#Benedict you go bb

[flintstill]

Ok like that Benedict scene was actually hot. Like it was only fully clothed kissing but there was tension and chemistry and 👌

I would like to see more of this situation 👀

[sforzesco]

i just - your two ao3 bookmarks are in supernatural and metal gear? impeccable, flawless taste, no notes, but aye, the horrors -

SHDHGSDHDKJ Y EAH I started watching spn back in 2008 or 2009, I actually have a million more bookmarks on my browser because I was reading spn fic on. livejournal.

speaking of metal gear, borrowing this ask as an opportunity to connect some dots because my god do I think about metal gear constantly

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Trauma, and History in Metal Gear Solid V, Amy M. Green

Rome, Blood, & Power, Gareth C Sampson

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Trauma, and History in Metal Gear Solid V, Amy M. Green

The Deaths of the Republic, Brian Walters

its like. the recurring violence of it all!! the last generations of the roman republic, snake eater/peace walker/phantom pain, none of you ever stood a fucking chance! the rot of military imperialism already doomed you!!!! you are trying to fix a decaying corpse, but the putrid flesh from the limbs is sloughing off in your hands!!! assigning a higher ideal, a fantasy, to the economy of war/imperialism/political violence won't change what it is!! do you think love can bloom on a battlefield? yeah, but it sure as hell won't save any of you! it will make you cannibalize each other**

**love wins for dave and otacon tho

[the-crow-binary]

So, uh, what if Benedict got tattooed just like Isaac ? BY Isaac ? (yeah it's "isaac is a mentor to bb" au time baby)

Enjoy this very wholesome little text <3

~

"I finished the bone, sir."

Isaac smiled when he heard the voice of his pupil, but kept his eyes on the work he was doing: emptying a bat devil from his blood into a big bowl.

"Good. Just in time."

With a respect Benedict did not expect from him, the older one laid the now dead beast on a table, next to a few other corpses of the same creatures. It's been an hour since he had started to collect their blood, resulting in the death of every single one. But he didn't force it out of any of them... they died willingly, understanding why he needed their essence specifically. It was for a good cause.

"Come here, let me see."

The younger one ignored the eerie feeling building up in his chest and approached his mentor, handing to him the bone he had, per his instructions, sharpened one of the edges of. He stood silent as Isaac inspected it thoroughly, but his eyes were not on him. He gazed upon the pile of devil corpses, feeling pity and sadness for the poor things. He still wished his mentor had choose real ink to mark him... but it wouldn't have been as meaningful, according to him. Dracula's blood would've been ideal for the ritual, but since they couldn't have that, those bats' blood was the closest thing they had to it.

"It's perfect." his master smiled, getting the younger one's attention back. "You did a great job, i didn't expect any less from you, Benedict."

Pride was quick to fill his chest, as warmth rushed to his ears. Of course, after five years of intense training, his mentor couldn't have anything but high expectations of him. Expectations he was happy to say he lived up to.

But his excitement soon declined, when his master went to the old, rocky altar in the center of the room. He tapped on it, eyes locking with his, and Benedict immediately understood what he had to do.

So, it was time... he was finally going to shed away his name of Belmont, for good. Become a true Devil Forgemaster, Benedict, servant of Lord Dracula. Even if his mentor already saw him as such, the ritual they were about to begin was going to make it actually official.

Apprehension built in his heart, as he began to take his clothes off. He shouldn't feel so scared, he's the one who asked for it. He's the one who wanted to prove his devotion to the Night by forever making his body a part of it. He's the one who wanted to feel like he belonged, with and to Dracula. And Isaac was more than delighted to help him, to make him feel the extasy he felt himself. He knew he would be safe in his hands... Still. Why couldn't he relax ?

Benedict shuddered when the chilly wind hit his skin. He walked up to his mentor, and took place on the altar, laying on his stomach to give him full access to his back. The rock under him was so cold... but he quickly forgot about that when he felt light fingers pushing his hair aside, then caressing his spine from his nape to his hips. It went back up, exploring his shoulder blades, and Benedict could not help but sigh and shiver under the touch.

"Beautiful... this is the result of five years of training under my mentorship."

The brunet looked at his master from the side of his eyes. Hopefully, his hair was covering the redness he could feel on his cheeks, and the tears that were threatening to come out.

No one. No one had ever sound more proud of him than his mentor did at that very moment.

"I wonder if this is how Lord Dracula felt when he... well, nevermind."

Isaac left his student's side, only to retrieve the giant bowl filled with black blood, and put it on the altar next to his boy. He dipped the sharp tip of the bone in it, then held it above his pupil's back.

"Let us begin."

~

Benedict knew it was going to hurt. He told him so, they had discussed the whole ritual beforehand. And yet, when the sharp bone hit his skin for the first time, Isaac could tell he held back a cry. He couldn't blame him, he, too, had been there. Nonetheless, he was sure Benedict was going to remember this moment quite fondly, one day. Just like he learned to. But soon, the young forgemaster could no longer hold his whimpers. Holding onto the altar, gasping for breath, quietly moaning in pain. Still, he didn't move, trusting his mentor completely... and Isaac felt a sting in his heart.

"Good boy..." he could not help but whisper. His mentee's body seemed to relax for a second, before tensing again when the next strike of the bone hit him. "You're doing great, kitten..."

Benedict inhaled deeply, in an attempt to calm himself down. But every place the bloodied thing had touch felt like fire in his skin, he could barely stand it. "It hurts....!" he whimpered. "Sir Isaac...!"

"I know. Cry as much as you want." The bone penetrated the smooth skin, hitting a sensitive spot that almost made the boy scream. "It's good if you do. Let it all out... make place in your chest for our Lord, to welcome and accept Him completely as a part of you."

Benedict clenched his fist, cursing himself. He thought he could take everything his mentor would give him, he thought he was strong, that he had suffered enough for the ritual to be... easy. But he was oh so wrong. Every movement of the bone proved it to him. Every drop of burning cold blood penetrating his skin made him wish he hadn't ask for this. Still, he couldn't ask for it to stop. It would be the same as betraying his mentor, and all they stand for... and the thought was worse to him than any pain he's currently going through. Slowly, he turned his head, teary eyes searching for his mentor's. If they met eyes, maybe it would make him feel better. All he wanted was to feel some kind of comfort... but he was denied that wish, as a pale hand soon covered his vision.

"Don't." Isaac ordered. "Close your eyes. Look elsewhere. But do not look at me while I work." The tone was harsh. But the result was there, when a broken voice responded with a soft "yes, sir...". Carefully, Isaac took his hand off, only relaxing when he could see Benedict's eyes, closed as he demanded.

"Good boy." He praised. Yes, it was good... that way, maybe his chest will feel less heavy. That way, he can concentrate on his work, not to be disturbed by his mentee's pleading gaze.

~

It took Isaac almost two hours to complete the Devil Forgemaster's crest on Benedict's back, followed by another hour to tattoo him from his chest to his hips. By the time it was done, the boy was a mess, to say the least. A shaking, exhausted mess, barely capable of any moans. His face was turned on the opposite direction from his mentor, covered with his hair, leaving the older one guessing about how his expression looked like.

Softly, Isaac ran a few fingers on his newest creation. He could not help but smile a bit when he felt the skin shivering under his touch.

"You've been perfect, kitten." he whispered, bending down to his student's ear, his hand still caressing the ravaged skin. "The worse has passed, but it's not quite over yet... stand up, now."

Seeing the state his pupil, struggling to obey, Isaac slipped one hand beneath him, taking one of Benedict's with the other, and helped him sit up. The movement made his hair fall down from his face, allowing the mentor so see cheeks, wetted by tears and sweat, and his eyes... still closed. Not once had he open them in three hours. Isaac couldn't help but feel a bit proud of his obedience. Unable to stay straight, Benedict laid his head against his mentor's chest, breathing deeply. Isaac did not protest, instead, he began caressing his hair, and placed a few strands behind his ear. It was the least he could do... the boy deserved a little break after such a long, painful session. It only dawned on him now how much Dracula's bite helped him during his own ritual.

"Don't fall asleep just now." he murmured. "The night's not over..."

A little mumbling responded to him, but he didn't bother trying to translate. Soon enough, Benedict found the strenght to leave the warmth of his master's skin and straighten up. A hand cupped one of his cheek as he felt lips on his other, making his whole face and ears burn for a different reason than his tattoos were.

"A good boy deserves a reward." His mentor's suave voice whispered. "Don't you agree ?" Benedict nodded, his heart beating faster than it ever did. How he wish he could open his eyes and see his expression right now... He felt hands on his arm, and instinctively followed their lead, slowly raising his arm.

"Now, let's finish what we started..."

~

Benedict's whole body was burning, anormally so. Devils' blood were not meant to be inside a human, had it been Dracula's, it would've been the same. Isaac knows, it took him a few days to recover... or maybe it was weeks ? Well. No matter the time it took, at least, he could move during it.

But Benedict couldn't. It was to the point of almost falling down the altar. Isaac did not have any other choice than to take him in his arms, holding him as he whimpers apologies.

"I'm so sorry, I'm..." the boy sobbed. "I try to be strong- I thought I'd be- Lord you must be so disappointed in me...!"

"Shhh now, kitten." He respond softly. "It's alright."

"It just hurt so much...!"

"I know, I know..."

His pupils pressed his face against his chest, and Isaac could feel warm tears falling down his skin. It wasn't normal. He wasn't supposed to be in such pain. The ritual wasn't supposed to end with him holding his shaking mentee's body as he sit him on the ground, kneeling in front of him. And yet, there they were, cries of pain breaking the heart he thought dead. And it only seemed to get worse by the second. What was happening to him ? He did everything right, he knew he did. All the way up to tending to him after the ritual.

"Sir Isaac, please...! Please help me !"

Though he cried his name, the boy didn't even look at him. He kept his eyes closed, and finally, Isaac realised he never allowed him to open them again. Not knowing what else to do, he took the younger's face in his hands, and ordered.

"Open your eyes, Benedict."

"I..."

"Open them. Look at me. I'm here."

Just like he thought, his pupil could not go against a direct order. Even through the pain and and tears, Benedict obeyed. But the moment he did, when those bright blue eyes met with his yellow gaze... Isaac realised what he did wrong. Suddenly, everything made sense. And he wished it never did.

"Oh... Oh no, Benedict..."

How could he be so stupid ? How could he overlook such an important detail ? How could he forget ?

"Sir...?"

And most importantly, how was he going to tell him ?

"...It's not your fault, Benedict."

Without a better plan, he hugged his protégé, shame and anger rising in his chest.

Denying the Belmont name is useless, in the end, for the holiness in his blood will forever follow him. Never to let him belong.

"You did nothing wrong. I'm glad to have you as my pupil."

Tears of a different kind rised in Benedict's eyes, as he squeeze his mentor with all the strenght he got left. He still didn't understand what was happening to him. But at least, he knew... he wasn't alone.

[fayes-fics]

Textual Encounter

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x fem!reader, modern AU

Summary: Text fic. Wrong number meet-cute over text.

Warnings: none... this is fluff and humour.

