#Eloise Bridgerton might help it along

[hopepaigeturner]

Chapter 5: That child's play back in school...

“If you’re willing to get messy with the honey again,” Sophie announced walking into the kitchen, “then I wouldn’t mind licking it off you this time—oh god!”

Sophie clutched her gown around her and stared at the interloper by the kettle.

Well, technically the woman by the kettle had more right being in the kitchen of a Bridgerton property than Sophie. After all, it was Eloise Bridgerton stooped over that kettle.

Read on AO3 here

Go check out other fics in this universe by the talented @tilly-tilly-2827.

As always credit goes to @tilly-tilly-2827 for the creation of these two dorks.

[captainsophiestark]

Bad Timing

Benedict Bridgerton x Reader

Masterlist - Join My Taglist!

Written for Fictober 2023!

Fandom: Bridgerton

Day 25 Prompt: "Do I look like I knew that?"

Summary: When Eloise needs help with a problem, she knows she can count on her brother and his new wife for help.

Word Count: 1,047

Category: Fluff, Humor

Putting work into an AI program without permission is illegal. You do not have my permission. Do not do it.

"You know, lazy days like this are by far my favorite," I mused, curling into my husband's side as we laid in bed together. "No galas, no gossip from the Ton. Just the two of us."

"I certainly have to agree," said Benedict, my husband, as he traced patterns on the bare skin of my back. "Although, I do enjoy watching Colin wade through the swarm of Mamas every time we go out, now that he is the only unwed Bridgerton son. At least until Gregory gets a bit older."

"I'd say you were being mean, but he did ditch you and Anthony for quite a while in his travels."

"Yes, he did. So he deserves this."

I laughed, shaking my head a bit at my husband's antics. A moment later, he pulled me tighter to his side, rolling us so I laid completely on top of his chest. I rose up on my elbows to meet his eyes and found him looking at me with a mischevious smile.

"You know, it's just occurred to me," he started. "There are quite a few ways I can think of that our time would be better spent than talking about my brother."

"Oh really?" I asked, grinning and leaning down closer to Benedict. "And what might those ideas be?"

"Well for starters..."

With that, he brought his hand up to the back of my neck and pulled me into a searing kiss. I rested all my weight on him, kissing right back, until a knock at the door jarred us both out of the moment.

Reluctantly, I pulled away, and Benedict let me. We shared a look.

"Maybe whoever it is will go away if we ignore them," he whispered in suggestion. As if he'd willed it into happening, a voice from the other side of the door called out.

"Y/N! If you're in there, please, I need to talk to you."

Eloise. Benedict's little sister, who I'd become close with throughout the course of Benedict courting me. I gave Benedict an apologetic look.

"No," he whined as I rolled off of him, quickly wrapping a robe around myself and heading for the door.

"I have to," I replied. "I can't ignore her. Make yourself decent."

With that, I turned from my husband and went to open the door just wide enough to see Eloise on the other side, and for her to see me.

"Oh, thank goodness!" she cried, moving to push past me and into the room. I let her, just hoping that Benedict had done as I'd said. Eloise and I had done this a few times as we'd gotten closer, and whenever it happened, I knew she really, truly needed me.

I turned around to follow Eloise back into the room after shutting the door behind me, only to find her frozen just a few steps from where she'd come in. Benedict stood next to the bed, looking tired but resigned to our new morning activity as he laced up his shirt.

"Good morning, Eloise," he said, a little edge of teasing in his tone. "You know, I was trying to enjoy the morning with my wife-"

"Do I look like I knew that?" she cried. I fought back a laugh as I walked forward to wrap my arm around her shoulder.

"It's alright, Eloise," I said. "Benedict and I were about to get up for the morning, anyway."

Benedict shot me a look with his eyebrows almost into his hairline, and I glared right back, imploring him to go along with me. He cleared his throat.

"Right. That we were. What did you need help with, sister?"

She hesitated, so I walked around to face her, putting both of my hands on her shoulders and blocking her eyeline to Benedict. I gave her a small smile, so she'd know everything was alright, then spoke in a low voice that I knew Benedict wouldn't be able to hear.

"If this is a ladies' problem, or one you don't want your brother to know about, El, I'll throw him out of here right now and we can talk, alright? But if you're embarrassed about knocking when you did, then you truly don't need to be. We love you, and we'd both drop far more important things to help you whenever you need it."

Eloise sighed, nodding a little as she did. The bright red blush that had risen to her cheeks started to fade, and she at last met my eyes again.

"Thank you. I... suppose it wouldn't hurt to have Benedict's input as well," she said. I nodded, giving her a bright smile before turning around to face my husband.

"Put your problem-solving hat on, Benedict," I said. I started drifting for the couches by Benedict's turret window, one of my favorite features of his room. "We've got a family matter to deal with."

They both beamed at me as they started following me over to the couch. I'd considered a few of Benedict's siblings as good as family for a long time now, but it felt amazing to be able to say that and have it be completely true.

Benedict and Eloise settled into the couch on either side of me, Benedict resting his arm across my shoulders. Those kinds of casual touches would've been scandalous before we were married, but now we could do them whenever we wanted to, which also made my heart sing.

Eloise gave us both one last look with a raised eyebrow, then launched into her explanation of the problem that had brought her to our doorstep, which had something to do with a boy of virtually no social status who'd caught her attention. Benedict and I spent the rest of the morning, helping her as best we could, in the way only we could.

Although I hated that Eloise had to deal with the problems she dealt with, a small part of me sang the entire morning as Benedict and I worked together, the perfect team, to help his little sister. This was going to be the rest of our lives, with Eloise and maybe someday with children of our own, and I couldn't be happier thinking about that future with Benedict. We made the perfect team.

****************

Everything Taglist: @rosecentury

[d-targaryenshoe]

Timeless Affection - Benedict Bridgerton

Word Count: 946

Summary: One's love for another does not fade after time, it only gets stronger and speaks for itself, does it not?

The dawn broke softly over the Bridgerton estate, casting a golden hue across the sprawling gardens.

Inside, the house was already abuzz with a secret flurry of activity.

Your children had been planning for weeks.

Today was your seventh wedding anniversary, and they wanted to make it a day to remember.

Eldest among them was 8-year-old James, whose responsible nature and knack for organization made him the natural leader of their clandestine operation.

Then there was 6-year-old Ella, creative and quick-witted, always ready with an idea to add a personal touch.

Finally, there was little Henry, 4 years old, who, despite his age, was determined to contribute meaningfully to the celebration.

James had woken up at the crack of dawn, slipping out of his room to finalize the arrangements in the garden.

They had planned a surprise picnic lunch, complete with a string quartet and a replica of your favorite flower garden.

Ella had insisted on recreating the garden, knowing how much you cherished it.

As James instructed the staff and made sure everything was in place, Ella was inside the house, ensuring you both remained unaware.

Henry was tasked with creating distraction after distraction.

His mischievous grin betrayed his excitement as he plotted the morning’s diversions.

Their first challenge was getting you out of the house without arousing suspicion.

Ella and Henry had enlisted the help of their Bridgerton aunts and uncles, knowing that if anyone could provide a seamless distraction, it was them.

The Bridgerton siblings were experts at orchestrating family chaos when needed.

In the grand living room, you sat with a cup of tea, savoring the quiet moment before the day began in earnest.

Benedict was reading a newspaper beside you, a contented smile playing on his lips.

Your anniversary had always been a private affair, celebrated with close family and simple joys.

“Good morning, Mother! Good morning, Father!” Ella burst into the room, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

“Good morning, darling,” you replied, setting your cup down. “You seem very energetic today.”

“Well, it is a special day, after all,” Ella said, her smile widening. “Uncle Colin and Aunt Eloise are here, and they have something they want to show you in town.”

Benedict raised an eyebrow, looking at you. “Colin and Eloise? Up to something? This should be interesting.”

You laughed. “They’re always up to something. It’s part of their charm.”

Within minutes, Colin and Eloise appeared, their enthusiasm barely contained.

“Happy anniversary!” Colin declared, enveloping you in a hug. “We have a little adventure planned for you both. No questions, just trust us.”

Eloise nodded in agreement. “Yes, it’s a beautiful day, and we thought you might enjoy a little outing.”

Benedict looked at you, curiosity piqued. “Shall we?”

“Let’s,” you agreed, your eyes twinkling with anticipation.

As you both left the house with Colin and Eloise, James breathed a sigh of relief. “Step one complete,” he muttered to himself, before heading back to the garden to oversee the final preparations.

Colin and Eloise led Benedict and you through the bustling streets of London, engaging you in lively conversation to keep your curiosity at bay.

You visited a quaint bookshop you loved, followed by a stroll through Hyde Park, and finally, a charming little café where you enjoyed a light brunch.

Meanwhile, back at the mansion, the Bridgerton children, along with their aunts and uncles, worked tirelessly.

