#regency fic

[dreamwritesimagines]

Garden of Secrets - Epilogue

A.N: Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback and support throughout the story my darlings! I hope you enjoy the epilogue as well, ILYSM! ❤️

Warnings: Regency era society and social rules, some gender specific language and terms, mentions of sex.

Thank you to @theskytraveler for helping me with the story and the chapter!

Series Masterlist

3 YEARS LATER

“And this flower right here is called a mock orange, any idea why?”

The cheerful babbling was the only answer you got and you felt yourself smiling wide, turning to look at her better. Camellia was the cutest baby you’d ever seen and you were pretty sure it wasn’t just because she was the most perfect combination of you and Benedict. The only person in your life that remembered you as a baby was Josie, and she swore up and down that she looked more like you than Benedict but you weren’t so sure.

“Very good!” you said. “Because it looks like an orange flower!”

Camellia clapped her hands excitedly, as if congratulating herself for guessing right, kicking her legs back and forth in her high chair, accidentally dropping one of the many pencils on the table in front of her but she didn’t even notice.

“And what about this one?”

“Fwo?”

“Flower, yes,” you said, nodding fervently and she gave you a huge grin. You went to pick her up from the chair and approached the table in the middle of the huge greenhouse.

 “This is your flower my sweet, see? Middlemist Red Camellia.”

She gasped when she heard her name. “Me!”

“Mm hm, the most beautiful and precious flower in the entire world!” you said, tickling her stomach while kissing her cheeks, making her happy giggles echo in the greenhouse. You fixed her hair, still smiling bright and took a look at the paper she was drawing on before, full of different colored squiggly lines.

“Perhaps your papa is right, you are to be a big artist,” you said as you walked to the glass door. “A painter like him hm?”

“Papa!”

“And your aunt Lottie says you will be a writer and your uncle Teddy says you’ll be a sculptor…” you said as you stepped out of the greenhouse into the huge garden, the sunlight falling upon you. You grabbed the little hat by the door and placed it upon Camellia’s head while she held onto you, playing with your necklace.

“So many ideas!” you told her as you passed by the winter garden, enjoying the chirping of the birds. A couple of butterflies flew by you, no doubt because you were very close to the butterfly garden and Camellia held her breath, pointing at the blue butterfly.

“Mama!”

“I can see that my love,” you said, pressing a kiss on her small chubby hand, and walked past the orangery. “They’re very beautiful, are they not?”

She nodded fervently, making grabby hand motions as if trying to call the butterflies to her.

“Anyway, as I was saying,” you said, still walking through the main garden. “They all think like that but do you want to know what I think?”

She nodded her head again, still listening to you very intently.

“I think you might just become the biggest botanist in the world,” you whispered. “I mean it only makes sense, no? You already know so many flowers!”

Camellia pointed at the pear tree and turned to you. “Mine? Mine?”

“Let’s get you one then,” you said with a small laugh, reaching up to grab and pick the pear off the branch. You dusted it off, then gave it to Camellia who made a happy cooing sound, trying to dig into it. You raised your head to look up at the house, a warmth spreading through you as your gaze fell upon the window of Benedict’s studio, then you turned to Camellia.

“Let’s go see papa, hm?” you asked her, then made your way to the house to enter the foyer. You hummed a song and climbed up the stairs, then put Camellia down when you entered the hallway leading to Benedict’s studio.

“Go ahead.”

“Papa?” Camellia called out, running as fast as her tiny legs allowed her, reminding you of a duck. She was still holding the pear tight in her fist, and you walked right behind her to make sure you would be able to catch her if she fell. “Papa!”

You let out a laugh as you heard Benedict’s footsteps and he stepped out of the studio, his jaw dropping as he saw her and he immediately leaned down to catch her before she could smash herself against his legs.

“Oh here’s my sweet!” he said as he hoisted her up into his arms, smothering her in kisses, making her giggle happily before he turned to you, that fond look crossing his eyes, a soft smile curling his lips.

“Hello my love.”

You smiled, and stood on your tiptoes to kiss him. “Hello to you too,” you said, letting out a small laugh as he stole another kiss from you. “I figured you needed a break or so.”

“And you were right,” he said, winking at you before turning to Camellia. “How is she always right, do you know?”

Camellia offered him the pear she was holding and Benedict gasped.

“For me?”

“More like it was for her but she’s willing to share,” you said and Benedict grinned.

“Come on,” he nodded in the direction of the studio and walked inside with Camellia in his arms, and you followed them.

“Don’t think I don’t know what you’re doing,” you sang in a teasing manner, pulling the hat off Camellia’s head and Benedict shot you a mischievous look.

“Mm, what am I doing?”

“You think you can turn her into an artist if she spends enough time here.”

“I can’t help if she’s naturally talented,” Benedict defended himself. “I mean have you seen her work?”

“The…the squiggly lines?”

“The squiggly lines!” Benedict nodded, rocking Camellia. “She’s a genius artist even as a one-year-old.”

“I still support my botanist theory.”

“Maybe she’ll be both?”

“As you can see my sweet, no high expectations whatsoever,” you told Camellia who was listening to both of you as if she could understand everything you were saying.

“You can be anything you want to be,” Benedict told her as she rested her head on his shoulder, yawning. “Including an artist. Just saying.”

You walked closer to the canvas to see that the background was almost done, and tilted your head.

“What’s this going to be?”

Benedict shot you a grin and pressed his lips on top of Camellia’s hair. You checked the clock on the wall, then rang the bell.

“That one is going to be her,” Benedict said, softly rocking her and you smiled.

“Aw,” you said gently, and walked to caress her soft cheek with your finger. “Did you hear that my sweet? Your own portrait?”

Camellia sucked on her thumb, her eyes closing slowly.

“Is she sleeping?” Benedict whispered and you nodded.

“She is,” you murmured, rubbing her back and turned your head when someone knocked on the door.

“Ma’am,” Paula said. “Mr. Bridgerton. Would you like me to take her for her nap?”

“That would be good Paula, thank you.”

She smiled and took Camellia from Benedict, careful not to wake her.

“I’ll be right there,” you told her and pressed a kiss on Camellia’s head before Paula walked out of the room with her. You turned to Benedict and he entwined his fingers with yours, pulling you into his arms.

“Hey,” you said as he buried his nose into your hair. “Is everything alright?”

“Mm hm, now that you’re here.”

You smiled softly and squeezed his arm. “Are you still tense about the gala?”

He heaved a sigh and you pulled back a little to look up at him.

“Ben, that painting got auctioned and sold in two minutes because everyone was outbidding each other,” you reminded him. “People are talking about you the same way you used to talk about Gordon, everyone agrees that you’re a genius artist, the whole ton—”

“Yeah but it’s different,” he mumbled. “Tonight, it’s only friends and family.”

“Shouldn’t that be comforting?”

“Technically yes but…” he trailed off and shook his head slightly. “Never mind.”

You cupped his cheek, raising your brows. “Tell me.”

“It’s easier when it’s just strangers,” he said with a small chuckle. “Museum owners and Academy directors and such. It’s different when it’s family and friends, and I’d hate it if they thought all those other people exaggerated—”

“Everyone in the Academy and countless artists and museum owners who were on the verge of a fight to get your painting, they all exaggerated?” you asked with a small smile. “All of those people at the same time?”

Benedict thought for a moment. “When you say it like that…”

You let out a laugh and stood on your tiptoes to brush your lips against his, and he heaved a sigh when you pulled back, resting his forehead against yours, his fingers caressing the sensitive skin of your neck.

“Tonight is going to be amazing,” you assured him. “I promise you.”

He shot you a mischievous grin, then leaned down hoisted you up into his arms, making you squeal.

“Benedict!”

