#Daphne x female reader

[ladysharmaa]

Why don't you love me?

Anthony Bridgerton x reader

Summary: Y/n and Anthony are in an arranged marriage. When she stops trying to make the relationship work and be the perfect wife, Anthony realizes what he's lost. Will he be able to get her back?

(gif is not mine)

It wasn't the marriage she wanted. And it wasn't what he wanted, because, in fact, he didn't even want to be married. And he didn't mind showing it. But for Y/n, she tried to make the best of their unfortunate situation.

It all started at the beginning of the season when Violet Bridgerton decided that her firstborn had been single for too long. So, she spoke to Y/n's parents, who were good friends of hers, and they both decided that a marriage between the two would be beneficial to both families. Anthony was going to have the support of someone who would take Violet's place as Viscountess and Lady Bridgerton. For Y/n's life, in this society, having a husband was essential and this marriage would allow social advancement.

Thus, Anthony and Y/n agreed with this decision. The preparation for the wedding was carried out quickly and this event was the biggest news for days. Lady Whistledown didn't help matters either by immediately releasing an advert showing her doubts about Anthony having a wife.

This only worsened Y/n's mood, who already feared being married to Viscount Bridgerton, as she was now doubting all the lovers Anthony could take to their bed. Would he not respect their marriage? Did she just want an heir and take care of the children? With these doubts, she said the "I do" in front of hundreds of people watching the ceremony, and allowed just one tear to fall.

From the beginning, Anthony made a point of making it clear that their marriage was purely a compromise, and that he would never truly love her. He was going to fulfill his role and try to have an heir and outside the house, they would act like a happy couple, but it wouldn't go beyond that. In silence, Y/n just offered him a nod, showing that she understood.

However, since then, nothing has happened between them. Anthony allowed her to have her own room, something Y/n was more than grateful for. Having to look at the face of her husband who would never love her every time she fell asleep would be too painful.

She was expecting that on some nights he would enter her room to try to get her with child. But none of that happened, which only confused Y/n more. Was he so disgusted by the idea of being married to her that he didn't even want to have pleasure with her?

So she tried to distract herself with tasks that could take some of the work off Anthony's shoulders and try to be the perfect wife. But Anthony still refused to spend more than five minutes alone with her. At breakfast, he was already at the office when Y/n woke up to go eat, at night he preferred to spend time with his brothers instead of returning home. He was making everyone's life difficult and Y/n was starting to get more and more sad. Would this be her routine until the end of her life? Trying to please a husband who didn't want her?

It was on a summer afternoon that Y/n, upon returning from a social gathering with Anthony's mother and sister, realized how hot the mansion was. She quickly remembered how Viscount's office, the few times she had been there, was directly in the sun which made it even hotter. So she decided to be brave and try to have at least a friendly relationship with her husband, so she went to the kitchen to get a glass of water.

With growing nerves, Y/n went to Anthony's office door and knocked on the wood. After hearing Anthony's voice, she opened the door, finding him plus Benedict, who had become good friends with Y/n.

"Oh, I apologize if I am interrupting." she said shyly, keeping to the doorway.

"You are." Anthony immediately agreed in a deep voice, not paying attention to her and turning his attention back to the papers.

At the same time, his brother hurried to assure Y/n, "You're not interrupting anything. You even saved me from Anthony's boring lecture here."

The woman smiled uncomfortably. "Right. I just came to bring you a cup of water. It's so warm outside. I wasn't aware you were here, Mr. Bridgerton, but I can go and also bring you some water."

"Thank you, Y/n, I would—"

However, he couldn't finish his sentence as Anthony hit the table, causing his wife to jump in fright and immediately take a step back. Her reaction made Anthony's expression show some regret, but he quickly hid it. A silence fell between the three.

"I'm fed up, Y/n! Can't you understand that men are trying to work?! Go back to your life of looking at flowers and walking around without having to do anything and leave!"

Y/n's mouth opened and closed several times, trying to understand what had just happened. Finally, she pursed her lips and her eyes turned cold. "I apologize, Lord Bridgerton. It won't happen again. If you'll excuse me."

When she left the room, Benedict looked at his brother in shock. "That was so harsh. The poor girl was trying to be nice and cared enough to bring you a glass of water. If you don't want it, I'll have it. I'm talking about the glass and her."

"Don't you dare." he muttered with a clenched jaw, glaring furiously at Benedict. Where did this anger come from just thinking about Y/n with another man? "Now, let's go back to discuss how you spent money on a bet."

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

Y/n's behavior with Anthony changed completely. Everyone noticed that the Viscountess finally reached her limit, and stopped being the friendly wife, now looking coldly at her husband whenever they passed each other in the mansion. However, as a couple and heads of the family, they still had obligations to fulfill together.

Public appearances were more tense, but they still managed to keep a smile on their faces and talk to all the ladies who asked about their marriage and when they would have children, giving short answers so that nothing would end up in Lady Whistledown's hands. They also attended a horse race, even betting on different horses that would win. Y/n ended up winning the bet, and her smug look irritated Anthony for the rest of the day, something his brothers were quick to tease him about.

But despite not liking Anthony after his cruel words, which Y/n still thought about constantly, she adored his sisters and mother. They had accepted Y/n into the family, including her in their gatherings and even being a should to cry on. Daphne had already said more than once that she would have no problem going to Anthony and try to talk some sense into him, but Y/n refused. Anthony already didn't like her, if he thought she was turning his family against him he would hate her even more. And she didn't need to make her life worse than it already was.

One day, when she went with Anthony to the Bridgerton mansion to drop off some documents, Hyacinth, Anthony's younger sister, took her aside. Y/n followed the girl to the bathroom where she, with teary eyes and trembling lips, asked her if she was going to die when she started bleeding from her lady parts. Hyacinth also revealed to her that she wanted to go to her mother, but she had gone shopping with Francesca and was alone at home with just Collin. Y/n, very calmly and gently, assured her that it was a normal thing and that all women went through this, explaining what she should do.

It was no secret that Y/n was happy that Hyacinth trusted her with this scary situation and that she was able to help the girl. Despite all the problems in her marriage, she now had a role in helping Anthony's sisters and she never wanted to fail in that.

To Y/n's surprise, Hyacinth ended up giving her a big hug, remaining attached to her for the rest of the afternoon. Her period was making her so affectionate, more than she already was, that Y/n couldn't stop a big smile from appearing on her face at receiving so much affection.

Anthony, when he finally finished talking to Collin about the documents he brought, I was surprised to see his sister on the couch hugging Y/n. "Hyacinth, what are you doing?"

"Hugging my sister-in-law, brother. But you don't know what that is, do you?" she snapped. The girl's change in mood made Y/n have to put a hand over her mouth to keep Anthony from hearing the laughter that escaped her.

The shock on Anthony's face was comical. His little sister was basically choosing Y/n over him. And in truth, he didn't judge her because his wife was, without a doubt, better than him. And she deserved so much better.

On the other hand, his heart warmed when he saw the bond that the two had created. It was clear that Y/n felt great affection for his family. Could it be that if he had accepted this marriage from the beginning, they would now be a happy family? That they would spend afternoons together, cuddling on the couch and talking to his siblings? All these thoughts were racing through his mind, and the guilt was growing so much that he felt like he was going to vomit.

"Lord Bridgerton?" that sweet voice he had come to adore brought him out of his thoughts. He hated that since he snapped at her, she never called him by his first name again.

"What?" he asked, still disoriented.

Y/n was looking at him like he was stupid. "I asked if you were ready to leave. Hyacinth already went to her room to rest. I would like to do the same. So you must make haste."

Her bossy tone almost made his lips curl into a smile, but he controlled himself in time. "Of course, wife. We shall leave now. But I have to ask, what happened between you and my sister?"

"All you need to know is that she's fine and she's a woman now. But don't worry, as your wife, I'll handle these situations. Unless you prefer me to go look at the flowers, take a walk, and do nothing?"

The hint, which was delivered with great anger, caused the man to blush in shame and lower his head. Y/n didn't wait for his answer, taking her coat from a maid and walking to the carriage. He had screwed everything up.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

A few more days had passed and the situation between Y/n and Anthony had only gotten stranger. The day after the situation with Hyacinth, Y/n was coming down from her room to go get breakfast, as she always did, when she came across Anthony at the table, appearing to be waiting for her to eat.

Y/n stopped abruptly, looking at him in shock. "What are you doing?"

"I'm waiting for you so we can have breakfast. I have to go see my brothers again today to talk business, so I was thinking you could come with me and spend some time with my sisters. My mother She's also been saying how she hasn't seen you in a while. That is, only if you want to go. If not, I'll just go… Or I'll stay here to keep you company, whatever you want." he choked up, finishing his speech by drinking some milk, perhaps to calm his nerves.

Y/n remained in place without moving. She looked at Anthony strangely, as if doubting that those words had even come out of his mouth.

"It was silly of me to ask—"

"No," she interrupted him. "It's fine. I would actually like to go and spend time with your sisters. They are lovely. I shall go get ready then."

"Aren't you going to have breakfast with me first?"

"Lord Bridgerton, I've been eating breakfast alone since we got married and I came to live with you. I think you can handle doing the same for a day. Excuse me." she said with an exaggerated smile, turning her back on him and starting to go back to her room. However, she turned back to go get a cake that was on the table. "But I'm hungry so I will eat this in my chambers."

"Call me Anthony!" he exclaimed before she was completely gone. He had a desperate look, almost looking like he needed to hear his name come out of her lips.

"No."

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

Like every year, the Queen decided to throw a ball to celebrate the Diamond of the Season. The most eligible maiden on the marriage market. Y/n still remembers the first ball she attended — Daphne was the diamond of the season, but Y/n also managed to dance with a few suitors. Of course, in the end, she didn't end up marrying any of them. However, the nerves she felt at that ball were equal to or less than what she felt today: her first ball married to Anthony.

The Viscount and Viscountess had entered together, her hand resting on his arm, followed by Violet and the rest of his siblings. Tonight they would have to be on the lookout for suitors who might want to dance with Francesca, the diamond of the season.

Anthony quietly appreciated his wife. She looked breathtaking in her dress, her hair neatly tied back that showed off her majestic earrings, given by Anthony on their wedding day. He was proud to have a wife like Y/n, and he regreted that he hadn't shown it since day one.

While the Bridgertons started to go their own way, interacting with other people and dancing, Y/n preferred to stay in the corner watching the couples dancing. She longed to experience that with Anthony, but not in a forced way like some were. No, she wanted it to be felt, for them to dance to the music and really appreciate that moment.

But instead of her husband approaching her, it was another man, Earl Cavendish. Y/n remembered some moments when she had already seen him, as he was looking to get married this season. As she approached her, with a confident air, Y/n lowered her head to compliment him, "Good afternoon, Earl Cavendish."

"Lady Bridgerton, a pleasure to meet you. I must say, you look flawless. Would you give me the pleasure of dancing with me?" he extended his hand.

Y/n's eyes widened, not knowing what to do. People had already started looking at them, whispering among themselves. However, she didn't have to respond to the invitation as she felt an arm wrap around her waist and bring her closer to him.

"Excuse me, Earl Cavendish, but I want to have the pleasure of dancing with my beautiful wife first." Anthony said with his jaw clenched, looking him up and down menacingly. "I'm sure you will be able to find other ladies to dance with tonight. Just not my wife."

The two men looked at each other for a few seconds, neither of them wanting to back down. Anthony grew more and more furious, her wrists clenching and bringing Y/n even closer to him, but careful not to hurt her.

"Very well. I shall leave. I hope to see you again someday, Lady Bridgerton."

"I will —" Anthony began by exclaiming in anger as the Earl walked towards another woman, not having liked the way he looked at what was his.

"You will do nothing." the Viscountess snapped coldly. "I can't understand you, you ignore me, you treat me badly, and then you act protective when another man shows interest in me? I never said anything about you having lovers, even though I didn't like that in our marriage."

"What? I've never disrespected our marriage like that, Y/n. In the past I've done a lot of things, but since we got married the only woman I'll look at and touch is you. I don't want anyone else."

"You have a funny way of showing it." she laughed sarcastically, feeling increasingly emotional. "I have to go get some air. You should go check on Francesca again."

Feeling the cold night air, Y/n's heart began to calm down. It was so difficult having to deal with Anthony's changes of attitude, she couldn't understand him. She just wanted to be loved, and since that wasn't possible, she preferred that they stay as far away from each other as possible since being friends didn't seem to be an option either.

"I'm sorry." the voice she had come to know so well whispered behind her. Y/n refused to turn around, leaning against the balcony and taking deep breaths to control her emotions. "I shouldn't have acted the way I did. I know that marrying me shouldn't have been your choice either, but I was scared. I was scared to have a wife, because that meant I had another person in my life that I could lose ."