Anthony, the eldest Bridgerton sibling, had taken charge of organizing the string quartet, ensuring they played the your favorite melodies.

Daphne and Francesca arranged the flowers, transforming the garden into a breathtaking oasis.

By midday, the preparations were complete.

The garden was a vision of elegance and beauty, with delicate floral arrangements, a picturesque picnic setup, and the string quartet ready to serenade you.

James, Ella, and Henry gathered in the foyer, waiting for the signal from their uncles.

The plan was to bring you both back home just in time for the surprise lunch.

James felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

He wanted everything to be perfect.

Finally, the sound of carriage wheels on gravel announced the return of Colin and Eloise, with Benedict and you in tow.

The children exchanged excited glances.

“Ready?” James asked his siblings.

“Ready!” Ella and Henry chorused.

As you entered the house, you were met with a curious silence.

The children led you through the hallways, which had been decorated with garlands of flowers, each step building anticipation.

When you stepped into the garden, you gasped. “Oh, my goodness…”

The sight before you was nothing short of magical.

The garden was transformed into a paradise of blooms, your favorite songs floating through the air.

A beautifully arranged picnic awaited for you, complete with all your favorite foods.

“Surprise!” the children shouted in unison, their faces beaming with pride.

Benedict looked around, taking in the sight of his siblings and children working together.

“This is incredible,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “You’ve outdone yourselves.”

Your eyes glistened with tears of joy. “It’s perfect. Thank you so much.”

As the family settled down to enjoy the picnic, Benedict and you marveled at the efforts your children and family had gone to.

The day was filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of warmth that only family could bring.

As the afternoon sun dipped low, casting a golden glow over the garden, you leaned into Benedict.

“Seven years,” you said softly. “And it feels like just yesterday.”

He kissed your forehead. “Here’s to many more, my love.”

The string quartet played on, the flowers swayed gently in the breeze, and you celebrated not just an anniversary, but the enduring love and togetherness that defined you.

[burnthoneydrops]

Moonlit Confessions

Synopsis: What was once thought to be a fizzled out attempt at marriage might have a second chance

Warnings: implied fem!reader (use of miss and dance cards for regency style traditions)

Word Count: 1523

a/n: here's the part two of this request !! i didn't think it would take this long but i got a random burst of inspiration last night and finished it up today so here it is! i'm learning i really don't know how to do short slow burn but oh well haha. i hope you lot enjoy!!

This night seemed to be repeating itself. Couples twirl themselves like planets orbiting the sun as the small band plays from their spot in the corner. You stand off to the side, huffing as you glance at your empty dance card, your eyes in a narrow glare as you try to find the reason for its current state. Anthony Bridgerton seemed bound and determined to keep the slots on your dance card name free and had yet to name a reason why. Having resigned yourself to moving past your offer of marriage with no meaningful result, you thought throwing yourself into that which your mother had always wanted would help speed up the healing process. Somewhere along this new stage of your martial quest, Anthony had decided that he did not like any of your new prospects at all and made it his mission to see that each and every one of them failed. 

“Miss Y/N, would by chance-” a gentleman had approached you but was stopped in his tracks, glancing quickly at something behind you before it looked like the fear of god had been instilled in him and backing away slowly. 

You quickly turn around, only to come face to face with Anthony, and the dots begin to connect. This was the third gentleman this evening, and who knows how many that brought the grand total for the week up to? Your mother probably did, you wouldn’t doubt that she was counting off to the side. Your blood begins to boil. In the past few weeks since you had proposed a marriage of convenience to the eldest Bridgerton, your season had been absolute hell and he seemed to only be more interested in your life when you tried not to involve him. 

“What is the matter with you?” You scold, moving closer to him to try and keep the conversation between the two of you. 

“The lemonade tastes a little funny tonight-”

“That is not what I meant and you know it”.

“Lord Garrison is not to be interacted with. He is not worthy of anyone’s time, much less yours”. 

You are slightly moved by his words, though your anger blinds you to much else other than the issue at hand. “Is that for the same reason as Lord Andreas then? Or perhaps Lord Henderson? Or maybe even Lord Clark? But heaven forbid I ever know that reason as you seem so hellbent on never enlightening me!” You seethe, gritting your teeth in an effort to keep your volume down. 

“I am simply keeping your best interests in mind,” Lord Bridgerton answers simply, as if it were obvious. 

“I never asked you to do that! I am not Daphne or Eloise! I am not one of your charges and therefore none of your concern and quite frankly,” you sigh, trying to steady your breathing before you get too riled up, “I thought you made your opinions quite clear at the Beauxton’s ball, so I intended to move on but you are making that quite impossible”. 

“We are still friends, Miss Y/N. Believe it or not, that makes me worry about you,” he replies, though there is something in his eyes, almost like he isn’t saying everything. 

“I never intended for you to worry about me! I am simply trying to lighten the burden that I am to my parents by finding a husband and cushioning our lives with a bit more funding, but when you constantly scare off all of the Lords possibly coming my way, you are ensuring my failure”. 

“You would that quickly give up your interests for the sake of the marriage mart?” 

You glare at him as if he has gone insane, which it frankly sounds like he has. 

���Lest you have forgotten, Lord Bridgerton, not every match is created out of love. Some are created out of necessity, which appears to be my only option”. 

“But what if it isn’t? What if there is someone out there who might secure you that love match and allow you to keep your books?” This seems entirely out of character for the man in front of you. 

“Oh the romantic expert now are we? Last I remember, you were rejecting a poor girl because she tripped over your left foot!” 

Anthony scans the room fervently, as if looking for someone before finding nothing. Instead, he mutters “christ” under his breath and grabs your hand, pulling you toward the open door to the balcony. 

“Lord Bridgerton, where are we-” you huff “where are we going?” He does not respond, choosing instead to drag you through the crowd of people, no doubt collecting pairs of eyes as you two pass. Once the two of you are outside, away from the curious ears of the ton, he faces you, his chest rising and falling at a rapid pace. 

“What has gotten into you Anthony?” You look between his eyes, hoping to catch whatever was the reasoning behind this out of character moment. The night air nips at your collar bones and you shiver slightly from the combination of the sudden cold and being locked under Anthony’s gaze. His silence scares you, and he keeps opening his mouth before shutting it a second later. It is quite unusual to catch the Viscount without words and this is surely the worst you’ve seen.  

“I have not been able to look at any man near you for weeks. Do you know how infuriating it is to see someone else chase after the person who has your heart?”

“Where is this coming from?” 

“You asked me what had gotten into me? You have. You have lodged yourself into my brain and into my heart and I cannot get you out of there to save my life. When you offered marriage I assumed it was a joke and realised too late that I was wrong”. 

“Anthony I-”

“You have consumed me, and I know that I made it clear that I would not marry for love, but watching you sacrifice yourself in such a way has been gnawing at me. Please, tell me you won’t do it”. He looks intently at you, begging both verbally and visually. 

“What are you saying?” 

“Tell me you won’t find another man for whom you would have to give up everything just to please your parents. You know damn well I have enough wealth and resources to remedy any worry and would never make you give up anything. If you do not wish to marry me-” “Marry you?” You try to interrupt, to no avail. 

“Then spare me the rejection and you can head back inside, but I know there is a part of you that feels the same. Allow me to make up for the time I’ve lost being an idiot and please,” he bends down onto one knee, “marry me”. 

“Are you quite finished?” 

He looks at you as if you’d grown a second head. It is clearly not the answer he was expecting, though you doubt any man would be expecting anything other than a “yes” to a question like that. You grab his hands, clasping them between your own and holding them between the two of you as he stands up. 

“If we are going to really do this, then I believe we shall do it properly. To prove you are serious about this, my favourite flowers are lilies and I shall be expecting you with a bouquet of them at my front door tomorrow”. 

“I should have known you were not going to make this easy,” Anthony smiles, though the anxiety of your possible rejection is still running through him. 

“You denied the easy way out, so you seem to have left me no choice,” you counter. 

“But is it a yes?” He raises a brow. 

“Eventually, but who are we to deny ourselves a longer honeymoon period? If you truly want to be wed, then we are to do absolutely everything”. Simply because you enjoyed your studies does not mean that you had never wished for romance. You had known that the majority of what the ton had to offer was men who would strip you of your most favourite hobbies for more motherly and homely activities, but now that you had an offer to keep the former on the table, you were going to relish it. 

“Tomorrow it is then,” his smile grows, squeezing your hands. 

“My mother will be so pleased,” you tease. 

“As will mine, though do not go thinking that I got down on one knee for the sake of our mamas”. 

“You mean to tell me you weren’t proposing to get to my mother? She will be positively offended,” you joke with a smile. 

“You are making me regret my decision,” Anthony teases back. 

“You would never,” you chuckle, pulling the two of you so his back is blocking the view of any passersby to try and keep the whispers at bay for a little longer. This moment is yours, and you intend to keep it that way before it inevitably reaches the ears of the curious partygoers.

