffer through countless soirées and garden parties at the homes of people he didn’t really care to get to know. 

Your presence alone would make them infinitely more bearable anyway. 

When it was finally time to part ways for the evening, you made sure to say goodbye to each one of his siblings personally, and Anthony kissed your gloved hand as you bid each other farewell. He could feel his family’s eyes on him as they all walked to where to carriages were waiting, and despite the fact that he rode home with Colin and Benedict, neither of them dared to tease him about your presence at the park, or the small displays of affection he had shown (likely, due to some thinly veiled threat on the part of their mother). 

He felt safe in assuming that his family would support the (false) courtship he was building with you. 

Now all he had to worry about was the rest of the ton.

- end of part five -

series taglist: @maricciardo @imafangirlofeverything @allthegirlsdreamed @captainsophiestark @chrissisheadisinclouds @anxiousgoldengirl @sweatyconnoisseurstrawberry @sky0401 @fallout-girl219 @ifilwtmfc @jackierose902109 @mysticwitchcraftco

[ghostofskywalker]

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - 5

Anthony Bridgerton/Fem!Reader

Words: 1,939

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Series Masterlist • Anthony Bridgerton Masterlist

Anthony and his family had already been here for quite some time, but you had not yet arrived at Hyde Park.

Not that he was keeping track of course. 

However, without your presence, he didn’t know how long he would be able to fend off the various ladies that crossed his path, and how long he would be able to keep Gregory and Hyacinth from bickering loud enough that everyone within two kilometers could hear them, like they had on the carriage ride over. 

Speaking of his youngest sister, where had she run off to? She wasn’t antagonizing Gregory, as he was currently attached to Colin and Eloise, the three of them deep in conversation as they looked around the park. Benedict and his mother were walking a few steps behind him, discussing some kind of artistic venture that his brother planned on undertaking in the near future. 

But from what he could see, Hyacinth was nowhere to be found. 

Not wanting to alarm the rest of the family (as it would be quite embarrassing for everyone involved if he made a scene only to find out that his sister had simply been speaking to Penelope Featherington), Anthony walked slightly faster, eyes sharp in their attention when he heard a rather familiar voice. 

“It is lovely to meet you, Miss Hyacinth. Is the rest of your family here as well?” 

There you were, standing at the outskirts of the park and conversing with his sister, who was holding her bonnet in her hands. If Anthony had to guess, it had been blown off her head, and Hyacinth had peeled off from the rest of the family in an effort to retrieve it. 

“Hyacinth!” he called out, and you both turned to look at him as he made his way over to greet you. “Next time, don’t run off like that.”

“But the wind took my bonnet!” she said, a defensive expression forming on her face. 

“If it happens again, just say something before you take off,” he admonished, taking care to ensure his tone was not too harsh. “I hope you didn’t run anyone over in your haste.” 

“She did nothing of the sort,” you confirmed, a smile spreading across your face. “In fact, Hyacinth has been the picture of kindness from the moment she introduced herself, and I was just about to ask if she wanted to accompany me through the park. You are of course more than welcome to join us, Lord Bridgerton.”

Anthony watched as his sister’s eyes grew wide at the offer. “Can I?” she asked excitedly. 

“Of course,” was his response. “And I would be happy to accompany you as well.” 

At the second part of his sentence, Hyacinth’s expression soured. “I am old enough to spend a few moments on my own, brother,” she said, and Anthony couldn’t help but laugh at her annoyed expression. “You don’t have to follow me everywhere.”

“I know that,” was his response. She was right, but there was another reason that he wanted to stay in this general vicinity. “But since it was I who invited Lady Everleigh to the park today, I would also like to speak with her.”

His sister’s eyes grew even wider as she took in his words, something he wouldn’t have even thought possible. “Wait, this is the Countess? Daphne’s friend?”  

“I am also your brother’s friend,” you said, laughter bubbling from your lips as you caught Anthony’s expression of brief annoyance.  “And I would love to be your friend as well, Miss Hyacinth. You can call me Y/N.” 

“Wonderful!” his sister practically shouted, taking your hand in hers and beginning to drag you back towards where the rest of the assembled Bridgertons were gathered. “Come on, we should go and see the rest of my family, they’ve all been dying to meet you!” 

“Wait, Hyaci-” Anthony started to say, but it was too late. You were already being swiftly moved towards where Colin, Eloise, and Gregory stood, even though Anthony would have much preferred it if you had gotten a chance to promenade with him before he introduced you to everyone else and they took over your attention. But he should have known that Hyacinth would not leave you alone so easily, especially not since you asked to be her friend. 

He walked a few paces behind as his sister immediately brought you up to the rest of the family, beaming the entire time. “Everyone, this is my new friend, Lady Y/N Everleigh,” she said proudly. “Apparently, she is also Anthony’s friend.” 

Both you and Eloise tried to hide your laughter at her words, but Hyacinth did not seem to notice. “And these are some of my siblings, Colin, Eloise, and Gregory. Benedict is over there, conversing with my mother. Benedict!” she called excitedly. “Come meet the Countess!” 

Moments later all of his present siblings were crowded around you, all happily chatting as Anthony watched. Not that he was worried any of them would bring up the rumors about the demise of your husband to your face, he still found himself wishing that he was the one to introduce you to his family (and not his youngest sister, as friendly as she was). 

He was so lost in thought that he didn’t even hear his mother approach, her voice eventually pulling him away from his thoughts. “Hyacinth certainly likes her.” 

”I would guess that the rest of them do as well,” he responded, gesturing to where you were smiling with Benedict and Eloise before leaning down to whisper something in Gregory’s ear, immediately causing him to laugh so hard he snorted. Of course he knew that his family would like you, but he wondered if he would now have to compete a little more for your time, something which may affect the scheme you were currently embroiled in.

Violet regarded her eldest son with curiosity. “Then why do you look so glum, my dear?” 

He didn’t know how to answer his mother’s question, not truly, so he settled on laying the groundwork for your ruse. “At the last ball, she confided in me that she does not have many friends, so I thought we could promenade together this evening,” he said. “However, Hyacinth interrupted before that could happen.” 

Violet just smiled as she took her son’s arm and gently led him a few paces out of earshot of you and the rest of her children. “There will be more than enough time to promenade after the Countess is done introducing herself to the rest of the family,” she said. “I will make sure of it.” 

“Thank you, mother.” 

But of course, he should have known that would not be the end of the conversation. “Anthony, may I ask you a question?” 

“Always.” 

“Why have you never seriously considered looking for a wife?” 

Out of all the questions that his mind had come up with potential responses for, that was not one of them. “The well-being of the estate and of my family is of the utmost importance,” he said. “As much as I know you wanted me to participate more earnestly in the marriage mart, there hasn’t once been a young lady present at these events who I truly wished to speak to beyond simple pleasantries. I always believed that when I began my search for a wife, love would simply not be a factor.” 

Violet did not say anything right away, letting the weight of her son’s words weigh over the two of them for a few moments. “And has that changed at any recent time?” 

Now, he thought. Now was the perfect time to begin this whole ruse. 

“I believe it has,” he responded, looking out at where you were still speaking with his siblings. 

“Then you should tell Lady Everleigh how you feel,” his mother hummed. “I can’t guarantee that things will be easy, and she may not even be looking to remarry, but I’ve noticed a change in you since the two of you danced for the first time.” 

“Hopefully it is a good one.” 

Violet grinned. “I can assure you that it is the very best kind, my dear.” 

Anthony stepped away from his mother right as she called her children back to her, and he approached you as everyone else pulled away. “It seems I now have to ask once more if a sister of mine was holding you hostage,” he said, a smile spreading across his face. 

“And I will once more assure you that no one in your family could ever do such a thing,” you laughed. “However, I do believe that I was promised a walk with you.” 