She finally had the courage to turn around and look into Anthony's brown eyes. They held back tears and showed the sadness, regret and anger that Anthony felt.

"I'm so angry with myself for the way I treated you. You deserve so much better than this. And I'm sorry I couldn't give you that. The cruel words I said to you but didn't mean. I was scared to let you in. in my heart, so I tried to push you away. Believe that all I want is to have you in my arms. To love you. To start a family with you. Please, I promise I will do better. And every day I will try to reward you for what you do.

"Lord Bridgerton—"

"Please, call me Anthony. It pains me when you call me like that. Reminds me that I was… Am so close to losing the best thing of my life. I will kneel before you and beg for forgiveness if that's what you want." he murmured with a hand over his heart, beginning to kneel on the ground without hesitation.

"There is no need for that… Anthony." she enjoyed seeing the relief and happiness that spread across his face upon hearing his first name. "I just don't understand why you didn't love me? And now you want to try to make our marriage work?"

"That's the thing, I have always loved you. I love you. My whole body, my heart, feels love for you. That has never changed." he revealed desperately. "I was a coward and didn't know how to deal with my feelings. Because they are so strong that my heart feels like it's going to come out of my chest. Please, give me another chance."

"Hmm, I don't now." The look of disappointment was so marked on Anthony's face, almost looking like he was ready to burst into tears, that Y/n stopped his suffering and showed him an amused smile, making him understand that she was joking. "I think I want you to suffer a little more to get my forgiveness."

"I will do anything for you, Y/n. Ask me the world and I will give it to you."

"Such a romantic now, aren't you?" she whispered, admiring his features.

She didn't realize their faces were so close until she felt his nose trace the delicate skin of her cheek. A gasp escaped her mouth, and Anthony took the opportunity to connect their lips in an unforgettable kiss.

Anthony pulled away quicker than he wanted, but he needed to make sure this was really what his wife wanted. "I love you."

"Kiss me again, and maybe I will also tell you that."

And what his wife wanted, he did. The two remained on the balcony, enjoying the comfort the other gave them. They still had a long way to go, but they knew that from that moment on, their lives would change drastically for the better. They had each other.

[narcissisticmf]

draw me | benedict bridgerton x fem!reader

description: you ask benedict to draw you, wearing almost nothing.

trigger warnings: nudity, sexual content, seductive behavior, oral sex, etc. please do not proceed in reading if you are under the age of 18.

word count: 1.8k

You walked through the halls with servants of the Bridgerton family, standing outside the opened door to Benedict's study, where he was working behind a canvas.

"You have a caller, Mr. Bridgerton," Stated the servant, bowing his head. You walked into the room, in a silk dress, a silver chain was dangling beautifully around your neck. You stared at Benedict with a soft expression, eyes gentle and calm.

"Leave us," Benedict offered a generous grin to his servants as they left the room, latching the door shut behind them. You continued gazing at him, never turning away, not even once.

"Am I too early? I didn't realize you were already working on something else," You explained as he stared at you with the utmost loving gaze.

"No, not at all, please, have a seat," He gestured to the sofa beside you. "Can I get you a drink?" Benedict asked politely after you planted your bottom against the soft cushions.

"I'm quite well for now, thank you," You admitted.

"Shall we get started then?" He smiled. You nodded softly. "I'd like you to lay down, on your back," He instructed as you did as told, you followed every word that he spoke. Your stomach bubbled with ease and excitement.

Benedict stared at you for a little while, his fingers gripping his chin as his eyes squinted, scanning your body's position. He walked over to you with a gentle demeanor.

"Permission to touch you?" He asked as he looked at you, his gaze never broke from you.

You looked up to him and nodded softly, "Yes."

Benedict gently grasped your wrist and moved your arm to lay against the top of your head. He stepped back and examined your position, smiling.

"Benedict?" You called softly after he had turned around to head back to his canvas, that was propped up on an easel. He turned around with asked 'what' with his eyes, pupils blown out.

"Might I make a small suggestion?" You asked and he nodded. "Wouldn't the image be more raw if my form wasn't so.. cladded?"

Benedict did his best to fight the growing smile. He agreed to your suggestion, as long as you were alright and comfortable. He made sure that you were one hundred percent on board with it.

After confirming your wishes, you stood up from the sofa and lifted the dress from the bottom, over your head, tossing the silk material across the room, beside the windows. You removed all your undergarments, and soon became completely vulnerable. Your breasts laid naturally against your ribcage. Benedict admired you, his eyes traveling up and down your exposed body.

You laid back against the sofa and fixed yourself to be in the form which Benedict had you in moments ago. All that was against your skin was a silver chain. Your hair was down and curled, the way your servants did it the morning of.

Benedict did his best to fight the smile that was against his lips. You smiled softly, but soon it ceased, wanting to keep a serious expression for the final product of the piece.

"Does an artist often blush when drawing one of their subjects?" You grinned mischievously as Benedict let out a small giggle.

"Shh," He hushed you and continued painting away. He managed to get every curve, every beautiful detail amongst your body, matching your skintone perfectly. He even got the subtle glassiness in your eyes and the way the sunlight reflected against your body and about the room.

You were unsure if it was the temperature of the room or the fact that you were at your most vulnerable in front of a man, but your nipples hardened and Benedict took notice of this. He smirked, a lopsided one and stared at you for a moment, ceasing his motions of the paintbrush.

"Are you cold?" He questioned.

"Uhm, no, why?" You asked.

"'Tis my duty as the artist to make sure that my subject is comfortable and satisfied in all ways possible," He replied with a grin.

You smiled softly as you watched him continue to illustrate. He was so focused, looking to you and back at the canvas every few seconds.

.

Finishing the image, Benedict smiled and turned his easel around so that you could see it. Your lips curved into a grin as you saw how beautiful the painting was.

"It's beautiful, Benedict," You replied, still lying there, unclothed.

"Thank you, Miss. Y/N," He replied with a smug grin as he stared at you, admiring your body. "Will you.. uhm.. be getting back into your dress now?"

You stared at him for a moment, thinking. "If you wish it," You whispered.

"I certainly do not, but do you?" Benedict asked.

"No," You replied quickly. He smiled, his most famous lopsided grin. You slowly arose from the sofa and noticed how Benedict's eyes were glued to you. You walked towards him and noticed he was backing into the bookshelf behind him, pressing his hands against it, for leverage.

"Permission to touch you, Miss. Y/L/N?" He breathed out, almost desperate.

You leaned forward to whisper into his ear, "Yes."

Benedict hastily wrapped his arms lowly around your waist and pressed his lips to yours. You cupped his face and molded your lips with his perfectly. He tasted of brandy and mint. His hands moved down your bare back and towards your bum, gripping your cheeks softly. You released a whimper against his mouth as you pulled back, resting your chin to his shoulder. Your lips parted, to allow soft whines and moans to escape. Benedict moved his lips down your neck and across your shoulder, burying his face into your skin.

He slowly stepped forward, guiding you to the sofa you'd be lying on while Benedict was painting. You sat against it while he begun to remove his coat, tossing it beside your silk dress. You stared at him, eyeing his body up and down. He smirked and removed his suspenders, then his blouse overhead, tossing it to the side. He unzipped the side of his pants and kicked them off effortlessly. Soon, he was left is absolutely nothing.

The sun was setting outside, creating a beautiful reflection of light against Benedict's skin. You smiled as he walked towards the couch, leaning down to press his lips to yours. You kissed him back and gripped his biceps, pushing him to sit beside you. You wasted no time and straddled his waist, draping your arms around his neck, molding your lips perfectly against his.

You'd forgotten about everything; the servants just outside the door, the painting, the fact that your actions were so scandalous that both your life and Benedict's could be ruined if anyone found out. You were focused on him and only him, it was tranquil and comfortable. You felt safer than you had in a long time.

Benedict's hands were holding your sides, slowly dragging his fingers to your back, tracing your skin lightly. You moved your hips with his softly, making him groan quietly into your mouth.

Without taking his lips from yours, he pushed your to lay against your back, so that he was on top of you. You pressed your fingers against his face, engrossed in the taste of him.

Benedict pulled back to admire your body a little long. He noticed how hardened your nipples had become. He lowered his head, without breaking eye contact and placed his lips around your left breast, sucking on your nipple. You whimpered, leaning your head back as the arousal begun to stick to your inner thighs. His eyes were on you the entire time. He moved from your left to your right, repeating the same actions.

You leaned your head back against the cushions, releasing moans that were soon suppressed by Benedict's palm. You closed your eyes and used on hand to push through his hair, gripping it softly.

He dragged his wet lips down your stomach, around your navel and towards your heat. You released a shaky breath as his breath fanned against you. You slowly spread your legs to make it easier access for him. He slipped one finger into your mouth, making you blink in surprise.

"Suck on it. We don't want any unwanted ears hearing us, do we?" Benedict stated as he looked up to you, only raising his eyes. You nodded and begun to suck on his finger, hoping it would be enough to keep you quiet.

He pressed his mouth against your private, using his tongue to toy with your folds. It took a lot for you to keep quiet, but luckily his finger was doing the trick. You closed your eyes as let the feeling consume you. You wrapped your legs around Benedict's shoulders as he moved his lips and tongue against your strings.

Despite his finger keeping you silenced, there was still a beautiful melody within your whines that escaped into the atmosphere.

After a little while, Benedict arose and removed his finger from your mouth, using it to softly graze across your folds. You bit your tongue, having no desire for anyone to hear, but there was adrenaline in that, in knowing you could be caught or heard.

Benedict was on top of you, yet again and held your side with one hand, pressing his lips against yours. You hummed at the taste of your own heat, finding it sweet yet savory at the same time.

You felt Benedict slip effortlessly inside of you. You gasped into his mouth, feeling so many ecstasies all at once. He moved his hips to and fro, feeling how loose you'd been. The comfort in him and his actions was unlike anything you'd ever felt before or experienced.

"Benedict.." You moaned into his mouth as he continued his motions. He was a moaning mess as well, perhaps that was why he was kissing you the whole time.

"You feel absolutely wonderful, Y/N," Benedict whispered through a broken moan.

You had locked eyes with him, as the two of you became close to undoing. You felt your stomach unravel all the knots, reaching your climax. Benedict swiftly pulled out of you, releasing his sticky load against your stomach.

You were both out of breath as he smiled down at you, pressing a gentle kiss to your cheek. He reached onto the ground to grab a cloth, gently wiping his essence off of you. He was sure to be careful, knowing that you must've been sensitive.

"That was perfect," You whispered, taking notice that the sun was already set and the moon was the only think illuminating the darkness of night.

Benedict smiled, chuckling lightly as he pressed a warm kiss to the corner of your mouth, "Perhaps, we should do this again sometime."

Smiling, you nodded.

.

a/n: hi, cuties!! so i just started watching bridgerton and i absolutely LOVE benedict! he's the sweetest character that i think i've ever seen and couldn't wait to write something for him! i'm sorry i haven't been posting much, work has been really crazy as well as my mental health. i hope you're all doing good! thank you so much for reading! — angelina. <33

[marymary-diva17]

Starting a new

bridgerton family x reader

Life among the ton in London was nit very easy for a young women, as she was making her way thought life. Having a supportive and loving family, had helped make life easier among all the gossip and scandals going around. The Bridgerton family was always there for each other, during all the gossip and scandals. That what you had expected will stay the same forever, having your family by your side.

Y/n " ......" you had gone out of a walk with your maid it a beautiful day, but there was something that gained your attention. There were many members of the ton looking at you and speaking among themselves, this was not unusual to you but it felt a bit more off today.

y/n " good morning lady Weston how are you and your family doing" you had greated one of ladies as she was walking pass, but she looked at you said nothing and soon walked off.

y/n " something is wrong maybe we should be get home" you had looked at your maid and she nodded her head, as the two of you soon headed back to Bridgerton house. You are one of many ladies that had been present to the queen, so you had thought it was about that as you haven't gotten any proposal.

man " shameful for the Bridgerton household" that when it hit you something had happened, you need to get home right away and speak with your family. After some time you soon arrived at home and got inside quickly.

Gregory " sister you are home"

y/n " hello Gregory is everything okay when I left you were in front of house, playing outside with hyacinth along with some other kids"

Hyacinth " we had been until they were called home by their mother or governess, then Anthony had called us home ... we also have some good news as well"

y/n " wow I need to have some words with our dear older brother and mother, I think ...."

