Leave it by Degrees #1
Synopsis: Benedict Bridgerton, an upcoming artist, is on a mission. He must finish his painting for the gallery coming up in several months, but how could he concentrate when the memories of the Lady in Silver still trapped him?
Sophie Beckett, an overworking secretary is also on a mission. She must persuade Benedict Bridgerton to sign a contract with the Gunningworth Foundation, to provide them with a portrait for Penwood Park in exchange for financial support. But how could she concentrate when the flirty artist was the very man with whom she had a one-night stand? Who didn't remember her at all?
Or
The unhinged love story loosely based on Shakespeare's Love's Labour's Lost that I can't get out of my head.
Post in AO3 from here!
“Come on, Ms. Beckett. Woodson is absolutely besotted with Posy, my dear brother is apparently sleeping with your Kate Sharma, and it seems that it is inevitable for us to hook up! The whole universe, the whole fate from God is just waiting for us to bang!”
Sophie rolled her eyes over his dramatic yet crude remarks, wondering why in the world he wouldn’t just leave her alone. Or why wouldn’t he just sign the damn contract?
One arm leaning against the door, Benedict Bridgerton gave her one of his crooked smiles, the ones he plastered to his face when he needed a quick lay. It worked, mostly on everyone, male, female, and non-binary, he knew that just one smirk would drop anyone to their knees. However, Sophie Beckett only gave him an exasperated glare, her face ever so slightly looking up from her laptop.
“Mr. Bridgerton.”
“I thought I told you to call me Benedict.”
Benedict could hear Sophie softly curse under her breath. Ah, the reaction.
“Mr. Bridgerton, I am here strictly on business, not to have an amazing orgasm with you.”
“...Who said anything about amazing orgasms?”
Sophie banged her head on the desk. She knew that her face was on fire, and she could not dare look at Benedict’s face who was surely smirking at her. Such a stupid, stupid girl.
----------------------------------------------------
“You’re going to stay at THE Soneva Fushi?!”
Although it was a crowded night, Kate Sharma’s bewildered voice echoed through the London pub. When she got a text from her closest friend from uni for a small drink on a Friday night, she wasn’t expecting to hear from her that she was going to stay at one of the most luxurious resorts in the world, knowing that Sophie Beckett wasn’t exactly the wealthiest person she knew. Quite the opposite, she thought to herself, remembering that even in her uni days she was always balancing two or three jobs.
“It’s work-related,” Sophie sighed, taking another sip of pine. “And I’m probably going to stay only for a night.”
“I don’t understand, Sophs.” Kate’s beautifully shaped eyebrows were knitted with confusion. “Who would go to the Maldives for business? I’ve always assumed that the place was a resort, not a conference room.”
“My client is staying there, apparently.”
“Who’s your client?”
“...Benedict Bridgerton.”
“Who the hell is that?”
“He’s an artist.” Kate noticed that Sophie’s tired expression softened slightly. “Armintia saw his piece at the Granville Foundation Gala a few months back. Took a great liking to his work, so she wants to have a portrait made for the renovation of Penwood Park. In return, the Gunningworth Foundation will fund his production costs for the next five years.”
“So like a patron?”
“Exactly.”
“Bridgerton…That surname rings a bell. Any relation to the Audrey Cooperation?”
Always the quickest, Sophie smiled over her glass of pine. Kate had been the brightest student in her year, breezing her way through law school and already beginning her practice at the Danbury Associates.
“He’s the second son of the Bridgerton Family. According to my research, he’s not by any means engaged in the family business, but he does attend the galas and the charity balls every season.”
“Hence the B.”
“Hence the B.”
“I’ve never known that the number two was an artist.”
