#brigerton fanfic

[frost-queen]

Good luck, babe (Fem!Reader x Eloise Bridgerton)

For @chxrrybomb22, Forever tag:@missmelodramatic, @merlin-dahlia, @alex--awesome--22 , @elllie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers   , @merlieve   , @queen-of-books  , @glimmering-darling-dolly   ,@denkisclown  , @wildieflower   ,@meyocoko    , @justanothercoco, @subjecta13-thefangirl  , @m-rae23 , @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr , @swampthing07   , @melsunshine   @panhoeofmanyfandoms  , @venomsvl , @the-uncoordinated-house-cat ,@rosecentury ,@imagines-by-her ,@evilcr0ne , @vviolynn , @niktwazny303   ,@avada-kedavra-bitch-187 , @markive-m

Summary: Forbidden love story based on the song Good luck, babe by Chappell Roan.

“Where are you going?” – Colin asked his sister, seeing Eloise pull her higher up. – “To see my friend.” – she replied with a witty glance. – “It is calling hour, dear sister.” – Colin reminded her. – “Yes and I can guarantee you no man shall call upon me today.” – Eloise answered grabbing for her reticule that laid on the sofa. – “Eloise.” – Violet spoke putting her cup of tea down.

It made her groan softly with a roll of her eyes. – “You know it is true mama.” – she said to make it clear no one would call upon her today. – “You may never know.” – Violet let out in persuasion of her daughter to stay. – “Then tell him I shall be available tomorrow.” – Eloise stated with a most entertaining curtsy.

It made Hyacinth snort loud. Even Francesca giggled quietly, moving her hand in front of her mouth. – “Eloise!” – Violet got up, having set her tea aside. Eloise left the drawing room. Violet stared speechless at her son, hoping he could make sense of this. Colin simply tried to supress a smile. – “It is true mama.” – Hyacinth spoke slapping Gregory’s hand as he reached for the last chocolate biscuit. – “No man has ever called upon Eloise.” – Hyacinth finished grabbing the biscuit. Gregory stuck his tongue out to her. Violet rubbed her forehead thoughtfully, keeping one hand on her stomach. 

“Very well.” – she spoke defeated, turning to dear Francesca. Francesca gave her a soft smile back. The door opened as one of the staff entered. – “A caller for miss Bridgerton.” – he said with a bow. Violet stroke her skirt out of habit. Gesturing to the man to let him enter afterwards. A dashing gentleman entered calling for Miss Francesca Bridgerton.

Violet turned her attention to Francesca. Eloise’s carriage was riding towards an estate a few blocks away. Once the carriage turned into a street, she recognized it. Having seen it multiple times from the outside, but never been inside. The carriage came to a stop. Eloise sticking her head out of the little window.

The orange roses were in bloom. The footman let Eloise out. Adjusting the shawl over he arms, she prepared herself to go in. The doorman opened as Eloise announced herself. She followed the doorman inside. Eloise waited a bit outside of the drawing room till she was announced. – “A caller for miss Y/n Y/l/n.” – he spoke with a bow.

Your parents shared a glorious gleam as it made you smile unsettling. Eloise entered with the grandest smile. – “Eloise!” – you called out surprised. – “Y/n.” – she replied with a curtsy. Your mother stepped forwards, blocking you a bit from Eloise. – “It is calling hours Miss Bridgerton.” – she made clear with a forced smile.

“Yes, and I would like to call upon Y/n.” – Eloise responded, having no trouble going against your mother. – “It will be quick.” – you reassured her. Your mother flashed her fan open, waving herself some cool. Eloise gestured for you to lead the way as you tried to supress your smile. Taking Eloise by the elbow, you led her out of the drawing room. – “You are terrifying Eloise!” – you shout-whispered to her in disbelieve that she was here. – “What can I say, I missed you.” – Eloise responded with a bit of flair. It made you laugh, drawing her more away from where your parents were waiting.

“Are you staying long?” – you asked her. – “No.” – she replied lowly. – “I wouldn’t wish to keep your admirers away from you.” – she continued giving you a little nudge. – “What admirers.” – you teased bursting out in laughter. – “Oh come on Y/n, you are beautiful. What man doesn’t feel compelled by you.” – Eloise spoke touching your forearm. You briefly glanced down at her touch, before flashing your gaze up to her eyes. – “What man indeed…” – your voice softened to almost a whisper.

Eloise gaze was caught in yours. Staring at each other in a moment of silence. Your parents interrupting, made you take a step back from her. – “I believe it is time for you to head home Miss Bridgerton. So we could receive more callers.” – your father announced. Eloise formed a smile, you knew was politely forced. – “Of course.” – Eloise replied with a curtsy. Your body moved instinctively a bit forwards when Eloise turned around to leave. You withheld yourself, keeping your head low. Your parents called you back in the drawing room, where you sat back down. Waiting for calling hours to be over.