Voilet " y/n my dearest there you are I need you to come with me right away"

y/n " yes mother but there seems to be some tension among the ton"

Hyacinth " what tension what has happened now"

Voilet " upstairs that both of you into your room right now I will have the maids, attend to you needs come now y/n" you soon nodded your head and followed your mother into the drawing room.

y/n " Daphne and Simon when did you two get here Gregory and hyacinth didn't tell me"

Daphne " yes sister we had come home for a important family meeting"

y/n " okay but I think I need to bring something to everyone attention, something had happened the ton seem to be gossiping once again"

Antony " oh yes we know dear sister we have heard all the gossip going around, as someone had told us in person"

y/n " what has happened"

Antony " you have brought scandal and shame to the family y/n"

y/n " what brother you most be jesting I have not brought any shame upon our family"

Benedict " are you sure because coming for what we have learned in gossip and reports, you have threatened the family moral values and reputation"

y/n " I will like to know what I'm being accused for my dear brothers"

Colin " you have been reporting been seen flirty with young man of the ton out in the open, with no one watching over and then we are told you took a walk a while along with Mr Tristan along with having tea with him as well"

y/n " well the first one is not the truth I was talking with them, and my maid was not that far away from my view ... and yes I have been meeting with the Viscount as he gained my attention I gained his as well, is that wrong for me to meet with him"

Antony " yes when it bring shame upon on family after all that has happened, can't you not be selfish"

Kate " Antony"

Y/n " this is wrong for me to fall in love"

Antony " yes when it effects us all didn't you think how this will reflect on us all in this room, and our younger siblings .. think about your nephews"

Eloise " well I think there nothing wrong with the match they look like a perfect match"

Antony " that up for you to decide sister of mine I up for myself, Kate, and our mother"

Y/n " Tristan is a good man and I care for me and he does the same for me"

Benedict " sister you are being naive havent you heard the stories about him"

y/n " there have been stoires about all of us in this room brother dearest"

Colin " our relationship haven't caused this much damage, because not that you are only effecting our family name but also Simon and Daphne"

y/n " sister is what Colin speak true"

Daphne " yes rumors have reached our area and the ton there, don't hold back I fear it will effect I and Simon family and household"

Simon " think well about your decisions y/n we all know you are smart young lady"

y/n " mother Kate what do you have to say"

Voilet " we need to think about your sisters and bother future y/n, this scandal along with everything else I have heard about will ruin us"

y/n " what else have your heard"

Colin " you meeting up in this places with these high rank women, who have no husband and speaking about society"

y/n " we are talking that all like all ladies do we talk and brainstorm, what wrong with that"

Eloise " all but aside sister I and pen love what you are doing"

y/n " thank you sister"

Kate " I think it good but we need to put the family first"

Benedict " I was at the club today when I was told this story about leading Earl smith son James on making promised to marry him, and there was you running the chances of other young ladies finding matches"

y/n " they are lies and misunderstandings you all have to understand"

Antony " that only thing we understand is that your have brought to much scandal and ruin to us, that we need to do what best for the family"

y/n " what"

Antony " We are sending you to live countryside the staff there will take care of you you will go there and Francesca will come home ... with your gone for while everything will die down and once that happens you can come home, then be present once again as honorable lady of ton and our family"

y/n " no mom"

Voilet " I'm sorry but it for the best my daughter think about your sisters and brothers"

y/n " I'm always thinking about them mom day and night"

Antony " not when you were seen around breaking all the rules and seen with Tristan, you will leave tomorrow but from here lady danbury has offered you and room to stay"

y/n " I'm being exiled from my own family and home"

Antony " you have done this your self once I have deemed it fair and good time, if the scandal has died down you can come home ... that might be a long time for all the trouble you have done, once you have come home we will see where we can go from there”

Voilet “ all your needs will be meant my dearest when you are there”you look at your siblings for help only Eloise seem to want to save you.

Eloise “ this very harsh Antony she our sister”

Antony “ it needs to be done for the benefit of the family and ton as well”

y/n “ Daphne,Simon, Kate” all there were quite as you came to terms with everything.

y/n “ I will go pack my stuff”

Antony “ it has already been taken care of once it over, you will leave to lady Danbury home”

y/n “ yes viscount bridgerton”

violet “ everything will be fine my dearest mayeh when you are away we can find you a good match”

Colin “ we will be lucky if that happens”

Antony “ enough no more talking about this is over with, I’m made my decision” the meeting was over you had went to your room to see, your stuff getting packed away. Once it was done you saw your stuff getting loaded onto carriages. There were short goodbye as you left at night heading to Danbury household.

lady Danbury “ my dear welcome I’m sorry for what has happened”

y/n “ thank you for hosing me this evening I know this will be bad for you, lady Danbury”

lady Danbury “ my dear I’m mad but at you or Tristian at everyone else, even your own family as well everyone acting all high and might”

y/n “ it seems like that”

lady Danbury “ come inside and have some supper with me, and we will be having anothe guests”you had nodded your head and soon went into the Danbury home. Dinner and had been served and the two ate.

footman " my lady your other guest has arrived"

lady Danbury " good let him in"

footman " you can come inside mister" soon Tristian had stepped into the room.

y/n " Tristan"

Tristan " y/n I'm so sorry about what has happened to you and your family"

y/n " thank you and I'm sorry for you family as well"

Lady Danbury " have some dinner with us young man"

Tristan " thank you" the tiro soon ate dinner and enjoyed a good conversation.

Lady Danbury "I have heard from your uncle Mr Tristan"

y/n " your uncle the one who lives in Scotland"

Tristan " yes he has heard of what has happened I'm kicked out from home as well, he had asked me to come take over his household and learn from him .. he mad at my father and family right now"

y/n " that sound wonderful for you"

Tristan " thank you and I was wondering if you will come he did, say it will be good for me to bring the young women who has been mentioned in stupid scandal"

y/n " Scotland I have been sent countryside"

lady Danbury " go my dear live a wonderful life being away from home and the ton"

y/n " I will love that but how we will travel as unmarried couple"

lady Danbury " then get married in private ceremony here and another on in Scotland, it will be good I will be one of witnesses with many others your uncle will help as well"

Tristan " so y/n bridgeton will you do me the honors and become my wife, I was going to ask you in later time but now seems better a new start for us both"

lady Danbury " if doesn't work out no outside of this house and Tristan uncle will know"

y/n " then yes" a small ceremony had been held as lady Danbury and some her staff, along with Tristan as well who were witness and guests.

lady Danbury " enjoy this new start in life as it will help you both grown, and become the people you wish"

y/n " thank you lady Danbury for this well please take care"

lady Danbury " I will young lady and you both take care as well, I will take care of your families from here"

Tristan " we will come on my dear wife the travel will be long, but it will be good"

y/n " coming my dear husband" The pair soon left as sun was starting to come up, and it was good time to get going so no will see the pair. They rode in the carriage pass all the house of the ton, knowing it will be a long time until they were called back home or shall ever return home. It was time for a new start for you as there will always be love for you family. now it was start of journey for you. As you are hoping your father is watching out for you, as your left the place you once grew up and called home.

[michwritesstuff]

Enchanting to Meet You (Bridgerton: Benedict Bridgerton)

pairing: female reader (she/her) x Benedict Bridgerton

summary: In your debut social season in London, you can’t help but be absolutely enchanted by a certain gentleman. You wouldn’t be lucky enough to find a true love match after one ball…right?

notes/warnings: no warnings, just all fluff! does this song not scream dancing with benedict for the first time! stolen glances and witty remarks! like hello?

word count: 1.3k

The carriage was moving impossibly slow.

Trees passing by at a snail’s pace as you watched the light of your aunt’s estate grow closer in the distance.

The desire to run to your bedroom and bathe in the excitement of the night intensifying as each moment passed.

“A lovely opening ball, was it not y/n?”

You snapped your head from leaning on the window to where your mother and aunt sat across from you.

“Yes, quite lovely indeed,” you remarked.

You had grown up coming to your aunt’s estate in the summers.

As a child, you remembered begging your mother to take you to London for the social season as your older sisters were being presented to society.

You wondered if your sisters ever had a night as magical as you did tonight.

And it was all because of him.

Benedict Bridgerton.

You liked the name Benedict; you had never met another one before.

The blood rushed to your cheeks, so scarlet, at the memory of dancing the night away with him.

“Oh y/n, you are looking quite ill. You have had such a busy night; it would do you well to get a good night’s sleep and think on the many gentlemen who will call on you tomorrow.”

You could not help but lay awake that night, the moonlight shining through the curtains, as you thought about the entire night. Replaying it in its entirety, from start to finish.

The conversation was effortless, no lulls or awkward pauses you experienced with others.

What would you do if he had not called upon you the next day?

Would you be forced to entertain the other prospects in hope of waiting and biding time for his affection.

Was there someone else in the picture?

Why had you not thought to ask his intentions?

Was the chemistry enough to guide you through this season?

Your endless thoughts were torture.

Finally dozing off, the moonlight soon disappeared as the darkness of the night sky was replaced by the bright and glistening rays of the sun.

A subtle knock came from the other side of the door, your lady maid calling out.

“Miss Y/N, we must start getting you ready.”

With one final powdering of your nose, you made your way towards the parlor room.

As you walked in you spotted Benedict sitting on the settee near the large portrait of your family.

He stood up immediately once he noticed your presence.

As your eyes met the memories of the night before came flooding back.

******

You stood with your mother and aunt at the edge of the dance floor, running your hands down your dress, doing your best to smooth out the ruffles from where you sat.

“Miss y/l/n, what a pleasure to have you join us this season.”

“Thank you, Lady Danbury,” you smiled politely.

“Let us hope that she is as lucky as her sisters in finding a great companion,” your mother said.

You nodded your head as you took in the scene around you.

Girls and their mamas circling like vultures, while still maintaining the perfect amount of poise to be considered elegant and respectful.

It was much more overwhelming than you were anticipating.

 The magic of what you imagined as a little girl was slowly fading the more you felt the pressure of finding a husband by the end of the season.

If forcing laughter and faking smiles is what it took to get through the night, then so be it.

You had evaded a few gentlemen by writing down the name of poets on your dance card, smiling shyly as you quickly waved the ‘full’ dance card as a polite dismissal.

It was a pity really, you loved to dance.

The small talk and inquiring about your pianoforte on the other hand was quite detestable.

You had just gotten done pity laughing at Lord Hardy’s ‘humble’ comment about his many properties, when above his shoulder your eyes met a couple of cool blue ones across the room.

Your insincerity dropped, curiosity taking over as you excused yourself from Lord Hardy.

The man had done the same with whatever company had previously occupied him, gently patting the man in front of him as he maneuvered his way towards you.

As he approached you bowed your head slightly.

“Miss--?”

“Y/N”

“Miss Y/N, I don’t believe we’ve met.”

“I suppose we have not. I have just come to London for the season.”

“Ah, the marriage mart? Believer of love, are we?”

“Are you not?” you challenged back.

“In an artists’ sense, yes. Not in the way that I must bow, and you curtsy while we skate around each for months to appease our families What is it truly to admire a woman? To look at her and feel inspiration? To delight in her beauty, so much so that all your defenses crumble, that you would willingly take on any pain, any burden for her.”

You were shocked by his seemingly earnest words. Perhaps the shallow nature of society was not present in everyone.

“Well, we seem to have that in common Mr.—”

“Bridgerton, but you may call me Benedict.”

“Mr. Benedict Bridgerton, the artist or a poet?” you teased.

“This doesn’t really seem like the company you would choose to surround yourself with,” you remarked.

“Quite true Miss Y/N. I fear I am rather trapped among the duties of my family to attend tonight’s ball. You see, my sister Eloise is in her debut season as well.”

You followed his gaze to where a young lady stood next to an older woman. From afar their relationship was quite clear, a mama instructing her daughter on all the dos and don’ts of the night.

“Might you join me in a dance Miss Y/N?”

You looked down to your dance card, the spots filled with fake names.

Benedict grabbed your wrist, bringing the cards towards him for a closer examination.

He laughed as he looked at the names written, scratching out the last two to write his own.

“I do hope Lord Keats and Lord Wordsworth don’t mind me taking their spots.”

“They’ll live, I hear they have greater things to attend to.”

“Greater than you miss? I have high doubts.”

You took Benedict’s hand as the music began to play.

Your hand felt so right in his, as natural as breathing.

You could not help the fluttering in your heart as he whisked you across the dance floor.

This moment, this is the moment you imagined as a young girl.

The playful conversation, perfectly countering his quick remarks. Is this what it was like to meet someone at your level?

Your insincerity and vacancy from earlier replaced by a fulfilling excitement.

“It seems highly improper to have danced continuously with you Benedict.”

“I suppose it is a bit suggestive, do you regret it?” he asked seriously.

You thought for a long second before you looked at him properly.

“No, I do not regret it. Your company is quite refreshing and enjoyable.”

“Coming from someone with your elegance, I take that as the highest compliment.”

You had spent the rest of the evening walking around with your mother and aunt, engaging in superficial conversations, your eyes constantly peeled for a certain Bridgerton.

Your stolen glances and playful smirks across the ballroom went seemingly unnoticed by most.

However, after a brief encounter with Benedict at the drinks table, you felt the wandering eyes of a young lady wearing a lovely yellow dress.