“Benedict is very good, actually,” There was a small smile on Sophie’s lips. His latest work was submitted to the National Gallery, and the reviews she read in the Art Monthly were nothing but lines and lines of praise. An Uprising Sensation in the British Art World; Benedict Bridgerton, the headlines wrote. She had gone to the exhibition at the national gallery featuring his work, and her soul was captivated by his creation. People Watching; a series of works consisting of multiple portraits, a pregnant mother carrying two small twins in her hands, a couple sharing a donut in the corner of the tube, and a tired man looking at a basketball match on the streets. A small boy reading to his sister at the library. A grandmother dancing to herself in a wheelchair. It was nothing abstract, nothing specifically special about his material, but there was so much warmth in his touch and his gaze, and Sophie could understand why his paintings attracted the hearts of the viewers.
It would be lovely to see the world as he sees it , Sophie found herself thinking. Maybe her life would be a little bit better if she could find the small happiness in her ordinary life…
“Hello? Earth to Beckett?”
Sophie jerked from her train of thought, and she saw that Kate had a worried look on her face.
“Are you okay, Sophs? Was there something with your dad again?”
“No, no, I’m all right.” Sophie shook her head, taking a cigarette from her bag. She offered one to Kate wordlessly, but she declined. Sophie looked at her with surprise.
“I’m trying to quit,” Kate replied with a sheepish look. “Eddie’s been complaining about the smell ever since she moved to my flat, and I thought it easier to just quit than to argue.”
“Mmmm.”
“And you know it’s bad for you, Sophs,”
“Mmmm.”
“It’s going to kill you someday,”
“Mmmm.”
Sophie lit up a cigarette, placed it between her fingers, and inhaled the substance deeply into her lungs. Kate looked at her concerningly as they both stared at the smoke fogging their view.
“Tell me what’s going on or I’ll strangle you to death at his very place, Sophie Beckett,” Kate said softly. “On a normal Friday night, if I said that I was going to quit smoking, you would chirp; Oh, that’s lovely, Kate! It is a terrible vice, I know. Maybe I should stop smoking too. What kind of methods are you trying to cope with the loss? Rather than to tempt me with a puff in front of my eyes. This isn’t you, Sophs.”
Sophie smiled weakly. It was a good imitation of her voice.
“I’m sorry Katie Cat.”
“Don’t mind, I knew from the tone of your text that you were in a crappy mood.”
“I’m just weary about the flight.” Sophie mumbled, dropping the cigarette in an ashtray. She knew it was a filthy habit. “It’s ten hours from Heathrow to Velana International.”
“Why do you have to travel such a distance anyway? It’s not 1817. Can’t you send an email or a phone call? If you want to talk directly, you could just make a Zoom meeting from your flat.”
Wouldn’t it be so much easier, if she could just do that.
“Apparently, Benedict Bridgerton is currently in the middle of a cleanse. ”
Kate snorted gin from her nostrils.
“Come again?”
“Benedict Bridgerton is currently in the middle of a cleanse ,” Sophie repeated her words, but she couldn’t help but break into a grin. “With his brother, actually. No phones, No social media, No contact with any associates except their families.”
“Wait. Did you say no phones, no associates? So, it’s kind of like a digital free holiday?”
“Exactly.”
“Sophie, I know you’re not an idiot, but I don’t think nobody wants to be contacted for business in the middle of a cleanse holiday at the beach in Maldives…”
“I know,” Sophie groaned in her pine, “I’ve been trying to tell her that millions of times.”
“Araminta?” Kate asked wearily.
“...Araminta.”
Although Sophie hardly talked about her family, Kate knew how demanding and threatening her step-mother could be, currently the substitute chairman of the Gunningworth Foundation, the very place Sophie was currently working at. Employed? More like enslaved. Kate had heard Sophie chuckle darkly a few years back. Kate knew quite well that Sophie wasn’t as insistent as to crash a private holiday. She could remember the time Armintia once stampeded into their shared dormitory in uni, half screaming, half strangling Sophie in the neck, accusing Sophie of theft. I can’t believe you took my Versace bag from the closet, you son of a bitch… Kate had heard her shrieks from the hallway, and frantically peeled them apart. In the end, it was Rosemund who had borrowed the bag from her mother’s collection, not Sophie. Kate softly padded Sophie on the back, knowing that she couldn’t refuse the job.