“There’s no harm in starting the amazing night a bit early,” he said as he carried you to the sofa and you let out a laugh.

“Scandalous behavior!” you joked and he winked at you, then leaned in to kiss you.

                                                *

Of course the night of the gala went perfectly, as you knew it would. Both your family and Benedict’s had been so excited and were very proud of him, and you could see it melted away the last insecurity that had been gnawing at him before tonight.

His speech that he dedicated the painting -and his inspiration- to you was enough to bring tears into your eyes but you managed to hide it by burying your face into his arm, earning an “aww” from the crowd. After the speech, people scattered along in the gallery to talk to each other, and if you said so yourself, everyone seemed to be having fun. Benedict was talking to Gordon, Henry, Margery and Lucy by the corner, Anthony and Lottie looked like they were in their own world while Colin kept whispering things to Penelope’s ear, making her giggle. Eloise seemed to be in a deep conversation with Simon while Daphne watched them with a small smile, and you smiled at Lady Bridgerton and Lady Danbury as Teddy wheezed past you.

“Teddy don’t run!” you called out and he stopped for a moment.

“But I’m being very careful!” he assured you and returned to chasing Hyacinth and Gregory. Your aunt held up her hands, gesturing surrender as she gave him a fond look and your uncle chuckled.

“If he changes his mind about being a sculptor…”

“He can become a professional runner,” you joked and turned to Josie and Bess.

“So yes, we’re going to Paris before the season,” you told them. “Around like a month before, if I’m not mistaken.”

“Andrew will give you a list of things to bring from there, just so you know,” Bess said said and you let out a laugh.

“I’m alright with that. Wait, where is he anyway?”

Josie cleared her throat. “I think he and Felix are in the orangery—”

“The moon garden, my love,” Bess corrected her and you raised your brows, stifling a laugh.

“Of course they are,” you muttered and heard someone calling your name. You turned your head to see who it was, then made your way to Lottie and Anthony.

“Hello you two.”

“Y/N,” she said with a huge smile, still holding Anthony’s hand. “We already said goodnight to Benedict, we didn’t want to leave before saying goodnight to you.”

You tilted your head. “You’re leaving already?” you asked. “Is everything alright? Is Edmund—”

“Oh Edmund is fine!” she assured you quickly and Anthony nodded.

“He’s probably asleep already.”

“It’s just—I tire very easily nowadays,” Lottie said, making you pull your brows together. Anthony and Lottie exchanged smiles and Lottie bounced on the balls of her feet in an excited manner, making your frown deepen for a moment before the thought dawned on you and your jaw dropped.

“Are you serious?!” you whispered and Lottie giggled, nodding fervently.

“You’re the first to know,” she whispered and you let out a laugh, then pulled her into a hug.

“Congratulations!”

“Thank you!”

“To both of you obviously—” you said with a laugh, then hugged Anthony as well, making him chuckle as he hugged you back.

“We haven’t told Benedict yet,” he told you as you pulled back. “You know with the gala and everything.”

“Oh he will be very happy for you!” you said and Lottie bit on her lip.

“I wish to be the one to tell him if that’s alright.”

“Absolutely!” you said, waving your hands. “Go on then, go home and rest. I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“You’d better,” Lottie joked and squeezed your hand, then they both walked out of the gallery. You looked around, then took a step towards Eloise but someone touched the small of your back, making you look up.

“Well if it isn’t the genius artist,” you teased Benedict and he shot you a happy grin.

“Come with me?”

“As long as we’re not going to the moon garden because if I walk in on them again…” you muttered and he tilted his head.

“Hm?”

“Nothing,” you said and let him pull you out of the gallery. You both passed through the foyer and he led you outside, still holding your hand.

“Ben, where are we going?” you asked with a laugh and he stopped by the main garden, moonlight falling upon you both, showering the gardens in silver. Even though it was the thousandth time you were seeing this gorgeous view, it still managed to take your breath away.

Speaking of things that managed to take your breath away…

You looked up at Benedict, his handsome face under the moonlight, your heart skipping a beat before you giggled.

“Are we sneaking out of your own gala then?”

Benedict shot you a mischievous smile, then shook his head.

“No I merely…I wanted a moment with you,” he said. “Just you.”

You bit down on your lip as he pulled you closer, his fingers stroking over your hair. Your eyes fluttered close when he brushed his lips against yours and you smiled into the kiss, grazing your nails over the nape of his neck, making him heave a sigh.

“Congratulations Mr. Bridgerton,” you whispered. “Your gala seems to be a success.”

He smiled softly, pressing his lips on your temple. “Seems to be, Mrs. Bridgerton.”

You hummed. “Is it too early to say I told you so?”

He chuckled. “I don’t think so.”

“Well then, I told you so,” you said, sticking your nose up in the air. “And you should listen to me all the time because to be honest, so far I’ve—”

“I love you,” he said, and your eyes snapped up to his, a smile warming your face. You let out a giggle and pulled him down so that you could kiss him.

“I love you too,” you whispered and entwined your fingers with his, then took a step towards the house.

“Come on,” you said. “It is your gala my love. Let’s go and enjoy it.”

The End.

[thatlongspringnight]

A Moment of Jealousy

Pairing: Jung Hoseok/female reader

Rating: M for mature

Genre:  Historical au, Regency era

Warnings: Smut, rough sex, dirty talk, foul language, a ring goes in a place rings shouldn't go, outdoor sex, jealousy

Summary:

Seeing another woman even dare to touch him sets you ablaze, but luckily, Hoseok is always there to quench that fire.

Word Count: 1667

Tagging: @xjoonchildx @hobi-gif @miscelunaaa @vintageroses10 @wwilloww @vyduan @minisugakoobies @augustbutwinter @sahmfanficbts @hamsterclaw @starlostjimin

“You’re a lout!” It's almost shrill…actually, no, it is shrill - tearing from your lips as you walk down the hall, clutching tightly at the skirt of your riding habit as your feet carry you into the garden.

You’re making a scene, happily dragging the servants into this, even happier to drag your husband’s *noble* friends into it as well. “You’re a rake, I should have never let you have me!” and then he’s behind you, not even bothering to respond to you in kind - his cold fury only serving to make you boil, a teapot hissing in simmering rage. 

He must think he’s better than you - he does think it, you know it, and that’s why Hoseok has always driven you mad.

Mad with fury, mad with lust.

Now you’re just mad - 

 “Nothing but a rake.”It's more of a grumble, and only for your own ears this time, as the stableman - expecting the both of you for an afternoon ride, seems surprised to see only you.

Yes of course, no doubt Hoseok had stayed behind, more inclined to calm his surprised sycophants than come after you, even if that is all you want.

All you want is for him to choose you, for his eyes to find your own…and only your own. Is that so much to ask? That the man who married you covet you and you alone? 

“Ah - my lady where is - “ “My lord husband can surely ride his horse on his own time.” You snap. “Or perhaps his whores, I care not either way.” and then you are hoisting yourself up, cursing the side-saddle that would have been lovely on a leisurely stroll, gripping at the pommel with your thighs for some semblance of balance and control. 

The comment is cruel, and truly, likely false. Hoseok - even if his eyes had shined today - at that simpering little fool who had the audacity to bat her eyes at him, to giggle, to place her hand on his arm - 

“My lady, I really insist - “ “Truly, you can insist your way to the seventh hell, Taehyung.” And your horse, handsome gelding he is, is quick to respond to your cue to go, and then go faster at your insistence. 

God in heaven, how you loathe the feelings swirling in your chest, the feeling of inadequacy that builds in your chest at the idea he’d dare to glance at someone else. How his eyes could ever darken in a way you recognize from when they fall onto you. 