You smiled sweetly at her before returning to your mother’s side.

******

“Miss Y/N, I hope it is not a surprise for me to have called on you so early this morning?”

“On the contrary, I would have been quite disappointed if you had not.”

“Would you care to join me for a promenade?”

“I would be delighted Mr. Bridgerton.”

check out the rest of my work ⤑ here!

[elpsice]

The Bridgerton girls falling in love with a girl

Warnings: canon-universe homophobia, slight NSFW (no smut)

~Headcanons~

Daphne

Clueless

You two probably become friends in her first season

You support her when she starts losing suitors and when Lady Whistledown starts roasting her

You two get really close, she tells you everything that was going on with Simon

She talks A LOT around you, also giggles and then you hear her real laugh, she gets really embarrassed but you just joke around and then compliment it, and she gets this warm feeling

She goes to sleep with a smile on her face just from the thought of getting to talk to you the next day

In one of your many hang outs you, you two are having a great time and she just stares at you

Cut to a slow motion scene with shots of your eyes, lips, body and she just staring

This is where she panics

She starts to clock that her feelings are not platonic, and that she is desiring you in a way that she doesn't really understand (she doesn't know what sex is, much less that this can happen between two girls)

You two would probably have that moment in which you stare at eachother, slowly get close and then kiss

Eloise

Just like Eloise, friendship is the way through the bridgerton's hearts

You two would talk about books and share your knowledge

She would drag you to that town where she met Theo, so you can go together to that talk about women's rights

Even if you two are childhood friends or met in her first season, you two would still take a long time to figure out your feelings, because Eloise would just call what she feels towards you "a strong friendship"

She's the type that would say "I wish you were a guy so I can just marry you"

Two ways that I think she could realise her feelings is that everytime she reads she imagines the main couple as you two because "It would be more fun that way" or she gets the inspiration to start writing and when she writes about you is straight up poetry about how good she feels around you

She gifts you a book where in between the pages are poems she wrote about you

Having her Emily Dickinson moment

You would go to a ball and hide in a hallway where you can still hear the music and dance together, in a not very elegant way, (one of her heels breaks and has Violet like this🤨)

Francesca

Probably the fastest of the Bridgertons to realise how she feels

You would talk to her when she's outside at one of the balls and enjoying the quiet; as soon as you approach her and she notices you is love at first sight

You just have such a charming smile, it had her hooked

Would compose piano songs thinking about you and would take you to her house so she can play them to you

Will stare at you with puppy eyes

Gets shy with you but it's somehow also very blunt

She's also the most likely to just be honest with her feelings and tell you directly

She knows that a love like this is tabú and you two would keep it a secret until you figure out what to do (Benedict would probably sense something if he sees you together)

[danvy121994]

Promised pt 1

Author note: this is part 1 of my first every fanfic! I hope you like it and sorry if there’s any errors English is not my first language <3

Anthony Bridgerton x reader

Synopsis: yn is stuck in a marriage with a man she knows nothing about, apart from the fact that he’s a rake and that his only concerns are his work and he’s family, but who knows what the future might hold for her…

Since the age of fourteen , YN was aware that she would have to marry out of love.

After Edmund Bridgerton died, the oldest son took the title, and with that came many responsibilities; the year after her husband's death Violet hopend up with one of her closest friends about her concerns, Anthony was a young man, whit too much responsibilities for his age, and because of that he wasn’t looking towards a marriage, instead he was going after women of easy virtue and solemnly concentrating on his work as a Viscount. Her friend hearing those words thought of an idea, to promise her daughter to the Viscount and make them marry once she was eighteen, so that he could live his life and learn to be a Viscount in the meantime. She agreed, and that is where our story started…

On the day of her eighteen birthday YN wasn’t happy as she should have been, eighteen for most women is the age when they become a woman, for her eighteen meant the start of her imprisonment.

She always dreamed of meeting the Perfect Man, during a perfect evening and falling in love and with only one glance knowing that they were made for one another. That would never happen.

This is what she thought of as she was getting ready to meet for the first time, and also marry, her future husband. Obviously she as read many thighs about him, from the most famous writer among the ton , lady whistledown, and the more she read the more she was scared of finally meeting him, a dark and handsome man, or at least that’s what they say; he was a rake, he had been with so many women that the author of the newspaper lost the count, and he was very secretive about his life, never engaging in conversations for longer that it needed and often bluntly telling people if he didn’t like them, as much as he could of course since he was a Viscount and needed to keep the family honor ; If there was one thing that she liked about Anthony Bridgerton was his love towards his family, it was something that they shared, if it wasn’t for the love towards her parent yn would have already tried to escape from this union, she knew how much it meant for her mother, so she sat in her chair, quietly as the maids were helping her get ready. As she was so lost in her trail of thoughts she didn’t hear the door opening, a girl appeared from the door,

She had a baby in her arms and as she was walking towards her she spoke “ you must be lady Y/S/N? I am daphne, Anthony’s sister, and you look even more pretty that I imagined” she’s nice, yn thought, “ it’s a pleasure to meet you lady Hastings” she has read of her on lady wistledown, oh how she wishes that she would get a love story like hers. They weren’t able to talk much further because a maid came in the room announcing the start of the ceremony, and in that moment yn was certain that from that moment on, her life would never be the same, in fact she was certain that from that moment on, her life would get even worst once tied to the one of the viscount.

[rickmymanrick]

one rule | the walking dead

[ rick grimes x original female character! ]

there's only one rule in the new world… survive.

In which best friends Daphne Ayala and Glenn Rhee form a ring of survivors that would pave the way for the new world.

** This story will eventually have a Rick Grimes romance (SLOW BURN) but focuses on Daphne's story after the fall. It may deviate from the events of the tv show and at times won't follow a specific script or season. There will be switching POVs (Characters/1st/3rd Person).

chapters!

prologue —

in the present time, rick grimes experiences what hell on earth truly is.

chapter one ; partners —

unbeknownst to them, best friends glenn rhee and daphne ayala spend the last 48 hours of normalcy they’ll ever have before their lives are changed forever.

chapter two ; the evacuation —

the statewide evacuation is underway and it goes terribly wrong terribly fast. daphne and glenn undergo an impromptu rescue mission and soon their group of two becomes a group of 5.

chapter three ; the group —

it's been a month since the complete collapse of civilization. when daphne and glenn realize this is their new way of life, they begin to strategize the best ways of survival. along with the new members of the group, they fall into a steady routine, until a one-sided fight breaks out and everything is knocked out of order.

chapter four ; the idiot in the tank —

a supply run goes wrong and daphne finds herself reunited with an old acquaintance. old feelings unwillingly resurface but she forgets one big glaring problem back at camp.

chapter five ; maneater --

glenn and rick try out a new technique in order to survive and reunite with the rest of the group. back at camp, daphne and shane reach an understanding.

chapter six ; love rectangle —

rick confides in daphne for reasons unknown to her. as she offers him counsel, daphne is also grappling with conflicting feelings of her own.

chapter seven ; chef boyardee —

the plan goes wrong. daphne and glenn find themselves in a precarious situation but at least they have each other, right?

chapter eight ; the attack —

in a rush to deescalate what they presumed was merle's fury on camp, daphne and the crew arrive to something terrifyingly different.

extras;

rick’s pov (chapter six)

Important Character Info:

Daphne Ayala. She's a 23-year-old Latina woman who's working towards becoming a detective (hopefully for the FBI or some higher agency one day). As part of her training, she has to complete a few years of service in whatever local police department has an opening. You can see where this is going right? Her best friend is Glenn Rhee, with whom she shares an apartment with, and they're practically attached at the hip.

Rick Grimes has been aged down a bit though his actual age was never mentioned in the show. I imagine he's around 29, nearing 30 at the beginning of season 1. That would make Carl 9 years old (rather than 12 as he was in the show).

Hello AO3/Tumblr! I write under the pseudonym, Elle (She/Her)! I'm a Caribbean, South American brown writer who loves wayyy too many universes/fandoms lol. Current hyperfixation-- you guessed it: The Walking Dead. I hope you enjoy! Don't forget to comment anything that comes to mind while reading. I absolutely love reading what you all have to say (I have previously written for Wattpad and Tumblr).

ORIGINALLY TITLED THE TRAIL OF ANNIHILATION

[cinnamonspicewritingroom]

More Than Diamonds

Pairing: Prince Friedrich x Princess! Reader Description: Britain has gained themselves a new royalty nearing the debutante ball of 1813. Princess Amelia of Siam was sent as the new Ambassador of Siam. In Britain Princess Amelia was able to find her family, but will that be all? Tags: Tags: Slow burn, Coming of age, Time-Travel, Back to the past, Friends to Lovers, Royalties, Oblivious!FLxObvious!ML, Jealous! Friedrich, Slightly Possessive! Friedrich, Black cat gf, Golden retriever bf Timeline: S1&S2

Princess Amelia of Siam

"What romance? I have no time for such nonsense. I was merely attempting to forge a diplomatic relation between Siam and Prussia." - Amelia Chaiya Kanika, Princess of Siam

Prince Friedrich of Prussia

"Truthfully I am afraid. It felt like I'm the only one falling, while she stayed rooted... Unmoved. I want her, yet I do not want to lose what we have... To sacrifice what we have built." - Prince Friedrich of Prussia

Daphne Basset (nee. Bridgerton)

"Amelia is different... She is uptight and serious, but at the same time extremely intelligent. Unfortunately, romance is a foreign subject for her and I think... There is nobody more fitting to teach her than you." - Daphne Basset (nee. Bridgerton)

Anthony Bridgerton

"I would say out of all Bridgerton, we are the most similar... Which is why I hope for you to learn from my mistakes. Life is short Mel, you need to enjoy it while it lasts. Doing something you want is not selfish... Loving someone is not selfish." - Anthony Bridgerton

Benedict Bridgerton

"Say, Mel... What is your idea of fun? One which excludes activities that require you to think? Frankly I think you need it. Go outside, make friends, go to parties and promenades. Have fun. For sometime, forget your responsibilities and live a little." - Benedict Bridgerton

Colin Bridgerton

"I understand what you meant. How looking at this brought you peace, but Mel... Don't you think you too need to start listening to that advice?" - Colin Bridgerton

Charlotte of Mcklenburg-Strelitz

"I suppose for him a mere diamond won't do. She must be the epitome of perfection. An intelligent, beautiful and elegant woman. Who fits better for a prince than an actual princess?" - Queen Charlotte

Meet The Cast of 'More Than Diamonds' | More Than Diamonds Master List

[inlovewithpandora]

⋆ ˚｡⋆୨ Main Masterlist ୧⋆ ˚｡⋆

Welcome to my essential album! // This is where you can find all the fandoms I write for, I hope you enjoy!

・Avatar

— Kinktober 2023

— Avatar: Mating Season

— Avatar: Summers In Pandora

・Spiderman: Across the Spiderverse

・Bridgerton

・Outer Banks

[starriislxt]

"we will all need to find love one day." ღ daphne basset.

౨ৎ welcome to daphne's channel ! ᝰ please read the warnings before interacting. minors dni with [n]sfw content! grab your snacks and enjoy :D

(✰) fluff — (❀) angst — (❤︎) smut — (⟡) hurt/comfort

·˚ ༘ * SHORTS ✗ DRABBLES

੭୧ this shelf is empty

·˚ ༘ * LIVES ✗ HEADCANONS

੭୧ this shelf is empty

·˚ ༘ * VIDEOS ✗ ONESHOTS

੭୧ this shelf is empty

·˚ ༘ * STREAMS ✗ SERIES

੭୧ this shelf is empty

·˚ ༘ * PLAYLISTS ✗ TWOSHOTS

੭୧ this shelf is empty

— all rights reserved © STARRIISLXT 2024. all fanfics belong to me, do not copy, translate, repost nor recommend on tiktok any of the works seen here.

[ladysharmaa]

Heir

Anthony Bridgerton x reader

summary: telling Anthony she's with child after facing difficulties getting pregnant

It's been three years since the wedding between Anthony Bridgerton and Y/n. The love between the two was one of the strongest anyone could have ever seen, it was obvious that they were made for each other.

They met in a very unusual way. While Anthony was courting Edwina Sharma, Y/n was seen very close to Benedict, the two of them discreetly courting each other. However, they both quickly realized that the connection between them was better as a friendship than a romantic relationship, where things seemed quite forced and uncomfortable. At the same time, Viscount Bridgerton had also broken up with Edwina after she had doubts on their wedding day.

Y/n remembered that day perfectly. She was sitting next to Benedict and the Bridgerton family on the chairs waiting for Edwina to appear and the wedding to begin. She waved a fan, trying to alleviate the horrible heat in that room. The delay seemed to make everyone nervous, especially Anthony who had drops of sweat falling from his forehead and was speaking hurriedly to his mother.