“But it’s a big case, Sophs.” Kate continued reassuringly. “Several hundred thousand pounds deal with an upcoming artist? I’m surprised that Armitina gave you such a heavy contract matter. I thought Rosemund would love to meet the number two of the Bridgerton family.”
“First she wanted to hand it over to Rosemund, but she had another gala to attend. She already has her marks on Cavender, actually.” Sophie sighed, her fingertips twitching for a smoke. “And Arimintina’s not giving me the case. She gave in to Posy. I’m going there for her assistance.”
“Oh……”
Imagining the rosy-faced cinnamon roll sweetheart in her head and the slightly resigned look on her friend's face, Kate presumed that the whole job was on Sophie’s shoulders.
“Wishing you the best, Sophs.”
“Yes, yes, thank you, Kate…”
To brighten up the mood, Kate rose from her seat to get another round, along with a plate of fish and chips. As Kate took a big bite into the giant cod fish, Sophie only nibbled a chip from the basket.
“By the way, Sophs,” She asked, elegantly wiping off the crumbs with her lilac handkerchief, “By brother, do you mean…”
“Yes. It’s THE Anthony Bridgerton.”
Anthony Bridgerton was the epitome of a royal celebrity. After his father’s sudden death, he took the role of the CEO of the Audrey Cooperation at the age of 26, also inheriting the title of a viscount. With a handsome face and overflowing wealth, Anthony Bridgerton was easy prey to gossip and the paparazzi, making scandalous headlines in social media every time he had a dalliance with another celebrity.
“Why would a CEO of one of the biggest companies in the country be in the middle of an island with his bohemian brother? And with zero contact? Shouldn’t he be working his ass off?”
“Kate, haven’t you read Lady Whitsledown?”
“Why would I read Lady Whistledown?”
Sophie shook head in disbelief, but she couldn’t help but to smile; the absolute indifference her mate showed towards gossip and pop culture was always surprising. But that was one of the things Sophie loved and adored about Kate. She knew what she had to focus on. Sophie took out her mobile from her pocket and opened her Instagram, showing the latest Lady Whistledown post.
Worldwide Pop Singer Sienna Rosso confirms Breakup with Anthony Bridgerton; He was never serious about Our Relationship, She Comments.
#What did I tell you? #The A does it again #He may as well be the A, but he’s scoring an F
Sophie had to smile. Lady Whistledown was also one of her guilty pleasures, and she often found herself cracking up over her snarky sarcastic comments. The news was posted with a photo of Anthony Bridgerton in a black Prada suit with a matching ribbon tie. With beautiful hair (a gorgeous sideburn), wild stubble around his chin, and a seemingly ripped body, Sophie had to admit that he was a very attractive man. Standing authoritatively with a puffed chest and a stern look on his face, a sense of determination on his lips, she noticed that she knew someone who often had the same expression on her face.
“He looks like a fuckboy.” Kate cursed as she took a look at the photo.
“I thought he was your type, Kate. You know, strong-willed, athletic...”
“Not him.” Kate scowled, shoving Sophie’s mobile in her hands. “I don’t like guys who sleep around.”
Sophie smiled softly.
“Okay、 fine. I don’t want to be in a relationship with a man who sleeps around.”
“Truer words have never been spoken.”Clinking their glasses together, Both Kate and Sophie took another shot. The summer wind felt cool on their flushed faces, and the city lights were glittering before them.
“I wish I had the time and the money to go to a beach resort after a bad breakup,” Kate murmured.
Sophie softly curled her arms around Kate’s, tilting her head on Kate’s shoulders. It had been only a month since Kate found out that her fiance was sleeping with his coworker, catching them red-handed in their shared flat. Sophie had dropped everything to comfort her, putting a blanket over her as Kate wept over a bucket of chocolate ice cream.