Fucker - Heartless bastard. The fast trot of your horse sets your fiery blood nearly to ash. How dare he - 

The more you ride, the angrier you get, your heart set on the one place that can give you peace, that damned grove where he had first asked you.

“Dammit!” and there is a call in the air, just loud enough you can hear it, and it drives you forward. “If you don’t - !” You can’t hear the rest but you can imagine it - Hoseok - on his horse…yelling into the wind.

Yelling for you - 

You stall your gelding, quick to murmur a soft stay as you toss his reins over a tree branch, letting your feet carry you.

Just because you want him to catch you doesn’t mean you have to make it easy. And…you do want him to catch you, of course, feeling giddy as you dash into the woods, uncaring of the way the tree branches catch you, or the way your too-fussy hairstyle begins to unravel.

All you care about is the heat under your skin, the burning excitement as you hear his curses, as he calls for you, the feeling of anger so akin to the feeling of longing you aren’t even sure what dominates you -

“Got you - !” and his arm shoots out, around your waist before you can even protest, and protest you do, a squeal on your lips as he all but shoves you into the trunk of a tree. “Don’t you dare even move.” And when you meet his eyes, they’re burning, as searing as his grip on your wrists, holding you more than still. 

“Surprised you even noticed I left.” You answer, feeling the heat of his breath, watching the way his chest rises and falls as he pants from exertion. “You seemed content enough just to be petted and praised -” “My God woman, your jealousy will end us both.” Hoseok grits through his teeth, shifting a hand to your neck, then gripping at your bun, more than eager to tear it down, sending your hair cascading. 

Well - as best it can with his grip on it, wound ‘round his palm, as he tugs roughly enough that you whine, head tilting up. “You made me look like a fool.” “You are a fool.” You answer, hoping to goad him into more, and you can see the way his eyes narrow, how his jaw tightens. Now, the anger has shifted, boiling turned to simmer, the heat warming you till you want to melt under his grip, sting turned to honey. “And a dandy.”

“And you are a parrot, all screech and no teeth.” He counters, and God does he paint a portrait - his grip so firm, his black riding coat cut to fit his form like a fine glove. 

Everything about him screams power, the sinews of his lean form as obvious as the way he’s looking at you. Fond and furious. “You made a scene, you shamed us both.” And his face is close now, so close your noses almost touch as he presses you harder against the tree trunk. “People talk.” “Let them talk about how mad I am, then perhaps they’ll stop sending their daughters to pine over you, Hoseok.” You’re prim enough that he laughs, a darkened chuckle. 

That laugh, so airy when in the company he liked to keep, is even better now, dripping from his lips like a threat. It's so rare that he shows himself as he truly is. Not the sun in the sky, but a raging forest fire - the type of brightness that could swallow you whole, incinerate your very being. 

“That is what you want?” And it's the drop of his head against your skin, the graze of his teeth against your jaw. “You want me to show you your place? At the head of the line of pining women, first to throw yourself at me?” “I am your wife - “ but it's cut off, his mouth hot against yours, silencing you, finally. 

“My wife, my ill behaved creature.” He hums. “My jealous, jealous girl.” and he is hiking up your skirts. “Where is your place? If not on my cock.” And that is enough, your hands meeting his as you snatch your skirts higher, legs already parting at his hand sliding up your thighs, meeting your cunt with those damned fingers of his.

HIs fingers slide into you like a sword to a sheath, and you gasp. There is a coldness, a fullness towards the end as you realize he is still wearing his signet ring. If you still your muddled thoughts, and your aching body, you imagine you can almost feel the outline of the crest emblazoned on it.

The ancient crane motif of his family, now your own. 

“I won’t have to do much work.” He is sly, his tone almost teasing in its dryness. “You’re more than ready.” “Then don’t put in the work - spear me already.” You answer, far too heated to even care for his fingers inside of you- delicious though they are .

“You’re no better than a courtesan.” He answers, but his breeches are undone before you can even fathom it.

His cock, glistening, the darkened skin drawing a shudder of ache around the fingers he still has buried inside of you.

“Fuck.” He curses, and now you’re empty, his hand slick with you as he pulls your leg up, as he sinks into you.

No more pretense. Finally. “Fuck, you feel -” And he grunts, tilting your body till your feet are struggling to maintain their footing, till he’s the only thing keeping you up, the bark digging into your back every time he thrusts into you.

“Y-You’re going to rip my dress.” You are clutching at him, your fingers digging into the fine material of his riding jacket. “You - I will have to walk back half naked.” “Good - that is what you deserve for the scene you made, walking back half naked.” He means it too, and there is a piece of you that wishes he’d make due on that promise, and tear your dress down the seam. 

Make it clear to everyone what he had done- how he had gladly taken you. How he’s fucking you, right now, each thrust of his strong hips making you whine and whimper. 

You love it when he fucks you like this, when he is rough, like the tree behind you, making you beg for him, and beg for more. “Don’t you think they can hear you back at the manor?” He asks. “Don’t you feel even an ounce of shame for how loud you are?”

“None.” and you truly ARE shameless in how you call out for him, his name echoing loud enough to frighten even the birds into calling. “You did not marry me for my shame, husband.” And that seems to break the solid sort of scolding he’s been giving you, a sly grin breaking through as his mouth finds yours, almost like he’s trying to stop you from noticing it at all. 

But you let him distract you, let him have you till you’re quaking, trembling in the aftermath of your want for him, till he’s filled you to bursting, a satisfied sound on his lips, satiated with you, with how you took him.

“Perhaps.” and it's said with no small measure of pleasure. “I should take you in the parlor next, in front of those women you despise so much, hm?” 

[wigglebox]

High Time for a Romantic Adventure

Written by @seidenapfel | Illustrated by @wigglebox

SPN Regency Big Bang 2023 @spnregencybb

Rating: E | Words: 12,301 | Tags: Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Post-Episode AU: s15e18 Despair (Supernatural), the finale never happened, Time Travel, Case Fic (if you squint), Regency, Angel Wings, Love Confessions, Fluff, Fluff and Angst, Fluff and Smut, Wing Kink, Anal Sex, Bottom Castiel/Top Dean Winchester, Topping from the Bottom, Fix-It, Minor Eileen Leahy/Sam Winchester, Castiel and Dean Winchester Use Their Words, POV Dean Winchester

Summary:

Yanked to 1814 England, Sam, Dean and Cas have no idea how or why they ended up there. While they try to solve the mystery of their time travel to Jane Austen Land, a body lands in front of their feet. Ghosts, demons — nothing seems to add up when some old friends appear. But Dean and Cas barely pay attention. After all, there’s an unresolved confession to deal with, and the setting is undoubtedly very romantic.

Read the full story on AO3!

Artist note:

This was a delightful read and like the summary said, a perfect setting to address those feelings we got from 15x18! I recommend this story if you want that post “Despair” conversation in a wonderful setting! It was a joy to illustrate for this fic and I hope you enjoy it!

[kay-elle-cee]

In Search of Something More || Read Chapter 1 on Ao3 A Jily Regency AU || 5.7K Words || Rated M || Playlist

In the sunlit garden of her sister’s home, Lord Potter had promised Lily a life of her own design, with minimal expectations—her presence at community events, companionship, and an heir. As the two stumble into the routine of marriage and work to make a life together at Stinchcombe Hall, unsolicited feelings provoke each to start wondering if this is merely a marriage…or if it could be something more.

A continuation of this Jilytober entry.