“Well, there is no time like the present, right?” He offered you his arm after speaking, the same way you did when you showed him around your home. 

Conversation flowed with perfect ease as the two of you meandered through the park. He enjoyed your company immensely, and it seemed that telling Violet about his plans to promenade with you was the right choice, as none of his siblings felt the need to interrupt your time together. 

“My mother will not be surprised by any news of us courting, and my whole family seems to love you,” he said quietly. “I think it very much possible that we will be able to succeed in the impossible endeavor of lying to everyone we know.” 

“I believe our scheme is already working with the other members of the ton as well,” you said softly as you passed a small group of people. “There are many eligible young ladies present today at the park, and yet none of them have dared approach you.” 

“And I have high hopes for the fact that the rumors around you will at least be less suffocating than they were before,” he responded sincerely. 

“I suppose we’ll have to wait and see,” you said. “Maybe I will be invited to more dinner parties now that we have been seen so many times together.” 

“As I said before, I think you should still decline those. They’re dreadfully boring.” 

You laughed, and he couldn’t help but smile at the sound. “You might receive invitations as well,” you said. “And because I am not in a place where I can refuse any kind of societal summons, I would simply have to drag you along with me.” 

“I suppose that is the price I must pay for all the help you’ve already been to me,” he said gravely, but the solemn expression he tried to wear never actually reached his eyes. If it meant ensuring your good standing in society, he would suffer through countless soirées and garden parties at the homes of people he didn’t really care to get to know. 

Your presence alone would make them infinitely more bearable anyway. 

When it was finally time to part ways for the evening, you made sure to say goodbye to each one of his siblings personally, and Anthony kissed your gloved hand as you bid each other farewell. He could feel his family’s eyes on him as they all walked to where to carriages were waiting, and despite the fact that he rode home with Colin and Benedict, neither of them dared to tease him about your presence at the park, or the small displays of affection he had shown (likely, due to some thinly veiled threat on the part of their mother). 

He felt safe in assuming that his family would support the (false) courtship he was building with you. 

Now all he had to worry about was the rest of the ton.

- end of part five -

series taglist: @maricciardo @imafangirlofeverything @allthegirlsdreamed @captainsophiestark @chrissisheadisinclouds @anxiousgoldengirl @sweatyconnoisseurstrawberry @sky0401 @fallout-girl219 @ifilwtmfc @jackierose902109 @mysticwitchcraftco

[ghostofskywalker]

dude i cannot believe i missed this comment!! i love it when everyone else around 2 characters are like "they're in love" before the two even consider the possibility, especially if it comes with a lot of "what are you talking about?" from the two in question 😂

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - 4

Anthony Bridgerton/Fem!Reader

Words: 1,841

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Note: hehe the ruse is beginning! i hope everyone is enjoying the fic so far :)

Series Masterlist • Anthony Bridgerton Masterlist

Conversation buzzed all around him the next morning as the family broke fast together, but Anthony’s thoughts were far from present at the table. Last night, he made a pact, a deal that would not only affect his future but that of someone else’s, and he would be lying if he said he wasn’t nervous about whether or not it would even work. 

He did not regret his (admittedly hasty) proposition, but to effectively pull something like this off would require much more planning than the original conversation he had with you in that garden. And who knows? Maybe you had woken up this morning and regretted the answer you gave him, something he should probably know before truly setting any part of the ruse in motion. And then he had to consider his brothers and sisters - how would the others around him be affected by this plan they had no part in hatching?

Not that he believed his family would be unwelcome to the idea of him courting you, but that it might break their hearts if they found out it was all a lie. 

And besides, things had to end eventually, since neither you nor him had any intentions of actually getting married. The purpose of this agreement was not to chain yourselves to each other for life, but rather to offer a respite for the problems that faced you both this social season. He just hoped that when this all came to an end, that your friendship would remain a part of his life. 

He was so deep in thought that he didn’t hear his name being spoken, and he only realized that he missed something when every eye in the room was turned to him. “Yes?” he asked, feigning ignorance by simply taking a drink from the glass in front of him. 

“I asked what your plans were for the day,” his mother said. “I thought we could promenade as a family this evening.” 

“I have a business meeting later in the morning that I must be present for,” he spoke smoothly. “And I am unsure of how long it will take, but I believe I will be back in time to help you chaperone.” 

Violet’s eyes held a twinkle of humor in them, and she smiled before responding. “Are you sure that you would not be one of the family members requiring a chaperone?” 

Anthony’s gaze steeled for a moment, and then softened. If the rest of the ton was to believe this ruse, he could not afford to have a single member of his inner circle doubt the parts that were being played. Thankfully, Benedict’s desire to tease his brother saved Anthony from having to come up with a response to that particular question. “If a certain Countess happens to be promenading at the same time, I can step in and help keep watch, as Anthony will no doubt take his leave.” 

“I hope we do see her again soon,” Violet said with a smile, before directing her next statement at her eldest son. “The two of you looked lovely dancing together last night.” 

Anthony simply nodded as he took another sip from his glass, unsure of what to say. Unfortunately, that same problem was not shared by Eloise. “No rebuttal, brother?” she asked, a teasing smile on her face. “Be careful, one might think you were truly falling in love.” 

He wasn’t, but he also knew that the truth would do no good in this particular situation. 

Rolling his eyes, Anthony took the last bite from his plate and rose from the table. “If you are all done speculating about my feelings, I will bid you good day. As I mentioned, I have important business to attend to.” 

Not even waiting for a response, he left the room, completely oblivious to the way his family continued the conversation in his absence, all sharing their various theories on how his relationship with you might progress over the coming days.

It seemed that everything was already falling into place. 

***

As Anthony walked up the stone stairs that led to your estate, he couldn’t help but notice how quiet everything was. Even the street your house stood on seemed to have not woken up yet, a far cry from the way his home seemed to be alight with joy and laughter at all hours of the day. 

After being greeted by a kind-looking butler, he was led into the drawing room and left alone, without even a promise that you would be in to see him shortly. The moment he was alone he took in his surroundings, trying to ignore the persistent chill in the air and the coldness of the room. The decor and furniture were nothing less than exquisite, but it felt more like a museum than a home. 

He had just picked up one of the vases on the side table to get a closer look at it when the door opened. “Looking to add thievery to your list of colorful qualities, Lord Bridgerton?”

You stood in the doorway wearing a teasing smile, and instantly he felt at ease. “Why would I bother?” he responded, a mischievous look appearing on his face. “When we marry, all of this would not only be yours but mine as well.” 

“You truly are quite forward,” you responded with a laugh. “As my memory served, we agreed to simply court each other, but it seems that you’re already planning a wedding.”

”Do you expect anything less?” 

You smiled. “I suppose that is why you’ve called on me this morning, is it not?” 

“Even if we did not have a scheme to discuss, I would still have wanted to see my friend,” he responded, moving closer so that you stood only a step apart. “If for no other reason than to take a tour of her grand home.” 

“Well then,” you said, offering him your arm. “What kind of hostess would I be if I refused such an earnest request?” 

The conversation was pleasant as you led him through the rooms of your estate, every room he entered somehow grander than the last (even if he could tell they had not been used in some time). “All of this is yours?” he asked as the two of you stepped into the garden, and he could see vast stretches of perfectly kept grass in the distance. 

“All mine,” you confirmed. “My late husband left me everything in his will, and we had no children.” 

“It must be lonely here.” 

You were silent for a moment before responding. “You have no idea. I think you’re the first person to call in some months, Lord Bridgerton.” 

“Call me Anthony, please. As I’ve said before, we are friends,” he said. “And if we are going to pull this off, we need to be convincing.” 