“I don’t want to cry this much for that dick, Sophie! And I don’t want to waste four months working out because of him!” Kate had croaked between angry sobs as Sophie cooked her mother’s Bolognese in her kitchen.
“ Kate, I know how sad you are. But you’ve been crying for five hours, Kate. You have to eat.”
“Tom was an arsehole, Kate,” Sophie said quietly. “You deserve so much better than him.”
Kate did not reply but she softly leaned against Sophie's arms. Kate truly appreciated these quiet moments with Sophie, when she knew that she didn’t have to fill the silence with words. It was one of the prominent attributions of Sophie Beckett, she could sense a troubled heart and her presence, her silence alone could soothe a troubled heart. It was one of the few moments Kate could forget about being the responsible, reliable older sister.
“Sophie,”
“Mmm?”
“I’m going to swear an oath to this glass of half drunk pine.” Kate suddenly straightened her back, raising her glass to their eye level. “That I’m going to take a break from relationships. For a year from now. No boyfriends. No girlfriends. No romantic relationships whatsoever.”
“Is that going too far over the edge, Kate…?”
“I wasted a whole month in misery, Sophs,” Kate replied nonchalantly, “I’m just going to focus on my career and my job for at least a year. Without any mental distractions.”
Sophie didn’t quite know how to respond to Kate’s sudden declaration. She knew how the breakup damaged her soul, but she also knew that her thick beautiful curls and her long eyelashes and her shimmering legs would always attract the eyes of the other, along with her fierce powerful personality.
But it’s Kate , she thought, she knows what she’s doing.
“I salute to your dedication, Katie Cat,” Sophie grinned, also raising her glass as she gently clinked to hers. “Should I swear an oath as well? As a friend to you in moral support?”
“No, no. no.” Kate shook her head. “I have to do this on my own. Besides, you’re going to the Maldives! You should seize the opportunity to hook up with some random money! You only live once, Sophs!”
Sophie laughed wholeheartedly, wheezing at her obscene comment.
“I’m not planning to be some hooker to a group of toffs, Kate.”
“Whatever you say,” Kate replied in a singalong voice as she took another chip, “ But come to think of it, why are you so depressed about this job? Yes, you’re probably invading the privacy of some celebrity, but you’re going to stay at the best hotel resort in the world! A chance to meet the richest and hottest guy in the world! Why be so stressed out about that?”
Probably because I had a one night stand with his little brother? Who happens to be my client?
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A lot has been written in the press about Nico Rosberg since he debuted in Formula One last season and became one of the hottest properties in the sport. But what are Nico’s favourite things away from the race track? Find out where Nico prefers to spend his holidays, what prizes he won in school and what he’s really scared of right here!
What car do you drive? An Audi RS6
Did you have a childhood hero? Mika Häkkinen
Do you have a sporting hero now? Lance Armstrong
Did you win any prizes at school? I won one for running once
Who is your favourite band? 3 Doors Down
What is your favourite film of all time? At the moment, Inside Man
And who is your favourite actor? Mel Gibson
Can you remember what the first album you ever bought was? The Lion King, when I was six year old
What things do you enjoy most away from the track? Anything to do with sport, tennis and football especially
If you could do any job in the world, apart from being a racing driver, what would it be? I’d definitely be a soccer player
What’s been the most memorable race of your career? The final round of the GP2 series in 2005, and partying with my team after winning the Championship
The most frustrating moment of your career? Pau 2003. My engine broke while I was in the lead
Where do you keep your trophies? All over the place!
Do you have any pets? I have a labrador called Teddy
Did you have a favourite toy when you were a child? My racing car built from LEGO
Have you ever bought or sold anything on eBay? I sold my mobile phone a while ago
What’s the coolest hotel you’ve ever stayed in? Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, it was great
Do you have a dream holiday destination? Ibiza
Is there anywhere in the world you haven’t been that you’d really like to visit? South Africa
Your dream dinner party guests? The models that were running down the catwalk for the Victoria Secrets show last night on TV!