Word Count: 1.4k

Summary: Fic request fill for Anon (HERE). I kept it fun and fluffy, but yeah, I can see a sequel where they sext. Thanks to @colettebronte for the read-through. Enjoy! <3

Y/N: Hey Liz, it’s y/n y/l/n. Kindle Spa gave me your mobile. Said you had moved to another salon. I don’t trust anyone else to wax me tbh. Big date this week, kwim 😉 Can I get an appt? I’ll come to you. Doesn’t matter where. 

BB: Errr, I think you have the wrong number…

Y/N: Not Liz?

BB: Nope, Ben here. 

Y/N: Not a waxer, I presume?

BB: I may have waxed lyrical in my time, may even have lit a few candles. Have not waxed anyone no - my own body or anyone else’s. Yet. But I’m game to try anything once...

Y/N: Lol.

BB: Big date, eh?

Y/N: ….Yeah. Not that it's any of your business, stranger Ben.

BB: Fair. BB: Does it hurt?

Y/N: ??

BB: Getting waxed.

Y/N: Oh. Yeah. Like a motherfucker. But you sorta get used to it, tbh. And it’s so much less itchy than shaving regrowth, especially in sensitive areas… Wait, why am I having this convo with a complete stranger?!

BB: We don’t have to be strangers. BB: I’m Ben, 33, London. BB: I have no strong opinions on hair removal methods.

Y/N: lol. K. I’m y/n, 28, also London. Y/N: I, as you can see, do have some opinions.

BB: Hi y/n 👋 BB: I hope you can find Liz. Or someone else to assist with your hair needs.

Y/N: I would like it stated, for the record, I’m not hairy like a troll. I just like to keep things neat.

BB: The lady doth protest too much…

Y/N: You are cheeky for a stranger.

BB: Hey, I thought we agreed. Not strangers. Me Ben. You hairy troll.

Y/N: BLOCK.

BB: Just typing it doesn't work, you know.

Y/N: You should work at the Apple Genius Bar.

BB: Hmm, possibly. I do look good in blue. Or so I've been told.

Y/N: Always glad to provide career counselling.

BB: 🫡

4 days later.

BB: How’d your date go?

Y/N: That's odd. I don’t see a Genius Bar appt in my calendar…?

BB: iCal is a lying bastard. BB: I also assume you now can move faster through water.

Y/N: ??

BB: Waxed smooth like a dolphin…?

Y/N: 😆 Y/N: Entirely none of your business, but yes, actually. Well mostly. I leave some. Why am I telling you this?! Y/N: The guy was such a dud tho, I didn't get to show it off 🙁

BB: Please don't stop on my account. This is just delightful.  BB: I apologise on behalf of all men.

Y/N: For what?

BB: Having 4 sisters, I find the safest answer here is usually… everything, of course.  BB: But specifically, your rubbish date.

Y/N: Apology conditionally accepted. Y/N: 4 sisters?! 

BB: Only conditional? What do I gots to do to make it unconditional? BB: Yeah, I know… I’ve got 3 brothers too. My parents were really into each other. 

Y/N: IDK, serve a mean martini? Y/N: Understatement.

BB: That could be arranged. I took an online mixology course during lockdown.  BB: My sister El declared I'm better than Stanley Tucci. Admittedly, that was after 4 espresso martinis… but I'm taking it. She's opinionated but the best one. They are a weird bunch tho 🤔

Y/N: WOAH WOAH WOAH. That's a bold claim.

BB: Well, there’s only one way to dispute it: try one for yourself…

Y/N: Smooth, Genius Bar, smooth.

BB: I do my best 🤷

1 day later.

Y/N: I can't get my AirPods to work.

BB: You do realise I didn’t actually follow your career advice?

Y/N: Urgh. Inconvenient. What use are you then?

BB: As I said. Cocktails. I’ll try my hand at waxing if you want.

Y/N: Best stick to the day job. Which is…?

BB: Graphic design.

Y/N: Oh, that’s quite cool. 

BB: It pays the bills. You?

Y/N: MI-5

BB: Wow, you're a shit spy.

Y/N: It could be an excellent double bluff…

BB:

Y/N: Oh, we’ve graduated to memes now, have we, Genius Bar?

BB: It was called for.

Y/N: I’ll take it. Purely cos it's a Hemsworth.

BB: I would too, tbh.

Y/N: Bi?

BB: For a Hemsworth? Always.

Y/N: Anyone else?

BB: I’ll keep you posted.

Y/N: I'm on the edge of my seat.

3 days later.

BB: Oscar Issac.

Y/N: Good non sequitur evening to you, too, Genius Bar Ben.

BB: For the bi thing.

Y/N: Ahh. Got it. I can respect that.

BB: This is me, btw: www.instagram.com/benbridgerdesign.  BB: Figured you can decide for yourself if I'm a creeper.

Y/N: Appreciated.

3 minutes later.

Y/N: You paint?

BB: I dabble

Y/N: Modesty will only make me like you more.

BB: You like me?! 🥹

Y/N: You didn't mention you were handsome.

BB: There is no way to respond to that without me sounding like a twat.

BB: But thank you 😊

Y/N: This is me: www.instagram.com/ynhandle 

7 minutes later.

BB: Oh, Amalfi is so beautiful, isn't it?

Y/N: Wow. That's a deep cut. How far did you scroll back??

BB: 👀

Y/N: Yeah, it's beautiful. Shame it's tainted for me now. Was there with an ex.

BB: I saw. Very handsome.

Y/N: Are you sure you're not just into men full-stop?

BB: 🤷 BB: You’re very pretty, too.

Y/N: I’d believe it if you didn't mention my “very handsome” ex first…

BB: I call it like I see it. BB: I have had 4 whiskeys, tho, so make of that what you will.

Y/N: On a school night?!

BB: It’s my brother Ant's birthday. This is like non-optional drunk, I’ll have you know.

Y/N: Happy birthday to him. 

BB: He says thanks. He’s also told me to get off my fucking phone. Which is rich. He is texting his wife nonstop.

Y/N: Hah! Safe travels through Whiskeytown, BenBridger 🫡

BB: I kinda miss Genius Bar…. 😞

Y/N: I can't win…

2 days later.

BB: Settle an argument for me.

Y/N: 🍿

BB: Col, younger brother, never stops eating... He claims Katz Deli is overrated. I argue it's touristy but still good. You’ve been. Where do you sit on this matter?

Y/N: You really did go thru my Insta, didn't you?? Y/N: Thanks for the follow, BTW.

BB: It's a compliment, I assure you. BB: Welcome. And same.

Y/N: Not complaining. And yeah, I agree with you, actually.

BB: Hah! Excellent!!

Y/N: Wait… your older brother is Ant, and your younger brother is Col? You’re Ben. So, like ABC?

BB:  … I already warned you my family was weird.

Y/N: You did. You did.

BB: Now, please excuse me while I go gloat.

Y/N: 👍

5 mins later.

BB: Hi. This is Col. You must be the famous y/n. Ben’s in the bogs, and the mug left his phone on the table unlocked, so this is on him.  BB: He like really likes you. Like a lot. Will you go on a date with him pls? 

Y/N: Err, ok, hi Col. Y/N: Umm, I think Ben should be the one to ask me that. Don’t you?

BB: He’s too scared you’ll say no.

Y/N: I won't…

BB: EXCELLENT.

2 minutes later.

BB: I am so SO sorry about that 😬 He’s such a shit. BB: But… do you mean it?

Y/N: Ask me properly…

BB: Would you, y/n, like to go on a date with me? Please?

Y/N: I would be delighted to Ben. 😀

BB: 🙏 BB: Are you free on Thursday? Could I take you to dinner?

Y/N: Sounds wonderful. 

BB: 7pm? Meet at Picadilly Circus? By Brasserie Zedel?

Y/N: I’ll be there 😀

BB: 😀

10 days later.

BB: I think you should know… Liz is an artiste 😮‍💨

Y/N: Stop texting me from my bed, you dork. 😘 Y/N: How do you take your coffee?

BB: I'm like 10 meters away. Why not just ask me?

Y/N: You started this, Genius Bar…

BB: Come back to bed, Mostly Hairless Troll.

Y/N: I asked for that, didn't I? 🤦

Benedict taglist, pt 1: @makaylan @longingintheuniverse @iboopedyournose @aintnuthinbutahounddog @severewobblerlightdragon @writergirl-2001 @heeyyyou @enichole445 @enchantedbytomandhenry @ambitionspassionscoffee @chaoticcalzoneranchsports @nikaprincessofkattegat @baebee35 @crowleysqueenofhell @fiction-is-life @lilacbeesworld @broooookiecrisp @queen-of-the-misfit-toys @eleanor-bradstreet @divaanya @musicismyoxygen84 @miindfucked @sorryallonsy @cayt0123 @hottytoddyhistory @fictionalmenloversblog @zinzysstuff @malpalgalz @kinokomoonshine @causeimissu @delehosies @m-rae23 @last-sheep @panhoeofmanyfandoms @kmc1989 @desert-fern @corpseoftrees-queen @magical-spit @bunnyweasley23 @how-many-stars-in-the-sky @sya-skies

[bosbas]

Epilogue: quiet my fears with the touch of your hand

series masterlist previous part || alt ending

pairing: benedict bridgerton x best friend!fem!reader WC: 2.2k words

Warnings: period-typical gender roles, idiots in love being idiots in love (except not really anymore), alluding to sex, benedict being so down bad for this woman (like down horrendous), this woman being so down bad for benedict, pregnancy and discussions around pregnancy

Summary: You and Benedict have been best friends since childhood, but things change dramatically once you come out in society. You’re struggling to find someone you’re as compatible with and who knows you as well as Benedict, all while trying to quell your ever-growing feelings for him. Shenanigans ensue.

A/N: i am so sad to let these bbs go i love them so much!! i will simply have to write drabbles because they are so dear to me oh my

January 3, 1819 – Y/N

A happy new year indeed! I missed you all terribly during the holiday season this year, but John and I had a wonderful time here in Scotland with Michael. It snowed beautifully on Christmas Day, and it made me think of all of you and our often violent snowball fights on your birthday.

In fact, I believe this letter should reach you at around that time, so I am sending you the brightest of birthday wishes as well! While I won’t be able to attend your celebration this year, seeing how we’ll still be at Kilmartin House, I am sending you a wonderfully tight hug and hoping your day is incredibly special. Hit one of my siblings with a snowball for me, please! Preferably one of the boys, but really anyone will do. 

Love from your sister, Francesca

You squinted your eyes in your dimly candlelit bedroom, unsuccessfully attempting to undo the tiny buttons on your dress. Perhaps it was the undercurrent of nervousness that had been moving through you the whole day, but you found your fingers were shaking so much that you couldn’t hold them still for long enough to unclasp the buttons on your back. A deep sigh escaped your lips as you accepted that you were simply not going to be able to do this by yourself, and you gripped the edge of the chest of drawers in front of you as you willed your voice to come out sounding more carefree than you were feeling at the moment.

“Ben, darling, are you still upset about earlier?” you called across the room.

A small huff escaped his lips as he shifted on an armchair in the corner, murmuring something about betrayal and honor without looking up from his book. You smiled and held back a laugh, anxieties momentarily soothed. Per Francesca’s request, you had hit Benedict less-than-gently in the chest with a tightly packed snowball during your annual snowball fight earlier today, and he had taken it quite to heart. Well, that and the fact that you had sneakily teamed up with Hyacinth and Gregory without telling him. It really wasn’t your fault, you reasoned. Benedict had thought you would go easy on him simply because you were married to him, which, of course, was a foolish thing to think. Though he wasn’t as competitive as you were, evident in your much more successful Pall Mall record, you knew today’s loss still stung.