Finally, the doors opened, but, to everyone's surprise, it wasn't Edwina walking down the aisle, it was Kate Sharma, her sister. She didn't look happy, walking with an air of confidence and a serious expression, her eyes never leaving Anthony. The two exchanged quick words, until Anthony dropped his head and closed his eyes in frustration, but he still nodded and Kate left.

After a few tense seconds, Anthony finally had the courage to look at the people watching the scene and said that the wedding had been cancelled, before leaving the room too, leaving the murmur that formed.

"What a scandal." a lady gossiped with another, the two starting a conversation about what could have happened, some theories being completely ridiculous and that could ruin the family's reputation.

Y/n couldn't help herself and turned to them with a polite but sarcastic smile. "My apologies for interrupting, but the only scandal here is the fact that your son, who decided to be a priest, got so many prostitutes pregnant that only they could fill an entire line of these."

The woman gasped in horror while Benedict, who was listening to the conversation, had difficulty containing his laughter. "You foolish girl, how dare—"

"Excuse me, but I have better things to do than sit here and imagine what could have happened." Y/n got up from her chair, looking at the women one last time before going to try and find Anthony.

Despite being acquaintances, since Y/n was so close to Benedict, the two had never spoken much. However, the woman was still worried about Viscount. When she found him, sitting on the porch floor with his head in his hands, Y/n kept him company, also sitting in silence. From then on, a relationship was formed between the two that quickly became inseparable.

"My love, daydreaming again?" Anthony hummed, breaking Y/n out of his thoughts. The man wrapped his shoulders around her waist and pulled her closer, gently kissing her head. "What are you thinking about?"

"How lucky I am."

"Well, I'm the lucky one. I have a beautiful wife who I love very much. I couldn't live without you." he confessed, causing a blush to appear on her cheeks as it always did when he pronounced his love for her. "I have to go finish some paperwork, but then I'll come see you so we can go visit Daphne's son."

Y/n nodded, giving him a quick kiss and sighing as she watched him go to his office. Daphne had just had her second child, a beautiful baby boy. The couple was going to visit the family so that Y/n could help with whatever her sister-in-law needed while Anthony and Simon were going to entertain the baby's brother, a toodler who demanded a lot of attention.

Even though Y/n loved their children with all her heart, it only reminded her of what she couldn't give Anthony. The couple had been trying to get pregnant since they got married, but without success. Anthony's wife had already cried on his shoulder many times because she couldn't carry the child, her heart breaking every time she started her period.

Even though the Bridgerton man assured her several times that all he needed to be happy was her, Y/n still wanted to give him a heir. She wanted the house to be full of their children's laughter and for them to be able to create a mini version of them, a product of their love.

However, he tried not to occupy his days thinking solely about that. It was enough of all the doctors she had seen who told her that it was her fault, that her womb was not capable of developing a baby. Of course, Anthony, as soon as he heard those accusations and the look of complete heartbreak from his wife, demanded that they leave his house.

Y/n she couldn't take the blame anymore, going into a state of shock and for three days she refused to get out of bed. However, her husband would not accept that. He just wanted her to be happy, even if they never had children.

"We don't need children to be happy, I only need you. We have so many nieces and nephews who can take on my role, and we can take care of them from time to time, I'm sure my siblings wouldn't mind." Y/n remembered Anthony telling her this firmly, his hands grabbing her cheeks as they both had tears in their eyes.

And since then, they've never brought it up again.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

"Lady Bridgerton, are you feeling alright?" one of the maids asked worriedly when she saw Y/n enter the dining room for breakfast, immediately turning paler when she smelled the eggs. "Should I fetch for Viscount Bridgerton?"

She had time to shake her head before running to the nearest bathroom, dropping herself onto the cold floor and emptying the contents of her stomach. She could feel tears forming in her eyes, gagging at the sour taste that remained in her mouth. With unsteady legs, she got up and went to wash her mouth, the maids who entered the bathroom right after her helped her to hold herself upright.

However, she quickly realized that she wasn't finished yet when a new wave of nausea consumed her and she knelt again in front of the toilet. She felt strong hands, which she recognized as Anthony's, caress her face before grabbing her hair.

"Oh, Anthony…" she moaned in discomfort. "I don't want you to see me like this."

"Hey, none of that. Come here, love." he comforted, helping turn her around and supporting her against the wall when she was finished. He took a towel and started wiping her mouth.

When Y/n had the strength to open her eyes, she saw her husband's face analyzing her closely, looking for anything that could be wrong. The concern that swam in his eyes made her raise a hand and rest it on his cheek, and he turned slightly to be able to give her a lingering kiss on her palm.

"How are you feeling? I'm going to call the doctor. Are you okay with staying with one of the maids until I get back?"

Y/n held his arm, preventing him from getting up. "No, please don't go. I'm alright now. If this continues, I promise you can call the doctor, this is probably an one time thing. Let's not worry about it."

Anthony sighed, locked in a staring contest with the most important woman in his life. Accepting defeat, but with a serious look that screamed that if that happened again she would see a doctor, the Viscount picked up Y/n, carrying her to their bed.

Laying her down gently and helping Y/n take off her dress, the man pulled the covers up, making sure she was comfortable. Afterwards, he took off his shirt and pants, lying down next to her.

"What are you doing? We can't be in bed already, especially you. It's only morning, we still have many obligations to fulfill."

"No. My wife is not feeling well, and I'm going to take care of her. The paperwork can wait, as well as all my meetings. I just want you to be healthy." Anthony brought her closer to him, Y/n resting her head on his chest so she could hear his heartbeat. "Now, sleep. You need it."

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

It happened again. More specifically, two more times Y/n threw up her meals. The first time, she was alone and not wanting to worry anyone, she preferred to remain silent. After all, she could still be recovering from some kind of illness. The second time, it was in the presence of her most trusted maid, who she considered a friend, Joanne. And so she begged her not to tell the Bridgerton man about it, claiming she would see someone.

Alone, because in addition to feeling sick, she also realized that her period, which was always regular, should have already arrived. Her first thought was that she was pregnant. But upon thinking better, she questioned this possibility. After so many years of trying and failing, why would she be pregnant now? There must be another explanation.

However, she did not share these possibilities with Anthony because the last thing she wanted was to give him hope only to end up disappointed with her inability to give him a heir. Fortunately, Joanne accompanied her, helping Y/n explain to the doctor why the Viscount wasn't there with her.

And when she left that office, she could feel her legs losing strength. She placed a hand on her chest, starting to find it difficult to breathe in completely, still shocked by what the doctor had said to her.

Pregnant.

She was carrying Anthony's child in her womb, something they thought to be impossible. She was going to be a mother. Even though Anthony always assured her that he was completely happy with just her, Y/n knew that he would love being a father. At the beginning of their marriage, he had revealed to her that he dreamed of their family, their chhildren running through the garden while he chased after them and Y/n watched while sitting under the shade, her hand on her swollen belly.

And, by a miracle, this dream could become reality.

"Lady Bridgerton, are you ready to return to the mansion?" Joanne questioned after Y/n sat down in the carriage, her hands shaking together in her lap. Her gaze was understanding, in case she needed a few more moments alone to process this, but her lips held a small smile.

"I'm going to be a mother." she whispered.

"A wonderful, beautiful mother, I'm sure. Congratulations, Lady Bridgerton." she smiled, feeling enormous happiness for Y/n. She knew how much the couple had suffered. "Shall we return?"

Y/n nodded, no longer trusting her voice to speak. The woman took advantage of the short trip to process everything that was happening and before she knew it she was already in front of Anthony's office door.

With barely controlled excitement, she knocked on the door, waiting for permission to enter. When she heard Anthony's voice, she timidly opened the door, seeing that her husband was gathered with his brothers.

"Oh, my apologies. I didn't know your brothers were here. I can come back later."

"Nonsense, love. They can just leave." Anthony said, leaning back in his chair and opening his arms, an invitation for Y/n to come to him. The man, after already having Y/n in his arms, looked at Benedict and Collin, who were looking at him with a smirk. "Did you not hear? I told you to leave."

"Anthony, be nice!"

"It's not a problem, Y/n, we know when we are not wanted. Come on, Benedict, let's leave the lovebirds alone." Collin teased, getting up with his brother and leaving the room, but first, he took Y/n's hand and brought it to his lips. Benedict, for instance, kissed her cheek in a brotherly way. Despite their farewell with Y/n, Anthony was completely ignored by his brothers.

"Did you need something?" the man asked, putting all of his attention on Y/n, who began to fidget with her fingers nervously.

"Actually, I have to tell you something. I went to the doctor today…"

"What? Y/n, why didn't you tell me? Did you feel bad again? Nauseous? What did the doctor say? Are you okay?"

"Calm down, my love. I'm better than fine. I'm sorry I didn't tell you about being sick again, but I didn't want to worry you." she admitted, feeling guilty that Anthony was feeling precisely what she didn't want. "Well, I received some very interesting news."

"Please, just tell me what's wrong. I can't bear not knowing if something is wrong with you." he muttered with a pained look, as if he felt physical pain when thinking about the possibility of Y/n being hurt or unwell.

"Anthony…" she said his name with so much love that he shuddered. "I'm pregnant."

A silence formed in the room. Anthony took so long to react, just looking at her intensely as if he didn't know what was true or not, that Y/n began to feel worry invade her system. Was he not happy? Did he not want a child with her anymore?

"W-What?" Anthony finally managed to whisper, his heart having stopped as soon as he heard those words. "You're pregnant? With my child?"

"Well, obviously." Y/n rolled her eyes. "Are you happy?"

"Happy? My love, I'm more than happy. I love you so much. And I love our child too." the man kissed her fiercely, needing to convey all his love and adoration for her in that kiss.

He was addicted to his wife's lips, and now that he knew she was carrying his child, something animalistic was released inside him. Without giving any warning, he grabbed Y/n and twirled her around, without ever taking his lips off hers. Even so, Y/n giggled against them, circling her hands around his neck and holding on tight.

When her feet touched the floor, the Viscount knelt in front of her, his hands resting hesitantly on her stomach. He looked at Y/n in permission, who just nodded in encouragement and placed her hand on his brown hair, stroking his scalp.

Very gently, Anthony kissed his wife's still flat stomach. "Hello, you. I'm your father and I love you and your mother very much. You two are my entire life."

And the two stayed like that for the rest of the day, moving to the bedroom where Anthony continued to talk to Y/n's belly while exchanging passionate kisses with her. A beautiful new stage had begun in their lives, and they couldn't wait to meet their heir.

[narcissisticmf]

swim | benedict bridgerton x fem!reader

description: on your honeymoon, you and benedict decide to have a picnic beside a lake, which leads to his desire for a swim.

trigger warnings: nudity, seductive behavior, fluff, suggestive/implied smut, etc. please do not proceed in reading if you are under the age of 18. thank you.

word count: <1k

The sun was setting as you and Benedict were laying against a blanket, against the soft grass. You gently ran your fingers across the greenery amongst the ground, letting it tickle your fingertips. Your eyes grew weary as you gazed at the thin clouds in the orangey, pink sky.

In front of a babbling river stream, you listened to the soft movements in the water. Fish popping up here and there and water running across a line of rocks. You were wearing a long, floral sun dress.

"If I had the choice to stay here forever, I think I would," You admitted in a sigh.

Benedict's lips curved into his famous lopsided grin, you could hear it without even looking in his direction. "Me too," He agreed. He was sitting up with his hands folded, arms around his bent legs. "I don't suppose you'd wanna go for a swim?" Benedict grinned cheekily and poked your side, making you chuckle softly.

You turned to look up to him with blown out pupils. He was mesmerized by your beauty as you laid there so comfortably.

"I would hate to ruin your moment of peace and tranquility.." Benedict started and moved so he could hover over you, his free hand holding himself up on the other side of you. You were trapped beneath him now as he lowered his head to gently kiss your jawline. "But.." He breathed out, "I'd like to go for a swim with you."

"I must admit," You smiled. "You are very persistent, it is hard to say no."

"So is that a yes?" Benedict smiled, pulling his head back to stare at you lovingly. His other hand cupped your face, caressing the apple of your cheek with the pad of his thumb.

You nodded softly as he smiled like a school boy, rising to his feet as he begun to remove his clothing. You laughed as he was acting so frantic to get out of his attire, as though the water would dry out if the two of you hadn't been quick enough.

"Ben!" You laughed as he struggled to get his shoes off. "You can slow down, the water isn't going anywhere!"

Benedict smiled as soon as he became fully undraped, scurrying across the soft grass to leap into the cool water. You watched him with so much glee in your eyes. You took your time removing your dress, corset and stockings, as well as your boots. You laid all your clothes onto the blanket once you were completely uncladded.

"Come on, Mrs. Bridgerton!" Benedict smiled as his head was aboved the water, waving his hands so you would follow him.

"Is it cold?" You asked on your way toward the water.