Blondes or brunettes? Brunettes
Who’s the coolest celebrity you’ve ever met? Jamiroquai
What’s your worst habit? Losing things when I really need them
What are you scared of? Heights
What’s the best freebie you’ve ever been given? A cross country skiing kit
How good is your eyesight? Like an eagle!
What do you look for in the ladies? A pretty face, a rather healthy top circumference and honesty!
Do you have any brothers and sisters? Nope, it’s just me
What are your favourite shows on TV? Prison Break and 24
What were your best subjects in school? Maths and physics
What best describes your personality? I’m honest and competitive
Do you speak any languages? A few! German, French, Italian, English and I’m pushing hard on the Spanish
What’s your favourite food? Italian! Especially ravioli à la panna with some ketchup and lettuce on the top and then sprinkled with parmesan
And your least favourite food? Frogs legs!
What music do you listen to? U2, Bob Marley, Jack Johnson - quite a variety as you can see
The best piece of advice anyone has ever given you? Separate in peace because you always meet twice in life
From the Williams F1 website, originally posted 04 May 2007
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Exploring the Exciting Tourist Attractions in Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. With over 1,200 small islands, it is no surprise that the Maldives is becoming increasingly popular with tourists from around the world. From snorkeling and scuba diving to visiting unique island resorts and exploring uninhabited islands, there are many exciting tourist attractions in Maldives to experience in this beautiful country.
Best Tourists attraction in Maldives
Welcome to the Maldives, an archipelago of almost 1,200 islands scattered around the Indian Ocean. Here you can experience crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches like no other. Considered one of the most beautiful places in the world, there is no shortage of amazing things to do and see on a trip to this paradise.
White Sandy Beaches
The Maldives boasts some of the world's most beautiful white sandy beaches, making it one of the top tourist destinations. The crystal-clear waters combined with the soft and powdery sand create a truly stunning contrast. Visitors can enjoy walks along the beach, sunbathing, or even just lounging in a hammock under palm trees.
Bikini Beach on Maafushi Island is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Maldives. It offers crystal-clear blue waters that are great for swimming or paddle boarding. Tourists can also enjoy various activities like water sports or beach volleyball on this beach. Another must-visit beach is Veligandu Island Beach which offers stunning views of crystal-clear water with plenty of palm trees providing shade from the sun.
There are some other best white sandy beaches in the Maldives including those Reethi Beach Island, and Fulhadhoo Island. These beaches offer picturesque views and various water activities that allow visitors to explore the underwater beauty of Maldives.
Moreover, some resorts have private beaches that offer an exclusive experience for guests looking for peace and privacy. With so many options to choose from, tourists can easily find their perfect beach paradise on this tropical archipelago.
Best months to visit in Maldives
Luxury Hotels and Villas
Maldives is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world, and its resorts are one of the top tourist attractions in Maldives. The luxury hotels and villas in the Maldives are known for their exceptional hospitality services, stunning views of the ocean, private beaches, world-class spas, beachfront dining options, and state-of-the-art amenities. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, there's something for everyone in the Maldives. For tourists who want more privacy and space during their vacation, a wide range of opulent villas are available in the Maldives. These villas offer exclusivity with personalized services such as private chefs or personal butlers.
Some of the top luxury resorts in the Maldives include Soneva Fushi Resort, Cheval Blanc Randheli Resort & Spa, One&Only Reethi Rah Resort, and St Regis Vommuli Island Resort among others. These properties offer breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean along with an array of amenities that make each stay memorable.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a luxurious holiday experience in one of the world's most beautiful destinations, look no further than Maldives' luxury hotels and villas. With bespoke services tailored to your every need coupled with views that will take your breath away – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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Turquoise Lagoons and Reefs
Turquoise lagoons and reefs are a natural wonder and one of the top tourist attractions in Maldives that appeals to tourists from around the world. The islands, located in the Indian Ocean, are home to over 3,000 coral reefs and offer visitors a unique experience that is unmatched anywhere else. The vibrant blue waters of the lagoons contrast beautifully with the lush green vegetation on the islands.