“Well, do you think could find it in you to help me with my dress?” you raised your eyebrows pointedly. “Or are you still feeling too betrayed?”

He immediately looked to meet your eyes, grudge completely forgotten as he nodded excitedly and rushed over to you from the armchair he had previously been sitting in. It was rather endearing that Ben was still giddy every time you asked for his help undressing, even after four years of marriage. 

After a few moments of Benedict concentrating intensely on the buttons on your back, you teased, “Are you enjoying yourself?”

He hummed in assent and smiled at you, meeting your eyes in the mirror. “Oh, immensely. It certainly makes up for earlier, I think,” he winked as he fiddled with the buttons. 

Honestly, you were inclined to think that Benedict had been secretly asking your seamstress to make the buttons smaller on each new dress she made you so you would have no option but to ask for his help. Even so, you wouldn’t have minded. You, too, enjoyed his sturdy hands on your back, his deft fingers fiddling with your dress and his lips softly kissing your shoulders as you told him about your day.

“A well-deserved win today, Mrs Bridgerton,” he said, never quite growing tired of how sweet the title sounded coming from his mouth. “And on your birthday no less. A stellar performance. I suppose I’ll have to start recruiting Simon and Daphne’s children to help me against the lot of you from now on. And then when we have ones of our own I can form a small army and I will never lose again.”

Your heartbeat sped up a fraction, but you were saved from having to answer when he undid the last button and your dress fell to the floor. Benedict placed his hands on your shoulders and gingerly turned you around to face him, drawing in a sharp breath as he took in your figure covered by nothing but your chemise, completely mesmerized by you. But he was quickly drawn out of his awe when he noticed your nervous eyes shifting around the room. 

“Darling, what’s wrong?” he asked, placing a gentle hand on your elbow and drawing you closer. “I wasn’t truly upset about today, I promise. I rather enjoyed seeing you, Gregory, and Hyacinth absolutely obliterate everyone else. It was only a slight inconvenience that I was one of the people you were obliterating.”

You shook your head, sending him a small smile. “No, no don’t worry, Ben. It’s not that at all,” you said, laying your head on his shoulder tiredly, an entire day of worrying having taken a toll on you.

“But it is something, then,” he prodded, desperate to find out what was making you so anxious. 

You said nothing, fiddling nervously with the hem of his waistcoat instead. Benedict, on his part, was growing increasingly alarmed. Usually, he could instantly tell exactly what was plaguing you, but you were being oddly evasive, and he was at a loss. Perhaps the best thing to do was to let you rest and broach the subject tomorrow morning, so he tugged on your hand and sat you down on the bed.

“It’s alright, darling,” he said, softly kissing your forehead. “I’ll ring for some tea, and we can get ready for bed.”

“I think I’m pregnant,” you blurted out before he could let go of your hand to go ask for some tea from the kitchen. Your shoulders sagged in relief, and you immediately felt a weight lifted off your shoulders as you said the words aloud.

“What?” he asked, eyes wide.

“Pregnant. With child.” 

“With my child?”

“Well, I certainly hope so,” you responded, laughing.

He instantly relaxed, rolling his eyes and engulfing you in a tight hug. “Oh, shut up, woman! I was merely trying to process the news,” he laughed, ecstatic that there would soon be a tiny version of one of you running around the house. He looked at you, eyes shining, and shook his head as if he couldn’t quite believe it. 

“So, you’re happy?” you asked, anxiety still lingering in the back of your mind. It had been four years, after all. Your marriage had happened rather hastily, considering the years the two of you had spent pining after one another, and you had decided to revel in your romance for a while before having children. And eventually, you had wanted them. It was just slightly frightening to know that the time had actually come. You were excited, of course. You couldn’t imagine a better life than one where you raised children alongside your best friend, but you couldn’t help the nervousness you felt as you locked eyes with Ben.

“Happy? I’m over the moon, darling,” he said giddily and pushed you back on the bed so he could plant kisses all over your face. 

“If I knew it would be like this I would’ve gotten pregnant earlier,” you joked as Benedict moved on to kiss your neck and your breathing got heavier. 

---

You awoke quite suddenly, sitting up in bed so abruptly that Ben’s arm, which had previously been wrapped around you with his hand placed on your stomach, fell away from your body entirely.

Benedict grumbled in protest, noticing your absence even in his sleep. Typically, you slept on your side, with Benedict wrapped around you until the moment you woke up. Despite your racing heart, you smiled down at him, placing a soft kiss on his temple and sliding yourself back into his arms. 

But your attempts to fall back asleep were futile. You had stopped tossing and turning but found yourself lying on your side, staring at the wall opposite you while you felt Benedict’s chest rising and falling against your back as he breathed. 

“S’wrong?” Benedict asked sleepily, sensing that you were still awake.

Not wanting to disturb his sleep more than you had already, you whispered, “No, it’s nothing, Ben. You can go back to sleep.”

But Benedict was having none of it. He rubbed his eyes and blinked a few times, turning you around to face him. “That’s alright. I was awake anyway,” he lied, voice husky with sleep. “What’s wrong? I’m incredibly awake. Awake. I am awake.” 

“Sounds like it,” you said, laughing at him softly. You leaned up and pecked him on the lips, secretly thankful for his unrelenting line of questioning. 

Blinking the sleep from his eyes and leaning on his arm to face you, Ben looked at you and smiled fondly. “I am! Promise.” Then, tracing his fingertips on your arm, he pressed you a bit more. “It’s just me, darling. What’s on your mind?”

“I’m a bit scared,” you whispered. “Actually, I’m terrified. Terrified of becoming a mother, and of having to take care of an entire other human being, and of what it might change between us. Is this what you really want? Having a child?”

Benedict’s fingers never stopped moving as he thought of how to best address your fears, knowing the motion calmed you down. “Having a child with you,” he corrected. “Of course it’s what I want! I get to see a little bit of you in an entirely different person. And you’re my favorite person. So, I don’t really see a downside.”

You hummed thoughtfully, feeling slightly calmer. “But what if I’m a bad mother? What if our child is unhappy?” you cried, tears brimming your eyes as you thought of the endless scenarios in which you failed as a mother.

“What if you’re a great mother? And our child is happy?” Ben countered. “Look at how you are with Gregory and Hyacinth. How you’ve always been with them. You’re going to be a wonderful mother, Y/N. Besides, we’ll learn how to be parents at the same time and it’ll be something we do together.”

Nodding thoughtfully, you interlocked your fingers with Benedict’s. “I suppose you’re right,” you conceded. “It will certainly be a hell of an adventure.”

Sensing that you had calmed down significantly, Ben added cheekily, “Don’t forget you’ll finally have someone else you can force to listen to your ramblings about literature.”

You smacked Benedict playfully. “You enjoy the ramblings, might I remind you,” you replied airily. 

Kissing the top of your nose, he tucked your hair behind your ear and winked. ”Mm, I believe I did admit to this, yes.” Then, after a few moments of comfortable silence, he spoke up gently, “What about you?”

“What about me?” you asked.

“Is having a child what you really want?”

Your heart melted a bit. Even after he woke up in the middle of the night to have a chat with you and was clearly exhausted, he was still making sure you were alright. “Well, obviously. I’m thrilled! Especially now you’ve brought up the fact that I can have a book club of my own. If it’s a boy, I bet he’ll be just like you. A tiny Benedict running around the house ruining our expensive furniture with acrylic paint.”

“And if it’s a girl we’ll name her Daisy, right? Flower names and all that,” he replied sleepily, relieved you were finally easing into the idea of motherhood. “She’ll be just as smart as you are, I bet. I’ll give her the flower encyclopedia as well so she can know where her name came from. I think the one I gave you is still at Bridgerton House. I’m sure we could find it if we look.”

You gasped, having forgotten about your childhood plans to name your daughter after a flower. “Oh, that would be so darling!”

Benedict laughed softly, kissing you and pulling you back into his arms. “It would, wouldn’t it? Do you want to go back to sleep?” he asked, burying his nose in your hair as his eyes fluttered shut. You nodded, squeezing the hand that was nearest to you and interlocking your fingers. 

Ben was fast asleep soon after, but you spent a few moments looking at his sleeping form, chest rising and falling as his breathing deepened. Your heart swelled with love for this silly boy you had fallen in love with all those years ago. He was your husband now! Even after four years, you couldn’t quite believe how lucky you’d gotten. And you would get to raise a child together now. You really couldn't imagine anything better.

—

previous part || alt ending || buy me a ko-fi!

Tag List (lmk if you want to be added!): @bellahadidnt16 @like-gabriel-and-castiel @riverraingrayworld @5sos-calm @elissanatok @titanicnerd-blog @noonenuts @moonwayne @lilasblogg @mmontgomeryb @fulltacoparadise @joyfullymulti @sopanngon @fanfiction-she-wrote @aureolinb @ambitionspassionscoffee @bbubbllejisoo @marvelspogue @avengersgirlloriannaa @loliakeoghan23 @cierrajhilll @sadprose-auroras @merlieve @khaylin27 @cherrytop02 @little-duck @angerpearl @shondlenoodle @lyssamay52 @bags10 @angerpearl

[loveisnotfinite]

Things to be noted after the trailer of season 3 of Bridgerton part 2:

First things first, a ten days waiting is unacceptable. It’s a crime against fandomkind. Netflix, Shonda. You’re pure evil. I despise you. I adore you.

Secondly… my goodness, Pen is getting gorgeous and gorgeous. It’s hurting my eyes. Kate was breathtaking but Pen’s… I mean, she’s from another planet at this point. She’s glowing, unearthly, a goddess. She’s killing it in all departments. Character-wise (a lady doesn’t have dreams, just her husband… that still resonates, on different levels, chills) and as “object” of desire. Those lips, those cheekbones, the hair, her chest… those eyes, that body. Never saw someone so stunning. Maddly in love with this season, this couple and Penelope.

Eloise is getting lovelier by the minute too. Falling for her gowns. Can’t wait to see how their story plays put too. Bring on the drama, I am so not ready and so eager it’g getting me off balance and messing with my daily focus.

Benedict, oh BB. You’re my hero. I love the comic release you provide. Never change.

Antony, what can I say? You’re so impulsive (and kinda of an hypocrite let’s say it). But I love you, you’re the loveliest redeemed rake I have ever come across on tv.

Colin… where do I start? Your kind smirk gets me wobbly knees all the times. You’re adorable, mama’s boy and kinda a sexy bomb since you’ve blossomed. But aside from my hormones… shall we talk about the agonizing cry of angst he displayed against Pen after finding out of LW? I am heartbroken. What a hurtful moment. Luke, dear, I had underestimated you. What a scene, what a line… and the chemistry, for the love of tv Gods, is off the charts. Those love scenes... One can almost feel it under their skin. And there’s yet more to come… will I ever recover? Never I presume.

Go Miolet! Go! Let’s give mama B some water to tender her garden!