You nodded, your expression swiftly shifting to one of all business. “Then we should discuss how we are to act around each other, to ensure that our deception is both accepted and unquestioned.” 

Sitting down on a nearby bench, the two of you were not as far apart this time as you had been the first time you had been alone in a garden together, at last night’s ball. “It is a given that we must dance together at balls,” Anthony said. “As is the fact that I will call on you with some regularity.” 

“We should also be seen together in public on occasion,” you added. “At the races or the park. And I should probably have tea with your mother sometime soon.”

“It would be wise if you were well-acquainted with all my family,” Anthony said. “Simply announcing a courtship might provoke more attention than necessary, but the rumors are sure to grow naturally if we are seen together more often before that particular piece of information starts to make its way around the ton.” 

You smiled. “Let Lady Whistledown do the work, I like it.” 

“I am going to be accompanying my mother and some of my siblings this evening to promenade in Hyde Park,” he said suddenly. “Maybe we could run into each other there?” 

“That’s a good idea.” 

A beat of silence descended over the two of you, and Anthony spoke once more. “We should also consider how we will end our charade.”

You were silent for a moment, clearly having not considered this particular part of the endeavor.  “I suppose the best way would be for us to simply go our separate ways at the end of season,” you said softly. 

Anthony’s chest tightened as he thought about your words. He didn’t want to have to give up your friendship once this was all said and done, but he knew that it may very well be necessary. “If neither of us make any official word on our relationship, we should be free to end the charade painlessly,” he said. “Ensuring that both our reputations will remain untouched and we are free to carry out the future in any way we wish.” 

You shot him a puzzled look. “How?” 

“If we let the rumor that we have called off the courtship start to grow at the season’s end, by the time next year comes, there will surely be another scandal for the ton to care about, leaving the two of us absolved of that attention,” he said. 

“I suppose it might be easier than staging an argument,” you said, a pensive look crossing your face. “Selfishly, I would like to remain close to your sister after this is all over, as she is becoming a dear friend.” 

“And what of my friendship?” he asked jokingly. 

You rolled your eyes as a playful smile appeared on your face. “I’ll ask that Daphne invites you over on occasion, this way we can still see each other.”

But before Anthony could respond in false offense, your butler approached the two of you on the bench. “Lady Everleigh, I apologize for interrupting,” he said. “But the solicitor is here to discuss something with you.” 

Anthony’s expression changed. “Is everything alright?” 

“Of course,” was your response. “I’ve been working with Mr. Hornsby to manage this estate, but I’m currently trying to decide whether or not I should move into a smaller one, since it’s just me in this grand house. I forgot that we had a meeting set for today, but it shouldn’t last too long. Edwin can lead you back out to your carriage,” you said, gesturing towards your butler. 

Anthony nodded as he began to get up from where he sat. “Very well,” he said. “I shall see you later on then?” 

“I wouldn’t miss it,” was your response, shooting him a kind smile before the two of you parted ways. 

Maybe it was because he knew that soon he would no longer be mobbed by eligible ladies and their obstinate mothers, but he couldn’t help but feel a lightness in his soul as his carriage pulled away from your estate and began to take him home.

- end of part four -

series taglist: @maricciardo @imafangirlofeverything @allthegirlsdreamed @captainsophiestark @chrissisheadisinclouds @anxiousgoldengirl @sweatyconnoisseurstrawberry @sky0401 @fallout-girl219 @ifilwtmfc @jackierose902109

[ghostofskywalker]

last line tag

Rules: in a new post, show the last line you wrote (or drew) and tag as many people as there are words (or as many as you feel like).

thank you to @eclec-tech for tagging me! i'm kind of in wip limbo at this point, so not much has been going on that i can share, but i've been playing around with fics that i never wrote more than a few paragraphs for. here's a bit i just added to one of them :)

The Empire had long since utilized clone troopers as their primary source of manpower, but you still saw the echoes of the troopers you served with everywhere you went, even if their conscripted replacements were much less accurate with their blaster shots.

i'll tag (no pressure!): @captainsophiestark @ladysongmaster @sunflowergirl522 @dreamie411 and anyone else who wants to share!

[ghostofskywalker]

[ghostofskywalker]

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - 4

Anthony Bridgerton/Fem!Reader

Words: 1,841

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Note: hehe the ruse is beginning! i hope everyone is enjoying the fic so far :)

Series Masterlist • Anthony Bridgerton Masterlist

Conversation buzzed all around him the next morning as the family broke fast together, but Anthony’s thoughts were far from present at the table. Last night, he made a pact, a deal that would not only affect his future but that of someone else’s, and he would be lying if he said he wasn’t nervous about whether or not it would even work. 

He did not regret his (admittedly hasty) proposition, but to effectively pull something like this off would require much more planning than the original conversation he had with you in that garden. And who knows? Maybe you had woken up this morning and regretted the answer you gave him, something he should probably know before truly setting any part of the ruse in motion. And then he had to consider his brothers and sisters - how would the others around him be affected by this plan they had no part in hatching?

Not that he believed his family would be unwelcome to the idea of him courting you, but that it might break their hearts if they found out it was all a lie. 

And besides, things had to end eventually, since neither you nor him had any intentions of actually getting married. The purpose of this agreement was not to chain yourselves to each other for life, but rather to offer a respite for the problems that faced you both this social season. He just hoped that when this all came to an end, that your friendship would remain a part of his life. 

He was so deep in thought that he didn’t hear his name being spoken, and he only realized that he missed something when every eye in the room was turned to him. “Yes?” he asked, feigning ignorance by simply taking a drink from the glass in front of him. 

“I asked what your plans were for the day,” his mother said. “I thought we could promenade as a family this evening.” 

“I have a business meeting later in the morning that I must be present for,” he spoke smoothly. “And I am unsure of how long it will take, but I believe I will be back in time to help you chaperone.” 

Violet’s eyes held a twinkle of humor in them, and she smiled before responding. “Are you sure that you would not be one of the family members requiring a chaperone?” 

Anthony’s gaze steeled for a moment, and then softened. If the rest of the ton was to believe this ruse, he could not afford to have a single member of his inner circle doubt the parts that were being played. Thankfully, Benedict’s desire to tease his brother saved Anthony from having to come up with a response to that particular question. “If a certain Countess happens to be promenading at the same time, I can step in and help keep watch, as Anthony will no doubt take his leave.” 

“I hope we do see her again soon,” Violet said with a smile, before directing her next statement at her eldest son. “The two of you looked lovely dancing together last night.” 

Anthony simply nodded as he took another sip from his glass, unsure of what to say. Unfortunately, that same problem was not shared by Eloise. “No rebuttal, brother?” she asked, a teasing smile on her face. “Be careful, one might think you were truly falling in love.” 

He wasn’t, but he also knew that the truth would do no good in this particular situation. 

Rolling his eyes, Anthony took the last bite from his plate and rose from the table. “If you are all done speculating about my feelings, I will bid you good day. As I mentioned, I have important business to attend to.” 

Not even waiting for a response, he left the room, completely oblivious to the way his family continued the conversation in his absence, all sharing their various theories on how his relationship with you might progress over the coming days.

It seemed that everything was already falling into place. 

***

As Anthony walked up the stone stairs that led to your estate, he couldn’t help but notice how quiet everything was. Even the street your house stood on seemed to have not woken up yet, a far cry from the way his home seemed to be alight with joy and laughter at all hours of the day. 

After being greeted by a kind-looking butler, he was led into the drawing room and left alone, without even a promise that you would be in to see him shortly. The moment he was alone he took in his surroundings, trying to ignore the persistent chill in the air and the coldness of the room. The decor and furniture were nothing less than exquisite, but it felt more like a museum than a home. 

He had just picked up one of the vases on the side table to get a closer look at it when the door opened. “Looking to add thievery to your list of colorful qualities, Lord Bridgerton?”