Chapter 1: Man and Wife

“Lily, please hear me when I say that you don’t owe me anything at all. What I said in the garden that day of our first meeting, it wasn’t just words, or some sort of ploy. I proposed the marriage because it seemed unconscionable to not.” Lily glances at him quickly before averting her gaze out the window once more, and he watches as the flush on her neck and cheeks deepen. “Then it appears as though I’ve married an uncommonly kind man.” It’s James’ turn to flush now, and he feels the heat in his cheeks as her assessment of his character. It strokes his ego in only the way a compliment from a pretty woman can, and he loses the battle of appearing collected as he runs a hand through his hair. The motion draws her eyes to him once more. “Not uncommonly kind,” he fights half-heartedly with a smile. His chest warms when the corners of her lips pull up to match.

[aylasrants]

100 thoughts

Benedict Bridgerton is 762 000 of them

[hargreevesd]

Broken Daffodils

Summary: "there is nothing more truly artistic than to love others" -Vincent Van Gogh

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x Reader

Tropes: secret identity, oblivious to love, "unrequited" love, same person opposite gender (slow burn)

Prologue

Living in Greece during the 19th century was definitely not fun. Since Y/N couldn't stand the slavery of her country no more, she left for the bright England, leaving her mother. She was fascinating about England, this Great Kingdom, the Regency Era. But that was not really the reason she left.

When her father was alive, he was an artist. A talented artist. He taught her everything he knew and apparently Y/N became one of the greatest talents her country had, after working alone since her father died. Signed with a fake male name, her artworks sold enough money for her to leave, searching for a better country to make the money that would make her independent. She remembers telling her father before he passed that she was excited to meet the love of her life, her alter ego, to live the love her parents had but that was something she left behind. She gave a promise to her mother that she will never marry, she wouldn't break her own heart like that, it was suicide.

Her aunt was the best thing that happened to her. So full of life, her auntie did not hesitate a single moment from treating her like a princess, like a famous painter. Same thing goes for her uncle. They both see her as a young Lady ready for this world, ready to stand on her feet. Her cousin Dorothea, just 2 years younger than her, is now her bestfriend and the younger sister she never had. The Theo's were indeed a happy family before and after Y/N's arrival. In a weeks Dorothea would make her debut in English society and Mrs Theo thought it would be fun for Y/N to join her cousin, but she immediately disagreed. Instead she promised her, she would take care of her cousin and would be at her side for as long as Dorothea wanted. Meanwhile she would work on her paintings and study. Not wanting to press her Mrs Theo accepted her choice.

"Why not Y/N? Maybe you will find your person! You may make friends, you will meet people!"

"Sorry, Little one but I do not believe in things like love and plus I already have friends; You! I do not need a high society mother to bother me with the responsibilities of her daughters and how they are the perfect girls while I am not as I do not look like I am from here. "

"Y/N, what are those words? Why do you think of that?" Dorothea said and grabbed her hands and put them in her chest. "You are the best person I have ever met. No one would ever say that! But really... Do you indeed not believe in love or you just do not want to? Is weird for an artist to say those words."

"I am an artist, not a poet and especially not a man. I can not have what I want because that's how it goes. Thank you Little one for taking care of me but do not worry about me. I will be by your side" she seemed to avoid her question but still, this is all she could tell her.

Dorothea's face seemed disappointed but she gave her a small smile "Alright, I understand. But you will attend the Balls! I command you Lady Theo!"

"Oh please Lord Theo do not punish me, I will follow you to your foolish Balls!" and they both started laughing as they left the house to go to the modiste for Dorothea's dress for next week.

A/N: I hope you like the prologue of this series, tell me your opinion! Part One is soon to be posted <3

[nerdherderette]

WIP Wednesday

Tagged by the lovely @dear-massacre. It's been a while since I've done this, mostly because I've been doing anon fests for the past two years, but I'm excited to have something to share! It's a snippet from my Regency Historical FTH 2023 ( 😬) fic for @elisela (first chapter goes up next week):

Despite his irritation, a small smile broke across Derek's face. He would always have a soft spot for his baby sister. "While the rest of the incomparables are busy choosing their gowns for the next season, Cora prefers to spend her time at Manton's shooting gallery on Davis. She has it in her head that she wants to join the Royal Navy in its efforts against Napoleon." Derek shook his head. "She is so young, however. Too much so." "Even the smallest wolf has claws and fangs." "And she is, unfortunately, of a single mind. Which is why she doesn't mind throwing me to the wolves if it serves her purpose. I have no doubt Cora would relish having me steal our parents' attention and disapproval should I return." "Surely there are some things from home you miss." Jordan's eyes widened, and he grinned smugly. "What was that look? I'm right, aren't I?" "It's…" Derek turned away from Jordan's expectant gaze. He wasn't sure why he had thought of Stiles just then. He hadn't seen the boy since Laura's wedding. Constable Stilinski's son must have been sixteen—perhaps seventeen, at the most—and the movement of his limbs could not seem to catch up with his sudden growth spurt. "I was thinking about someone who lived near my aunt. He was exceptionally bright, if a bit odd. He was closer to Cora's age, although he seemed to enjoy my company." A wave of guilt flooded Derek as he remembered receiving Stiles' letter. He had not been in a good place at the time, and after reading the excited, hopeful words of a mere child, had thrown it away without responding. "I haven't seen him in years. It is for the best; any bit of hero worship he still may have held for me would surely have been destroyed by this point." "You say your family disapproves of your choices. Yet they all wish you home. I think the only person who can't forgive you for your mistakes is yourself." Derek gripped the armrest of his chair. Jordan was one of the few people in his life who knew the story. Unfortunately, his own family did as well. "There are some mistakes one can't return from."

Tagging @magpiefngrl @sugareey-makes-stuff @wolfspurr @pkrosche @lqtraintracks @brightowl-fics @dragonflies-draw-flame @rosieposiepuddingnpie @greyhavenisback @halehathnofury (only if you want to!❤️)

[transalphabf]

As a rare, treasured, Omega male, you were raised with the knowledge that one day you would be mated to the highest bidder, to someone important, and as a result you were always taught the highest of society manners, used to soft fabrics on your skin, fine linen shirts and luxurious silk scarves, soft leather gloves and high quality woolen coats.

You only wanted to make a match with an Alpha who would take good care of you, regardless of his high standing in society.

When the first suitor came to your parents London home, you could feel the ton stirring with excitement. But he looked at you like a piece of meat. You couldn’t refuse though, it would be social suicide. You obligingly went to society balls with him, played cards, idly flittered about like a mindless little thing, like they expected you to be. Even though it made you want to rage against the confines of this pretty gilded cage. When you went to get air, the Alpha who was courting you joined you on the balcony, and his breath stank of alcohol. It was a little nauseating, and you’d not been left alone enough with drunk Alphas before.

When he tried to touch your neck, your neck- You startled away, hand pressed to your chest in shock, and he let out an annoyed growl. You stepped backwards, towards the glass doors, unable to face away from him lest he pounce when your back was turned, when he let out another growl, trying to command you to stay put.

The answering growl from right behind you had you nearly faint. The Alpha behind you was gentleman enough to avoid touching you as he moved in front of you, teeth bared at your former suitor.

“You do yourself and your family a disservice, Milford. Best you hurry on home and explain why you tried to violate an Omega’s personal and private space in the middle of dinner.” He snarled, voice loud enough to carry back into the room, where dukes and marquesses peered in keen interest out into the darkness of the night.

“I- Why I- This is all your fault! You should have let me have what is mine.” He snarled, pointing a finger at you, making you shy away, heat rising in your cheeks.

“Well I never.” “What a vile young man.” “Best he join the army, there’ll be not a family who would let him near their Omegas.” 

The crowd were certainly disgusted with him, and the Alpha protecting you simply let out another deep growl, causing you to back up further into the room, where one of the Omega dowagers took your hand, guiding you into a more sheltered tea room where other Omegas fretted and primped and preened over the drama and romance of it all. You were shaken, carefully taking the tea that was offered to you.