[mercymermaid]

dark remains dark remains dark remains dark remains (spoiler alert)

my live reaction + ramble

GRIHERFGIUSEFHIUSVRIUGFESBUIVIUBGBIUVBVBJV

———

first off, live reaction, copy and pasted:

DARK REMAINNSS IGHGHGHGHGHGHRUTHGHFHFHF

okay they changed the actor for lizzy but that’s okay that’s okay

a little off-put by the voice-over for the stuff between songs but that’s okay

MATPAT SONG MATPAT SONG HE SINGS AFTON SINGS I’M OSIDBGGJKFKHHKJHGKUDFHGKUBHKUFDBHFKDBJDNKJDBNKJDNJ

“… or you can marinate to death in a trash can. Not even I can make that sound cool.”

GLITCHTRAP ISN’T INDESCTRUCTIBLE RAAAAAG

also the afton angst is wild not him singing about how insane he is

PUPPET TO THE RESCUE AUGHHHHH I MISSED POOKIE

“UNCLE WILLIAM REALLY LIKES RABBITS” THINK LIZZY TIHKN HONEY

also rip alexandra we loved you o7

i love just how non-canon this entire mess is this is an entirely different fnaf universe like dsaf

like alexandra and eggs (miyh and gz) sharing the Benedict last name, lizzy (wol) being afton’s niece but also being siblings with eggs, this is all such a web (of lies) i love itttt

afton being a psycho >>>>> “furry, one eye, RAAGAGAHAHAGFGDHEHAHSGD-👹”

LET’S GO SECOND CHAINSAW DEATH WOOOHOOOOOOOOO

NOOOO YOU CANNOT LEAVE ME ON THAT CLIFFHANGER FUCKT YOTURHUIUGIUBIRSLTgzre

———

anyway now my after-thoughts

dark remains (the song) actually slaps, i am so so glad they finally let matpat go true theater kid and actually sing (although his acting is genuinely amazing, he in actually one of my favorite aftons) (I’VE RUN ALL OUT OF PATIENCE TO TAKE IT ON THE CHIN, SO NOW THE WORLD IS PAYING FOR MY SINS is a banger fucking lie)

his part jumpscared me because he was the last person i expected to sing, also he sings a lot lower than i thought he would

still cackling about how he’s still on board considering that this is literally as divergent from actual fnaf as something like dsaf, but that’s the magic of it, it’s completely it’s own story

i didn’t really like how random encounters did voice overs for some of the speaking scenes but then the others weren’t voice overs? i liked it voice over-less but be consistent 🙏🙏

i really hope they bring back older characters for the last few parts, i wanna see eggs (cg5), nate, mark, and aj/purple guy in one room (yes eggs and aj are dead but it’s fnaf let’s be so honest)

actually speaking of the timeline is so confusing - is blood and tears and everything after that a prequel to the original fnaf musical? because isn’t the pizzeria burnt down and the animatronics work at the news place? i feel like this has been mentioned before and i’m stupid enough to forget (if this is true, we’re not getting any aj, nate, or mark content as their characters)

that would make aj’s death the second chainsaw death rather than the board director’s death

okay yeah no everything being a prequel would make sense since bb dies as well in the original musical, same with springtrap (btw poor guy didn’t deserve to be marinated #justiceforspringtrap)

the interview with alexandra was actually so sick she genuinely looks so asylumy, rest in pieces bro (i need to rewatch monster in your head)

lizzy bonding with bb tho 🫶🫶 wait until she sees what happens to him in the musical

that technician disguise was extremely realistic guys you guys are awesome (pls don’t hang yourself)

also the fucking “are you ready for freddy” and the stuff we’d pull with fnaf movie memes was amazing

that cliffhanger wants me dead and i’m not forgiving random encounters until they release the next part

time to go rewatch all the musicals and also the bloopers because those are the best thing on earth

[murfpersonalblog]

IWTV Trailer (me losing my freaking marbles - YOLO) Pt1

I'm just going frame by frame thru AMC'S BEAUTIFUL new IWTV trailer. But I had to split this into 2 parts cuz Tumblr won't let me post 30+ pics.

We've already seen Lestat's Theatre portrait on fire (burn, bish!) but the TRANSITION they made here is DISGUSTING--they know what they're doing!

Lou goes from thinking about setting the Theatre on fire (nervously/uncomfortably rubbing his chin, my poor baby), to another scene of him chainsmoking and staring sadly off into the void. I'm assuming it's the 1970s interview, cuz we see Afro!Lou in the same shirt when he effs up BB!Daniel a few minutes later.

AND they said Louis's "stronger, and harder, too," during ANOTHER closeup of Louis chainsmoking. Pyromaniac du Lac LIVES.

Then we get that INTERESTING exchange with Loumand about Oldmaniel:

Armand does NOT like this interview, no ma'am! What are you tryna hide?! 🧐

The fandom legit already MADE THIS JOKE too! XD

The parallels with Loumand enjoying watching movies together (NO CLAUDIA 👀)--and Loustat enjoying opera & movies together.

Loumand as a happy old married couple--I mean it, Rolin: what TF happened between the 1970s interview, the year 2000, and 2022, to make Louis' mental state get SO DANG BAD!?

Armand seems to be implying that 1970s SanFran wasn't where he failed Louis, but 1940s Paris when he burns the Theatre--but I'm seriously wondering if something else went down, cuz LOOK AT MY BABY. BLOOD TEARS. I cannot.

This hollow, fake smile Claudia gives when Loumand walks into the room; wearing makeup & an adult hairstyle tryna look grown--I wonder if this is the same night she joins the Theatre?

Lou & Claudia--he just gives her The Eyebrows, not saying anything (but Armand looks WAY too smug ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)); and we know Armand AND Claudia can EASILY read his mind way better than he can read either of theirs.

Louis calls her "a spark in the dark," right before they cut to the bombs falling all over WWII Europe with flames everywhere--including all over her face--foreshadowing her ashes to ashes, dust to dust. ("Rigged to burn," Louis said in S01E03.)

Did they get hit by bombs, or fall into mine fields?! Jfc. (OR maybe they were sleeping underground, in the earth, and woke up in a battlefield--GOD.) And this must be the same scene where Lou eats the heart--we see Claud throwing limbs around--are they scavenging bombed up corpses?

And the flame in the photographs Louis takes, which she's been tearing down--figuratively in the other teaser, and literally here.

Claudia finna GO OFF! (I HAD to make this one a gif, to see her wrath in MOTION 🤌)

EAT that racist French White, Claudia, PLEASE. Colonizer Capital--Paris SUCKS!

LOUIS DE POINTE DU LAC, ladies and gentlemen. U_U

You're one of a kind, sweetie--that's why the whole Theatre was tripping, cuz Lestat's "coven" in NOLA didn't look ANYTHING like how all other vampire covens worked. Lestat & Louis & Claudia were a FAMILY. They lived like humans--or as close to human as possible. Plus they were painfully weak, with none of the Dark Gifts. They weren't living like monsters--at least not on the surface....

In the other teaser I thought this dirty heifer who attacked Louis was a revenant, but if she's in the Theatre then this must be Alessandra or Eleni (which means a Rhoshamandes name drop!? 👀💀)? Please random dude please be Benedict. 🙏 I need more TVC cameos!

I'm wondering if this was part of a performance when Madeleine & Claudia were part of the Theatre, not during the Trial? OR this is AMC's recreation of the film version with the naked lady--"so we can eat people."

Armand finna GO OFF! But WHERE TF are his FANGS!? That's my ONE major gripe with this show--I'm so sick of seeing these stupid acrylics everywhere but no FANGS.

Then the trailer immediately tells me to STFU, LOL. XD

Lelio Rising. Lelio Falling. (Ooooo--the Tower Scene should be SPICY)

Then they use the "script" line to transition to The Trial, when Armand forced Lestat to be scripted! 😭 DIABOLICAL! And I LOVE this frame--it's giving me Oppenheimer when he was walking through the stands as everyone applauded him for dropping the bomb & he was PTSDing. (I had to make a separate post just for this brainworm.)

So Dan's finished the interview and this is his editor. (OR, even spicier, this dude's from the Talamasca, and Daniel's broken the NDA & fled the penthouse?) But chile, ain't nobody scared of LDPDL. 🙄 Daniel should be well aware by now that Louis snapped in the 1970s, sure, but he's not the REAL threat in that house, Mr. Mediocre Star to a 500 Year Old Vampire. Unless they're talking about LESTAT? 👀💀 WHERE TFC IS HE IN 2022?!

What in CHRIST'S NAME is coming out of his effing NECK? 😱 It was SQUEALING, like a KOCHON.

Louis slinging blood at the Sea of Galilee Armand stole for him, LOLOLOL.

Louis effing Daniel up--"you were disrespectful!" I wonder if BB!Dan crying was when Armand was busy stalking him when he was drunk AF & dying of alcohol poisoning.

I LOVE THIS. Louis is the center of it all--"It's you and me. Me, and you." 😭💔 Said over and over--Louis and Lestat, Claudia, Armand, and Daniel (and even Santiago U_U).

[silverhallow]

Karting catastrophe

Inspired by @bridgertonbabe’s Bridgerton Spouse Support Chat

Summary: none of the Bridgerton’s had the bridgerton brain cell™️ when they decide to go go-karting… and of course it ends as all games nights do… in catastrophe

It had seemed like a good idea at the time, they hadn’t had a chance to be competitive with one another for months since their spouses flat out refused to have more than one games night a year after Phillip had nearly had a heart attack during a Heated monopoly games night…

But as they were waiting to be loaded into the ambulance and took the hospital, they had to admit… maybe this time it had gone too far…

Anthony had arranged to hire the go-karting facility after Greg had suggested they turn the go-karting into something more… competitive and since Mario-Kart was one of the earliest games they’d ever played together as a family of 8 it seemed the most logical.

Each of them came with their own “weapon” and they’d brought frisbees and balls from the kids' play pens. Eloise had rocked up with a shopping bag full of banana peels and weirdly Hyacinth had rocked up with baby oil.

Anthony and Benedict brought their sons Nerf guns, Colin, Daphne and Francesca had water guns, Hyacinth and Gregory each had a BB gun and Eloise had brought a paint gun…

It had started out fun but after Eloise got Hyacinth in the helmet with the paint gun that things started getting out of hand.

Hyacinth had been furious that it had caused her to crash into the barrier and ended up at the back of the field.

She’d started pouring the oil onto the track and firing her BB gun at anyone and everything thing

Benedict and Colin were out in front with Anthony and Francesca close behind them. Eloise was towards the back of the field and saw as Gregory fired blindly behind him and saw the BB pellet his Hyacinth in the face through her open Visor and everyone turned their head to hear the yell of pain and swearing come from the youngest and that’s when the pile up happened.

Anthony had turned at the wrong time and he hit the back of Colin’s kart which hit Benedict causing the kart to flip and Anthony and his kart landed on his leg Daphne smashed into them as Francesca flew into Colin, her kart smashed into his leg as she smashed into her steering wheel, Gregory smashed into the pile up, Eloise having seen it but sliding on the oil couldn’t stop had at least slowed down and she had about stopped and so it was just her wrist that hurt and Hyacinth having stopped as she’d been hit in the face has scrambled out of her kart and gone over to the pile up but her vision was so blurry that when she aimed a kick at Gregory for hitting her,missed completely and hit her toe off the kart and she heard the crack and let out of yell of pain which couldn’t be heard over the yells from the rest of the Bridgerton’s who were all in states of injury.