You stood in the doorway wearing a teasing smile, and instantly he felt at ease. “Why would I bother?” he responded, a mischievous look appearing on his face. “When we marry, all of this would not only be yours but mine as well.” 

“You truly are quite forward,” you responded with a laugh. “As my memory served, we agreed to simply court each other, but it seems that you’re already planning a wedding.”

”Do you expect anything less?” 

You smiled. “I suppose that is why you’ve called on me this morning, is it not?” 

“Even if we did not have a scheme to discuss, I would still have wanted to see my friend,” he responded, moving closer so that you stood only a step apart. “If for no other reason than to take a tour of her grand home.” 

“Well then,” you said, offering him your arm. “What kind of hostess would I be if I refused such an earnest request?” 

The conversation was pleasant as you led him through the rooms of your estate, every room he entered somehow grander than the last (even if he could tell they had not been used in some time). “All of this is yours?” he asked as the two of you stepped into the garden, and he could see vast stretches of perfectly kept grass in the distance. 

“All mine,” you confirmed. “My late husband left me everything in his will, and we had no children.” 

“It must be lonely here.” 

You were silent for a moment before responding. “You have no idea. I think you’re the first person to call in some months, Lord Bridgerton.” 

“Call me Anthony, please. As I’ve said before, we are friends,” he said. “And if we are going to pull this off, we need to be convincing.” 

You nodded, your expression swiftly shifting to one of all business. “Then we should discuss how we are to act around each other, to ensure that our deception is both accepted and unquestioned.” 

Sitting down on a nearby bench, the two of you were not as far apart this time as you had been the first time you had been alone in a garden together, at last night’s ball. “It is a given that we must dance together at balls,” Anthony said. “As is the fact that I will call on you with some regularity.” 

“We should also be seen together in public on occasion,” you added. “At the races or the park. And I should probably have tea with your mother sometime soon.”

“It would be wise if you were well-acquainted with all my family,” Anthony said. “Simply announcing a courtship might provoke more attention than necessary, but the rumors are sure to grow naturally if we are seen together more often before that particular piece of information starts to make its way around the ton.” 

You smiled. “Let Lady Whistledown do the work, I like it.” 

“I am going to be accompanying my mother and some of my siblings this evening to promenade in Hyde Park,” he said suddenly. “Maybe we could run into each other there?” 

“That’s a good idea.” 

A beat of silence descended over the two of you, and Anthony spoke once more. “We should also consider how we will end our charade.”

You were silent for a moment, clearly having not considered this particular part of the endeavor.  “I suppose the best way would be for us to simply go our separate ways at the end of season,” you said softly. 

Anthony’s chest tightened as he thought about your words. He didn’t want to have to give up your friendship once this was all said and done, but he knew that it may very well be necessary. “If neither of us make any official word on our relationship, we should be free to end the charade painlessly,” he said. “Ensuring that both our reputations will remain untouched and we are free to carry out the future in any way we wish.” 

You shot him a puzzled look. “How?” 

“If we let the rumor that we have called off the courtship start to grow at the season’s end, by the time next year comes, there will surely be another scandal for the ton to care about, leaving the two of us absolved of that attention,” he said. 

“I suppose it might be easier than staging an argument,” you said, a pensive look crossing your face. “Selfishly, I would like to remain close to your sister after this is all over, as she is becoming a dear friend.” 

“And what of my friendship?” he asked jokingly. 

You rolled your eyes as a playful smile appeared on your face. “I’ll ask that Daphne invites you over on occasion, this way we can still see each other.”

But before Anthony could respond in false offense, your butler approached the two of you on the bench. “Lady Everleigh, I apologize for interrupting,” he said. “But the solicitor is here to discuss something with you.” 

Anthony’s expression changed. “Is everything alright?” 

“Of course,” was your response. “I’ve been working with Mr. Hornsby to manage this estate, but I’m currently trying to decide whether or not I should move into a smaller one, since it’s just me in this grand house. I forgot that we had a meeting set for today, but it shouldn’t last too long. Edwin can lead you back out to your carriage,” you said, gesturing towards your butler. 

Anthony nodded as he began to get up from where he sat. “Very well,” he said. “I shall see you later on then?” 

“I wouldn’t miss it,” was your response, shooting him a kind smile before the two of you parted ways. 

Maybe it was because he knew that soon he would no longer be mobbed by eligible ladies and their obstinate mothers, but he couldn’t help but feel a lightness in his soul as his carriage pulled away from your estate and began to take him home.

- end of part four -

series taglist: @maricciardo @imafangirlofeverything @allthegirlsdreamed @captainsophiestark @chrissisheadisinclouds @anxiousgoldengirl @sweatyconnoisseurstrawberry @sky0401 @fallout-girl219 @ifilwtmfc @jackierose902109

[ghostofskywalker]

if i had a nickel for every time a mutual of mine was accidentally unfollowed (either by a tumblr glitch or me just accidentally pressing something i don't know) and i didn't realize it for ages because i thought they were just taking a break from tumblr i'd have two nickels, which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice

[ghostofskywalker]

i'm so glad you liked it, i think this is still my favorite of the fictober fics i did last year <3 i love the idea of anakin having all these random bounty hunter (or otherwise capable) friends all over the galaxy and calling them in for favors during the war, i feel like all the fics i've done with that concept could be their own universe 😂

Opposites Attract

Commander Cody/Fem!Reader

Fictober 2024 Day 30 of 31

Words: 858

Summary: Commander Cody has a reputation for honor, duty, and focus, which makes it all the more entertaining when he falls head over heels for a visiting bounty hunter.

Note: i think this is my favorite of this year’s fictober fics! i wrote this imagining a reader character who is very strong/buff (the image in my head for her frame is that of norman rockwell’s depiction of rosie the riveter, if that makes sense)

Clone Troopers Masterlist

There was a figure that Cody didn’t recognize in the training room as he stepped inside, and his interest was certainly piqued by the crowd of vode standing around, everyone cheering and laughing. Some of the 501st had joined up with the 212th for a joint mission, and Cody walked over to Rex, who was sagely sitting in a corner and watching the exuberance across the room. “What’s going on?” 

“Jesse’s sparring with a bounty hunter,” Rex said with a tired edge to his voice, as though this was not the first time this had happened before.

“A bounty hunter?” 

Rex nodded. “She’s a friend of Skywalker’s, and he calls her in to help out every once in a while when things get a little too difficult for his liking. Unfortunately for me, she doesn’t follow rules very well, and it certainly doesn’t help that all my men are enamored with her.” 

Cody craned his neck, trying to get a better glimpse of the matchup through the crowd of clones. “Who’s winning?” 

The moment he finished speaking, the sound of plastoid armor hitting the padded floor filled the space, and a chorus of laughs and teasing came from the troopers on the sideline. “Take a guess,” Rex deadpanned, and Cody couldn’t help but laugh as his brother’s expression. “I’m just glad they finally wised up and stopped allowing the use of weapons in these matches. I thought we were going to have to run out of bacta before something changed.” 

He still couldn’t see you too well, but he heard your voice as you called for another challenger, and Cody watched as someone else stepped up to fulfill your request. Turning back to Rex, he smiled. “Is this a regular occurrence?” 

The captain nodded. “Yeah, and Fives is about to get his shebs handed to him.”

Cody could hear the trash talk from across the room, and it was clear that whoever you were, you were more than comfortable with the troopers in blue. 

“You think you can handle me, mesh’la?” 

“You said that last time babe, and you ended up with a busted lip.” 

“At least I wasn’t busted elsewhere, if you know what I mean.”

“Just shut up and lunge at me.” 

Laughter filled the room as the action began, and Cody couldn’t help but continually glance over, hoping to get a better look at you. 