Diving or snorkeling in these turquoise lagoons will transport you to an underwater paradise filled with colorful fish, turtles, manta rays, and even sharks. For those who prefer to stay above water, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing or simply relaxing on a traditional Maldivian fishing boat called a Dhoni.
The turquoise lagoons and reefs are not just beautiful but also play an important role in supporting the local ecosystem. They provide shelter and food for various species of fish and other sea creatures which helps maintain balance in this delicate environment. Visitors should take care when exploring these areas so as not to damage any fragile coral formations or disturb the local wildlife.
Diving, Surfing, Fishing
Diving is one of the top tourist activities in Maldives. The clear blue waters and coral reefs attract divers from all over the world. With a variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and colorful fish, diving provides an unforgettable experience for both beginners and experienced divers. Maldives has many dive sites suitable for all levels of diving, making it an excellent destination for those looking to learn or improve their skills.
Surfing is another popular activity among tourists visiting the Maldives. The islands offer some of the best waves in the world that are suitable for surfers of all levels. From beginner-friendly breaks to challenging reef breaks, there's something for everyone here. Surfers can also enjoy the breathtaking scenery while riding the waves as most surf spots are located in beautiful lagoons surrounded by stunning beaches.
Fishing is a traditional activity in Maldives and remains one of its main industries today. Tourists can experience fishing like locals with traditional hand lines or modern fishing gear on a boat trip with local fishermen. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching tuna, barracuda, marlin, or sailfish while enjoying amazing views of Maldivian waters at sunset or sunrise. It's a perfect way to experience local customs and traditions while relaxing on this paradise island destination.
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Colorful Festivals
Maldives is a colorful destination with a rich cultural heritage that attracts visitors from all over the world. The Maldivian culture has been influenced by the Indian and Arab cultures, which can be seen in their festivals. Some of the most colorful festivals celebrated in Maldives are Eid Al-Fitr, Ramadan, Independence Day, and National Day.
Eid Al-Fitr is one of the major festivals celebrated in the Maldives after Ramadan. This festival marks the end of fasting month and is characterized by feasting, gift-giving, and exchanging greetings with friends and family members.
Another notable festival celebrated in Maldives is Independence Day which falls on July 26th every year. This day commemorates the independence of Maldives from British colonization. The celebrations include parades featuring national symbols such as flags and mascots along with dance performances showcasing traditional costumes accompanied by local music played on drums or flutes.
In conclusion, experiencing these vibrant festivals that offer an insight into their unique culture makes it an unforgettable experience and one of the top tourist attractions in Maldives.
Curries and Seafood
When it comes to cuisine in the Maldives, curries, and seafood are two staples that visitors should not miss. The Maldivian version of fish curry is called "Mas Riha" which features freshly grated coconut, aromatic spices like cumin and coriander, and a variety of seafood such as tuna, mahi-mahi, or snapper. This dish is often served with steaming hot rice or roti bread.
Seafood lovers will find themselves in heaven when visiting the Maldives. With an abundance of fresh fish like barracuda, grouper, and red snapper available, visitors can expect to indulge in delicious grilled fish platters or even try their hand at fishing on local islands. Some popular seafood dishes include "Garudhiya," a clear broth made from fish heads and served with lime wedges and chili peppers; "Huni Roshi," which is grilled tuna stuffed into roti bread; or "Fihunu Mas," marinated grilled fish usually served with rice.
Overall, if you're looking for a culinary adventure that combines rich flavors with fresh ingredients straight from the ocean waters surrounding the Maldives, then coconut curries and seafood dishes are worth trying during your visit.
All in all, a vacation to the Maldives promises unforgettable experiences that will leave visitors with memories they will cherish forever. From exploring unique marine life to lounging on pristine beaches, there are many tourist attractions in Maldives to make your tour memorable.
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