The owner saw it all happen and grateful he had charged a full days rental and a disclosure that should they damage anything they’d pair for the full lot of the damage and with a roll of his eye called for ambulances.

And it was where they all were now as a technician asked “who should we call to come meet you at the Hospital? Your mother?”

“NO!” They all yelled despite their various states of pain and agitation.

“Then who?” He asked with a sigh

“We can’t call Kate she’ll just be pissed we didn’t invite her and refuse to come” Anthony muttered from his spot on the board as the paramedics put the neck support around him as he’d gotten serve whiplash in the crash

“Michael won’t come, he thinks I’m out with Eloise today…” Francesca hissed as the paramedic examined her ribs

“And Phil won’t come for the same reason”

“Simon won’t come cause he thinks we’re all idiots and hates it when we do shit like this” Daphne whined

“luce thinks I’m with mum so…”

Benedict grunted something barely intelligible “what did he say??” Hyacinth called out

Eloise rolled her eyes “he said to call Sophie… Penelope can’t come as she’s too far along and out of everyone then two are the least likely to murder us all”

Colin had to agree as he knew Penelope at 8 months pregnant wouldn’t be able to drive over and Sophie was the calmest in temperament out of everyone.

Since Benedict was in too much pain Eloise gave the paramedics Sophie’s number, was put in her ambulance and with the rest of the Bridgerton’s was whisked off to hospital.

Sophie Bridgerton was sitting feeding her 9 month old daughter when her phone rang, it was a number she did not recognise but as Benedict had said he was going to an art exhibition and often forgot to charge his mobile before he went, she naively assumed it was him calling from a borrowed phone to tell her a) that his phone had died b) what time he was coming home and c) to check in on Vi and the boys.

So imagine her surprise as she answered her phone with a tentative “hello” to hear a male voice she did not recognise

“Mrs Bridgerton?”

“Yes? Who is this please?” She asked politely

“My name is Andrew and I am a paramedic with London Ambulance Service” the voice replied

“Paramedic??” Sophie practically screeched down the phone, panic and worry over taking her entire body

“Yes ma’am there is nothing to worry about we’ve got your husband and his siblings and we are taking them to the Royal London Hospital, we were told to call you to meet them there” he explained

“Wait… siblings?” Sophie asked

“Yes ma’am all 8 of them”

“What happened??”

“The details are a little hazy but there was some sort of pile up and accident at Best Go Karting in Canary Wharf” he replied and Sophie’s panic and worry turned instantly into a fury.

Go karting?! On a Wednesday afternoon, when he said he was going to an art exhibition whilst she was at home with all four kids?!?

“Right… well I’ll have to gather the kids and I’ll be along shortly” Sophie said keeping her voice as calm as she could, knowing she was likely to explode but she was prepared to give him a chance to explain. To see the level of his injury as it could just be a strain or something…

the paramedic gave her some instructions and she confirmed them back and as she hung up the phone she sighed heavily.

She was furious. Not only had Benedict lied to her, the bridgerton siblings no doubt had lied to the others because of any of the other spouses knew about this they would have given the others a heads up and the last chat in the spousal support group was them giving Phillip some advice on dealing with a pregnant Eloise.

“Charlie?!” She called up the stairs, it was half term so the boys were upstairs playing

“Yes Mama?” Came the voice of her 6 year old son

“Can you get your shoes and coat on and help your brothers please, we have to get your dad and see your aunt and uncles at the hospital” she said appearing at the bottom of the stairs and looking up

“Has daddy hurt himself again?” He asked curiously

“I think so” she replied

“Is he in trouble?”

“Oh you have no idea… hurry up please, if Alex tries to fight tell him if he behaves mama will get him a McDonald’s for tea”

“Mcdonalds??” came the squeak of 4 year old Alex, his dark curls appearing at the top of the stairs as he peered at his Mama with bright happy eyes.

“If you behave and do everything Charlie and Mama say” Sophie replied.

Alex beamed, nodded his head eagerly and ran off to listen to his older brother and within 20 minutes Sophie had all four kids in the car without so much of a complaint.

It took Sophie 30 minutes to make her way through the traffic and a further 10 minutes to get parked and the three boys waited patiently as she got Baby Violet into her pushchair and headed into the hospital in search of her ridiculous family.

It was Eloise that Sophie spotted first as she made her way into the hospital and she looked sternly as her sister-in-law, but mostly because Eloise was 6 months pregnant and should have known better.

She turned to Charlie and handed him a £5 note, “take your brothers to the shop and get some sweets whilst Mama talks to Aunt El and sees Papa okay?” she said.

Charlie beamed, took two year old William’s hand and Alex followed. Sophie knew the best way to get her kids to behave was through food and bribes and as they walked away she just looked at Eloise and with a glare said “spill”

Eloise grimaced and with a heavy sigh, explained everything that had happened right down to their discussion about calling her. “I’m waiting for them to come look at my wrist, I can’t have an X-Ray so they’re working out how to figure out if it’s broken or not…” she said

“The baby?” Sophie asked knowing when she told Phillip it would be one i oh f the first things he’d ask.

“They’re fine, it was the first thing they did when I got here. I’m the least injured, it would have been Hyacinth if she hadn’t tried to attack Greg” Eloise explained but before Sophie could do anything more than sigh, Eloise was called into the room to see her doctor and another doctor walked over to Sophie to explain what had happened and the extent of the injuries to the Bridgertons.

Sophie listened and felt her blood boiling as she listened; Anthony had whiplash so was in a neck brace, Daphne had a fractured Arm, Gregory a broken one as well as a bruised coccyx, they suspected Eloise just had a sprained wrist, Francesca had fractured a couple of ribs, Hyacinth had sustained an eye injury which would leave her with a black eye and she was wearing a patch and she’d also broken her toe kicking the go-kart and Benedict and Colin had fared the worst each breaking a leg.

Sophie felt her legs nearly go at the news. Her husband. Her idiot husband had broken his leg…

Was it not bad enough that she had four kids to deal with, now she had her injured husband, and her idiot brother-in-law was about to be a father in a month’s time had broken his as well…

“I can take you in to see your husband if you wish” the doctor said as Sophie digested all the information

“I will in a five minutes i just have a phone call to make” Sophie said

The doctor nodded “he’s in room two when you’re ready” the doctor said and walked off and headed into Francesca’s room.

Sophie had had enough, she knew exactly who needed to be called, the only person who could them see sense, to realise that they’re far too old to be doing shit like this and that they had to be more bloody responsible.

Mario Kart go karting… honestly…

With a sigh Sophie whipped her phone out and dialled the number that belonged to her mother-in-law.

“Sophie dear, this is a pleasant surprise, hello dear”

“Hello Violet, sorry but this isn’t a pleasant surprise… i’m at the hospital” Sophie said

“Oh no, is everything alright? Are the boys and Vi okay?” Violet asked sounding panicked

“Oh my kids are okay… i’m calling about yours” Sophie said

“Oh no is Ben okay?” Violet asked, assuming it was just the one she was calling about

“No he is not. He’s broke his leg… and the rest of his idiotic siblings are here also…” Sophie said and as Violet made a noise of confusion “they lied to everyone and went off to go karting and not just go karting, mario-karting…”

“Please tell me you’re making this up” Violet said

“I wish i was Violet” Sophie said as she then rattled off their injuries and everything Eloise had told her

“I am going to murder them. What do they think they’re playing at??” Violet said “I will be right down. They need their heads banging together, i am sick of this”

“Thank you Violet, I suspect some of them may require a lift home as when everyone else finds out… i can’t imagine they’ll come for them and Penelope can’t even drive at the moment so…”

“I’ll bring the minivan…” Violet said

Sophie thanked her mother-in-law and decided she’d go see her husband before she told the rest of the spouses.

The boys were still down the shop so she pushed the pushchair with a sleeping Violet into room two where Benedict was sitting in a leg brace, looking sheepish as he spotted his wife.

“I can explain…” he said sheepishly

“Can you? Can you explain why you lied to me, why your siblings all lied to their respective partners and you all went off to do something childish and not to mention Dangerous?”

“Soph… please… I am sorry I lied but firstly it wasn’t my idea and I was crashed into… and secondly, if i had told you, you would have told the other and we were just having a fun day out, we used to do it like once a month and we’ve never been injured before…”

“You do this once a month??” Sophie asked incredulously.

“Used to… we’ve not been since Violet was born and it had never been go karting…” Benedict said but seeing the look on his wife’s face he knew better than to say anything more “Look I am really sorry and I know i’m in trouble but can I take Vi and have cuddles to cheer me up please?” as he held his arms out expectantly figuring Sophie would feel a little sorry for him with his injury since it wasn’t actually his fault

“No” Sophie said and Benedict’s mouth fell open as he stared at his wife “you are not getting Violet cuddles until your leg is out of that bloody cast. We are a week into the summer holidays and you’ve rendered yourself useless for the remainder of the school holidays meaning not only do I have to look after FOUR children on my own now, but I am going to have to look after you because you’re so feckless and reckless and didn’t think for one second that this was the stupidest idea you lot could have ever come up with!” sophie replied, not even raising her voice and the moment she finished Benedict burst into tears.

Sophie knew withholding his daughter from him was the worst punishment but she was sick of them all, she was fed up of them being so reckless and competitive and he had to be taught a lesson.

“Please soph… don’t… don’t do this” Benedict sobbed

“Too late… oh and your mother is on her way… she wants a word with you all” Sophie said as she turned Violet around in her pushchair “they’ll take you down for a cast shortly then we’re going home and you’re in the spare room. I’ll be outside, letting the others know about you bloody idiots” she said as she left the room leaving her husband crying and a little panicked knowing his mother was on her way and that they were all in trouble.

Sophie sat down watching as one by one the siblings were taken into one room as per her request (curtsey of Violet) and she saw the look on their faces when they spoke to Benedict and learned their mother was en route and that was why they were being gathered in one room.

Sophie knew it was extreme but as she texted the Spousal group chat, and watched Violet, the family matriarch walk into the ward, a face like thunder, her shoulder set as she threw the door open and looked at children in various states as she yelled “WHAT ON EARTH WERE YOU ALL THINKING? LYING TO YOUR PARTNERS? I TAUGHT YOU BETTER THAN THAT”

Francesca tried to speak up “mum we didn’t…”

“DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT LYING TO ME FRANCESCA BRIDGERTON” as she slammed the door shut and it muffled the sounds but Sophie smirked to herself as she watched each of the Bridgerton’s in turn jumping as they were yelled at.

Charlie, Alex and William all appeared a few minutes into Violet’s tirade and Alex blinked “Grandma is angry”

“I think Papa and everyone are in big trouble” Charlie said as Alex’s face lit up with a cheeky grin.

“What did Papa do?” he asked

“He lied to Mama, and broke his leg, so Papa is not allowed cuddles from anyone until his leg is better do you understand?” she said to her boys.

“Papa naughty?” two year old William asked “no snuggles?”

“Yes Papa has been naughty, we don’t tell lies do we?” Sophie asked

All three boys shook their heads “no or our noses get big!” Charlie said

“Exactly, or you hurt yourself like your Uncle’s and Aunties have” Sophie said.