To Fives’ credit, he appeared to put up a good fight, but it was clear who won when Cody once again heard armor being slammed against the floor. “Kriff me,” Fives groaned.

You laughed, a bright, joyful sound that carried across the room. “At least buy a girl dinner first.” 

Finally, the throng of people cleared, and Cody’s breath actually caught in his throat for a moment when he finally got a look at the tournament’s victor. The look on your face was one of savage pride as you laughed with his brothers and jokingly flexed, the crowd of onlookers cheering the whole time. With a strong frame and clearly in possession of a lot of strength, it was clear that you were a terror to anyone who made the mistake of opposing you. 

He may not have realized that he was staring for a little too long, but Rex certainly did. “Caught your interest?” 

“What?” 

Rex laughed. “Stop staring like a lovesick tooka and go talk to her,” he said. “I think she’d like you actually, with your whole ‘good behavior’ vibe. It’s endearing to people like that, who have never followed a rule in their entire lives.” 

Annoyed that Rex had managed to clock his feelings so quickly, Cody tried to keep his expression neutral. “I’m not staring.” 

“Yeah, and Hardcase is the Chancellor of the Republic,” he said.

Cody was about to bite back, but held his tongue as he realized that you were walking over to him. “Hey Rex,” you said, stealing the canteen of water from his hands and taking a swig. “Who’s the newbie?” 

“The marshal commander of the GAR,” Rex responded, not even bothering to comment on his stolen water. 

You smiled at Cody as you took another sip, and he couldn’t help but stare at the droplet of water than escaped out the side of your mouth and traced down your neck. “Maybe you’ll be a challenge for me, I haven’t had a fair fight in ages.” 

Cody’s eyes widened as he tried to find the words to respond. 

You just laughed, clearly enjoying the fact that you had him so timid. “You’re cute,” you said, reaching out and running a hand over his cheek before pulling it away. “If you ever want to get some training in, let me know.” 

You were gone before another word could be uttered (thanks the to comm device in your pocket indicating a call), and Rex broke out in laughter as Cody tried to recover. “Close your mouth vod, you’ll catch something.”

Cody glowered, shooting his brother a death glare as he desperately tried to ignore the fact that the feeling of your fingertips on his skin had practically set him on fire. “Shut up.”

- the end -

i no longer have a taglist! if you're interested in being notified when i post, you can follow my library blog @ghostofskywalker-library and turn on notifications!

[ghostofskywalker]

it is starting!! 😈 i thought it was really funny for anthony to get laughed at for suggesting this very romance novel-esque solution to their problem, and him getting a little offended about it 😂

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - 3

Anthony Bridgerton/Fem!Reader

Words: 2,042

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Series Masterlist • Anthony Bridgerton Masterlist

The sound of someone softly clearing their throat from behind where he currently stood immediately caused every muscle in Anthony’s body to tense. He was not looking forward to turning around to greet whoever the young lady standing there was, and then having to figure out a way to politely turn her (poorly disguised) ask for a dance down. Maybe if he just continued to stare intently at the liquid in his glass and didn’t move, she would grow tired of waiting, and he could simply say that the sound of the band drowned out her attempt to catch his attention.

But of course he was not that lucky, and the sound repeated, much louder this time around. Fighting back the urge to sigh, Anthony plastered a smile on his face and turned around. “Good evening, Mi-” Thankfully, he was able to drop the act when he realized that it was only Daphne who had approached him this time. “Sister, thank God you’re here. I can only come up with so many excuses about why I do not wish to dance.”

“I was wondering why you seemed so intent to ignore me,” Daphne responded with a smile. “Have you been fending off many ladies this evening?”

“More than I care to count,” he muttered, glaring about the ballroom as he watched the various young women mill about, laughing, dancing, and swarming in packs on those they found to be a desirable enough target. It was tiring, and he had no one to complain about it with, as both Benedict and Colin had managed to make believable excuses about why they could not attend this ball. Technically, Anthony was here to chaperone Eloise, despite the fact that she would have much rather stayed home with a book and her journal. However, like her eldest brother, she did not have the luxury of missing out on the festivities, as his mother had so firmly put it before the carriage had left their estate.

Daphne’s voice brought him back from his wandering thoughts. “Is there truly no one you wish to dance with in attendance tonight?”

Anthony's voice was flat as he responded. “No.”

“No?”

Of course though, he should have known that she was not going to accept that as his answer so easily. “You heard me.”

Maybe that would have been a lie if you were here, but Anthony had not yet seen you. It was so late in the event that he was beginning to give up any hope of your attendance, even if he completely understood why you might want to avoid an evening like this at all costs.

As if she was able to read his mind, Daphne spoke. “Not even a certain Countess?”

Anthony turned towards his sister with an exasperated look on his face. “Everyone else in our family has already made their assumptions based on what a certain column has written, I had foolishly hoped you would not do the same.”

“I was not referring to what Whistledown wrote,” Daphne said smugly. “I was simply thinking of the smile I saw on your face the other day when I watched you in my drawing room, and the fact that I’ve seen you glance around the ballroom at least three times since we began talking. I am completely aware of your proclamation that you have no intention of finding a wife this season, and I’m sure that the rest of our family has already begun to tease you about romantic feelings you may or may not possess, but it’s clear that you enjoy spending time with her.”

Anthony looked at his sister, knowing that she had been right on every count. “In terms of distaste for events like these, we are kindred spirits.”

Daphne smiled. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Y/N was hiding out somewhere right now and that’s why you haven’t seen each other. I spoke with her earlier this evening.”

Anthony tried not to let a smile grow on his face as he learned that you were present, lest his sister become more persistent in her meddling. “I hope it was not the words of someone here that caused her to keep to the shadows,” he responded.

“I agree,” were Daphne’s quiet words. “She handles herself admirably, but I’m sure it’s difficult to weather that particular storm every day.”

Right as Anthony opened his mouth to respond, he spotted a small group of women heading towards him and Daphne, and in that moment, he understood what life must be like as hunted prey. Not even bothering to say anything to his sister (he would apologize the next time he saw her), Anthony quickly moved through the crowd of people, thankfully managing to duck away from anyone who tried to engage him in conversation.

He didn’t even know how he managed to make it outside through the maze of hallways that made up this estate, but cool air was soon flowing across his face as he stood at the entrance of a small garden at the side of the building, the music and other sounds of the ball nothing but background noise. Finally glad to be alone, he sat down on a bench and closed his eyes, breathing a soft sigh of relief.

At the very same moment, a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts. “Is being the center of attention truly that tiring?”

When Anthony opened his eyes, you were standing three paces away, the teasing expression on your face just barely visible in the light of the full moon. “You have no idea,” he said quietly, before thinking more deeply about who he was speaking to. “Well, I suppose you might.”

You smiled, sitting down on the bench next to him (but still with a considerable amount of space between you). It seemed that you didn’t have as much to worry about when it came to being alone with him due to your current marital status, but you were still (rightfully) cautious to avoid any more of the ton’s gossip. “I think the type of attention you receive is quite different from what I experience every day.”

“I’ll tell you that it is just as unwelcome,” Anthony said with a sigh. “I swear they’ve taken to hunting in packs.”

“At that age, young women are constantly reminded how important securing themselves a husband is,” you said softly. “You are simply one of the more popular victims because of your title and family.”

”Aren’t you still around that age?” Maybe the question bordered on impolite, but he couldn’t help the words that fell from his mouth.

You shook your head. “If I were not a widow, I would be ridiculed as a spinster,” you responded. “People would probably still be giving me advice on how to find a husband though, such as trying to catch the attention of men like you.”

“I don’t know if I should be relieved or insulted that they don’t actually care about me.”

“I think if you’re truly offended by the truth, your ego might have grown too big to save,” you said, a genuine smile on your face.