[torchwood-99]

Eloise Protecting Pen Vs Pen "Protecting" Eloise. A Contrast.

Both seasons of Bridgerton ends with either Eloise or Penelope "protecting" the other from the queen.

Season 1 ends with Eloise sneaking out from Daphne's ball in order to hinder an attempt to reveal LW. She does so because she thinks that she has convinced LW to take back the damaging stuff she said about Marina and Pen's family. Although she was mistaken as to LW's identity, the fact it was Pen all along did mean she was saved.

So Eloise's motive was to protect Pen, and the outcome was that Pen was protected, and Eloise decided to risk herself in order to protect Pen. She risked the queen's wrath, when she knew the queen was determined to unveil LW. None of this mattered. She wanted to help her friend and this was the way to do it.

When Pen decided to "protect" Eloise, she did so by taking information given to her in trust, exposing it to the entire world in the most inflammatory terms possible, and then played the victim when Eloise found out.

Penelope did this instead of coming forward as LW, having dismissed the suggestion out of hand on the flimsy reasoning that the Queen "might not believe her", even though Pen has accomplices to back her up.

She does this instead of writing favourable things about the Queen, because she doesn't want to change what she writes to protect her friend. She does this instead of telling Eloise so she and Eloise can make a plan together, because she doesn't want Eloise to know about LW, possibly because she's scared of Eloise "taking over".

All of this Penelope prioritised avoiding over not causing Eloise pain.

When Eloise wanted to protect Penelope, she risked her own neck. When Penelope wanted to protect Eloise, she risked Eloise's neck too.

[gleefullypolin]

The Road Trip

By: GleefullyPolin

Chapter 7 Update:

Colin struggles with writers block and Penelope has a suggestion that might help him get over it. Meanwhile, Eloise has a shocking development she shares with Pen about her and Phil.

Summary:

Colin Bridgerton and Phillip Crane were about to embark on an epic cross-country road trip across America in a 1967 Camaro. They had been planning it since they met each other their first year at University and now nothing was going to stand in their way.

Except for maybe a little sisterly blackmail, some mild complaining, and two best friend's who end up along for the ride.

This is a coming of age tale about plants, self-exploration, secrets, love, and a story that binds four people together for life.

Notes:

Nashville I did not know you well, I only saw you on my way to Graceland. So thus, you got what you got in this chapter. Next up we move to Savannah, where Phil and Penelope have a well needed discussion about the growing relationships on the trip, and karaoke night leads to quite an interesting evening for one couple.

[quotergirl19]

What parts of Polin’s season would you tweak if you could change one thing?

I’ll go first: I always think that it would have been better for Pen to have been alone with Eloise when El threatened to tell Colin her secret if Pen didn’t confess by midnight. This still would happen during their engagement party, and they could have been found by Colin who demands to know why they were acting so strangely and what El said to Penelope that clearly has unsettled her.

Pen could have confessed right there to Colin with Eloise in the room, and explained that she had no voice and was invisible and never imagined the power Whistledown would yield. How she thought she was helping Eloise with the Queen last season and tried to save Colin from Marina but handled everything badly and hated herself for it. And that she thought he would never have feelings for her, but how she’d always loved him and that’s why she got carried away in the carriage and it all happened so fast that they were betrothed before she could tell him the truth. But Cressida, who invited herself into Bridgerton house, overhears everything and tells them she’s going to announce herself as LW to end the engagement to the old Lord she didn’t want to marry. And she would keep the secret as long as they went along with her plan.

Colin would justly have been furious, but both he and El could have pushed Pen to let Cressida take the blame, devastating Penelope who faints. And when Cressida had difficulty writing the column she needs in order to claim the Queen’s reward, she would have asked Eloise to help her write it. But when Eloise declines because she wants no part in this, that’s when Cressida turns on her and El goes to Pen worried that Cressida would turn her bullying on the Bridgertons in her next column, leading Penelope to save the family’s reputation by writing again as LW, and calling Cressida a liar through her column.

Just as in the actual season, this would tip off the Queen to the fact that LW was either a Bridgerton or someone close to them, and not Cressida. This would lead a desperate Cressida to make her blackmail attempt on Pen which Colin makes worse by trying to reason with Cressida by wrongly assuming her family, who have abandoned her, would support her come what may. Because of this, Colin is reminded how easily acting with good intentions can go wrong. He comes home defeated to admit that he failed to persuade Cressida from her blackmail and made it worse. He cannot face Penelope because he’s failed to protect her and feels useless snd worthless. Penelope decides to plead for mercy from the Queen and makes her subsequent confession to the ton.

Meanwhile, the fact that Penelope discredited Cressida without telling Colin what she was going to do, upsets him again because not only did she keeps secrets all this time and write about his family, but she was supposed to be his wife now and yet she was still making decisions alone while he thought that they were a team now. Leaving him to question whether she even respects him, so they could still have angst and the argument and make up make out session at the modiste the night before their wedding.

Colin would be internally grappling with how independent, brave and wealthy Penelope was and how unworthy and unaccomplished he felt because she clearly didn’t need him in the ways most ladies need their husbands and because he’s still desperate to make a name for himself.

And that could have led to her offering him the annulment, so he would be free of the LW scandal, any repercussions of being associated with her, and so he would know that she never intended to trap him, she has just always loved him and she got caught up in the fantasy that her love would be enough for him. Because she never stopped to consider that he might need a wife who needed him for anything more than his heart.

Then Colin could make his little speech admitting he’d been envious of her accomplishments and that he would never want to be without her because he loves her so much and he feels lucky that she loves him and chose him.

Thoughts? What one thing would you change if you could?

[lvthkllr]

It’s the opening of season as Anthony, Kate, Benedict, Francesca, Hyacinth, Gregory, Violet, and an extremely disgruntled Eloise break their fast in the drawing room.

*Humboldt walks in with the latest copy of Lady Whistledown in hand making his way to Violet and Kate. The newly minted mother and daughter read the first pamphlet since the end of last season as their eyes widen in shock*

Violet: *trying and failing to sound calm* Anthony dear, might you know when your brother will be joining us?

Anthony: I haven’t the faintest idea Mother, he seemed quite tired after returning from his travels yesterday morning. Maybe he is sleeping.

Kate: *anxiously* Perhaps you should go and hasten him along.

Anthony: Oh for the love of——Colin is a grown man. I will not go to his bedroom to wake him up!

Finally looking up from his newspaper he sees a strained look on Violet’s face and a Whistledown pamphlet in Kate’s hand.

Anthony: God in heaven, what has he done now?

Kate: It seems … it’s seems that Colin may have said something, well he said something——

Anthony: *raising his eyebrows in annoyance* Spit it out Kate!

Kate: I … well, it appears Lady Whistledown may have heard him say that he would never dream of courting Penelope Featherington.

Violet: And he had apparently said so in the company of multiple, eligible bachelors, at last season’s Featherington Ball.

As the elder Bridgerton children hear the last of the details they begin to chime in.

Francesca: Now Anthony, calm down. I am sure that is not what Colin mean——

Benedict: Well whatever else could he have meant Fran?!?

Francesca: *shooting an annoyed look at her brother and speaking in a hushed yell* You are not helping!

Benedict: Eloise, you are uncharacteristically silent. Are you and Miss Featherington not friends? Have you nothing to say?

Just as Eloise opened her mouth to respond Colin walked into the drawing room.

Colin: Good morning family! Now Hyacinth before you ask, I do have your gift however it may take until the end of the day to find it in my luggage, but my valet is on the case!

Looking up from his already full plate Colin was welcomed to the sight of his older siblings staring at him with worried looks, Kate with her face in her hands, his mother with an anxious smile, and Anthony looking angrier than he had seen him in years.

Colin: Is something the matter?

Anthony: *now seething with noticeable anger* Why yes something is the matter. Lady Whistledown has just informed the entire ton of your comments from the end of last season.

Colin: Whatever do you mean?

Anthony: Well, ACCORDING TO LADY WHISTLEDOWN YOU TOLD A ENTIRE GROUP OF MEN THAT YOU WOULD NEVER DREAM OF COURTING PENELOPE FEATHERINGTON!! Have you no care for her reputation, FOR HER FEELINGS COLIN!

Violet: Colin, just tell us that you did not say this.

Colin: Well …

A chorus of groans and voices echoing out “oh no” and “Colin!” rang out in the drawing room.

Anthony: *whispering to Kate and his Mother* I am going to kill him.

[marymary-diva17]

Starting a new life (5)

The members of high society had gone around for many years, acting like all high and mighty. placing themselves on levels higher than everyone else in the world, and when one members does something wrong that doesn't follow their rules they are soon to turn their backs to them. Now it seems like society had bene shaken up by those they had outcasted for being different.

maid" everything is perfect madam"

y/n " good thank you it will be good to have my siblings and friends over for some tea and a talk"

maid " yes it will be good to see them again away from the eyes of snakes"

y/n " I will love to see them in a area that can make us all feel good"

butter " my lady your guest have arrived the ladies of bridgerton house and young man as well, along withers featherton as well"

y/n " good" your siblings and Penelope soon walked into the home, the rest of the group expect Eloise seem shocked about the inside of your home.