Sophie just sat and watched smugly as Violet continued to yell and berate her children for nearly an hour. Phillip turned up half way through and Eloise spotted him through the window and mouthed “Rescue me”

Phillip just shook her head and took a seat next to Sophie “how long has Violet been yelling?”

“Half hour so far…” Sophie grinned

“Hopefully this will teach them a lesson”

“Between that, no Snu Snu and the film I've got of the first twenty minutes of her tirade should hopefully be enough” Sophie grinned.

“You’ve gotta send that to the chat” Phillip said and Sophie agreed, sending the video to the rest of the Spouses and they just hoped, beyond hope, that it would be the last time that they’d be visiting the hospital for a game night related injury.

[suitsusboth]

I need a lovelight pumpkin patch story!! Pumpkin patch, corn maze or maybe just hay bales, piping hot cider. Sophie's apple cider donuts, along with other fall offerings! Romantic apple picking, maybe bobbing for apples? Although that's unsanitary. Whatever strikes your fancy!

You know what? Me too! All the fall feels! While I have a plan for a lovelights au fic that spans all seasons and will touch on the chaotic festivals that happen in Aubrey, here’s a small snippet of the annual corn maze race a year after that planned fic 😉

October 2024

Autumn in Aubrey was perhaps her favorite time of year.

“You say that about every season,” Sophie replied, smiling knowingly as she packed up some freshly made apple cider donuts into a box.

Kate sighed happily. Yeah, that was true.

It didn’t matter what time of year— she loved it here.

The back door of the bakehouse swung open then, revealing Anthony and Benedict holding two large coffee/tea dispensers.

“Ms. Agatha wants these back first thing,” Anthony told them as he and his brother placed the containers on the countertop, ready to be filled with Sophie homemade apple cider (a kid’s version and an adult version.) “And cleaned ‘properly.’”

From the way Anthony’s face was pinched, Kate knew the old woman hadn’t released her containers easily, even though she was joining them tonight.

Sophie must have known it too, by how she rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah.”

It had been two years since Ms. Agatha insulted Sophie for over-mixing her batter, and she had not let it go. A slow, low burning rivalry simmered between the two women and as much as Kate would love for them to reconcile, she could not help but enjoy the by-product of their feud—exceptionally delicious baked goods. Which she was enjoying more than ever, recently.

“Nearly ready?” Ben asked after they ladled the drinks into their containers (Ben probably pouring more liquor than he should in the adult container), and Sophie finished packing the last remaining tray of treats.

“Yep!” Sophie said brightly, gesturing to the eight boxes before her.

“God, Soph. How much did you make?”

Sophie swatted him in the stomach. “Do not judge! Do you know how big your family is? Plus Simon, Mary, Edwina, Ms. Agatha, Michael, John—”

“John isn’t here, he has a game.” Kate informed her, “But I think Eloise brought Penelope with her. And I will happily pick up the slack so there aren't too many leftovers.” She opened a box and pulled out a donut and bit into the sugary goodness and let out a little involuntarily moan. Sophie really was some sort of baking fairy.

“Should we leave you two alone?” Anthony quipped, then dodged Kate’s half-hearted swat in his direction.

“You’re just jealous,” she remarked back, and Anthony merely winked at her as he and Ben filled the drink containers.

“Enough, you two,” Ben interrupted, knowing how far they could take this if left unchecked. “Let’s get going. Everyone’s waiting for us.”

Sophie started to hand her boxes. “Kate, can you carry—?”

“Simon’s coming to help,” Anthony said abruptly, “He can carry them.”

Kate shot her husband a look, but luckily Ben and Sophie did not question him and went on to carry the stuff out of the bakehouse where Simon was approaching, ready to help. They all headed to the field where the rest of their family and friends were waiting. It was late October, and Halloween was approaching. That left only one Bridgerton Family tradition left to do for the fall season— the corn maze. Anthony had finished making it yesterday and everyone had gathered to try it out before they opened it to the public.

While for their guests on the farm, it was supposed to be a nice, leisurely activity, it was anything but this late afternoon. As most things with the Bridgertons, this was a competition. There were two objectives of the game— fastest time, and avoid getting shot by Anthony and his BB gun who acted as the “minotaur”. As the creator of the maze, it was unanimously decided he could not compete. It didn't b matter though. Anthony loved a chance to torment his siblings.

Last year, Colin got so lost in the maze it took him nearly three hours to compete. And by how pale Colin looked right now, maybe he was recalling that fact.

“Colin,” Kate sucked in a breath. “You look awful. Are you okay?”

Colin seemed to blanch, then smiled at her uneasily. “Peachy.”

Kate was about to ask him if he was sure, when Eloise said, “He’s sick.” Anthony discreetly pulled Kate away a few steps, putting some distance between her and his brother. “That’s what you get for doing the apple bobbing at the Fall Festival last week,” Eloise huffed, “In what world did you think that was a good idea? Think of all the germs.”

“The Collins kids went before you I think, and I think he had the flu,” Penelope hummed sympathetically.

Violet piped up then, grimacing. “He most certainly did. He was sick all over me on Tuesday.”

Colin made a little noise then, which Kate was nearly certain was a gag, as he slumped down on a picnic table bench, looking as if he really wanted to be in the fetal position.

“Maybe sit this one out, bud,” Ben said, patting him on the back, and Colin let out a noise in which Kate could only assume he agreed, seeing as standing posed difficulty at this moment.

“Here,” Anthony said, putting a piping cup of cider and a bottle of water in front of him. “Hydrate.”

“Thanks,” Colin half slurred, waving them off, “Go on without me.” He looked at Penelope. “Make sure you win, Pen. I got money on you.”

Penelope pinkened slightly, but nodded.

Kate left Penelope blushing, as Eloise— who was oblivious to her best friend's crush on her brother —started on a tangent about how she was going to win the maze and went to help set up the spread. In a slightly new part of the tradition of the corn maze day, Kate had added a little picnic/buffet situation to the day. Sophie brought the desserts, Violet brought some sort of crockpot/slow roast for sandwiches, Anthony made soup, and Mary brought her butternut squash raviolis and sage sauce.

Kate smiled to herself as she watched her step-mom happily chatting with Violet and Ms Agatha as they laughed over something or other. Mary had moved to Aubrey over the summer and it made her heart happy to have her so close now. Anthony wrapped an arm around her, giving her look as if to say he knew exactly what she was thinking. And he probably did.

“So,” Michael said, slinking up next to them with Edwina and Francesca in tow. “I’m being told that I might be shot at?”

“Yep!” Kate replied brightly, and Michael looked at her like she had gone insane. To be fair, he often gave her this look nowadays. He’s told her multiple times how she’s drank the cool aid on this town.

“Shoot at me Bridgerton and I will kick you in the balls,” Edwina told Anthony, and Anthony's expression tightened a fraction. He knew Edwina well enough that she was dead serious.

“You should probably start warming up,” Kate told him— who in turn looked baffled— then looked at Francesca. “Did you tell him about the hide and seek rules?” His eyes flicked to Michael and Edwina. “There’s no pushing allowed by the way. Instant disqualification.”

Michael shook his head. “The more I hear, the more troubling this becomes.”

“You should see them at Easter,” Kate shook her head. “That’s the real bloodbath. Pushing is allowed then.”

“But no gouging,” Fran helpfully added, obviously enjoying Michael’s despair over these weird family traditions and rules.

“What about shanking?” Michael joked.

Anthony hummed thoughtfully as his brows pulled together. “Not officially, but we should probably write that down. I wouldn’t put it past Eloise.”

“That reminds me,” Kate said, looking at Michael again, “Watch out for Hyacinth, she will go for your kneecaps.”

They all turned to look over at the teenage girl who was a few feet away. Hyacinth saw them and looked Michael dead in the eye, completely deadpan, and proceeded to give him the universal you’re dead gesture. Kate was pretty sure she heard Michael swear under his breath before Hyacinth broke out into giggles and skipped away.

Michael actually started to look nervous then, which was very unlike him. “I need a drink,” he stated, and stalked over to the cider stand.

“I’m gonna get set up,” Anthony said with a kiss to her temple. Kate waved him off, and Edwina and Frannie decided to help themselves to seconds. They asked Kate to come along with them but she waved them off.

She just wanted to stand there for a moment.

Kate took a long, deep breath, enjoying the crispness of the air as she looked around at the beauty around her. They had come to the golden hour, and on this perfect day the vibrant reds, yellows and oranges felt other worldly against the backdrop of the clear blue sky only topped by the breathtaking mouton peaks. The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air as her family and friends mingled and ate. Kate tried to savor the moments like these. It was so easy to walk through life blindly, not even seeing or enjoying moments like these. And she had done it for so many years. She wanted to relish every happy moment that came her way. She wanted to appreciate everything she had.

Kate watched as Daphne split from the group and started to walk her way, two cups in hand. She stopped when she reached Kate and extended a cup to her.

She looked at the cup. “Oh, um,” Kate hesitated, “Which—?”

Daphne laughed, and pushed the cup into her hand. “The normal one, of course. I wouldn’t give the spiked one to you in your condition.”

Kate’s head whipped up. “How did you—?”

Daphne gave her a bemused look. “Anthony isn’t exactly subtle. He hasn’t let you pick up a thing and constantly wants to sit down. Not to mention he walks around like he’s on cloud nine and you smile like you have a special secret. Plus you come to the store once a week to look at baby onesies. And, well…” Daphne laid a hand on her own stomach. “One knows the signs.”

Kate was sure she let out a little squeak when she caught her meaning. “Oh my God, Daphne!”

Daphne hushed her, looking around to see if anyone heard them, but was grinning from ear to ear when she looked back at Kate. “Yeah, we’re really happy. We’ll tell everyone at Thanksgiving.” Daphne looked over to where Simon and Amelia were. Amelia was currently trying to steal the donut Simon had in hand, and she had the cutest pout when Simon moved it away.

She couldn’t wait to watch Anthony be with their own little one.

“When are you telling everyone?” Daphne asked.

“Today,” she replied, “we wanted to wait to get everyone together and tell them in person.” It was hard to get everyone together, especially with Edwina, Michael and Frannie being in the city.

Daphne reached for her hand and gave it a squeeze. “I’m really happy for you both.”

“What are you happy about?” Anthony asked as he walked over to them.

Daphne didn’t say anything, instead smiled knowingly and gave her brother's arm a squeeze before heading back to join her own family.

“What was that about?” Anthony asked quietly, one brow raised as his arm circled her waist.

Kate smiled. “Daphne knows. Apparently we are not inconspicuous.”

Anthony chuckled softly. It was one of her favorite sounds. “Oops. Good thing the cat will be out of the bag by the end of the night.”

Kate leaned her head on his shoulder, smiling to herself. She couldn’t wait. She was fit to burst with this secret.

“I think it’s time,” Anthony murmured, giving her one last gentle squeeze before he stepped away and yelled out to ask if everyone was ready. Kate watched as he walked away, and the excited looks of everyone as they started to ready themselves.

Kate took another look as the sun started to set, the pumpkins they had carved and lit glowing steadily as Simon started to light the couple of fireplaces they had dragged over.

Kate smiled to herself and let out a happy sigh as she pulled her coat more closely around her.

Soon the brilliant colors would fade, leaving the muted browns and grays in their wake as the Earth died and the cold set in.