After ten minutes, one of the younger Beta girls came hurrying into the room, eyes alight with excitement.

“You won’t believe it! Sir Milford was thrown out of the dinner by his grace the Duke of Donn! And now the Duke is coming back upstairs- we think he wants to speak with you!” She chirped, taking your hand with delight.

You blink, before realising that a duke was coming to see you. A startled noise leaves you as you quickly stand and make yourself presentable.

A gentle knock on the door had everyone whispering with excitement, yourself and the four other Omegas and three Beta girls all falling quiet as you opened the door to the Alpha.

“Forgive my impudence earlier, in coming to your rescue without your requesting it. I am Lord Sigtryggr, Duke of Donn, third cousin four times removed from the king. May I have the honour of knowing your name?”

Without even realising your brain had given your mouth permission to speak, you’d told him your name, and title. Being the son of a minor earl wasn’t the worst fate, but you knew you were hardly the highest ranking in his encounters. He bowed, all the same, and took your hand to kiss.

You felt a noise leave your throat, a soft little purr, and all the girls cooed, the Omega dowager making a noise in her throat akin to a laugh, and the duke straightened up.

“Mother, there is no need to laugh.” He scolded the dowager, who responded by shooting a glare his way. He couldn’t look away from you though, and you were sure that before the end of the season, he would be yours.

[satyrykal]

HE WALKS IN BEAUTY LIKE THE NIGHT

Chapter 7 - For [He] Had Eyes (and Choose Me)

For the next week, all anyone could talk about was the sudden and abrupt return of the marchionesses’ only son. The town was beside itself noting how tall Lord Yarmouth was, how distinguished his features and how handsome he had become. The ladies complimented his fashionable manners and the gentlemen had gone to the tailors in droves—eager to replicate his smart dress and modern cravat.

Viktor had returned ornamented by war and refined through his time abroad—something their little corner of England rarely experienced outside of merchants like Ser Okukawa. He was a novelty. Society clamoured to renew their acquaintance with him as they had with his mothers years ago.

Afterall, it was a truth universally acknowledged that a single alpha in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a mate, and Lord Yarmouth had both wealth and prestige in spades.

It was with that in mind that half the ton set their caps at him. All except Yuuri.

Privately, the omega found all these would-be spouses lacking, though he supposed that made them as incompatible with the earl as he was.

He could not fault their wanting.

[tiffanytoms]

Hi, Tiffany! Have you ever considered writing regency Jily? I was just wondering after running into a Delena Miss Mystic Falls dance gif, and thought of the steam 🔥 that could be pulled out of the forbidden-ness of it.

Btw, I hope I'm not spamming you but I kept getting an error message when trying to Ask 🤡

Haha, only got this ask once! You’re good 😌

And ughhhhhhhhh, you know just how to get to me with that one. I feel like I know EXACTLY the moment you’re talking about too!!!

Oh boy. You’ve inceptioned me.

Alas, I have considered an old-timey story, but I’m the first to admit that I’m no history buff, so anything I write would be wildly inaccurate… but we’re all here for the tawdry forbidden romance anyway, eh?

We shall see. We shall see. 🤔

[dreamwritesimagines]

Garden of Secrets [42] - Clover

A.N: The final chapter before the epilogue! ❤️ Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback and support throughout the story my loves! I wouldn't be able to write this without you, I love you so much ❤️ You're amazing! 🥰❤️

Summary: Happiness finds its way.

Warnings: Regency era society and social rules, some gender specific language and terms, mentions of sex.

Word Count: 2600

Thank you to @theskytraveler for helping me with the story and the chapter!

Series Masterlist

You hadn’t seen it coming but you were very much looking forward to get to the country house.

Lottie and Anthony were already in Aubrey Hall on their honeymoon, and the rest of the ton were getting ready to go back to the countryside since this year’s social season had come to an end. You and Benedict would be going to Benedict’s house—your house, as he would remind you whenever you mentioned it— before the weekend and the rest of the Bridgertons would be back in Aubrey Hall probably a day or two later.

But until then, you were planning on enjoying London, and the good news you were currently holding in your hand, even though Benedict still had doubts.

“I think it says no,” he said, pacing in the drawing room of the Bridgerton House while you turned the envelope in your hand, and Eloise narrowed her eyes.

“You do realize everyone in this room knows you got in, right?”

“We don’t know that.”

“We do know that,” you pointed out and Lady Bridgerton smiled.

“Benedict…”

“It’s the Academy,” Benedict insisted. “The Academy.”

“Yeah it says so,” you held up the envelope. “On the back of it. I can read.”

“Y/N, just open it—”

“Don’t open it.”

You crossed your legs, fanning yourself with the envelope and exchanged grins with Colin.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this tense before,” Colin stated and Benedict threw his hands up.

“Oh you know, just my lifelong dream and the future of my career,” he said. “What’s there to be tense about, Colin?”

“He can be very sarcastic when he’s tense,” you told Eloise who nodded.

“You should have seen him when Whistledown wrote about him and other ladies while he was trying to court you.”

“Eloise!”

“What? Just saying.”

You let out a laugh. “Fun times.”

“Give me the letter,” Colin motioned at you and Benedict shook his head.

“No, Y/N should do it,” he said. “If I’m getting rejected, I’ll at least feel better if the love of my life reads it out loud first.”

You smiled at him, tilting your head.

“You aren’t getting rejected love.”

A soft look dawned on his face and Eloise groaned.

“I think we should just see what it says and then celebrate before going back to Kent,” she said. “Because I want to tell Anthony myself that he missed the celebration.”

Colin nodded. “Good idea.”

“Alright,” you said and stood up, breaking the wax seal on the envelope as Benedict let out a small whine, his brows furrowed together as if he was waiting to get shot right there. You heaved a sigh and unfolded the letter, your eyes skimming the lines while you tried to keep your face straight.

“What?” Benedict said, the rest of the room completely silent. “What did they say?”

“Um,” you pressed your lips together. “Ben, I’m sorry…”

“They rejected me,” Benedict said breathlessly and ran a hand through his hair, “Okay. Well I—”

“No I’m sorry because we’ll have to cut the whole honeymoon in Rome short,” you said, holding up the letter with a huge grin on your face. “Apparently the semester starts three weeks before the next social season.”

“What?”

“And since they cannot wait to have you among them,” you read out loud. “We’re going to have to come back earlier.”

“Oh my God!” Benedict exclaimed and the whole room exploded into a chaos. Benedict pulled you into his arms, hugging you and lifting you up before putting you down and you let out a laugh as Eloise threw herself at him to hug him. Lady Bridgerton came to hug Benedict as well and Colin slapped him on the back in a supporting matter.

“I told you!”

“Congratulations Benedict!”

“I don’t believe this…” Benedict murmured, getting the letter from you. You threw an arm over Eloise’s shoulder while Benedict’s eyes skimmed the lines.

“I hate to say I told you so but…”

“We all told you so,” Eloise said and Benedict let out a breath, then lowered the letter again.

“One moment,” he said, then grabbed you by the wrist and pulled you out of the drawing room into the nearest room, which turned out to be the music room. You let out a giggle as he closed the door behind you.

“What are you doing?”

He held up the letter, grinning wide. “I actually got in.”

“You did,” you said with a huge smile. “I knew you would, never doubted it for a second.”

“I just—I can’t believe it…” he whispered. “I’m going to be attending the Academy. Do you realize what it means? They think I have the talent.”

“Because you do have the talent,” you told him. “I’m so, so proud of you Ben.”

His smile widened before he wrapped his arms around your waist, pulling you closer to kiss you on the lips.

“Thank you,” he murmured and you pulled your brows together, looking up at him.