"Refreshing," He grinned as he watched you jump in, splashing his face with the water lightly. He was laughing.

You kicked your feet to the surface of the water and smiled widely, so much so that your cheeks begun to sore. The water was cool against your skin, utterly perfect and — as Benedict described — refreshing.

His arms snuck around your waist as yours fell, resting across his shoulders and upper back. You let your nose brush against his cheek as your faces were centimeters apart.

"I never noticed.." He whispered, dreamily.

"What?" You smiled.

Once he noticed you were caught off guard, he smiled mischievously and lifted your waist tossing you further back into the water. He was cackling loudly as you yelped as soon as you hit the water again.

"You idiot!" You scolded once you resurfaced.

"Aww.. what're you to do, darling? Gonna tell my mother?" Benedict pulled his lips into a forced frown.

"I very well just might!" You grumbled.

Benedict couldn't take you serious as he swam towards you, smiling brightly.

"No, stay over there," You pushed the water to splash his face. He was laughing as he wiped his eyes with one hand and snuck the other around your waist lowly. He moved his hand from his face and held you tightly with both arms.

"You're absolutely adorable when you're frustrated," Benedict whispered into your ear as his hands moved down to your bum, gripping your cheeks softly. You sucked in a sharp breath, eyes wide.

"Benedict," You whispered, squeezing his shoulders.

"What? I'm just appreciating your body," He snickered, with that most beautiful crooked smile.

You returned a smile and cupped his face, putting your lips to his softly. A rumble of thunder was heard in the distant skies, but that didn't stop either of you from pulling away. Out of nowhere, grey clouds darkened the sky and rain began to pour, hitting the tops of your heads with high pressure.

Pulling back from Benedict's kiss, you looked up at the sky with parted lips. He did as well, but his gaze at the dark clouds didn't last very long. He looked back to you and pressed warm kisses to your exposed neck, making you smile dreamily. Your fingers tangled in his wet hair, breathing softly.

"We should probably go back to the house," You muttered in a whisper.

Benedict smiled against your skin and you knew there was no stopping him now; and you were comfortable with that.

.

a/n: this is the cutest thing i think i've ever written 🥺 i love it so much!! i hope you enjoyed reading this as much as i had fun writing it! if you'd like more bridgerton content, PLEASE let me know! i'd love to write more for this fandom! thank you so much for reading, i hope you enjoyed! be safe, my darlings. <33 — angelina.

[marymary-diva17]

A gem that shines the brightest

bridgerton x sister reader

There are gems that shine like a diamond in the world, that can attract attention even due they might look the brightest at first they soon do shine.

y/n " ......." you are sitting in your room as the rest of your family seem to be gather down stairs ready to leave for the ball. As you were trying to come up with a way to not attend this ball, with the rest of your family. The family you had been born into the brigerton had been well know for their beautiful daughters and handsome son. There had been times when you left like you were out of place, and ton society had made sure you were well know of it as well.

Violet " y/n dearest are you ready for the ball"

y/n " umm mama no"

Violet " dearest what the matter" your mother always the loving and caring mother, had open your bedroom door and came inside.

y/n " I don't feel like going mama I think it will be best, if the rest of the family attends the ball"

Violet " ......."

Daphne " mama is y/n ready for the ball ... oh"

Eloise " dear sister please tell me you are attend this ball with us"

y/n " I'm sorry I just don't feel like going tonight I might ruin the ball, by being there mama so go I will stay here with hyacinth and Gregory"

Kate " is everything all right y/n is everything okay"

y/n " everything is fine I will be staying here"

Violet " dearest you are wanted at the ball like any other young lady"

y/n " ......"

Antony " I had sent my wife up here in hopes to see what the matter" Antony soon stopped when she saw you standing there, with everyone else.

Antony " sister"

y/n " brother I will be staying home this evening I'm sorry I will not be attending, tell lady danbury I'm sorry for not attending"

Benedict " family are we going to the Danbury ball tonight or ...."

Colin " older brother I think that question can be saved for later, it seems like our dear sister needs us"

Voilet " my love please tell me what the matter why do not wish to attend"

y/n " I feel like it will be better I'm nothing like you mama or any other women in our family .... I look so different that even the ton wonder if I'm you and papa child"

Violet " dearest you are beautiful and I'm not saying that because I'm your mama it because I know you are beautiful like your sister and Kate"

Daphne " mama is right sister you are beautiful and the ton are blind fools for not seeing that, so you are different from us and that makes you special"

Eloise " yes sister you are smart, kind, and speak your mind when need very different form some of the young ladies of the ton"

Kate " y/n are beautiful and any man will be lucky to have you as a wife, and his family will be good to have you in their household as well"

y/n " thank you"

Antony " sister if any gentleman dares to speak to you like that again, they will have me to deal with as you are my sister and I will not have anyone speak poorly about you"

Benedict " y/n you are a wonderful sister to all of us brother, helping us and dealing with out stupid stunts as well coming to defending us when need from mama or Antony"

Colin " sister without you we will be lost and I know we all love and care about you, so do our younger siblings Francesca, hyacinth and Gregory love you as well"

Eloise " well mostly because you will deal with their crazy stunts here and there" laughter had been heard from the family as they laugh at Eloise words.

y/n " you are all right I will be attending the ball tonight"

Violet " if you get overwhelmed dearest you can leave, with anyone else I will not force you kids to stay if it become to much"

y/n " thank you mama Annie" your maid soon came into your room as she looked at you.

Annie " yes"

y/n " please bring out the the dress I will be attending the ball, and will need help getting ready"

Colin " you have enough time sister as the ball doesn't start for a while"

y/n " thank you"

anne " the new dress lady y/n"

y/n " yes"

Antony " new dress when did you get a new dress"

y/n " a while ago it a few dress no need to worry"

Antony " it okay sister I will deal with the bill when it comes now, everyone lets leave y/n to get ready" the family soon left the the rest of the maids had came into the room, and helped you get dressed for the ball.

One hour later

Violet " maybe I should go get her maybe she uncomfortable"

Daphne " mama give her time"

????? " hello" everyone soon looked at the top of the stairs to see you standing there, in a beautiful dark blue dress as you had made your way down the stairs.

y/n " how do I look"

Elosie "sister you are looking wonderful"

y/n " thank you"

Voilet " you are looking beautiful my dear and you are wearing sapphires"

y/n " yes I show them in the store one day and brought them, the dress shape had a color match to it"

Colin " well I saw she looks dazzling this evening a true beauty of our household"

Benedict " I would agree with Colin our sister is beautiful"

Antony " yes now the rest of the ton will see it tonight now family, will we depart for the ball tonight"

Violet " yes lets leave" the family soon left the home together to where the ball was being held, they all soon arrived and had been announced. All eyes were on the bridgeton family as they were walking down, the stair case that evening.

Colin " once again all eye our on our family" you are standing with Colin and Eloise, as the rest of the family went around to meet with other guest.

y/n " you are not helping Colin"

Colin " sorry oh look punch by sisters"

Eloise " our dear brother had abandoned us ... good" you laugh at bit at Eloise words.

Penelope " el and y/n good evening y/n you look so beautiful tonight"

y/n " thank you pen and you look beautiful as well I love the new look"

Eloise " I feel happy for you both this evening this ball might, be good after all"

Penelope " y/n it seems like the gentleman ton seem interested in you"

y/n " oh"

Eloise " I would keep my choices open sister" the three ladies had gotten some lemonade and were enjoy the drink, along with a good conversation as well.

????? " y/n"

y/n " Tristian you are back when did you arrive home from Scotland"

Tristian " yesterday and my mother had invited me to this ball, more like dragged me here saying it will be good"

Elosie and Penelope " hello Tristan"

Tristian " hello ladies now I have heard you have drawn all the ton attention"

Eloise " yes it seems like my sister has done that Tristan, and the family is happy for her"

Tristian " well I'm happy for her as well may we have a dance y/n if you dance card free"

y/n " I.... "

Eloise " she will love to" Eloise had taken your Lemond glass and Penelope took Tristan glass.

Penelope " have fun"

Tristian " thank you" Tristian had taken you hand and escorted you to the dance floor, soon joining all the other couples as a new song soon began. The pair had started dancing together and it soon felt like, they are the only ones in the world.

Tristian " you look beautiful but you always look beautiful"

y/n " thank you Tristian and you look handsome today, you trip away has done you well"

Tristan " yes I'm home and I might stay a bit longer here, as my uncle aunt along with my mother said it will be good for me to take a break"

y/n " it will be good to have you here"

Tristian " maybe when I'm here I can call upon you for some tea or strolls in the park"

y/n " I will love to if you are fine with me ask you to come with me, and my brother or mother to some opera or museum anything else"

Tristan " I will love to my lady bridergton" you giggle giving Tristian a smile as he spins you around on the dance floor, the young pair looking like the perfect couple.

Violet " is that y/n dancing with Tristian"

Lady Danbury " yes it my friend it seems like your daughter, has found her match"

Antony " normal a brother will go interrupt this dance but I will allow it"

????? " good evening violet, lady danbury, Antony"

Violet " Lady Katherine it seems like your son has asked my daughter for a dance"

Katherine " oh yes he had rush off once he heard word he was here, he was going to see her yesterday when he arrived home but wait until tonight"

Antony " they have been exchange letters while Tristian was away"

Violet " Antony"

Antony " I didn't read them mother I just saw them but it many if you all three which to know .... oh I see a friend of my good evening ladies" Anthony soon left the three women to talk among themselves and watch everything as well.

lady Danbury " my dear friends it seems like your children have fallen in love, and beautiful love story for the books"

Violet " yes they have"

Katherine " I'm happy for my son and your daughter she has done well this year"

Lady Danbury " yes y/n has become a gem that shines the brightest, even due she not named a diamond of the season she is a special gem to many" the two mother had nodded their heads in agreement as the watch, the youth of the ton have a wonderful evening among themselves. You have become a gem that has shine the brightest even if you are not name diamond of the season, you still shined.

[michwritesstuff]

She’s Gonna Save Me (Bridgerton: Benedict Bridgerton)

this is my first ever bridgerton fic! i’ve had such a writer’s block and post grad has been so difficult but listening to music and reading other writers’ works has me feeling inspired! so enjoy my first story in months and first of the new year :)

pairing: female reader (she/her) x Benedict Bridgerton reader x Colin Bridgerton (platonic!)

summary: Benedict contemplates a life pursuing art and living outside the expectations of his family and society. Does he find a wife and settle down or live freely? What happens when he meets someone who can offer him the best of both worlds?

notes/warnings: mention of nudity, alcohol consumption, activities that can be witnessed at Sir Granville’s scandalous studio saoirees…

word count: 2.4k

As the second eldest Bridgerton boy, Benedict never found himself extremely pressured by the standards and expectations of society. Those responsibilities were entrusted upon his brother, Anthony, the Viscount.

Benedict reserved himself to a more romantic life, preoccupied by his love and interest for art.

Attending every event of the season was merely a ploy to keep his mother happy and distracted from the fact that he had no true intention of courting any ladies.

He would drink, laugh, and dance the season away without ever calling on anyone.

Benedict believed that this season wouldn’t be any different.

******

When you first agreed to join your family friends across the Atlantic in London, you didn’t expect that you would be taking part in the ton’s social season.

As the youngest daughter, your brothers married with children and sisters off tending to their new husbands, your father didn’t feel the need to arrange a marriage for social or monetary gain.

Your family was well off in the states, your parents often described as ‘free spirits.’ They had always impressed upon you the importance of appreciating the beauty around you and romanticizing life.

With your mother’s passing, you decided to stay at home with your father, choosing to enjoy a quiet life in the country studying English literature.

Staying with Sir Henry Granville was beyond exciting and allowed you to interact and mingle with the more eclectic members of British society.

You had lasted all but a week before you were called upon by a Miss Lady Danbury.

She had stressed the importance of participating in the social season and the impending judgment of the ton and Queen if you did not participate.

While you never cared much for the opinion of others, you didn’t fancy the idea of being ogled every time you ventured into town.

******

“I heard she was rejected by every suitor.”

“She’s so ugly and unpleasant, a dowry wouldn’t even be worth it.”

“Apparently she’s slightly deformed.”

You couldn’t begin to believe the rumors circulating about you, the American.

You swore that the descriptions were ripped out of a storybook, describing some gremlin crawling from the depths of the earth.

Men and women alike had no problem spreading stories about the young lady joining them for the season.

Worst of all, none of them had even seen you yet. The modiste had made personal house calls, as requested by Lady Danbury.

Now you stood, in front of the carriage, at the first ball of the season, your debut.

You followed behind Sir Henry and Mary Granville, head held high and eyes straight forward as you waded through the ballroom towards Lady Danbury and the Queen.

You heard the whispers and felt the stares as you stood before the queen.

With one leg behind the other and your arms laid at your side, you gently bent your knee and curtsied before her.