The nights would become long and the cold would bite, but Kate would barely feel. Not when she was surrounded by all this love.

[queen-of-the-misfit-toys]

Reset

Benophie Week 2024

Warnings: nothing but angst, a little bit of injury

Word count: 2.1k

My entry for Benophie Week, day two. Trope: second chances. This is the longest thing I've written in probably 8 months or so. I hope everyone enjoys.

____________________________________________

“Hi Daph. What's up?”

“How did you know it was me?”

“Ummmm…a little thing called caller ID, sister.”

“Oh right. Of course. Anyway, I need you to do something for me please. BB has had an accident at school and they have taken her to A&E and they won't start treatment until a family member is there. And…”

“You're on bed rest. Right, of course I'll go but where is Simon? Or Mum? I wouldn't normally be your first choice.”

“Simon is in York on a business thing and Hy is having her wisdom teeth out today so Mum can't go. And Anthony and Kate…”

“Are out of the country. What hospital did she go to, Daph? I'll leave right away.”

“She's at St. Mary's. Thank you so much, brother.”

“Of course, Daphne. No thanks needed. I'll keep you updated on everything.”

“Thanks again!! Oh, oh, Benedict before you go you need to know…Sophie is with her.”

(Radio Silence)

“Ben? Benedict? Are you there? Hello?”

“I'm here, Daphne. Why, pray tell, is my ex-girlfriend with her? I know you're still friends but…”

“Sophie is her teacher this year, brother. And I trust her implicitly so she is on the approved list to take the kids from school if needed. But the hospital needs a family member. It's just for a little while, Ben. I'm sure she'll leave once you get there.”

“It's not an issue, Daph, really. Just a bit of a surprise. Talk to you soon.”

“I love you, big brother. Thank you.”

“Love you too.”

Three years since he had seen her. Heard her voice. Been in her presence. And he still loved her just as much as he did then. He could do this. He HAD to do this. He had no choice. He grabbed his keys and was out the door.

“I am here for Belinda Basset please.” He announced to the receptionist at the desk.

“Are you a family member?”

“Yes. I am her uncle. My name is on her family list. Benedict Bridgerton.”

“Right. Just a moment. Jesus, there's a ton of you lot, aren't there?”

“My parents loved each other very much.” He quipped, eliciting a laugh from everyone around.

“Alright, just sign these forms and you can go to her.”

Benedict quickly scribbled his signature and was directed to station two. He steadied his nerves as he walked down the hall. Three years. Three bloody years. He took a deep breath and opened the door.

“Belinda Belle, what have you done to yourself, my love?”

“Uncle Benny!!! I can't fly, Uncle Benny! I tried but I fell!”

He took his niece from Sophie's lap, hugging her tight to him.

“Sophie. You're looking well. Mind telling me what happened?”

“She was on top of the climbing frame and jumped off, trying to fly as she said. It happened very quickly.” She said, patting BB’s back as she clung to her uncle.

“Was no one watching them? Isn't that kind of your job?”

Sophie glared him down.

“Sorry. Sorry. I'm just concerned for her.”

“As I said, Benedict, it happened very quickly. I was by her side the minute she hit the ground.”

“Thank you for that, Sophie. I'll take it from here if you want to leave.”

“NOOOOOO!!! Don't leave!! Please, Miss Sophie!! Please stay!!”

“BB darling, Uncle Benny is here now. You don't really need me here, sweetheart.”

“Please Miss Sophie!! I want you both here! Please don't go!”

Sophie looked at Benedict, searching his face for…what she didn't know.

“If it's okay with Uncle Benedict I'll stay.”

“Please Uncle Benny?? Please don't make her go!”

“Of course I won't, Darling. Miss Sophie can stay if you want her to.”

Sophie sat down next to Benedict, waiting for the doctor.

*Knock knock*

“Your Graces. So pleased to meet you. I'm Dr. Dorset and will be treating young Belinda today.”

“Oh. Oh no. We're not married. Or her parents. I'm her teacher.” Sophie stammered quickly. “We have no children together. No chance.”

“Nice one, Soph.” Benedict quipped. “But she is right, Dr. Dorset. I am Belinda's uncle, Benedict Bridgerton. The duchess is my sister and I'm filling in today.”

“I see. So you will be authorizing her treatment today. She has a dislocated shoulder, Mr. Bridgerton. For adults we normally manipulate it back into place in the room. I don't like to do that with children. Too traumatizing. We normally put them under light anesthesia for this. It won't take long but it is a good few hours including recovery. Will that be alright?”

“Of course. Whatever is best for her.”

“Excellent. I'll send a nurse in to give her a shot to calm her and start the anesthesia.”

“NOOOOOO!!! No shots, Uncle Benny! Please!!” Belinda cried as she buried her head in his chest.

“But it must be done to help you, sweetheart. To make the hurt go away.” He kissed her head as she cried harder.

“Darling, do you remember last year when you bloodied your knee? You did not want the antiseptic because it hurt but do you remember how much better you felt afterwards? This is the same, BB. It will hurt for a moment but will feel so much better. And I will be right here with you. Can you be my brave girl?” He soothed as he stroked her hair.

Belinda stared at him and then at Sophie.

“You'll BOTH be here? You won't leave me alone?” She sniffled.

“We would never leave you alone, sweetheart.” Benedict cooed as he wiped her tears.

“We're right here with you, BB.” Sophie promised.

“I don't have to stay, Benedict.” Sophie said after BB had been rolled away. “I know you're uncomfortable with me here. God knows I am.”

“Do you have somewhere or someone to get to? You promised her, Sophie. We both promised her we'd be here. So we'll act like adults and deal with it. Besides, how are you going to leave? You rode in the ambulance with her.”

“No I don't have somewhere to be, Ben. I was just trying to alleviate the tension. I'll call an Uber to take me to my car. That's what I was going to do anyway.”

“No. Not going to happen. You'll stay here with me until she is released and I will drive you to get your car.”

“The three of us won't fit in your two seater Jag.”

“I don't have the jag anymore, Sophie. I have a very…God help me…sensible minivan.”

Sophie broke into giggles.

“You what? Why would you get a van, Benedict? Not exactly the vehicle of choice for a rich, young, devastatingly handsome man.”

“It's practical. With the amount of my nieces and nephews already and the number growing seemingly everyday, it seemed the thing to do. Did you say devastatingly handsome?”

“I always knew you'd be a wonderful family man. You were superb just now with BB. Your girlfriend is a lucky woman.” She said softly, looking away so he wouldn't see the tears forming.

“I don't have a girlfriend, Soph. Why would you think I do? I haven't really dated anyone since…well…us.”

“Oh. Daphne said she liked the woman you brought to her New Year's party so I just figured…” Her voice trailed off.

Benedict sighed, running his hands through his hair.

“She was a model for a shoot. She was desperate to go to a society party so I figured what the hell. It meant nothing and she left with another guy. A baron or something. A pointless non-date if you will. What about you? Since we're getting personal here.”

“Nothing of any note. A few dates here and there. Pointless, as you say.”

“Good. Well, not good. But…anyway. We've gotten that out of the way.

“Yes, quite.”

“Yes indeed.”

An hour or so passed in silence, each devotedly buried in their phones.

Until.

“What happened, Sophie?”

“What?”

“I asked what happened? Why did you end us? What did I do? Or say? What could I have done to prevent it?”

Sophie took several deep breaths, trying to gather her thoughts. Which was quite difficult with Benedict staring her down.

“Well?”

“You didn't do anything, Benedict. It just needed to happen. I couldn't give you what you needed. End of story.”

“What I needed? What exactly did I need that you couldn't provide, Sophie? Shouldn't I have a clue about what that was?”

“You wouldn't understand.” Sophie whispered as tears began to fall.

“You're right. I don't understand. But you've never given me a chance to. You left with no warning. No communication. I was devastated, Sophie! I still am if I'm honest. I thought we were forever. We had plans, we were going to have children..our own family..a home in the country…and…and then you were just gone! So no, I do not understand!”

“Children, Benedict! You wanted children and I couldn't give them to you! I couldn’t give you the family you want! You deserve that. You deserve the world and I can't be that!”

“Soph”

*Knock knock*

“Excuse me, Mr. Bridgerton. Belinda did very well and is in recovery now. She should be ready to go home shortly.”

“Thank you, Dr. Dorset. For everything.”

“Why didn't you tell me, Sophie?”

He came and sat next to her, taking her hand in his.

“Did you think that would change my feelings for you? That I wouldn't love you anymore?

I still love you, Sophie. Even after you left me in the dust.”

“What? You can't be serious, Benedict.”

“I am serious. Deadly serious. You were it for me, Sophie. No one will ever compare. I couldn't care less if you can have children. I wish you had given me the chance to prove myself to you.”

“You deserve to be happy, Benedict. I thought I was doing you a favor. Giving you the chance to have a family. You never had to prove anything to me. I knew you wouldn't abandon me but you'd always be disappointed. And I couldn't live with you being disappointed in me.”

He brought her hand to his lips, kissing her knuckles.

“Sophie. You should have talked to me. Let me know what was happening. I could have helped you through it.”

“I'm sorry, Benedict. I never wanted you to suffer too.”

“You know Frannie has the same issue. Well, she can't have children so far, I don't know if you two have the same medical issue. Anyway, she is undergoing some treatments to see if they will help. You could try the same. I can get the information from her.” He said softly.

“Maybe if I ever have a partner again I will. Thank you, Ben.”

“Oh my brave darling!! Come to Mummy, my love!” Daphne met them at the door, reaching for her little girl.

“Daphne!! She's asleep so please get back to bed. Don't make me carry you too!”

“I'm going, I'm going! Take her to my room. I want her close to me.”

“She was an angel, Daph. So good for the doctors.” Sophie said as she hugged her friend.

“Thank you for staying with her too, Sophie. I hope it wasn't too unbearable.”

“It was fine, Daphne, really it was. He couldn't have been sweeter.” She said, squeezing her hand.

“Alright sister, she is tucked up tight, just waiting on Mummy to join her. Where are the others by the way?”

“They went home with the Mondrichs for a sleepover. Alice is a brave woman with her children and mine.”

“Wonderful! Now you get back to bed! Can't have anything happen to this little one,” he said, patting her belly, “And I need to get Sophie home.”

Daphne hugged them both.

“Thank you two for everything today! You're angels! Now go get some rest.”

“What about me, Soph?” he asked as they drove away.

“What about you, Benedict?”

“To try and make a family with. If you want to try of course. I understand if you don't. But if you do…would you consider me?” he whispered.

“Really Benedict? I don't like it when you joke like this. This situation is already hard enough without you mocking me.”

“I'm not joking or mocking you, Soph. Jesus, I already told you I still love you. I know you probably don't feel the same but at least consider me as an option. At least neither of us would be alone.”

Silence filled the car for several minutes, broken only by the soft whirring of the engine.

“I still love you too, Ben.” Sophie murmured, hanging her head.

“What was that, Soph? What did you say?”

“I said I still love you, you bloody idiot!”

Benedict pulled the car off the road into the grass.

“What are you doing?”

“Come home with me, Soph. Right now. Nothing has to happen. We'll just talk. Figure out what to do. A reset if you will. Please, Sophie, say you will!”

“I will, Ben. I love you.”

“I love you, Sophie. Let's go home.”