“For what?” you asked with a laugh. “I didn’t do anything.”

“No, you—” he trailed off. “You’ve done much more than you could possibly imagine. Without you, this wouldn’t have…none of this would have happened. None.”

You hummed and stood up on your tiptoes to peck him on the lips.

“Well, that’s good,” you said, a smug smile curling your lips. “Then you’d better remember to thank me on your first gala, Mr. Bridgerton. I want a full speech.”

                                                *

The following days went in a rush, both because of Benedict’s news and the fact that everyone was fully focused on the upcoming trip back to Kent. You had visited your aunt and uncle for afternoon tea and after there, you had decided you could pay a visit to Josie.

But as soon as you walked through the front gate into the garden, you came across a very pleasant surprise.

“Well what do we have here?” you asked as you approached Felix and Andrew sitting under the tree, Andrew seemingly engrossed in his book while Felix sketched, and both their heads shot up when they heard your voice.

“Oh hello there!” Felix said, jumping on his feet to hug you and you hugged him back.

“Hello to you too. And you Andrew.”

“Good afternoon love.”

“Is Josie home?” you asked and Andrew nodded.

“Inside with Bess and Teddy, they’re deciding what to take with us before the trip back home,” he paused for a moment. “Well, other home.”

“And you’re here enjoying the sunshine with your lover while he’s working?” you teased him, winking at Felix and Andrew gasped.

“How dare you? I am working as well, you know?”

“Doing what?”

“Inspiring him,” he said, making Felix chuckle and reach out to squeeze his hand.

“He is working really hard,” he told you. “Speaking of, is it true? Benedict got accepted into Academy?”

“Oh yeah.”

“That’s wonderful!”

“Oh congratulations!”

“I’ll make sure to tell him,” you said. “Thank you.”

“And is everything alright between you two?” Felix asked, making you tilt your head.

“Sure, why?”

“I thought the only reason why he decided to wait to apply next year was because you asked him to?”

Oh, you had forgotten about that lie.

“Right!” you said, snapping your fingers. “Yeah, we talked about it, everything is more than alright. I couldn’t be happier for him, really.”

“I’ve always known he would get in, we all did,” Felix said and you patted his arm.

“Your time will come, Felix.”

“It definitely will,” Andrew said and Felix heaved a sigh, then shrugged his shoulders.

“I don’t know about that.”

“I do,” you and Andrew said at the same time and Felix smiled at you both.

“You two are the best.”

“Just foresighted,” you said airily and turned to look at the house. “I’d better go see them, you two aren’t going anywhere, right?”

“No, I’m working as you can see,” Andrew said, making you chuckle.

“Wonderful, I’ll be back,” you said and made your way to the house. You could already hear Teddy’s cheerful voice that always made you smile and you climbed up the stairs, following the voices.

“Y/N!” Teddy exclaimed when he saw you by the door, and flung himself at you. You hugged him tight, then turned to look at Josie and Bess.

“I was told you two were deciding what to take with you to the other house.”

“We were, but we took a break,” Bess came to kiss you on the cheek. “Because someone got bored.”

“I’m not bored, I’m tired,” Josie defended herself. “Deciding on things can take its toll on you, ask Y/N.”

“It does not,” you said and sat down on the sofa, Teddy coming to sit right beside you, hugging you sideways. You pressed a kiss on top of his hair.

“How about you? We’re taking all your sculptures with us, no?”

“All of them yes!” he said. “And my pony as well.”

“Mm, of course.”

“And will I have a room in your other house as well?” he asked and you nodded your head.

“Oh absolutely,” you said. “And Benedict was talking about making you an art room as well, so you will have to decide on two rooms.”

Teddy’s eyes widened and he turned to Josie and Bess.

“Did you hear that? I’ll have two rooms!”

“We’ll have to match those two rooms with two of our own so that you’ll come and stay with us as well Teddy,” Bess said and Josie chuckled.

“Not above bribery, as you can tell.”

“Oh I’ll show you one of my new sculptures, wait here!” Teddy said, excitement laced in his tone and he ran out of the room. You leaned back on the sofa.

“Uncle and Auntie say hello, by the way,” you said. “We’re all invited for dinner on Thursday.”

“That works for me,” Josie said. “What time were you leaving for Kent again?”

“Friday,” you said. “We will stay there for around a month before we leave for Rome.”

“Oh the Rome honeymoon, I almost forgot!” Bess said, pressing a hand over her chest. “Are you very excited?”

“I am,” you said. “We had to accelerate the plans because we will also come back here earlier than the rest of you next season, with Benedict attending Academy.”

“And how does it feel to be married to the future big artist?” Josie asked with a grin and you let out a laugh.

“Pretty good if I say so myself,” you mused and Bess poked Josie on the leg.

“See? Told you,” she said. “I’ve told you from the first day that she was in fact in love, just in denial as well.”

“We’re not talking about that, because I’m also in denial about you always being right,” you pointed out and Josie laughed.

“Make your peace with it, I have.”

 You held up your hands, gesturing surrender.

“I think you will love Rome,” Bess said. “Very romantic.”

“Almost too romantic for you,” Josie teased you and you let out a small laugh, then shrugged your shoulders.

“I don’t know,” you muttered with a small grin. “That whole romance thing…I’m starting to like it.”

                                               *

To be honest, you had heard many good things about Benedict’s house but this?

This was something you hadn’t imagined.

Friday afternoon was absolutely chaotic for you and for everyone else, and by the time you got to Kent, it was already night. After a very quick introduction to the house staff, Benedict had basically dragged you to what turned out to be your shared bedroom, and—

Well.

You had been rather occupied and distracted from exploring the house until the morning.

When Benedict had told you the house was called “My Cottage”, you had pictured something like a cottage as the name would suggest, but you were very much wrong. It was more of a villa than a cottage, but none of the cold and distant structure one would expect. The house itself was surrounded by so much green, and it made you feel already like—

Like you were home.

This right here was just where you belonged with Benedict all along.

“I have so many ideas already,” you told Benedict, making him chuckle. After a very late breakfast, you could convince him to show you the grounds, and right now you were walking through the garden, with him holding your hand.

Well, garden was a big word for it but you were going to fix that very soon.

“By the way, I still cannot believe you just woke up and look at this place and thought ‘yes this counts as a garden’,” you couldn’t help but point out and Benedict pulled you closer to press a kiss on top of your hair.

“In my defense, I didn’t even think about any sort of garden.”

You gasped. “I’m going to pretend I didn’t hear that.”

“So right here will be the greenhouse,” he motioned at the empty space right across from the house. “I still must show you the drawings and plans and such, they’re somewhere at home.”

“I can’t wait!” you said, excitement rushing through you and Benedict smiled at you, a soft look etched on his handsome features.

“And the rest of it is…up to you really.”

You tilted your head. “The rest of it?”

“The rest of the grounds,” he motioned around all you, then let out a small laugh at the look of confusion on his face. “This is not the whole place darling, this is just the garden.”

You blinked a couple of times and looked around at the endless green around you.

“Oh,” you managed to say after a pause. “I just—I assumed…”

“I already had the house and the garden but bought the rest of it after we got married because I figured—” he paused. “So I have an idea.”

“I’m all ears.”

“I made some research, because you really like gardens,” he said. “And apparently there are all kinds of gardens.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well there’s the…for example, there’s a winter garden, I already knew about it because we also have it at Aubrey Hall,” he said. “There’s orangery, there’s the woodland garden, water garden, butterfly garden, fernery— there’s apparently even a moon garden, and the book said those were designed to be enjoyed at night because—”

“It’s full of fragrant flowers and flowers that blossom at night only,” you finished his sentence for him. “I’ve never seen that type of a garden before but I heard of it.”