Francesca " sister you have some many books here"

y/n " yes many genres of books even some books of music notes"

Francesca " may I look at them please"

y/n " yes you can may someone bring out a stepping stool of my sister"

maid 2 " yes ma'am"

Penelope " I love your book collect as well y/n there are so many here"

y/n " yes during my time away I had collected some or had some inherited after the deaths of my husband uncle and aunt"

Gregory " are those bows and arrows they are so amazing my I ..."

y/n " you may look but not touch I will not have you go home injured baby brother"

Gregory " yes sister oh look desert my favorite may I have some"

y/n " yes you may"

Hyacinth " sister they are so many paints you have here they are amazing, I really love the painting with you and your husband"

y/n " oh yes Tristian let me say some artworks that gained my attention"

Eloise " amazing sister truly amazing"

????? " hello everyone"

Gregory & hyacinth " Tristian" your two younger siblings ran towards Tristan and gave him a hug, they are so happy to see him again in person. Tristan had soon hugged them back happy to see them as well.

Tristan " I had gotten done with paper work and came to see our guests"

Hyacinth " I'm so happy to hear you are our good brother you and my sister, have a fairytale romance"

Tristian " thank you hyacinth and I'm happy to have you all as good brother and good sisters"

Gregory " Tristian can you take me out on hunt if we come to Scotland, or to one those games at the clubs or garden please"

Tristan " I will love to have you come with me as seeing your sister, find some sports interesting and other not so much"

y/n " hey I love sports but not that much if you both go no stupid stunts"

Tristian " oh come on how much trouble can we get into"

y/n " enough to make me worry"

Eloise " if we do all come with you sister how wil we explain that to the bridgeton family and feathertons as well"

Tristan " well as your sister has stated before she can be saying she can help your three find some husbands, while giving another education to hyacinth and Gregory"

y/n " well and stating that a new environment will be good for you all, as it seems like the house might get busy with Antony and Kate"

Penelope " yes the ton has been wonder when the viscount and viscountess will have children"

Hyacinth " it seems like mama and Antony have been fighting, lately since our dear sister return as a married women"

Tristian "we had a feeling that will happen"

Eloise " sister what will you do if our mother or siblings come by calling, you know them well they will come sooner or later"

y/n " I will have them for tea and deserts"

Francesca " Tristan will it be fine I borrow some these music notes, to practice at home"

Tristian " yes you may Francesca"

Gregory " well while you all talk about music and books I'm going to eat" everyone laugh and Gregory and hyacinth went to get some desert and sat down to eat. It seems like your siblings and Penelope had been able to see how, happy you are with Tristan and see the perfect life you have made with him in your time of exile.

y/n " oh Penelope may I have a word with you"

Penelope " sure"

Eloise " I will stay with you pen Francesca can take back hyacinth and Gregory"

Francesca " I can do that and we will make sure no to tell mother where we had come from today, to respect our dear sisters wishes"

y/n " thank you" your siblings had soon left once you had seen their carriage was out of sight, you soon looked at two girls.

y/n " you know lady whistledown is a very wonderful and intelligent women, her words are always telling the truth of what is going around the ton"

Eloise " yes sister she is very amazing always speaking her mind"

y/n " yes she is right Penelope or should I say lady whistle down" the two girls looked shocked at you, as those words had come out of your mouth.

Penelope " El did you tell her"

Eloise " no I didn't I swear pen"

y/n " she didn't tell me I found out on my own I thought it was lady Danbury at first, but then I realized it could be you Penelope you are intelligent women as well who knows how to write her feelings"

Penelope & Eloise " ......."

y/n " I will not tell anyone and either will Tristian the same goes for the rest of the household"

Penelope " thank you"

Eloise " how can you tell no one hear will tell anyone"

footman " well my lady if we are honest our loyalty is towards the your sister and her husband, verse others"

y/n " thank you please make sure their carriage is ready" the footman had nodded his head and soon left.

Penelope " I'm sorry I should of write my column a while ago y/n you are my friend"

y/n " oh Penelope it okay I understand and it gave me time away from London, to make the life I have now there is no need for any of you to apologize"

Eloise " what about the rest of our family you know mother, will not like you being so far away from here even due you are back in London"

y/n " that time will come sister and I will not back down, I will let my voice be heard it will not be like the past anymore"

Eloise " good"

y/n " I'm ready for a good debate with the rest of the older Bridgeton siblings" the two girls had nodded their heads knowing most of the history of the older, bridgerton kids. You had soon escorted the pair outside and watched them leave. The evening you are in the house master bedroom, with your husband.

Tristian " it was good to have them all here today it made the home, very lively" Tristan was sitting on the bed dressed for bed as you had brushed your hair, at the vanity stand. once you were done you soon got up, and walked towards him.

y/n " yes it was and it seems like they are all willing to come with us, back to Scotland"

Tristan " speaking our family maybe we should start seeing about our family, and the children that will come from our union" you laugh as Tristan had grabbed your hand and soon pulled you onto the bed.

y/n " yes let talk more about it my husband" you had kissed Tristan making him laugh and he soon kissed you back. The day had gone well and it seems like, you and Tristian will not be heading back to Scotland alone when the times to leave in the end.

[mandaplease10]

Season 3 Part 2 Predictions

After the drop of those new stills from Part 2, I have thoughts on what I think will happen/want to happen and a timeline of events! I am not going to say which happens in what episode just the order of what I think makes sense.

Potential Spoilers ahead

Pen & Colin arrive at the Bridgerton house and announce their engagement.

Eloise confronts Penelope over the LW secret and telling her she can't marry Colin until she tells her. Penelope agrees and tells her to give her time and she will tell him soon.

Pen & Colin telling the Featheringtons of their engagement the following day. Portia is upset with Pen because she threw away marrying a Lord that provided security over love with a man with no title.

Colin & Mama Featherington Bitch Off.

Colin takes Penelope to their new house and on the carriage ride over they read the Queen's announcement about unmasking LW.

Penelope asks Colin if he will try and find out. He might make a comment about he doesn't have time because he is focused on getting married to Pen. Pen tries to muster up the courage to reveal herself, but then they arrive at the house and they both look out.

Colin and Pen head inside and Colin gives her a tour (similar to the drawing room scene in Part 1).

Colin & Pen's First Time. - Many people believe this will be the Mirror scene. I don't. In the book, Colin mentions the mirror before her first time, but says he wants to do it later. I think they will keep this timeline of events.

Family Game Night/Engagment Party - Now, I know there is supposed to be a family game night happening, but I'm not sure if that will also be the engagement ball. So, we shall see.

Eloise's Ultimatum - Tell Colin about LW or she will.

Cressida's LW Announcement & Pen Fainting.

Various Wedding Plans & Cute Polin Moments like the dancing in the church. We might get Penelope's love declaration here.

Eloise telling Pen to let Cressida take the LW fall.

Engagement Ball/Another Ball where Polin are dancing and the LW Cressida delivery we saw in the trailer.

Pen gets upset and heads out to deliver her LW calling Cressida a fraud. Colin follows her finds out she is in fact LW.

Colin is angry and they have their argument in the carriage similar to the book. I do think Colin will be upset/angry over the lying and what Pen as written about his family as LW, but I don't think it will last very long. Especially, when he realizes the danger Pen will be in if it's found out she's LW. This could also be wishful thinking. Ha!

If we don't get Pen's love confession prior, this would be a good alternative.

I do think Eloise and Colin will have a moment after the reveal that will help mend Eloise's and Pen's friendship along with Polin's relationship.

I'm still debating if they will include the scene from the book where Pen's announcement is delivered and she didn't tell Colin. I could see after the reveal Colin saying, just no more secrets, and she agrees.

I think the Mirror scene will come either after they are married or just before.

I don't think Pen will be revealed as LW to the Ton because in the show LW's secrecy is an important part.

I think we will get a season 4 lead reveal at the end of season 3.

Honestly, I could keep going down this rabbit hole, but I've already gone too far. Ha!

[justoneofthoseghosts]

Back from the dead to scream into the void about Bridgerton because the Polin brain rot is real. I've watched the episodes twice now and have some thoughts nobody asked for:

Colin with all that new found swagger after his hot boy summer just makes me cringe. That whole montage with the ladies - er, no, thanks. Give me back my sensitive Colin please.

Nicola Coughlan is amazing, truly a superstar. She embodies the role so well, in all the bits - comedy, romance, intimate scenes. Ugh. I hope she gets more leading roles!!

Love that Colin drops all pretenses when he senses Penelope's distress at the first ball - sensitive Colin is still there folks!