She gave you a once over before bowing her head back, a silent approval.

Moving out of the way, you stood at the edge of the dance floor as Lady Danbury approached.

“Miss y/l/n, I do hope you don’t mind that I have taken the liberty of securing you a few gentlemen to fill out your dance card.”

“I expect nothing less from you, Lady Danbury” you smiled back, a teasing tone in your voice.

Your sarcasm and apprehension towards the season had not gone unnoticed by Lady Danbury.

She quite admired your wit and sharp mind, and more than anything, enjoyed the challenge.

******

You were now on your 4th dance of the night; your feet were hurting, and you wanted nothing more than to be curled up with a book.

Fortunately, your current dance partner was not completely awful and was actually quite charming.

Colin Bridgerton.

You had met him once before, in passing, when Lady Danbury had brought you to meet his mother, Violet, and sister, Daphne.

 Apparently, Daphne had been named the Diamond of the season in her first season out on society and married a Duke.

His younger sister, Eloise, was preparing for her first season as well.

However, through your brief encounter with Eloise she did not seem as happy with the matter as her sister and mother were.

You had a feeling she would be a good person to befriend.

“Tell me about yourself Miss y/l/n” Colin inquired.

“Y/N,” you quickly corrected.

“Just Y/N is fine,” you smiled slightly.

“Well Y/N, how are you finding London and the beginning of the season?”

“London, well its quite beautiful. There is so much art, and history, and the architecture is amazing. Truly, I wouldn’t mind getting lost here. And well…this—” you paused, glancing around the ball at all the young women around you.

“May I be frank?” you asked, Colin’s eyebrows raising in surprise.

“Of course, Miss Y/N”

“I slightly detest all of this, my feet hurt, and I’ve been dancing for quite too long. Why would I want to marry someone I’ve met one time?”

Colin was slightly taken aback before grinning wildly.

“You remind me of my sister Eloise,” he stated.

“I’ll take that as a compliment, I quite liked her,” you grinned back.

As the dance ended you curtsied before Colin as he bowed before you.

“I hope you find the person you’re looking for Y/N, but I have a feeling you don’t need all of this to do so.”

You smiled widely and slightly nodded before following him off the dance floor.

“I’ll grab us a drink,” he said before walking away. Your eyes followed his back for a few seconds before scanning the room.

They quickly landed on two men whispering in the corner.

The slightly shorter one had massive sideburns and a quizzical look that seemed as if it must be permanently etched onto his face. The other man had a certain air about him.

Even from across the room his light-colored eyes had a shine in them.

Colin returned; you thanked him before looking to the corner again. This time the slightly taller one had caught your gaze and lifted his eyes to meet yours. You felt your face flush and quickly turned your head.

“Colin?”

“Yes?”

“Who are those two men in the corner?”

Colin looked up to see his brothers in the corner looking at him inquisitively.

“Oh, those two? You don’t want to be near the likes of them. Poorly mannered and when they were younger, they would wet the bed for years well beyond what was normal.”

You were following along for a while until that last part.

You gave Colin a quick look to see if he was being serious.

His mouth remained flat and tight-lipped for a few mere seconds before letting through a boisterous laugh.

“My apologies Y/N, those are my brothers.”

Your eyes widened at the confession.

“Your brothers?”

“Yes, lets introduce you,” he stated, beginning to pull you across the ballroom.

“Colin, No I—"

“Brothers, this is Miss y/l/n, Anthony, Benedict,” he pointed out.

You curtsied before both of them before speaking up.

“I told you, just Y/N is fine Colin.”

You weren’t sure what his brothers would say about your slight improperness. It was clear that the Bridgerton’s were a well-respected family in the ton.

You glanced at the eldest brother who you learned was named Anthony who gave you a curt nod before excusing himself to sneak off from an inquiring Lady Danbury.

You smiled at him before turning your gaze to the second eldest Bridgerton.

“Y/N here was telling me about her studies in the states. She is well-read and well-traveled.”

You rolled your eyes, playfully pushing Colin slightly.

“You flatter me, Colin. Unfortunately, I am not perfect. For example, I am about done with all of this and was just about to call a carriage.”

“Oh, but you must stay for one more dance Y/N. Poor Benedict here has not waltzed once.”

Benedict tried to sneakily hit his brother for his clear meddling.

“While that may be true, I do not need my younger brother imposing on such a lovely lady.” Benedict states.

“Nonsense, everyone must waltz at least once,” you laughed, pulling Benedict towards the center of the room.

His eyes widened at your forwardness as he shot Colin a disapproving brotherly look, to which Colin gave him a grin and thumbs up.

As the music began you moved around the room with Benedict.

“So, Mr. Bridgerton, tell me what exactly it is you do.”

“Just Benedict is fine,” he stated, mirroring your words from earlier.

“Besides, aren’t I the one who should be questioning you about your skills?”

“That’s awfully backwards thinking, I hope you don’t get stuck that way” you replied sarcastically before being spun around.

When you returned facing Benedict, a knowing grin was stuck on his face. You were witty. He liked witty.

“I suppose that is fair. I’m an artist, well…I’m trying to be an artist. It’s a little complicated.”

You nodded understandingly, while the arts were enjoyed by many, it wasn’t exactly a noble pursuit, especially for you as a woman.

“You should come by Sir Granville’s studio, it’s quite…”

You couldn’t think of a proper word to describe the soirees Granville hosted. It was taboo and scandalous to most respectable members of society. However, if Benedict was an artist as he was claiming, he should fit right in.

“…inspiring,” you finished.

Benedict gave you an interesting look.

Little did you know, he had been to Granville’s studio, several times.

He hadn’t been in a while since his family had just returned from Aubrey Hall and the preparation for Eloise’s season had been quite hectic for his mother.

But you, picturing you at Granville’s studio was not something Benedict had imagined.

Women who were married or of low social standing was something else, but you, a young lady in her first official season stalking down the halls in such a disreputable manner. It didn’t fit the picture of the beautiful woman before him.

Benedict was quickly learning not to try and categorize you into one box.

“What do you know of Granville’s studio?” he asked seriously.

“Well, for one, I’m staying there. Two, I feel more comfortable among that community than here, if you understand what I mean…” you trail off.

Benedict gives you a small smile of understanding.

As the song ends Benedict lifted your hand to his mouth, kissing it gently before sightly lowering it back down, fingers brushing softly as he pulls away.

“Until next time Y/N”

“I look forward to it Benedict.”

******

Two months had passed since Lady Danbury’s first ball of the season. In that time you had befriended Eloise and Colin Bridgerton, often sitting in the parlor room of their home during the daytime, chatting the day away.

As such, you had also grown closer to Penelope Featherington who also came over often. You always considered yourself to be quite perceptive, so it was evidently clear that Penelope was fond of Colin. You thought about mentioning something, but it didn’t seem like your place.

Throughout your time at the Bridgerton’s household you had seen Benedict a handful of times. Unfortunately, your encounters were reduced to small greetings, stolen glances and light brushes as you walked past each other.

Until today.

You were sitting in the empty parlor room as Eloise ran to her room to fetch some ‘evidence’ and ‘clues’ about Lady Whistledown.

“Good Afternoon Y/N” Benedict greeted as he walked in, taking a quick look around the room to find the two of you alone.

“Afternoon Mr. Bridgerton,” you greeted back, a slight teasing tone to contrast your seemingly formality.

He gave you a knowing look before continuing.

“I hope I’m not being too forward, but I plan on attending Sir Granville’s tonight, I was wondering if I would see you there?”

You gave him a teasing smile before your face fell into a serious and hurt look.

“Mr. Bridgerton, I’m appalled, would a respectable young woman such as myself be caught there? Imagine the horror if the rest of the ton were to find out.”

He let out a loud laugh at your remark, in the short time that he had known you, you never failed to make him laugh.

“Yes Benedict, I’ll see you there,” you smiled.

“Good,” he replied.

******

That night you had a few drinks to help you take the edge off before guests started coming over. There was something about interacting with Benedict that made you nervous.

 You were walking around the art studio observing the nude model and the artists renditions when you felt someone lay their hand on your shoulder.

“OH! Oh my, Benedict, you scared me.”

“Sorry, love, didn’t mean to startle you.”

You continued walking around the circle, admiring the art around you.

“She’s stunning, is she not?” you questioned.

“She is,” he answered quickly.

However, when you turned to look at him his eyes were already trained on yours.

You smiled widely, walking out of the studio as Benedict followed like a lost puppy.

“Will I ever get to see your art?” you asked him.

He smiled sheepishly as his arm reached back to scratch the back of his neck.

“I certainly would let you, if there was any.”

“Practicing here for a few months and you still have nothing to show?” you teased.

Benedict gave you a look.

“I may have asked around about you,” you confessed.

“And?” he asks.

From what you have heard, both from his siblings and other people around you. Benedict was a kind and creative soul, with a great appreciation for the beauty around him.

“Your family and friends speak highly of you, that’s important.”

“What about you? What do you speak of me?”

“Besides being a tortured artist? I think highly of you.”

He nodded his head again, before responding.

“I think highly of you as well,” he whispered quietly, leaning down slightly so he was more at eye level.

You blamed the alcohol in your system for what you did next.

Yanking him down by his collar, you pulled him close and reached up until your lips were flush against his, pushing with all your might as if you would never kiss him again.

“Y/N—” he pulled away, his senses flooding back.

“This is…no, I’ve dishonored you I—”

“Oh hush Benedict, I do not care about those rules. I want you.”

He looked down at you, holding your face in his hands as he searched your eyes for confirmation.

Biting your lip and grinning up at him, Benedict couldn’t help but pull you back in, one hand sinking to your waist to pull you closer, the other rested on your cheek.

“You know this means we have to get married now?” Benedict teases.

“That means you presume I would say yes,” you teased back.

His smile grew impossibly bigger as he pulled you back in for a tender kiss.

“Let’s just see how you perform tonight before we think about marriage” you joked.

Benedict pulled back with a smirk and look in his eye you haven’t seen yet as he looked you over.

“Art is all about practicing and perfecting, we might need to practice a few times before you make your final judgement” he teased back.

You threw your head back in surprise, a large laugh leaving your lips before you smiled sweetly at him.

This was not how you imagined the social season going.

check out the rest of my work ⤑ here!

[underoosparkerr]