He nodded fervently.

“So I was thinking maybe you’d want to have that. All of that.”

You gawked at him. “I’m sorry?”

“Whichever gardens you want to have, we can build those here,” he said. “That’s why I bought the whole…you know, the whole estate.”

“Because you thought I’d want to have multiple gardens,” you managed to say through shock and he nodded again.

“Yeah,” he said. “But I mean if you want to make it all a big garden, that’s also totally—”

He was cut off when you stood on your tiptoes and crashed your lips against his, wrapping your arms around his neck. He smiled into the kiss and heaved a pleasant sigh, cupping your cheek while resting his forehead against yours.

“I’m taking that as a yes?”

You blinked back the happy tears and bit down on your lip, taking a deep breath.

“You’re…” you trailed off and sniffled, “You’re amazing. How did you even think of this?”

“I’ve told you before darling,” he said with a soft smile, then pecked you on the lips again. “You’re the love of my life and I want you to be happy. Simple as that.”

 A smile curled your lips and you stole a kiss from him, warmth spreading from your chest to your whole body.

“And you’re the love of my life,” you whispered, happiness making you feel almost lightheaded. “In this life and beyond.”

Epilogue

[ladygi]

Emma Woodhouse

From the novel Emma by Jane Austen

[kay-elle-cee]

I'm sorry for my greed but any chance I can get a line from the regency fic

Hiya Maya! Thanks for the ask :) As promised, I've written a little bit on the Regency fic so I could give you a new snippet— I hope you enjoy!

Vernon’s eyes flicker to her, as if acknowledging her presence for the first time. “And I see you’ve met Miss Evans.” “Yes, I have.” Lord Potter's eyes find hers and she believes she identifies a sparkle of mirth in them. “We’ve had a pleasant conversation. I believe we have a few things in common.” Lily fights a laugh that threatens to escape as Vernon gestures for Lord Potter to accompany him back to the house. “Excellent. We’ve much to discuss, it seems. I can send for some brandy while we work out the specifics of the arrangement.” “Tea would be lovely,” Lord Potter acquiesces, turning to face Lily. “Until next time, Miss Evans,” he smiles, giving her a small, courteous bow before his attention drifts to somewhere behind her. “And thank you for your hospitality, Mrs. Dursley.”

Ask me about my WIPs!

[aylasrants]

not character ai giving me inspo for a benedict bridgerton one shot

i was supposed to never write on tumblr again but oh well, guess i have to now or else i won’t be able to sleep

[hargreevesd]

Broken Daffodils [1]

Summary: You are so art deco - Lana Del Rey

Chapter one

For some reason she did not have any motivation to draw that week. It was weird since she always had, even if it was 4 A.M. She tried many times to draw something, even a simple flower or a small house but she could not even draw a single line.

"Ah what is wrong with me!" she screamed and her maid came to her room scared.

"Oh I am so sorry for scarring you Betty, I am alright do not worry."

"It is okay miss, I am also here to inform you that your cousin has returned!"

"Really? Oh thank you so much Betty dear for telling me!" she immediately ran to the hall to find her cousin. The hall was painted by pastel colours, decorated with many different flowers, Y/N's and Dorothea's favorite ones. Next to the door was a huge gold mirror and exactly next to that were many shelves with books. Under the shelves was a comfortable chair that you could read and relax. Dorothea and her mother were sitting in the main sofa's at the center of the room to take a break after so many hours outside shopping and walking.

"Y/N! Look at my dress!" Dorothea rushes to her, suddenly she was alright again, not tired at all. She grabs her box to pull out the dress "Isn't it so pretty?"

"Indeed Little one! Lavender is definitely your color and truly matches you."

"We have one for you too!" Her aunt joined them, holding a box with a bright pink bow.

"What, why? Auntie I told you I do not need any dresses!"

"Well, I saw it and it reminded us of you, also you need a beautiful dress to attend tomorrow's ball!"

"So early? Agh I wish I had their energy and patience right now."

"You are not wrong, but it's been like that since forever dear! Also Dorothea I heard Daphne is making her debut this year too!

"Daphne? Daphne Bridgerton. Oh she is the ultimate diamond auntie!"

The Bridgerton's... Interesting she thought. She did not know any of the famous and noble families since she did not care to ask about them. She was about to leave and go to her room since her aunt and her cousin were talking but her aunt called her.

"Hey Y/N look at your dress, it's the right box!"

She did not want any dresses really but it was rude to not see her aunt's gift.

"Pink?" she sounded offended.

"I thought it was your favorite color!" her aunt answered with a look full in complaint.

It is.

"I mean I do not want to show up with such a dress I would-"

"You will look so pretty dear stop thinking otherwise." She did not even finished her sentence, her aunt already knew what she was going to say.

Maybe her aunt was right, but all she wanted was to blend in, hide in the shadows not be the center of attention, because with a dress like that, she definitely would be.

"My dear Y/N!" Her uncle just stepped in, he sounded like he was running miles to get there. He was holding an envelope. A big one to be exact. "Guess what. Your Lost at Sea painting made all of those"

She lost a heartbeat for a second and immediately let go of the dress and grabbed the envelope with the money and opened it. "A single painting made all of those? This is enough to live for a year!" she could not believe her eyes.

"I know dear I know. When I went to receive the money I was shocked and I rushed back home to tell you! I knew it would make you happy!"

"Happy? I am speechless. I can not even breathe." she fell into her uncle's arms to find her comfort and feel alive again after the shock of her great success. Even though her motivation was at the absolute zero this week, this made her feel complete.

"Y/N the world must obey to your talent!" Dorothea was on the sofa and gave her a "medal" for her success, a flower from the vase next to the book shelves.

"Oh come on Little one, you are flattering me!"

"No, no, no, you deserve much more. Everyone in the town must be talking about your painting now!

"Mama!" "MAMA!" a deep male voice echoed on the walls of a big and lovely house.

"Benedict dear, please do not scream I can still hear" a woman responded with the same tone.

"Who is this?" Benedict asked as he entered the room.

"Who is what?" his Mama asked confused about her son who was now doing circles around the table. "You seem nervous."

"This painter's name!"

"How should I know my boy, ask your brother he may know!"

"Agh, he signs with a fake name this is so unfair."

"Why all of the sudden you want to learn about a secret painter who hides his identity?"

"You truly need to see at his artworks to understand. They are brilliant, fascinating, breathtaking. His talent is extraordinary. I am not jealous, I am amazed. I want to meet him, to tell me his secrets, his inspirations, it is truly making me nervous."

"Before you ask me too brother I have no idea about your painter" his brother also entered the room with a big bunch of papers to sign.

"Brother I did not expect anything else from you"

"Oh you are lying, you definitely thought I would know." Anthony said with a smirk.

"Whatever. One day I will find him I assure you. Both of you!"

her perspective:

"Y/N!"

"Yes?"

"Come on darling we will be late!"

oh. OH. How did I even forgot this. This is Dorotheas day and I will ruin it. I have to make haste. Um what to wear, I do not know. Maybe this? No too white, oh that one! "BETTY!"

She opened the door "Yes ma'am?"

"Can you help me with this foolish dress?"

"Of course, turn around!"

What even is this presentation all about. Just for the Queen to pick a diamond for this season. All girls are diamonds and this is unfair. But who am I to disagree to the British rules.

Dorothea was gorgeous. Her aura could tell it too. She was so pretty with a bright smile and full of elegance. She is like my little sister and I want her to keep that pretty smile forever in her face. The Queen had a face that I could not understand until now. She stands up and reaches Dorothea and smiles at her. Ah my Little one did so well! I wish I could run and hug her now but that was inappropriate so I had to wait.