Anthony laughed quietly before responding. He had only spent a few moments with you but already his evening was looking up. “Well then, I think you’ve been spending too much time with my sister.”

“I can’t refute that,” you said. “She is kind, and it doesn’t help that I am not exactly drowning in invitations to dinner parties and garden soirees.”

“I have attended quite a few events like that, as have some of my other siblings,” he responded. “In my opinion, you’re not missing out on much.”

A small smile crossed your face. “I know that, but I suppose there is still a part of me that wishes to have received the invitation, even if I turned it down.”

Anthony nodded, and a short bout of comfortable silence descended over the two of you as you sat on that bench, the only sound being that of the breeze rustling your dress. With anyone else, the overwhelming quiet might have been stifling, but it wasn't like that with you.

“How do you stand it?” He eventually asked, his voice much softer than it had been moments before. “The rumors, the staring, the way people act when you step into a room?”

You paused for a moment, sitting up a little straighter as your expression changed to one of guarded intensity. “Is this your way of asking me if I am indeed the type of person the ton paints me to be?”

“No, I didn’t mean-” Anthony responded quickly, almost tripping over his words. “I simply wish to know if there is anything that I would be able to do to help, in any way.”

Your posture visibly relaxed as you took in his words, and he was relieved to see that you did not think him a liar. “I wish there was,” you said. “But just as you cannot escape the crowds of advancing debutantes, this is a cross I must bear myself.”

As you let out a soft sigh of disappointment, Anthony had an idea.

If one was looking at it from a rational perspective, the thought that ran through his mind probably wouldn’t be worth pursuing. The logistics of pulling something like this off ranged from adequately complicated to downright impossible, but still, he broke the silence. “Maybe there is a way we could help each other.”

You raised your eyebrows at him, and even though the exact expression on your face was mostly obscured by the darkness of the evening, he was sure you had an incredulous look on your face. “How?” you asked, clearly not sure what to think at this moment.

“We could pretend to be courting.”

First you were silent, and Anthony felt as though his stomach had dropped to the ground as he waited for your response.

Then the laughter started, and somehow, that stung his heart more than if your reaction had been an outburst of indignation.

When you finally composed yourself, you raised your eyebrows at him. “In what way would that solve anything?”

“If society believes me to be seriously courting someone, the amount of young ladies following me around would be significantly reduced.”

“And how would it benefit me?”

One might have believed he was simply suggesting this for his own advantage, but he had the logic of your question already worked out by the time it was voiced. “If your name were to be meaningfully attached to mine, I could use my family’s name and influence to quell the rumors as best I could.”

In his eyes, it was a perfect plan, but somehow, you still didn’t look convinced. “I doubt even you could convince the ton that you are seriously courting someone with a reputation such as mine.”

“Lady Whistledown has apparently already mentioned the possibility,” Anthony said. “Your friendship with my sister would only speak to the credibility of our ruse, and besides, we are currently out here all by ourselves. I dare say anything could happen, especially if we play our cards right.”

You were silent as you considered the offer. “Selfishly, I must admit that the thought of no longer being looked at so harshly is enticing,” you said softly.

“I would not do anything you do not wish me to, if that is of concern,” he responded earnestly. “I speak the truth when I say that you are my friend, and I would not want to put that in jeopardy.”

“I know,” you whispered.

You didn’t seem to oppose the idea, so he took the chance, instinctively holding his breath while he waited for a response. “So Lady Everleigh, what do you say?”

“I would say that you have yourself a courtship, Lord Bridgerton.”

Anthony smiled, maybe wider than he had all week. “Would you spare me a dance this evening then?” he asked, extending his hand to you as he stood up. “I can find you later in the ballroom.”

You laughed as you took it, offering a kind smile of your own. “Of course. Why don’t we both get some lemonade when we return to the party?”

“That sounds like a wonderful idea.”

- end of part three -

series taglist: @maricciardo @imafangirlofeverything @captainsophiestark @allthegirlsdreamed @chrissisheadisinclouds @anxiousgoldengirl @sweatyconnoisseurstrawberry @sky0401 @fallout-girl219 @ifilwtmfc

[ghostofskywalker]

thank you!! i'm glad you liked it :)

Operation: Love Potion

Commander Fox/Reader

Words: 1,617

Summary: The entire Guard is tired of seeing Fox stare at you and not make a move, so Thorn takes matters into his own hands after finding something special at the Coruscant Life Day Market.

Note: this was written for the @cloneficgiftexchange seasons prompt a thon! i wanted to get one more fic in before the event ended, and i loved the prompt "hot chocolate love potion" under the winter choices :) i was going to post this tomorrow, but there was an issue with my ao3 draft and i didn't want to risk having to completely re-do it over there, so i'm posting it today :)

Clone Troopers Masterlist

Thorn turned the corner after leaving Fox’s office, eyes alert for any sign of the aforementioned commander. The bright pink box in his hands would clearly spell out his intentions to anyone with half a brain and knowledge of the Coruscant Guard’s support staff, meaning that multiple rotations of careful planning would go down the drain if he were to be caught right now by someone who wasn’t part of the plan. 

Thankfully the next trooper he saw was Hound, and he nodded at the box. “Is the trap set?” he whispered. 

Thorn nodded. “I swapped this with the stuff he had on hand.” 

“Perfect. Is there anything else we need to do to make this work?” 

“The woman at the market told me all he has to do is drink it,” Thorn said. “But I guess we’ll have to wait and see.” 

The two of them walked towards the break room, Thorn immediately taking the time to rip up the box and hide it at the bottom of the trash receptacle. This was too big of a deal for their commander to find out what they’d done (and circumvent their carefully plotted scheme). 

Well, to them it was a big deal. Fox might not be so keen on the concept, but it was for his own gain and the greater good of the Coruscant Guard as a whole. There was nothing written into Republic law regarding love potions anyway, what could he really do about it? 

This had all started a few rotations ago, when Thorn stopped by a Life Day Market that had popped up on one of his patrol routes. He didn’t know what to expect as he casually strolled through the maze of booths, with vendors selling everything from warmly handmade gifts to elegantly gilded decorations. 

And apparently, as he learned when he stopped by one particular booth, love potions. 

The elderly Togruta woman behind the table smiled at him as he approached, and he probably offended her a little when he inquired about the effectiveness of her product, a hot cocoa powder that doubled as a love potion. It works, I can assure you, she had said. It can’t manufacture love that never existed in the first place, but whoever drinks this will have the amorous feelings in their soul amplified by tenfold.

He had bought it of course, with only one target in mind. Despite the fact that the topic had been brought up by multiple members of the command batch, Fox had always denied his feelings for the Guard’s civilian liaison, but everyone who had the misfortune of existing around the two of you could see the obvious pining behind the Marshal Commander’s eyes, and most of the troopers he had spoken to believe that you felt the same way. Convincing his brothers to go along with this plan had been nothing but a breeze, even though some of them had reservations about whether or not this would actually work. 

He was still deep in thought leaving the break room when Fox walked past him, and both men nodded politely at each other. When Thorn saw the nondescript cocoa box and mug in his brother’s hands, his grin widened. Not only was Fox taking his advice to lay off the caf, he was putting in motion the means for guaranteed happiness. Now that the love potion (does it count as a potion if it’s in a dehydrated state?) was placed, all they had to do was wait. 

Things were certainly going to get interesting around here.

***

The sound of his comlink beeping pulled Thorn from his daydreams (despite the fact that he should be paying attention to the topic of the meeting). When he discreetly looked down to check it, Hound’s name flashed across the screen with a message. 

Someone’s looking a little lovesick. 