Also, I think we moved on too quickly from his apology. "There is nothing more I want than to earn back the favor of the one person who has always truly made me feel appreciated." Luke said in an interview that the best version of Colin was the one when he was with Penelope (or something like that) and it does ring true in the first half of the season even if he comes up with this disastrous and misguided plan to help her find a husband. He's always himself when he's with her - there's no postering, no swagger.

I am a huge rom com nerd so I truly appreciated all the rom com elements in this. Nicola just ate that all up. She was amazing in all the awkward moments in the second and third episodes and Luke did a good job too. You could really see their chemistry and how they fed off each other!

They talk about how they first met. Please 🥺 it's the same meeting as in the book and the way they reminisce about it while walking in the market was so cute, straight out of a rom com!

Kinda cringed at Colin's journals because they were about girls 🤡 should have kept them as they were in the book where they were more about his travels.

"We shall gallop along" is this season's "I oiled my way right in" 😂

The first kiss scene was incredible. I think I prefer it to the book because there is much more emotional connection between them - they've been lifelong friends as opposed to acquittances in the book (even if Colin was starting to see Pen in a new light by then). The connection between them is undeniable but they each get something different from it. To Pen, it's the ending. The last thing she would ask from him before she let him go. To Colin, it's the awakening, the shift of his feelings, the beginning of its growth.

Pining, yearning Colin is not as unhinged and chaotic as in the book but I think he might get there in the second half. At least I hope because chaotic, unhinged Colin in the book was pretty great. I mean, interrupting a dance was kind of unhinged of him to do.

But I do like how down bad he becomes after that one kiss 😂 Luke really portrayed it well in the first few minutes of the third episode.

I quite like Francesca and John even though I know how that will end. Curious to see if they'll take front and center in season 4 or if the show is renewed, it'll be in season 5.

I know it is an ensemble show but there seems to be a lot more subplots this season?

lol at Portia trying to get her daughters pregnant when one of them hasn't even done it yet since getting married 💀

Penelope and Eloise ❤️‍🩹 they miss each other ☹️ also, I do not care for Cressida.

I've always liked Violet's talks with her children and how in tuned she is with each of them.

Can't lie, I loved the carriage scene - Colin's confession, the momentary disappointment that he was getting friend zoned, the intimacy but most especially towards the end where they could just laugh together because at the heart of it, they were very, very good friends first.

Also, that look Colin gets when he realizes he's going to marry Penelope? Chef's kiss, 10/10, no notes. Luke really delivered and I think it helps that a lot of the Bridgerton actors are theater actors because they have a distinct way of showcasing little nuisances in their facial expressions.

Needless to say, I enjoyed it. Even if there were some key departures from the book, I think it was a fairly good job. I can't fault them for bringing in an external force (another suitor) to help Colin realize his feelings even more. In the book, a lot of it happens in his head, which can be hard to translate to a show. At least we got rid of the suitor early and it didn't become a legitimate love triangle.

I do need a Lady Danbury and Penelope alliance though. I loved that in the book and I hope they don't drop it!

[sunnyie-eve]

1 | Raised For

Series: Devoted Friend

Paring: (Benedict Bridgerton x Original Female Character Featherington!)

Word Count: 2k

Warnings: none

| MASTERLIST |

"Mama, if we do any tighter I'll die. I can't breathe in this ridiculous thing." Paisley groans in pain as her mother goes on talking about how she could squeeze into a smaller size.

"She looks like she's going to pass out, mama." Penelope says as Paisley does feel herself getting lightheaded.

"Fine, loosen it just a tad." Their mother tells the maid and when Paisley could breathe slightly better her mother says enough, "You are 24 yet still not married Paisley. You are setting no example for your sisters." She adds as Paisley gets her dress put on.

"You act like I never get any suitors, mama. I just don't choose any of them because none of them stand out to me." Paisley sighs as she's turned around to face her mother.

"Which is going to make no gentleman want you at some point."

Paisley looks over at Penelope who gives her a sad smile. Even though one was the oldest and the other was the youngest, they were the closest in their entire family. Paisley was Penelope's best friend way more than Eloise Bridgerton was. Paisley practically raised Penelope pushing maids away from helping at times because she wanted to take care of her growing up.

The carriage ride was silent the whole way not a single family member talked to each other. Paisley hated being presented like she was an item to buy on the market. When it was their family turn to be presented to the queen, Paisley was the only one who acted right in front of the woman walking along side her mother while her sisters were in front. She's had plenty of practice acting doing it for the past seven-ish years.

The queen didn't care much for them but Paisley always caught her eye. She didn't understand how such a beautiful woman didn't have a husband yet. Queen Charlotte stands up walking out of her way over to Paisley raising her chin, "Flawless and beautiful as always, my dear." She goes to sit back down to motion them to them step aside.

Before they could even walk off Prudence faints from her corset being too tight. "She's not used to it being so tight." Paisley tells her mother, who just gives her a mean look.

Heading in the way out back to the carriages Paisley feels a tap on her shoulder causing her to turn around to see Benedict Bridgerton with a smile on his face.

"You please the Queen once again." He says making Paisley laugh, "I'm not surprised as always."

"Oh, quit being a gentleman Benedict. It's so tiring." Paisley rolls her eyes.

"I can't be a good friend by giving you a compliment?" He laughs while she just looks at him.

"No, you can but I find that sometimes it's unnecessary." She continues to walk with him following behind, "For example, just a few seconds ago." She looks back with a smile.

"I don't think it was unnecessary."

Paisley sighs stopping to face him with smile, "You're a man... And men don't think." Before Benedict could respond her Mama called for her to hurry up, "Goodbye Benedict."

Back at the Featherington house their mother rants about Lady Whistledown probably being Violet Bridgenton. Paisley looks over at her younger sister reading her book, who glances over at her as well. Paisley was the only person who knew Penelope was Lady Whistledown because she came across her writing one day secretly then called her out on what she saw the next day put out. It was one of their many secrets they kept to themselves.

Hearing their mother talk about how many ladies she has under her care so Penelope gets up saying she could sit this season out but their mama says no.

"What she is, is two stones heavier than she ought to be." Prudence says causing Paisley to look over at her.

"Mm, those blemishes on her face are quite difficult to conceal. Ooo, perhaps some arsenic and lead might help." Philippa adds.

"What you two should do is keep quiet." Paisley speaks up, "Prudence, you need to work on your smile. Philippa, work on not sounding so annoying with your voice."

"Paisley!" Their mother turns to look at her going through the cards of men.

"They were rude first." She gets up leaving the room to go to her own and on the way passes the cousin that was staying with them. Paisley greets her before continuing on her way.

For the ball at Danbury House, Paisley wanted the night to fly by. It was just going to be the same as always. A rotating door of men having her constantly dance all night flirting with her but in the end disappoint her not catching her interest.

"Why don't you be bold and ask him for a dance?" Paisley bends down to Penelope's level as she watches Colin dance.

"Are you out of your mind?" Penelope looks at her with wide eyes.

"Sorry, I forget you're only confident as LW." Paisley giggles, "I'm off for a drink."

As she was getting herself a drink, Benedict catches sight of her in the distance, "Excuse me, I'll be right back." He tells Colin, who was standing with him.

Colin shakes his head at his brother watching him make his way over to Paisley. To him he felt that Benedict had a secret crush on her but was too scared to admit or just didn't know it yet.

"A lady like you shouldn't be getting her own drink." Benedict states causing Paisley to roll her eyes at him.

"I don't need a man to get me a drink when I'm very capable of doing it myself, Mr. Bridgerton." She gives his a polite smile.

"You really don't want a husband do you?" He laughs.

"You know me so well. That's one of the reasons why me and your sister, Eloise, get along so well."

"She says she inspires to be like you. An independent woman who doesn't care what others think about her. Not afraid to be herself and show off how smart she is as well." He lets her know.

"I must thank her next time I see her then for saying such things about me." Paisley looks around and sees a few other gentleman looking her way at times. "Hopefully no one will come bugging me tonight. I don't feel like dancing acting like I'm interested in what they have to say. It's always the same ones trying every season." Paisley laughs looking back at Benedict, "You would think they would give up but no."

"You're such a strange woman, Paisley. I know how your mama is so how did you stray off from what you were taught?" He asks her.

"I learn other things and I know my worth. I know I could be something bigger than just some man's wife and give him children. Yes, I want to be a mother someday but I want to be a mother who truly loves her husband. I want a special bond with them, Benedict. My mama and papa don't entirely love each other. I want what I your mama had with your father. The way she talks about him and how much they loved each other. The friends to lovers."

"And how are you supposed to have that if you don't give anyone the time of the day to show you?" He asks making her sigh.

"I can read all these men like a book, Bridgerton. I know exactly what they want from me, and none of them want to start a friendship first." She explains walking off from him leaving him alone.