To admit it, it was boring. Honestly if it was not for my cousin I would never do that. Watching all these girls do the same thing in repeat... No that was definitely not fun. Until a caught a man looking directly at me. The first thing I noticed was his eyes. A very light green. He was so-

boom

A girl just fell on the floor. Okay that was interesting indeed. Social events are not that bad after all, maybe I am just not used to it. But even with this accident the man still looks at me. Why. Have I done something, do I have something in my face? I do not understand what is wrong.

"Daphne Bridgerton" the guard said.

And now he turned along with all the people near him to look at the girl.

The Bridgertons.

"Dorothea, I hate you. Why did I give that promise in the first place."

"Oh do not be so miserable Y/N, it is just a ball everything will be alright."

"Oh yes I am so sure about that!"

"Look at her she is shining!" she showed me Daphne Bridgerton who was talking with her mother.

"Indeed! But so do you! So let me be and go dance Little one!"

"Okay fine, I just want you to have fun!"

"I am having fun as long as you are. Now go"

She was an angel straight from heaven. Her dirty blonde hair with her dark eyes and her olive skin. I only know her two months now and she became my sister since day one.

What should I do to entertain myself instead of staring. Lemonade! Always fresh, always there for you. I turned to go to the table but a lady took my hand and pushed me behind.

"Pretend to be my friend for a bit!" she said with a shaky voice and then I turned to see her.

Daphne Bridgerton?

"Is there something wrong?"

"No. I mean yes. This annoying man keeps following me and speaking to me and I am tired so this is the only way for a bit. Oh I am so sorry I did not introduce myself. Daphne Bridgerton!"

"It is a pleasure to meet you Daphne. I am Y/N Theo!"

"Theo? Do you happen to be a sister of Dorothea Theo?"

"She is my cousin! I just moved here to be honest so I do not really know any families or-" I could not finish she seemed so happy and desperately wanted to speak.

"Ahh I did not know Dorothea had a cousin! I am so happy to hear you are a Theo! Your aunt is a lovely woman! So you are new here? If you want to one day come by and I can show you around and tell you things you must know about people here! You are my guest!"

"Daphne it is not necessary, I am alright do not worry!"

"Oh no, you are my friend now! I am sure you and I will have a great time together Y/N!"

"Daphne you should not leave your suitors like that!" A man spoke that was behind us, I assume her father or her brother.

"Anthony let me be please. I was talking to my friend and you are interrupting a girls talk!"

Oh, so her brother.

"Your friend? I am pretty sure it is my first time seeing her."

"We just met my Lord, do not worry!"

"And your name is?"

"Y/N. Y/N Theo."

"You do not look like you are from here really..." He was looking at me with a weird look, a judgy look full of doubts if he was kind or extremely rude.

"Because she is not Anthony, leave us now I was in the middle of something!" Daphne answered for me. Thank God she was a fast thinker and knew what she had to say.

"No young Lady, you are coming with me. As for you Miss Y/N have a great night, you will continue your chat with my sister another time!"

And I was left alone once again. To be honest I liked Daphne's company. She just wanted a friend to talk to. Just like me. And truly I forgot why I started walking too. Oh lemonade! Right. But I guess the universe did not want me to get that glass of lemonade today, because as soon as I reached the table someone fell on me.

"I am so sorry Miss, I was searching for-"

He raised his head to look if I was alright and he stopped talking.

"You."

"For me?" I asked. That was the man that could not keep his eyes off me last time. Why he was searching for me he does not even know my name.

"Oh yes! I noticed you my dearest Lady, on the presentation and I had a feeling that you would be here tonight."

"An excellent feeling you have Mister Bridgerton!" Another Bridgerton, another brother of Daphne's. Three out of three today.

"Oh, so you do know me! But I do not know your name, it is not fair."

"It is alright, I guess you will live without my name."

"I am not sure about that to be honest. But of course if you do not tell me I am pretty sure I will end up learning anyway." He smirked at me and leaned to the wall next to him.

"Are you planning on becoming a detective?" Of course he was not. He was looking for something more artistic more-

"Oh of course not I do not think I have a talent on that. I have talent on other things"

Let me guess, flirting?

"Okay Mister Bridgerton since you are not planning to leave if I do not say my name... Y/N Theo, pleasure to meet you."

"And you are from Italy? Or France?"

Is this man serious?

"Greece."

"Are all the women in Greece like you?"

"Excuse me? Why is that?"

"If yes, I must visit this country as soon as possible."

"That is how you start a conversation with a lady?"

"Aristotle, Plato or Socrates?"

"What?" I said that out loud accidentally but it is my honest reaction to this question.

"Aristotle, Plato or Socrates?" he repeated

"Aristotle."

"Iliad or Odyssey?"

"Iliad."

"Favorite line from the Iliad?"

"Μῆνιν ἄειδε, θεά, Πηληϊάδεω Ἀχιλῆος"

"You speak ancient greek?"

"What is the point of your questions? And yes I do speak ancient Greek."

"No point I just wanted a proper conversation with you and I was sure you would know about your country's history."

Oh.

"Well thank you for wanting to have a proper conversation with me but I am busy!"

"Really? With what may I ask?"

"With... With um." I looked around to find a reason "Lemonade!"

"I can get you some if you want!"

"No I can get one myself!"

"I do not doubt it, Miss Theo. Now tell me, do you happen to know anything about art because-"

"Benedict! Go dance with your sister." a voice behind us interrupted.

"Why?"

"Because I said so."

Okay thank you Lord Bridgerton.

"Are you meeting my whole family?"

"To inform you, my Lord, they talk to me first. Just like you now." He gave me a strange look and left. The eldest Bridgerton was honestly such a confusing person.

Benedict. That was his name. From Anthony's appearance and speech he must be the first son and Benedict the second? Unless I am missing someone.

"Did you see the girl mister Bridgerton was talking to?" "Ah yes she was pretty and she had a really nice dress too." "I do not care if she was pretty, she is not even from here and she has already pull the hardests ones. Even the first son!" "She seemed rude, she should be proud that lovely Benedict even spoke to her." "Maybe this artist is looking for his muse this year ladies, it is our chance!"

Artist? Muse? So I guess Mister Bridgerton is famous among the ladies. Such a pleasure. Ugh this man just flirt with any female he sees? He indeed had something artistic on him. Once I look at him again, dancing while he moves effortlessly and his hair fall into his face and cover his eyes, he seems different than before. He speaks art. He is shinning. He even ignores all the other ladies in the ball room and only speaks to me.

"Missed me, Miss Theo?"

"Not at all Mister Bridgerton!"

"How is that? I caught you starring a while ago!"

"This is a rude observation for a lady Mister Bridgerton!"

"Call me Benedict, Y/N."

"Is there is reason behind that?"

"Not at all. There must not be a reason behind everything. Life is a weird thing and you can not explain every move of yours"

"You are right but I am keeping my senses together and I found it necessary to ask."

"Well Miss Y/N, you are free to ask whatever you want. Either way we are born to be free."

"You may be, but I do not think this includes me Benedict. Now if you excuse me, I will go and check my cousin"

I did left him at the ball hall but he did not left my mind that night. His eyes, his hands, his voice, everything remained pure into my head. A little party never hurt no one, but after that ball he is the only thing I have on my mind. And this was annoying. Annoying to think of his stunning face all the time. I did not want a man on my head. Especially him and his annoying smile.

A/N: so here is chapter one! Interesting how art deco vibes they both have? And how they both realized it? Also the iliad quote is the first line of iliad <3 thank you for reading!

@ayoitsmickey @preciousbabypeter

[theauthorpaula]

JANE AUSTEN'S HOUSE MUSEUM, CHAWTON, HAMPSHIRE