Fox was sitting across the table from him, and Thorn didn’t even need to look up to know where he was staring. The things you were discussing were mundane in every sense of the word (most of the meeting had been centered around the procedure for renewing their mandatory speeder certifications), but his brother was hanging onto every word you said like it was the most interesting thing in the world. Despite the fact that he still wore his helmet, it was obvious that he was paying attention, something that Thorn rarely saw when other people were presenting (as they all had a bad habit of using their buckets to disguise on-duty napping). 

Smiling to himself, he typed a response back to Hound. 

Definitely more than usual. 

Over the next few rotations, it became more and more obvious that their plan was working. You and Fox seemed to be attached at the hip, always sharing quiet conversations and even spending your time working together in comfortable silence. The smile on his brother’s face was unmistakable whenever you were in the general vicinity, and Thorn noticed that Fox seemed to be forgoing his helmet more often, especially during the days you spent with the Guard. Of course you had other duties within the GAR and responsibilities to other battalions, but the fact that you were stationed planetside meant that the troops in red were the ones you worked with the most. 

“I heard that Life Day market is going to be set up again in a few rotations,” Thorn said to Thire one morning as they walked through the halls. “Do you think I should pick up some more of the hot cocoa mix?” 

Thire shrugged. “You could, but I don’t know how much more we could do. Eventually it’s going to be up to Fox to actually admit his feelings.” 

Thorn sighed. “That is true, I just hope he doesn’t wait forever.” As they walked past the commander’s office, Thorn paused. “Do you think he’s in there? I want to see how much of the stuff he’s actually used.” 

“I don’t know, I can’t hear anything,” Thire responded. “You may just have to walk in like you have a question.” 

Thorn grinned at the idea before pushing the button for the door, stepping through it purposefully, as if his business here was a matter of life and death. 

There was just one snag in his plan, and it was that he was in no way prepared for the sight that befell him. 

Sitting there, on the old couch that Fox and Thorn had dragged into the room during their first week stationed here, you and Fox were kissing. No, scratch that. What the two of you were doing could only be described as making out. 

When the datapad in Thorn’s hands clattered to the floor, the two of you detached from each other’s lips right as Thire stepped up to the doorway to see what was the matter. “What are you doing here?” Fox asked, embarrassment seeping into his voice.  

Thorn’s jaw dropped open, pure shock taking over his face. “I don’t think I need to pick up any more of that love potion,” he said, still not having fully registered the scene. 

Fox looked at him with a confused expression. “What in Sith Hells are you talking about?” 

Both clones in the doorway froze slightly at the admittance, and Thire paused before speaking. “Thorn bought hot cocoa mix at that Life Day market that popped up last week, and the seller said that it would amplify existing romantic feelings.”

“Yeah, because someone had to finally shove you into admitting how you felt,” Thorn added, crossing his arms. “I think you should thank us.” 

There were several responses that Thorn expected to see from Fox as he realized what his brothers had done. He thought anger was the most likely to make an appearance, which was why it was yet another surprise when both you and Fox started laughing. 

“Thorn,” you said, once you finally composed yourself. “When exactly did you start giving Fox this ‘love potion?’” 

“A few rotations ago, why?” 

Fox was the one that spoke next. “You di’kut, we’ve been seeing each other for over three weeks now.” 

Thorn blinked, unsure of how to process the information. “Three weeks?” he eventually said, voice slightly louder than originally intended. 

“This wasn’t how we planned for you to find out,” you said. 

Fox nodded. “I think you got swindled at the market, because I haven’t felt anything change recently.” 

Thorn sputtered, still trying to wrap his head around the truth. “You didn’t fall even more in love over the past few days?” 

Fox laughed. “Technically I have, but I’ve fallen more in love every day since we met.” 

You smiled, reaching down to take Fox’s hand. “Really?” 

Resisting the urge to make fun of his brother even further for that comment, Thorn sighed. “This is ridiculous. You two are ridiculous.” 

“You’re just upset that your love potion didn’t work.” 

Thorn turned around to stare at his brother. “There’s no evidence that it didn’t! These two were just disgustingly in love already, so it didn’t change much.” 

Thire laughed. “Come on, let’s leave these lovebirds to their alone time,” he said, grabbing Thorn’s arm and practically pulling him out of the room. 

It wasn’t like he had much of a choice, but Thorn followed his brother back to the hallway and closed the door to Fox’s office. As the two fell in step beside each other, Thorn’s eyes lit up with an idea. “Maybe we can do a second test of the potion on Stone, there’s that medic he’s always staring at.”

Thire sighed. “If you do, I don’t want to be part of it. One love-based reconnaissance mission was enough for me.”

“You’re no fun.”

- the end -

i no longer have a taglist! if you're interested in being notified when i post, you can follow my library blog @ghostofskywalker-library and turn on notifications!

[ghostofskywalker]

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - 3

Anthony Bridgerton/Fem!Reader

Words: 2,042

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Series Masterlist • Anthony Bridgerton Masterlist

The sound of someone softly clearing their throat from behind where he currently stood immediately caused every muscle in Anthony’s body to tense. He was not looking forward to turning around to greet whoever the young lady standing there was, and then having to figure out a way to politely turn her (poorly disguised) ask for a dance down. Maybe if he just continued to stare intently at the liquid in his glass and didn’t move, she would grow tired of waiting, and he could simply say that the sound of the band drowned out her attempt to catch his attention.

But of course he was not that lucky, and the sound repeated, much louder this time around. Fighting back the urge to sigh, Anthony plastered a smile on his face and turned around. “Good evening, Mi-” Thankfully, he was able to drop the act when he realized that it was only Daphne who had approached him this time. “Sister, thank God you’re here. I can only come up with so many excuses about why I do not wish to dance.”

“I was wondering why you seemed so intent to ignore me,” Daphne responded with a smile. “Have you been fending off many ladies this evening?”

“More than I care to count,” he muttered, glaring about the ballroom as he watched the various young women mill about, laughing, dancing, and swarming in packs on those they found to be a desirable enough target. It was tiring, and he had no one to complain about it with, as both Benedict and Colin had managed to make believable excuses about why they could not attend this ball. Technically, Anthony was here to chaperone Eloise, despite the fact that she would have much rather stayed home with a book and her journal. However, like her eldest brother, she did not have the luxury of missing out on the festivities, as his mother had so firmly put it before the carriage had left their estate.

Daphne’s voice brought him back from his wandering thoughts. “Is there truly no one you wish to dance with in attendance tonight?”

Anthony's voice was flat as he responded. “No.”

“No?”

Of course though, he should have known that she was not going to accept that as his answer so easily. “You heard me.”

Maybe that would have been a lie if you were here, but Anthony had not yet seen you. It was so late in the event that he was beginning to give up any hope of your attendance, even if he completely understood why you might want to avoid an evening like this at all costs.

As if she was able to read his mind, Daphne spoke. “Not even a certain Countess?”

Anthony turned towards his sister with an exasperated look on his face. “Everyone else in our family has already made their assumptions based on what a certain column has written, I had foolishly hoped you would not do the same.”

“I was not referring to what Whistledown wrote,” Daphne said smugly. “I was simply thinking of the smile I saw on your face the other day when I watched you in my drawing room, and the fact that I’ve seen you glance around the ballroom at least three times since we began talking. I am completely aware of your proclamation that you have no intention of finding a wife this season, and I’m sure that the rest of our family has already begun to tease you about romantic feelings you may or may not possess, but it’s clear that you enjoy spending time with her.”

Anthony looked at his sister, knowing that she had been right on every count. “In terms of distaste for events like these, we are kindred spirits.”

Daphne smiled. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Y/N was hiding out somewhere right now and that’s why you haven’t seen each other. I spoke with her earlier this evening.”

Anthony tried not to let a smile grow on his face as he learned that you were present, lest his sister become more persistent in her meddling. “I hope it was not the words of someone here that caused her to keep to the shadows,” he responded.