He knew she was right about the fact everything she just told him. He's had many men ask him all kinds of questions about her since they knew how they were good friends. Not a single one really cared about how she was or what she liked to do. It was always about how well does she follow instructions, how seductive she was, asked him if he knew any dirty secrets about her. The most common was has he ever seen anything that he could describe to them about how she looked in less clothing.

"No luck brother?" Colin joins his side.

"What?"

"She didn't want to dance with you?" Colin chuckles.

"I didn't ask her to dance Colin. I was asking why was she getting herself a drink."

"Why ask when you already knew the answer to that? We both know how she has no desire to be here or find a husband. She's ranted to me many of times in the past couple of days when she was over." Colin says looking over at Paisley looking bored as a gentleman man was now talking to her. "I feel bad for her deep down. Just look at her. Poor girl needs saving."

Paisley stares at the man, that was a good amount of years older than her, talking about himself non stop. She would just smile nodding her head not really listening to what he was saying. She would just tune him out and pay attention to the music that was being played.

"Don't you say?" He asks causing her to hum.

"I'm deeply sorry, what did you say?" She asks kindly.

"That the thought of double digits for children sounds ideal for a happy family. I come from a family of fourteen all close in age." He repeats.

She couldn't help but choke on her spit, "Excuse me, I need a drink." She tells him.

"I'll get it for you, Miss Featherington."

"No, please. I can get it myself Lord Albrecht." She smiles then walks away picking up speed to get away faster.

"Miss Featherington," Paisley hears as she walks by someone so she stops to face them.

"Oh, Lady Danbury. It's lovely to see you." Paisley bows to her as Benedict stood next to her with a drink since they had just been chatting.

"Don't you look lovely this evening. Will I not be seeing you on the dance floor once again?" She asks her.

"Oh, you will Lady Danbury." Benedict smiles finishing his glass as Paisley looks at him confused.

"I will?" Both ladies say at the same time.

"Yes. Miss Featherington, shall we?" He takes Paisley's hand into his leading her to the dance floor.

"What are you doing?" She asks as he makes her start to dance with him.

"Saving your butt, that's what I'm doing. You know she'll ask you why once again and I saw Lord Augustus eyeing you while chatting with friends. It looks like he was going to walk over to you with a creepy look on his face." He lets her know so she glances over at him and he looked annoyed.

"He is always creepy when he talks to me. I hate being alone with him."

"Exactly why I asked you to dance." He tells her.

"Technically you didn't really ask if you dragged me out here." She corrects him.

"Do you want me to stop and tell him he can take his turn with you?" He smiles looking down at her as they kept dancing.

"I'll kill you Bridgerton."

"You would never do such a thing because you love me and would die without me." He laughs and makes her giggle as well, "I saw Lord Albrecht chatting with you."

"Oh yes, he was saying how he wants children in the double digits. How he comes from a family of fourteen, all close in age." She lets him know.

"I get I come from quite a large family but it's not that large. I couldn't imagine that many children. And the poor women never getting a break from being pregnant."

"How many do you want?" Paisley asks him.

"Never really thought about it. Like you, I know I want children one day but it's not a main priority of mine at the moment." He tells her the truth.

"Obviously since you're 26 and still not married or engaged. You're not even looking since you hate going to social events. You and Anthony both don't seem to care really." Paisley points out.

"Excuse me, but you're the oldest daughter turning down every proposal she's gotten since becoming of age." He says causing them to stop dancing.

"And you are the second oldest son, who has a couple of years on me, who hasn't even tried finding someone." She stares him in the eyes, "It's unfair. You and every man can get away with it, but us women can't because that's all we're taught to do." She huffs, "Goodnight Bridgerton." She leaves him.

[fallinfor-youreyes]

You Took Me By Surprise

His words are not working, his brain just screaming her name on a loop. His entire being just in awe of her. In awe of how long it took him to realize that he wanted Penelope to be his. His. “Don’t marry him.” Or Penelope ends the lessons and Colin finally realizes he can't let her go.

Ao3

Something, Colin thinks, is decidedly off.

He has been known to make mistakes in his past, but usually, he doesn't realize they are wrong until he is thoroughly encompassed in them. Like his unfortunate fling with Mariana, or when he decided to follow some local boys in Greece to a ‘super secret’ hidden cave, or when he was 11 and Anthony and Benedict told him they hid his birthday present in the coat closet on the 3rd floor, only to leave him locked up there for hours.

But recently, he thinks he has been doing a better job. He made it home just in time for Franny's debut. He had surprised his family, started flirting with eligible ladies, started making something of himself among the ton.

The only thing he had slightly messed up was his relationship with Penelope. But he fixed that! They are friends again, possibly closer than ever, and he is useful. To his family, to himself, to Penelope. And in exchange for the lessons, Pen is helping him edit his journals. He has a plan to meet with an editor next month about publishing, and everything is looking up.

Penelope is smiling again, brighter than he has ever seen, and well, seeing her happy made him happy as well.

So why does everything suddenly feel off?

He's not used to feeling so uncertain. It makes him restless.

Colin wants nothing more than to go to Penelope and ask her her opinion, to see if she has any ideas of what he could have done wrong, but...

Ah, the but.

The main reason he cannot go to Penelope is Pen herself.

Pen.

Penelope.

Penelope Featherington.

His friend, his wallflower turned talk of the ton, thanks to his lessons. His... well, his Pen.

Not really his Pen anymore. Never really his anything, if he is honest with himself. Colin likes to think himself an honest man, but the thought of Penelope being just his sister’s friend does not sit right with him.

Just that afternoon, she found him walking in the park, attempting to plan their next lesson. And she told him she no longer needed his help.

“I think we should end the lessons…. They’ve worked wonderfully….

You've been a great friend.…"

Friend.

Full circle moment really.

She shook his hand and smiled at him, lovely as a the first blossom in spring, and then she walked away.

Away from the lessons, away from their time together, away from him.

And Colin could not think of anything else since. Except for the fact that somehow, along the way, he made a mistake. But he still could not put his finger on exactly what went wrong.

"Oh, how exciting!" Franny plops down onto the couch next to him, stirring him from his thoughts.

"What is?"

Franny slaps his shoulder, rolling her eyes. "Do you ever listen? We've been invited to Lady Danbury's ball."

"Why is that exciting?" Colin asks. They've been invited to so many balls this season, he had lost count.

"Well, I suppose because Lord Debling might finally propose." Lady Bridgerton says, settling into her chair across the room, pouring a new cup of tea. "Are you feeling okay, dear? You've been out of sorts all afternoon. I’ve called for more biscuits.”

Colin waves his mother off. "Fine. Who is he proposing to? Has he been courting you, Fran?"

All of the Bridgerton women in the room laugh at him. Even Eloise, and she is pretending her hardest that she is not listening to any of them.

"No, you idiot," Hyacinth says, throwing part of her own biscuit at him. "Penelope."

"Penelope? Featherington?" Colin sputters. He tries to keep his voice, calm, even, free of any sort of emotion, but something terrible and ugly grows in his chest. The minor off feeling tingling the back of his brain grows into something closely resembling dread.

"Who else? Gosh Colin, you really are out of it." Fran attempts to place a hand on his head as if testing his temperature, but he shoos her away and pushes himself off he couch. He cannot sit still any more. His entire body feels tense, stressed.

He doesn't like feeling this restless. The last time he did, he sailed halfway across the world and disappeared for several months.

"But it's barely halfway through the season? What of her other suitors?"

Everyone stops talking at once, an odd quiet falling over the drawing room.

Violet stares at him, a moment too long, before her face softens. Colin doesn't like that look. He's never liked pity from anyone, especially his mother. "My dear," she says softly, placing her teacup down almost too gently. "While I very much admire and adore Miss. Featherington--"

Eloise scoffs, saying something under her breath that makes Colin wonder once again what happened between his sister and Pen, but he doesn't have the time to think about that right now.

"No matter was my daughters have to think about it" Violet continues, sending Eloise a sharp look that has her sinking further down into the couch and silencing her snide remarks. "As I was saying, I don't think Miss. Featherington has any other suitors. And Lord Debling is everything one could wish for in husband."

"But we'll never see her again!"

The little feeling in Colin’s brain lights up like a candle, as if proud that he finally figured some part of the issue out.

"Good riddance," Eloise scoffs, again, and it takes everything in Colin to not run over and push her out of her seat like he used to do when they were kids.

Violet takes Colin's hand, and for just a second, the world falls into a more peaceful state. His mother will know how to fix this. She has always fixed everything.

"Dearest, I think this is a fine match for Penelope. I know you are good friends. You should want what is best for her."

The ugly feeling rears up again, larger and more terrible than before.

He's jealous.

Being a third son in a family of eight, Colin learned early on that jealousy was not something he wanted to participate in. He became the easy-going one, the charming one.

Jealousy is not something he is used to. Being jealous over Penelope Featherington, well, that is just something he never saw coming.