WIP #1: Untitled Bridgerton

Info: this is a bridgerton fic i wrote like when the second season had just started. it was supposed to be an anthony bridgerton x oc fic (can be written as an x reader), but as you can see I got halfway through the first chapter. reading it back, there are some details and whatnot that i’d change now as well as some details that are canon accurate. if this is something you like, let me know and i’ll but it in the running for being rewritten.

~~~~~~~~~~

Kent, 1800

Adelaide quite enjoyed summers in the countryside. Things were simpler, easier. She could be free and do as she pleased without the judgmental eye of the ton. At 13, she was expected to start behaving less like a child and more like a young lady. Away from London, she could truly be herself. Spending days sprawled in the luscious meadows around her family’s estate and climbing the magnificent oak trees that sprouted on the property (without her mama’s knowledge of course). In Kent, she could finally be a child.

On this particular day, she sat admiring the garden. The countless varieties of flowers and plants brought her a comfort she did not receive inside the large home. Her peaceful moment of silence was broken by her mama calling her from the porch.

“Adelaide, dear. There are people I would like for you to meet in the drawing room. Please come inside.” Her mother’s soft voice called out.

“Yes, mama. I will make my way in soon.” she replied, turning her head to face her mother.

“Not soon, dear. Now. As a lady, you know it is quite rude to leave your guests waiting.” Her mother said, with a bit more sternness than before.

Adelaide stood up, a bit exasperated, and smoothed her dress. She made her way towards her mother with a bit of a pout.

Her mother sent her a soft smile, “A lady never pouts, besides I’m sure you’ll feel better once you meet our guests.” She said placing her hands gently on her cheeks. “Now chin up my dear.” And with that Adelaide followed her mother inside.

The drawing room was a magnificent place, as was the estate. Soft green covered the wall, accompanied by gold moulding. A crystal chandelier hung from the white trimmed ceiling and beautiful mahogany flooring lined the room.

Sitting in the lush chairs, sat a woman her mother’s age and two children. The girl looked about her age, give or take a few years, and the boy was several years older. Maybe seventeen. It was clear that they also hailed from high society by the way the composed themselves.

The woman stood to greet your mother, and offered you a warm smile. “Hello, dear. You must be Adelaide. A spitting image of your mama when we were young.”

Her mother smiled brightly, “Yes, I do say she could be my twin.” she said with a chuckle.

The woman laughed before turning back to you. “I’m Viscountess Bridgerton, dear. Your mother and I were great friends in our youth.”

“It’s is a pleasure to meet you Lady Bridgerton.” Adelaide responded, giving a quick curtsy.

“And polite as well!” Lady Bridgerton exclaimed. “What a respectable young lady.”

Adelaide blushed. “Thank you Lady Bridgerton”

Lady Bridgerton turned her attention back to the two children on the settee. The two stood up in respect. “This is my eldest son, Anthony and my daughter Daphne.” the Viscountess introduced “My other children are off galavanting with their father but I am certain you shall meet them soon enough.”

The girl, Daphne gave you a bright smile and gave a polite wave. The boy on the other hand, remained quite stiff but gave a taut nod to the Countess and Adelaide.

“We have quite the bit of catching up to do, Violet. I am sure Adelaide would not mind giving your two children a tour around the estate, whilst we take the time to do so.”

[burnthoneydrops]

What Time Has Done (Part XIII) Benedict Bridgerton x Original Character Series

Synopsis: Fed up with Emmeline's disappearance, Benedict takes finding out the truth into his own hands

Requested: no

Warnings: none

Word Count: 2601

A/N: Hi! Here's the next part of What Time Has Done! Let me know what you think and if you're enjoying it or not haha

Emmeline

The words on the newest Whistledown sheet shake on the page as my hands will not cease their movement. I scan the words over and over again to make sure I am reading her correctly, and every time my heart drops more and more. How on earth did she know? I suppose I should have expected it to come out eventually but I was holding out some hope that the mysterious woman would have been deaf ears for the news to fall on. What an idiot am I. There is frantic knocking at my door and answering it is the last thing I wish to do, but depending on who the person on the other side is, they might have half a mind to barge in anyway. 

“Come in!” I call, noticing how my voice trembles as I do so. 

“Em,” the person sighs. It is Graham. I turn to him and my eyes cannot hold back the well of tears anymore. He rushes to my side and I drop the Whistledown pamphlet, causing a light whooshing sound as it reaches the carpeted floor. His arms are around me in a matter of seconds, and I throw my hands over his shoulders as another wave of tears force their way out. 

“What are we to do?” I ask in between recovery breaths. 

“I do not know, sister, but that is not for you to be worrying about right now,” Graham tries, but the insecurity in his tone does nothing to aid my current state. 

“I suppose I should have known our lie was not going to last forever,” I shudder, sitting down on the bed. 

“Now now, it is not your fault-”

“Will everyone stop telling me that! First Papa, then Andrew, now you! Just because you say something is so, does not mean it does not feel like it. You all tell me this ordeal is not my fault and yet I am the one who insisted on going to University. I am the one who caused this large amount of bills! It is! It is my fault!” I cry, putting my head in my hands once I am finished. 

Graham is stunned, not sure what to say for a moment before he sits down next to me, choosing to say nothing at all. Instead, he places a comforting hand on my back and allows me the space to let my frustration out. 

Benedict

“Has Benedict seen this?” Eloise asks Colin, the latest copy of Whistledown in hand. 

“I do not believe so, why?” Colin asks. Eloise shoves the gossip sheet in Colin’s hands. “Oh, dear Lord,” Colin sighs as he reads the page, realising what has his younger sister so worried. 

“Dear Lord indeed,” Eloise nods, grabbing the copy back and reading over it again. “Is this really why her entire family has been hiding away?” Colin refrains from speaking, but the look on his face shows that he knows something. “What? What is it?” Eloise looks him in the eyes, searching for an answer. “You know something! Tell me what it is!”

“Not so loud!” Colin grabs Eloise’s arm and drags her out to the hallway. “The gossip sheet is unfortunately true,” he looks down at it before looking back at Eloise. 

“You knew? For how long?” Eloise questions. 

“Not long, but Anthony figured it out before I did”.

“Brother will not be happy when he finds out about this,” Eloise says worriedly. 

“Finds out about what?” Benedict, in his perfect timing, had emerged from another room and now stands behind the pair. 

“Nothing!” Eloise proclaims as she turns around to hide the sheet behind her back and face Benedict. 

“What have you got?” Benedict gives her a look with a tilt of his head and a small smile. He reaches behind her to grab it, but she moves her hands above her head. As if she forgot for a second that Benedict is in fact taller than her, she leaves him enough space to grab it with his free hand and he laughs. As he begins to read, Colin and Eloise share a worried glance. 

He looks up at the two of them with a hardened expression. “Is this true?” Neither of them respond, which is enough of an answer for him. 

“Did either of you know about this?” Benedict looks between the two of them quickly, hoping one of them will answer him. “Say something!” he cries when neither of them do. 

“What is all this noise about?” Lady Bridgerton enters the hallway from the drawing room. 

“Mama, did you know about this?” Benedict throws up the gossip column. 

“What does it say dearest?” Lady Bridgerton grabs the sheet from him, leaving the three children in front of her to wait anxiously as she glances over the page. “Oh no,” she frowns, gathering the reason for the upset. “I can guarantee you I knew nothing about this”.

“I knew,” Colin grabs everyone’s attention, stepping forward with a guilty look on his face. 

“You knew? And you did not tell me?” 

“Anthony didn’t think it wise, brother, truly I-” “Anthony knew as well?!”

“We were waiting until we could figure out a good time to tell you!” 

Benedict does not respond, instead choosing to march down the hallway to the main stairs, running down those as he calls for a carriage. The horsemen cannot move fast enough as Benedict’s foot taps incessantly on the pavement outside of the Bridgerton residence. His mind races with a million questions about the predicament ahead of him, but he is more acutely hoping that Emmeline is alright. It does not miss him that a drink might help the anxieties of the current moment, but he thinks better of it. The carriage ride is all too long and he wonders if it would have been faster for him to arrive on foot. Benedict pounds on the door of the Castillon family, hoping for the love of God that someone will answer him. 

A butler answers the door and Benedict shoves in through the door and stands to face him on the other side. “Please, tell me where I may find Miss Castillon,” he sighs. 

“I’m afraid she is unavailable at the minute,” the butler looks at him with a hard expression. 

“Tell her it is urgent, please!” he begs. The butler does not budge, and Benedict groans in frustration. “Fine! I’ll find her myself. Miss Castillon!” He calls as he starts to wander through the house. 

Emmeline 

“Miss Castillon!” I hear Benedict calling from somewhere in the house. It couldn’t be. “Miss Castillon!” he calls again. 

“I’ll tell him to leave,” Graham stands up. 

“No, no,” I stop him. 

“What would you like me to do, sister?” 

I pause. “I do not know,” I frown, sitting back down on the bed. 

“Miss Castillon please!” Benedict calls again, his voice closer this time though. 

“I will speak to him, you stay here,” Graham turns out the door before I can even attempt to stop him again. There are hushed voices down the hall and I start to pace, wondering what they are discussing without me. After a few moments, a knock resonates from the other side of my door. 

“Sister?” Graham calls before opening the door and walking back over to me. “I believe you should talk to him”. 

“I do not know what to say, Graham”.

“Then tell him the truth,” he looks at me, grabbing my hands in his and giving me a small smile. 

“I cannot,” I frown, shaking my head. 

“You can,” he nods. 

I stay silent for a few moments before letting go of Graham’s hands. He tells me he’ll be right here, waiting in case I need anything, and I nod, walking toward the door. Benedict stands in the hallway and I turn to face him as I step out of the doorway. He catches my eye and his brows furrow in worry, but there is some sense of relief present as well. I do not know what to say, and it feels like we stare at each other for eternity, neither of us sure how to proceed. 

“Miss Castillon-”

“Emmeline, please. If you are to try and comfort me, I do not need the formalities,” I laugh lightly, trying not to look directly at him. 

“Alright, Emmeline. If I could just have a moment of your time. I just want to talk to you”. 

“As you wish”.

“Is Lady Whistledown writing the truth?” Benedict asks, his brows furrowing in concern. 

I pause for a moment, not entirely sure how honest I want to be at this moment. Sharing all this information with him feels like an overstepping of boundaries; that which we have hardly set in the first place. Besides a few meetings prior, what had Benedict and I really shared? Something in the way he is looking at me persuades me to tell the truth, and I nod. 

“Why did you not tell me?”

“And make public my family’s shame?” I question. 

“Surely it would have been better than this!” 

“I did not know that this was going to happen. I do not even know who thinks I am Lady Whistledown to begin with!” I pause, and after a few seconds, continue with, “But yes, my family is currently in a crisis because I decided three years ago that it was a necessity that I go to University which would not have been allowed given my sex but my father had connections and managed to make a deal. He had assured us that those debts had been paid off but evidently they were not and I suppose that the people on the other end had grown tired of waiting for their repayment so they started coming after my father with more urgency”. Benedict looks greatly confused. 

“And that is why you went into hiding?” 

“Mama did not want anything to become obvious after the news had been revealed within

the family, so she thought it best for us all to hide and let the information digest in private so as to not have one of us reveal something to an uncaring member of the ton”. 

“I see,” he pauses, looking as though I had thrown a few stones at him. I suppose with the amount of information I had just relayed to him, it might have been a few stones equivalent. “I could have helped you, Emmeline. I still can-” 

“I do not need your pity Benedict. If your pity is to be disguised as comfort than you may-” 

“Do you truly think so little of me?” This causes me to stop. 

“I beg your pardon?” 

“Do you think I travelled unannounced, burst into your house, worried sick about you, simply because I pity you?” 

“You had not explicitly given me a reason not to assume as such,” I state, but I can feel the foundation of my own argument cracking as I do so. 

“You are a truly infuriating woman, you know that, yes?” 

“However could you mean?” I question, crossing my arms over my chest. 

“I did all these things, went out of my way to talk with you at stuffy dances and soirees because I care for you Emmeline. And due to my siblings’ input I have learned that I was not being subtle whatsoever about it so surely you must have noticed it as well?” 

I am not sure how to respond. Is caring different from loving a person? I do not know how one differentiates the two, especially not Benedict, but he seems sincere in his tone and I cannot help but want to believe him. I can hear Graham in my head telling me not to think too long about it, but I cannot bring myself to formulate and answer worthy enough. 

“A friend of mine told me that one is allowed to follow their inspiration, and so here I am. Please, Emmeline, say something”. 

“Perhaps I have been blinded by my own attempts at subtlety to notice that my thoughts and feelings may have been reciprocated,” I finally respond, hoping the message translates how I intended. 

“Thankfully that was not subtle at all,” Benedict says, almost laughing. “This situation will be resolved Emmeline, you have my word”. 

“And how exactly do you plan to do that?” 

“I am not certain yet, but I am sure I can conjure something up. Eight minds must be better than one, yes?” He says, referencing his siblings as well. 

“I imagine they would, yes,” I say with a smile, “but even then, it is not your-” 

“You promised to heed my every word, did you not?” 

“I’m sorry?” “That day in the park, you promised to heed my every word. So do just that and believe that I will see to it that this is all sorted”. 

I fight the urge to tell him once again that I do not need someone to fix my problem for me, but timing does most of the fighting for me, as my mother ascends the stairs. She looks between Benedict, myself, and then back at Benedict before outwardly questioning his presence. He mentions something about how he was just leaving and shoots me a wink as he makes his way down the stairs and back out to his carriage. Graham appears from my doorway, a smile on his face. I am to assume he heard most of the conversation as he looks quite pleased with himself.

“Was there a reason Benedict Bridgerton was just in our hallway unannounced?” Mama questions, slightly angry. 

“He was merely on his way out after our discussion, Mama,” Graham covers, looking at me to get me to nod in agreement. I do so hastily. 

“Indeed, I simply ran into him on my way from the garden”. 

“And why, may I ask, were you coming out of Emmeline’s room?” Mama turns to Graham. 

“Benedict had offered to teach him a thing or two about art and I had mentioned to Graham that I had some copies of landscapes in France he could use for reference,” I cover this time, sending Graham the nodding message. 

“You two know the current rules regarding house guests. If it weren’t for the circumstances I would pay it no mind, but I suppose I am grateful it was a Bridgerton at our house. It could have been a far worse member of the ton”. 

“We promise, Mama, it shan’t happen again,” Graham replies. 

“For your sakes, I’d hope not,” she says as she begins walking away. 

“I take it that went well,” Graham walks closer to me. 

“Our conversation with Mama? It could have gone worse I suppose,” I shrug, watching Mama walk further away. 

“No, the conversation she interrupted”. 

“As if you did not overhear the entire thing,” I give him a suspicious look. 

“I did not! Maybe…just a bit of it,” Graham puts his hands up in defence. 

“Graham, we are not necessarily a family of good liars.”

“Quite right, Sister”. 

I look back in the direction of the staircase and replay my conversation with Benedict in my mind. Never had I imagined someone being so forthright about their feelings, though I suppose artists are known to wear their hearts on their sleeves. The thought gives me butterflies, yet they are soon sinking as I remember the context that brought on the conversation in the first place. How he can be so confident in his ability to turn our situation around is beyond me, but perhaps we shall have to wait and see.