“I agree,” were Daphne’s quiet words. “She handles herself admirably, but I’m sure it’s difficult to weather that particular storm every day.”

Right as Anthony opened his mouth to respond, he spotted a small group of women heading towards him and Daphne, and in that moment, he understood what life must be like as hunted prey. Not even bothering to say anything to his sister (he would apologize the next time he saw her), Anthony quickly moved through the crowd of people, thankfully managing to duck away from anyone who tried to engage him in conversation.

He didn’t even know how he managed to make it outside through the maze of hallways that made up this estate, but cool air was soon flowing across his face as he stood at the entrance of a small garden at the side of the building, the music and other sounds of the ball nothing but background noise. Finally glad to be alone, he sat down on a bench and closed his eyes, breathing a soft sigh of relief.

At the very same moment, a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts. “Is being the center of attention truly that tiring?”

When Anthony opened his eyes, you were standing three paces away, the teasing expression on your face just barely visible in the light of the full moon. “You have no idea,” he said quietly, before thinking more deeply about who he was speaking to. “Well, I suppose you might.”

You smiled, sitting down on the bench next to him (but still with a considerable amount of space between you). It seemed that you didn’t have as much to worry about when it came to being alone with him due to your current marital status, but you were still (rightfully) cautious to avoid any more of the ton’s gossip. “I think the type of attention you receive is quite different from what I experience every day.”

“I’ll tell you that it is just as unwelcome,” Anthony said with a sigh. “I swear they’ve taken to hunting in packs.”

“At that age, young women are constantly reminded how important securing themselves a husband is,” you said softly. “You are simply one of the more popular victims because of your title and family.”

”Aren’t you still around that age?” Maybe the question bordered on impolite, but he couldn’t help the words that fell from his mouth.

You shook your head. “If I were not a widow, I would be ridiculed as a spinster,” you responded. “People would probably still be giving me advice on how to find a husband though, such as trying to catch the attention of men like you.”

“I don’t know if I should be relieved or insulted that they don’t actually care about me.”

“I think if you’re truly offended by the truth, your ego might have grown too big to save,” you said, a genuine smile on your face.

Anthony laughed quietly before responding. He had only spent a few moments with you but already his evening was looking up. “Well then, I think you’ve been spending too much time with my sister.”

“I can’t refute that,” you said. “She is kind, and it doesn’t help that I am not exactly drowning in invitations to dinner parties and garden soirees.”

“I have attended quite a few events like that, as have some of my other siblings,” he responded. “In my opinion, you’re not missing out on much.”

A small smile crossed your face. “I know that, but I suppose there is still a part of me that wishes to have received the invitation, even if I turned it down.”

Anthony nodded, and a short bout of comfortable silence descended over the two of you as you sat on that bench, the only sound being that of the breeze rustling your dress. With anyone else, the overwhelming quiet might have been stifling, but it wasn't like that with you.

“How do you stand it?” He eventually asked, his voice much softer than it had been moments before. “The rumors, the staring, the way people act when you step into a room?”

You paused for a moment, sitting up a little straighter as your expression changed to one of guarded intensity. “Is this your way of asking me if I am indeed the type of person the ton paints me to be?”

“No, I didn’t mean-” Anthony responded quickly, almost tripping over his words. “I simply wish to know if there is anything that I would be able to do to help, in any way.”

Your posture visibly relaxed as you took in his words, and he was relieved to see that you did not think him a liar. “I wish there was,” you said. “But just as you cannot escape the crowds of advancing debutantes, this is a cross I must bear myself.”

As you let out a soft sigh of disappointment, Anthony had an idea.

If one was looking at it from a rational perspective, the thought that ran through his mind probably wouldn’t be worth pursuing. The logistics of pulling something like this off ranged from adequately complicated to downright impossible, but still, he broke the silence. “Maybe there is a way we could help each other.”

You raised your eyebrows at him, and even though the exact expression on your face was mostly obscured by the darkness of the evening, he was sure you had an incredulous look on your face. “How?” you asked, clearly not sure what to think at this moment.

“We could pretend to be courting.”

First you were silent, and Anthony felt as though his stomach had dropped to the ground as he waited for your response.

Then the laughter started, and somehow, that stung his heart more than if your reaction had been an outburst of indignation.

When you finally composed yourself, you raised your eyebrows at him. “In what way would that solve anything?”

“If society believes me to be seriously courting someone, the amount of young ladies following me around would be significantly reduced.”

“And how would it benefit me?”

One might have believed he was simply suggesting this for his own advantage, but he had the logic of your question already worked out by the time it was voiced. “If your name were to be meaningfully attached to mine, I could use my family’s name and influence to quell the rumors as best I could.”

In his eyes, it was a perfect plan, but somehow, you still didn’t look convinced. “I doubt even you could convince the ton that you are seriously courting someone with a reputation such as mine.”

“Lady Whistledown has apparently already mentioned the possibility,” Anthony said. “Your friendship with my sister would only speak to the credibility of our ruse, and besides, we are currently out here all by ourselves. I dare say anything could happen, especially if we play our cards right.”

You were silent as you considered the offer. “Selfishly, I must admit that the thought of no longer being looked at so harshly is enticing,” you said softly.

“I would not do anything you do not wish me to, if that is of concern,” he responded earnestly. “I speak the truth when I say that you are my friend, and I would not want to put that in jeopardy.”

“I know,” you whispered.

You didn’t seem to oppose the idea, so he took the chance, instinctively holding his breath while he waited for a response. “So Lady Everleigh, what do you say?”

“I would say that you have yourself a courtship, Lord Bridgerton.”

Anthony smiled, maybe wider than he had all week. “Would you spare me a dance this evening then?” he asked, extending his hand to you as he stood up. “I can find you later in the ballroom.”

You laughed as you took it, offering a kind smile of your own. “Of course. Why don’t we both get some lemonade when we return to the party?”

“That sounds like a wonderful idea.”

- end of part three -

series taglist: @maricciardo @imafangirlofeverything @captainsophiestark @allthegirlsdreamed @chrissisheadisinclouds @anxiousgoldengirl @sweatyconnoisseurstrawberry @sky0401 @fallout-girl219 @ifilwtmfc

[ghostofskywalker]

ily!!! you have been such a great help with that fic and i'm so happy you're enjoying it :)

May 2025 Fic Recs

Despite some serious busyness, I managed to do a bit of reading this month! Go check out these wonderful fics and give them some love! 💗

Bridgerton

Anthony Bridgerton x Reader

Anthony Bridgerton's Guide to Accidentally Falling In Love - Part 1 Part 2 by @ghostofskywalker

Anthony Bridgerton thought it was clear that he does not intend to marry at this point, but still he is plagued by hopeful young ladies (and their mothers) who hope to change his mind. So when he meets a widowed Countess who is burdened by the ton's unkind gossip wherever she walks, the two of them realize that maybe they could be of help when it came to each other's problems.

Star Wars

Carth Onasi x Female Revan

You Feel Like Home by @commander-krios

Revan doesn't remember her first love, not really. Her fractured memories can't provide concrete answers to what she feels in her heart: an echoing loneliness that knew love once upon a time. But if her time on the Ebon Hawk taught her one thing, it's that second loves can be just as beautiful as the first.

Top Gun

Jake "Hangman" Seresin x Reader

Until Next Time - Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 by @vivalas-vega

when your best friend goes on deployment you restart your tradition of exchanging letters, but a mishap leads to an unexpected pilot showing up in your mailbox.

[ghostofskywalker]

every other time i change my theme i'm spending every second like "does this accent color match the icon and does the icon match my header" except for the pride month theme. the ace crosshair aesthetic is locked and loaded and every time it's perfect