Violet squeezes his hand, once again bringing him out of his thoughts. "Colin. This was always going to happen, eventually.”

He kisses his mother's hand and then let's her go. Sometimes, a mother cannot fix everything.

Sometimes, he has to fix things himself.

He can fix this. He has to fix this.

How, he doesn't know yet, but, he knows he cannot do it sitting in his mother's drawing room.

"I'll see you later." He says, ignoring all of his surrounding siblings and stalking toward the door.

"Where are you going?" Hyacinth calls to him, and if he knew any better, he would say she sounded delighted.

"Out."

XXX

He needs to walk. His brain is in overdrive, thoughts full of Penelope.

Penelope.

Penelope kissing Debling.

Penelope being married.

Penelope never answering his letters.

Penelope leaving.

PENELOPE.

His body is restless, so he walks.

Colin doesn't have a plan. Or even an idea at this point, but he needs to do something other than just stare at the wall, letting the terrible, off feeling take over his entire being.

So he walks. And walks and walks and walks, not having a destination in mind, or a thought on which turn he should take until he has already taken it.

He walks until the sun starts to set, walks until his legs are tired, walks until he realizes the only thing he can think about, or probably will ever think about again is Penelope.

He's not sure how he didn't realize it before now, but the thought of never seeing Penelope again, of not being able to hear her laugh or see her smile, or send her another letter, or not being able to call her his friend, is just unacceptable. He’s been thinking about her all season, he realizes. Even when he wasn’t thinking about their lessons, his thoughts would turn to her, to the dress she wore to the last ball, to the way she would laugh at his jokes, to how she would find his eyes in the crowd, even when dancing with another man.

He can't just let her go. Which is how he assumes he ends up outside the garden gate of the Featherington's house. He didn't plan to be here. But apparently, this is where his mind decided he should be.

It's dark. Colin knows he should not be here. He had snuck into the garden several times over the past few weeks for lessons, so he knows how to get in. Before he even has a chance to think of the consequences he is marching through the gardens, intent on… well….

That's the part he has not figured out yet.

She told him she no longer needed him. Called him a good friend. Just friend.

Was that not what he had said to her at the beginning of this foolish deal. Friend.

Friendship in marriage was rare, his mother had said, but wonderful.

Friend.

Her hand in his, bare, warm. Her smiling up at him, happiness exuding from her very soul.

Dancing, laughing, talking...

She isn't just his friend.

Penelope is his world.

And now, he's going to lose her because he might have taken too long.

The sounds of the carriages making their way to the balls for the night spurs him into action. Colin's running before he knows exactly what to do, but he has to find her. He has to stop her from going, stop her from marrying someone else, stop her from leaving London forever.

He needs to tell her she isn't just his friend. She's everything he has ever wanted.

Colin knows the way to her room, which is scandalous in itself, but before he can make it to the servants door, a different door opens.

And like a goddess walking out of paining, Penelope is there. Beautiful as ever, her skin glowing in the firelight.

She looks nervous. Wringing her hands and tugging on her dress, and he's moving again, slower this time but still moving, toward her, toward his best friend, toward his Penelope.

But his thoughts are still out of control, his brain and his body having trouble connecting like they should.

She is all he could think about all day, but now that she is here, now that he realizes that he wants her as more than just a friend, he doesn't know what to say.

It is all too new, all too mixed up and he doesn't know how to be eloquent.

He watches her take a steadying breath, one he has seen her take all season every time she enacted one of their lessons in public, and before she turns away from him again, he calls for her.

"Penelope.”

She startles, and within seconds he’s right next to her, close enough he can smell her perfume, close enough he can see the uncertainty in her eyes.

Close enough, that he could kiss her with almost no effort at all.

His eyes drop to her lips, and he can hear the sharp breath she takes.

“Colin what are you doing here?”

He wants to reach for her, but she is still startled, still poised to run at a drop of a pin.

“I- um.” His words are not working, his brain just screaming her name on a loop. His entire being just in awe of her. In awe of how long it took him to realize that he wanted Penelope to be his.

His.

“Don’t marry him.”

Penelope’s body tenses, and tears instantly fill her eyes. “Why not?"

Colin is still struggling with the thoughts and the urge to hold her and the confusion in his own head that he just stares at her, mouth open.

“Why, Colin. Give me on reason why.” Penelope pushes past him, putting distance between them with every step. "Why do I not deserve to be married to a kind man, who will take care of me, who will let me move out of my mother's house, away from the stupid antics of the ton. Just because you do not want to court me, or find me marriageable doesn't mean another man can't." Penelope pushes the tears angrily off her cheeks, and crossed her arms in front of her, closing her off from him.

"I never said i didn't find you marriageable." Colin says, finally finding his words. "And I only said I wasn't courting you, at that time, not that I wouldn't. Fife is bloody idiot, and he saw us sneak away together to confront your cousin. I was trying to protect you."

"I don't need you to protect me, Colin. I don't need you."

Her words sting.

He has been thinking of nothing but her all day, hell all season. Colin doesn’t need her to need him.

He would just like her to want him at least half as much as he wants her.

And if she doesn’t, then he needs to know.

He knows it's his fault, that he really has no right to ask for anything from her, but he needs to know. Know that he is not losing her for nothing.

"Do you love him?

Penelope freezes. The tears are still falling down her cheeks, and she look beautiful. He hates that she is crying, but her eyes are glittering in the firelight, and the moon is making her skin glow, and Colin Bridgerton realizes, he wants, no, he needs to kiss Penelope Featherington.

He takes another step closer to her, and she does not back away.

"Tell me, Pen. Do you love him?" Another step. Penelope's breath catches in her throat.

"Because if you tell me you love him, I will turn around right now, and I will watch you marry him, and watch you leave, and I will let you go." Colin swallows, and slowly closes the distance between them, reaching out for her hand. "But, if you do not love him, do not marry him." He takes the final step toward her, until she is close enough that he can see the freckles dotting her nose. "Do not marry him and I promise I will spend everyday for the rest of my life making up for how stupid I have been, Penelope."

Colin lets his fingertips brush against her cheek, and Penelope leans into his hand, eyes fluttering closed, tears stuck like diamonds on her eyelashes.

"And if you still do want to marry him, I have just one request."

Penelope's eyes snap open as his thumb dances over her bottom lip. "Just one kiss. One kiss for me to cherish for the rest of my life, to remind me how utterly daft I have been when it comes to you."

Penelope takes a step closer to him. "What do you mean?"

Colin lets his fingers tangle in her hair, doing his best to be gentle. "You, Penelope Featherington, are my world. The thought of you leaving, and me never being able to see you again has led me to a point of near insanity. I walked all over London, for hours, after I heard that you might be engaged. I walked and tried to clear my head, but all i could think about was you. All I can think about is you. I do not know why it took me so long to realize, Penelope. I had no idea where I was going until I ended up here. Looking for you."

She bites her lip, and it's takes everything in him to not push her against the closest wall and kiss her until she forgets about all other suitors and potential husbands.

"I don't love him. We’ve talked about it. He know I do not love him, and I know that he does not love me, but we could be happy together." She looks away from him, and his entire heart shatters. "I cannot be in this house any longer, Colin, and no one else has even thought to court me, let alone marry me.

"Let me court you. Let me show the entire stupid ton that I want you, Penelope. We can marry before the end of the season, and I will buy us a house, and you can come with me when I want to travel, and-"

She's crying again, but this time she is smiling, and then before he knows what's happening, she pulling him down and her lips are on his.

Colin is kissing Penelope Featherington, and for the first time in what feels like weeks, months, hell, maybe even years, his brain slows down. There is a quiet that fills his soul, a happiness that radiates from the spot where her lips are on his. The feeling that has been hovering over him all day disappears.

Pen.

Penelope.

Penelope Featherington.

His Penelope.

Colin lifts her up and spins them around, and she's laughing, the most wonderful sound in the world.

"Okay," Penelope says, her cheeks flushed, and eyes glittering, this time with happiness. "Okay, I won't marry him."

Colin kisses her again, sneaking his tongue out to taste her, and she's giggling again, pushing him away.

"I still have a ball to go to." Penelope attempts to brush her hair back, but it's come completely undone from his hands. "There's a lot to do, and there's bound to be talk and-"

"I don't care about the talk." Colin says, wrapping his arms around her.

"I know, I know, but it will happen, and I don't want Debling to be hurt by a scandal..."

He kisses her again, because he can, because she is not going to marry Debling, because he woke up in time to realize that what he was looking for has been Penelope all along. She sighs into him letting herself enjoy the kiss this time.

“We’ll figure it out.” Colin says, wrapping a stray piece of her hair around his finger before tucking it behind her ear. “Together.”

"I have loved you since the first moment I saw you, Colin Bridgerton."

"And I am going to make sure you know I love you every day going forward."

Penelope smiles.

And Colin is home.