[spaceorphan18]

So. I'm prepping to get into some Season 2 meta and, my dudes, y'all are going to get so tired of me, because I love Season 2. A lot.

But now that I'm going back and really absorbing it, I'm coming to really fall in love with Season 2 Colin. And yes, that may seem like a weird statement because I just fucking love Colin in general but...

It's just that this version of Colin is just so goofy in the most charming and endearing of ways. But he's also a lost, little puppy feeding ducks and attempting to find his life's passion when it's literally standing there a foot below him and he's getting high with benedict and cheezing on anthony because why not and making really stupid olive puns and oh.... Season 2 Colin I adore you so much.

I also think Season 2 Colin is the longest we go seeing him not in lovestruck mode or attempting to be someone else mode, which kind of gives a unique look at his character.

But I think that it's amusing going from a casual fan, who had completely forgotten what most of the characters were like between seasons to really getting to know the show on a whole different level. Because coming into season 3 and knowing what a ridiculous human Colin already is makes the beginning of season 3 even funnier in some ways.

Like, Colin, bb, no, what are you doing? You are trying way too hard and this is not really you. (And also just the juxtaposition of this gif with the one above makes me laugh every time I look at them.)

Anyway... it's going to be a fun ride.

[ollieoliveoboelo22]

Music of TURN

Round 22

Ten Thousand Miles

3.03: Benediction

While the song is about a lover's farewell, it fits very nicely into the division between Abe and his father. When we are first introduced to the song, Abe is building the house with Thomas, telling him that his father used to sing it to him. And now we see Abe singing to his own son, while Richard holds the camel toy.

We also see Ben running through the forest, shot and bleeding. This rendition of it gives just a hint of a haunting feeling, with the consistent piano chords. It almost sounds like the ticking of a clock. The slight echo of the vocals, and the held string part (It might be a tremolo or just vibrato, I can't be sure) just adds to that haunting feeling.

I did another key analysis for you, and this is in Bb minor. Which is commonly associated with night, darkness, blasphemy, death, and destiny. Even more fitting.

It just works SO well here. As does the version in season 4.

War and Washington

2.05: Men of Blood

So music during the revolution was very important. It’s important in almost any war, and I’ve written an entire paper about this. But in a time of separation, morale is key. And hence, music. Taking a song like the British Grenadiers and changing it to be come a rallying song for your general is quite something. Especially for this time in the war where Philadelphia is lost and Washington might just lose his position as commander and chief.

If you pay attention to the clip you’ll notice that the axe hit is on beat with the tune as is the sawing. I’ve mentioned work songs before with Read ‘Em John, and that applies here too. For thousands of years we’ve put music to work, and this is no different. It helps establish a rhythm and pace. And as I said earlier, it serves as morale. Something highly needed going into Valley Forge.

[lady-of-the-silver-lakeatron]

Bridgerton Season 3 Episode 3 Initial Reactions

No one asked, but here it is late as per usual.

Not Colin having a harlequin novel style wet dream in 1815? And he is supposed to be a rake??

"My entire thoughts consumed by our kiss"- like we must admit the boy needed 1 (one) kiss and he has gone off into the stratosphere.

Nicola is killing her acting like I am getting into this!

Hyacinth going for Colin's jugular unintentionally 10/10 moment.

“Penelope is quite fortunate to have you as a friend” "Yes an acquaintance". Boy bye.

Not the Queen literally hand picking men for Fran and throwing them away.

Featherington scenes are now just a comedic and terrifying window into how terrible sex education was during this time. I shall refer to them as SexEd the Featherinton way.

Omg Eloise-Pen confrontation! I swear they are so down bad for each other "you can come in... for books if you like". GIRLLLLLLS just bust out some alcohol and talk this out!

Colin and Pen meeting after their scandalous kiss try not to be awkward challenge.

"I assure you nothing of the kind will ever happen again." Penelope bb girl I think this man is besotted and is ready to be on the ground kneeling to have the chance for THAT to happen again.

Every line said here is acted with the utmost panic and adorable awkwardness.

Lord Debling! Interesting love interest has arrived.

Be gone Cressida do not hurt this sweet man with your childish games.

Omg this blue dress on Pen? Is it supposed to be showing that she is leaning to the Bridgerton blue pallet? O.O

Poor Francesca having to suffer another match by the queen.

Violet "because it is easier " may sound harsh but I too would be worried on who this girl would chose with the attitude she has had so far.

Omg MRS. and MR.Mondreitch came to stunt on all these hoes

Benedict panicking to avoid the debutants by socializing with Lady Danbury pfft

Also why is he running so hard from this cute girl? Just announce you are not searching for a wife this season and simply help your sisters!!??  

Ooh Penelope x Debling conversation. They are bantering!!

Never would I have been happy to hear a man say I don't read except when he says "I don't read Lady Whistledown"

Y'all he is being so kind and is clearly into our girl. Giving her all this confidence.

Colin is also being JEALOUS

That's right Eloise tell her Pen can fight dirty.

Okay something to get onto is the "most importantly my choice" for Cressida. Is it really a choice if you are being steered to the man?  

Ah more SexEd the Featherington way I am cackling.

I hope they do something with the Featherinton girl's husbands because they seem very clueless and jolly all the time and to be comedic relief but I know there is something.

Ooh is Pen wearing blue brocade for her dress? While Colin is thirsting over her?

A note on Colin, sir you are in public control yourself!

Okay Lord Debling and Cressida relating on wanting to be away from family is something.

The look of betrayal form Pen to Eloise after she helps Cressida- P:"How dare you" E:"I know I'm sorry "

Is the inheritance of the Kent title story line going to involve social commentary on the constraints of high society and socioeconomic commentary?

I fear we can already see who Benedict will be involved with this season.

Lord Samardagni no hate respectfully but you are not John Stirling.

Violet living vicariously through her kids love lives, mood.

"I love grass" is the new "I hate sand"

Colin being Jelous af at Pen talking to a man when she is literally fighting for her life is a hilarious parallel.

Prudence's husband being down bad and an utter simp for her is cute. But why is Prudence so awkward? I want to explore this (mainly because this man has Kenergy)

Yes, Colin spring into action and save Pen!

Points to the Debling for jumping after Pen!

I am not endeared but Cressida is actually so unhinged and funny

I'm so sorry but I cannot listen seriously to Cheap Thrills after the 2010s tumblr fandom era. Nope.

"No" - Portia Featherington 1815, so rich ppl

Gasp not wearing clothes more than once!

Okay the costume designers are killing it but what in the balloon sleeve monstrosity.

Eloise it’s okay I would run away from marriage talk too.

Francesca: I want a little peace Local Man: I want like 8 kids in fact we need more

OMG Lady Danbury Brother!! What backstory is there? He must be the foreboding visitor. Also, Lady Violet were you flirting?

Fran meeting an appreciator of the quiet!! Is this him?

Do you see her face? She is so shook and excited. That is truly the spark of love!

Benedict getting himself a cougar? A widow? Okay let him have a little treat.

Luke T when they give you a glow up the world will not be prepared like he already looks like that what more can they do??!!

As a middle-class person it is wild how they disdain any form of work, even working to run a respectable business. This is wild.

Colin is simping so hard he keeps longingly staring at Pen. Also Pen's fits  they are blue!!

OMG Penelope's little speech to Debling is so cute and sincere.

Debling is so sweet look how happy he is that he got to know the real Penelope.

Totally forgot he just abandoned Cressida. I know she is sad but I cannot take her seriously with these sleaves.

"The best foundation for great love is friendship" bro how did you know this beforehand, and you didn't once in three years consider "hmmm ... maybe?"

Lord this scene he looks like a man starved. The mutual longing the pining. Oh tasty little treat for sure.

Honestly Colin deserves getting cockblocked let that boy suffer.

SexEd the Featherington way? Like damn that was quick okay.

Yess suffer my boy PII.

This was a fun episode. I will say I'm a bit confused what Benedict's arc will be he seems to get sidelined often and not have that deep of a ploy point. The Kent inheritance story line is starting to make sense, the introduction for it is building up. But most importantly Penelope slowly wearing blue gowns that become lighter in tone!! Ahhh. This is cinema right here. Okay onto the next.

[the-crow-binary]

I don't have a context for this. Just a little talk between Hector and Benedict ❤️ (bestie wanted me to post it for some reason 😔)

BB: Sir, if you don't mind me asking...

Hector: Hm?

BB: Do you think... Isaac loved you...?

Hector: ... I wouldn't say "love". I'd say he was passionnate. He had a fire burning inside him... But neither of us could handle it.

BB: ... What about Count Dracula...?

Hector: ... Do you know about the sea?

BB: I know of it, but I have never seen it, unfortunately.

Hector: Well, neither have I, but I have heard stories about it, and read books about it. You see, when the sea hit the rocks on the shore, it destroys them everytime just a little more. So little you don't realize the rocks are slowly crumbling, until it's too late.

BB: I think I see where you're going with this...

Hector: I was a young rock, in love with the ancient sea. Yes, sometimes, it would become so stormy it's waves would hit and drown me. But it could also be so calm and gentle, the same waves that left scars the previous night would soothe my pain with loving caresses. What I didn't realize is that... Even those gentle caresses were eroding me.

BB: ...

Hector: Don't fall for the same tricks I have, Benedict. The sea is older than you, and it knows much more things than you. It is aware of the power it's waves hold... And it consciously uses it to harm for it's own sick pleasure. Don't let it fool you into thinking otherwise.

[fushitoru]

literally cryinggg your bridgerton!geto has a fanclub of his own nowww 😭😭😭 that’s so wholesome but also very hilarious to me for some reason

also!! i’m so happy you decided to continue the bridgerton saga because it’s entertaining and very enjoyable :3 i always look forward for the next chapter even though i’m not really a gojo fan myself. i bet nanami’s story is going to be very different given how the boys have very distinct personalities that are quite the opposite from each other but oh 🤭 whistledown!reader sounds like the perfect match for his (i totally agree that nanami gives off colin vibes! though i think he would fit more season 1 colin…..)

do you think you’ll stop after nanami and reader’s story or you’ll eventually write an arc for geto? i don’t want to pressure you or sound rude (i’m really sorry if it sounds like this!!), i’m just curious about how you plan to evolve (?) the bridgerton series once duke!gojo and miss itadori will finally have their deserved happy ending— which the thought of it makes me cry because i’m not ready but anyway :,)

hiii bb!!! sorry this took SO LONG to respond. but im just so surprised too. like girl geto has spoken a grand total of two times idk why people are so interested in him T-T same with sukuna because a few weeks ago i also got a question asking if i would write a fic about him. he's not even in the series yet omg are they just obsessead with his aura T-T regardless i am soooo grateful for the interest people are showing in my characters and the series

yesss! i think nanami gives colin and geto gives benedict. i think i would write their stories similar, just like how gojo (who gives anthony) has a story similar to s2.

i think i might limit it to a one shot for geto. we might even see that soon because bridgerton s4 revolves around benedict and that might inspire me when it comes out :p

but omg dw ur not rude bb!!! appreciate ur ask :p <3 im also kinda sad at the thought of bridgerton!gojo ending, i've been trying to make it longer and longer but i think it's going to be still at 12 chapters. might extend to 14. we will see! i love not having a concrete plan <3