[sea-owl]

You know what be a cute idea? Doing something like a language barrier between the Bridgertons and the spouses. I like to think that to a degree, the spouses can understand English or they're smart enough to put things together. The Bridgertons on the other hand are a mess and have no idea what their true loves are saying.

So maybe Kate should've paid better attention when she was being taught English. In her defense, she was learning more important things at the time, too, like business management and balancing financials. She never thought she end up on English soil. Now, if Kate actually tried, she get the language quickly. But sorting through Edwina's suitors went by way faster when they don't understand what she's saying. Then comes along Anthony Bridgerton and he makes Kate so mad! She wants him to be insulted when she insults him. This gives Kate incentive to perfect her English. So now Anthony thinks the only English Kate knows is curses. He's gonna be very surprised that after he sucks on her boob and a string of perfect English comes out of Kate's mouth as she curses down his family tree.

Poor Penelope, on the other hand, some think the girl to be mute. No, her shyness takes over, and she can't speak a word of English. Her mother, Portia, is from Ireland, and while her father was an English lord, he wasn't around much. This left Portia in charge of the girls, and she only spoke Gaeilge to them. This led Penelope only knowing how to speak Gaeilge, with an understanding of English. She was, however, very fluent when it came to written English, but who would honestly carry around a journal to communicate? Penelope might start. After their sudden move to London, Penelope tries to learn English through observation. It helps her new friend Eloise is such a chatterbox. The other Bridgertons are patient with her when she tries to communicate verbally. It's so sweet. It also helps with Lady Whistledown business. Who's gonna suspect her? Well, Colin might after he caught her accidentally reading his jounals, with a few edits she wrote on a separate piece of paper, in English. Him seeing her letter to her publisher didn't help her either.

Then we have Sophie. Her grandmother and mother were both from Italy originally, so baby Sophie only spoke Italian. When she was sent to live with the Earl of Penwood, he was never around. Thus, no one saw it important to teach Sophie english. One of the servants spoke Italian, and so did the governess. That changed when Araminta came about. She refused to have Sophie speaking anything but English. Sophie struggled, but she managed to form a few sentences. Sophie got better when she left due to needing to be but the night she met Benedict again she defaulted back to Italian. This has led Sophie to question how many braincells Benedict has. No is still no in Italian, Mr. Bridgerton! Quit offering for me to be your mistresss!

[bridgertonbabe]

How do Eloise and Phillip fit into the Bridgerton Brothers AU?

Phillip's a recording engineer who owns a studio and works exclusively with instrumental musicians like Sophie. Right from Sophie's first recording session the pair formed an instant bond and she faithfully collaborated with him for every one of her albums.

Though he had absolutely nothing to worry about, Benedict couldn't help feeling a little bit jealous every time Sophie returned from a recording session with Phillip and gushed over how switched on he was and just how perfectly he understood the sound she wanted to make. Even when Benedict tagged along to the sessions and saw just how enthusiastically Sophie and Phillip discussed the music and nothing more, he couldn't help the pinch of jealousy as he wondered if Phillip admired his wife on a deeper level beyond a professional working relationship. He didn't doubt Sophie's love for him but he just wasn't sure if he fully trusted Phillip to not try something.

While he kept his jealousy hidden from Sophie to avoid causing any issue unnecessarily, he did express his feelings to Eloise, hoping she could provide him with the assurances he needed to hear that he was simply being paranoid and merely envied Phillip's deeper understanding and technical insight into Sophie's music. Eloise told him as much, though she did offer to tag along to Sophie's next recording session to assess the situation herself and get an idea if Phillip did in fact harbour some feelings for Sophie beyond Benedict's green-eyed paranoia.

And so Eloise accompanied Sophie to the next session, though as soon as she shook hands with Phillip she completely forgot about her motivations of coming to the studio in the first place. Sophie smiled to herself as she saw how well the pair were already getting on, having always had an inkling that they might make for a great match. In fact they almost got on too well as after playing a song Sophie had to call out Phillip's name several times to get his attention for some feedback, only for Phillip to apologise profusely as he had forgotten to press record due to Eloise's presence distracting him completely.

"Well?" Benedict said immediately as soon as his sister had picked up his call.

"Well what?"

"What did you think?" he hissed. "Does he seem into Sophie?"

"Oh no, no, no, no, no." Eloise laughed off. "Not in the slightest, Ben, don't you worry."

"Are you sure?"

"One hundred percent; Phil's not into Sophie."

"Oh thank god." Benedict breathed a sigh of relief.

"But he is very much into me."

"Wait - what?!" Benedict spluttered.

"Quite literally, in fact." Eloise added with a cackle.

Benedict pulled his phone away to stare at it in utter bewilderment before he brought it back up to his ear.

"El, where exactly are you right now?"

"Laid up on the floor in the recording booth. Phil's gone to fetch us refreshments from the fridge."

"You slept with him?!" Benedict squawked in disbelief, flabbergasted by the turn of events that had led to his sister having sex with the very guy he had been worried might be into Sophie. "El, what the fuck?!"

"Have you ever done it in a recording booth before? Because if you haven't, you should. The acoustics are fucking next-level." Eloise recommended, not even remotely bothered by her brother's incredulity. "Anyway, I've got to go. I'll fill you in on Phil filling me in once we've resurfaced."

Benedict stared dismally at the wall as his little sister hung up on that crudely disgusting note and he lowered his phone with a sigh. Fortunately before he could dwell on the fact that he had been informed unprompted about his sister's sex-life, Sophie slipped into his lap and distracted him with kisses. At the very least the one silver lining he could take away from the unwanted information about Eloise's sexcapade was that since Phillip was into her, Benedict had no reason to worry about the man having any interest in Sophie.

[pensbridge]

an old, OLD list fr. me rewatching Bridgerton & writing notes that I didn't finish cuz I'm lazy

Big Polin Watch b4 Season 3 Comes Out

(Things I noticed, liked.. or a general list of key things ahead the new season)

1x01

1813

Oh my god! They literally told you Penelope was Whistledown if you hadn't read the books! "3 misses foisted upon the marriage mart..by their tasteless, tactless mama."-LW; "Is she to breathe, mama?"-Pen

Penelope Featherington (*LW hint confirmed by Nicola)

They introduce the Featheringtons on screen before they do the Bridgertons.

(This might be random, but there appears to be a dog in the Bridgerton painting with ABC).

We talk abt Pen's childish fashion chosen by her mom but in the first ever scene w/Eloise, she wears a dress very similar to Hyacinth next to her (also a giant flower in her hair).

Colin inserts himself to hurry Daphne along (showing up again in trying to help Pen??)

Mr. "everyone likes me" 'approval-seeking behavior' Colin Bridgerton (s3! s3!)

Based on the LW readings, we can already see that Pen views Eloise in admiration. She calls the Bridgerton sisters beautiful, but then also notes her as "perfect," (though bleeding with sarcasm) a reading that is placed directly after Eloise screams for Daphne to hurry, which is definitely placed to signal how Eloise is outspoken in numerous ways & later speaks her mind.

Does Colin glance at Pen when she & Eloise wave to each other across the way??

"But as we may know the brighter a lady shines, the faster she may burn."~LW (abt Daphne)

Penelope says Lady Bridgerton has allowed Eloise to delay for 1 yr, not that Pen was pushed up with her sisters 🤔?

?Possible RMB Easter Egg: At Danbury's ball, a young woman who appears to have redish (yes, I'm colorblind it's blonde) hair talks abt showing her watercolors to a gentleman. Is this a Felicity look alike to reference the proposal scene in the book? No. I'm reaching, ok.

Empty Penelope Dance Card Spotting!Brought up by Nicola/fans/WhatABarb pod(?) b4 -> Colin has never signed her dc 👀

Portia- (tmstmp: 39:48) [talking about a young lady going off unchaperoned [most likely to foreshadow Marina]; though will she suspect Polin "compromising" before marriage??

Colin glances at Penelope playing with the dog. (This has been pointed out numerous times.)

Lady D. & Lady B. conspiring to get Daphne & Simon together. Could conspiring come up again between them in season 3 w/Polin?

Bloomsbury mention @Bridgerton dinner (-20:32) [could be used as a reference to what will come later for Colin, despite the line coming out of Benedict's mouth]

^Also, Colin mentions of who knows if LW is a she; Eloise counters to his claim that LW must be a man, being so clever; and Colin replies w/a cheeky smirk/smile. Oh the surprise to occur when he finds out will be rich!

The Moment Colin Dances with Pen after Cressida spills her drink-This moment becomes even more meaningful when you remember Colin is in pursuit of courting Marina already t/o the ep. (& how it could be perceived; then again maybe he is clueless how it could be perceived)

NOTE: The juxtaposition of 1x01 how Colin denies a dance w/Cressida in front of a crowd in favor of Pen to 2x08 when Colin loudly proclaims never courting Penelope to a crowd (and it is also abt a dance) to hopefully a loud proclamation of pride in s3