You found yourself at the next gathering. A display of theatrics from the queen. You stood amongst the crowd, watching the two dancers dance so graceful and intimate. The music made you dream away of dancing on your own. Imagining yourself with eyes closed, moving as sensual as the woman. Then a set of hands gliding down your body. Soft hands that sparked each fibre in your body where they touched. Woman’s hands as you wanted to hear them whisper your name in your ear.

Blinking surprised, you were aware of your daydreaming and hoped you hadn’t looked foolishly amongst the crowd. The dance came to a stop as you clapped along with the others. Embarrassed you quickly moved to sit down as others of the ton moved to the middle of the room to dance or interact in a conversation. You sat alone, staring a bit lost in front of you. Expression a bit saddened. – “There you are!” – a voice came through as it made you blink yourself away. – “I have been looking everywhere for you.” – Eloise said happily coming to sit with you. Instantly you felt your heart leap with joy, smiling upon her.

“Are you not mingling amongst the others to find a match.” – Eloise teased making you puff at her. – “Dear Eloise, you know I have my heart set out to be a spinster.” – you told her as Eloise laughed loud. You turned a bit more to her. – “We could be spinsters together. Live somewhere off together and have no man dictate out lives for us.” – you proposed as Eloise kept laughing. – “I am being serious Eloise.” – you laughed out, letting your body bump against her. – “Don’t tell me you seek out a husband?” – you asked upholding a smile.

“God’s no.” – Eloise called out, making you sigh relieved. – “Then what is stopping us?” – you asked placing your hands on hers that laid on her lap. – “True as spinsters we will be treated poorly by the ton, but eventually they wouldn’t care anymore. We’d be free to do whatever we like. Just you and me in an estate, living our best lives.” – you proposed with much sincerity. – “How is it that you have such courage to be different?” – Eloise asked looking up at you. You gave her hand a soft squeeze. – “You give me courage.” – you told her with a smile on your lips. Your eyes drifting briefly down to her lips. – “Please think about it.”

With those final words, you got up, leaving Eloise’s side. Eloise stared, lost in her own thoughts. You walked behind the crowd, keeping close to the walls. Finding a place where you could settle. Forgotten in the back as you watched the others. It didn’t take Eloise long to join your side again. She kept quiet, simply standing by your side. You were watching some dancers, seeing her brother Anthony amongst them with Kate. He snuck in a kiss as it made you touch your lips. Inhaling a bit, you turned more to Eloise.

“Do you ever wonder what a kiss feels like?” – you asked her. – “Not really.” – Eloise answered with a shrug of her shoulder. – “Oh…” – you replied, turning away from her. Eloise picked up on it, quirking her eyebrow up. – “I assume it is nothing special.” – she said rhetorical. – “How about we test it out?” -  you suggested. – “Really?” – Eloise said surprised. You smiled teasingly, taking her by the hand.

“Frightened Eloise?” – you called out as you pulled her away. Darting around the room to a more secluded area. You pulled Eloise with you into an empty room. You let go of her hand, moving to the curtains. Pulling it back, then move closer to the glass. – “Want to keep it hidden?” – you teased moving the curtain before you.

Eloise laughed loud, approaching you. You kept moving the curtain back and forth, revealing yourself now and then to her with each another teasing expression. Eloise smiling radiating at you. She gasped loud when you took a hold of her wrist and pull her with you behind the curtains. Eloise had her brows furrowed till her expression softened upon you.

You shuffled closer to her, pushing the tips of your shoes against hers. – “It’s just us.” – you whispered to her. Eloise stared at your eyes. A pounding in her heart she was half familiar with. The way she was staring at you, made you bashful. Eloise’s gaze lowered to your lips. Before she fully knew it, she had moved her hand around your lower back, pressing her lips against yours.

The feeling was glorifying as Eloise’s lips kissed yours with more dominance. Demanding more of your kiss than she ever imagined. Your heart felt like exploding with fireworks. Your hands found a way to her, cupping her cheeks to kiss her more delicately. Her eagerness made you nearly fall back, tripping over the hem of your dress.

The sudden shift in balance broke the kiss off. Out of breath, you stared at each other. – “I never wanted a man. I just want you Eloise.” – you told her with a smile. – “I…” – Eloise responded not sure what to answer after that. Your eyes widened when Eloise grabbed you once more, going to steal another kiss from you. Her lips slowly retracted from yours, wanting to feel them for as long as possible.

“I…” – she smiled having to need no words. You smiled back at her, giving her hands a soft squeeze. Eloise let go of your hands, moving towards the door. By the door, she looked over her shoulder, furrowing her brows with softness. She ran back up to you, giving you one last desiring kiss before heading back out to face the ton.

Once Eloise had left, you twirled out of excitement. Eloise seemed to want to dive into this adventure with you. Have a life as spinsters where you could life in peace remotely away from the ton and just love each other. You left to return to the main room. Catching glances with Eloise from across the room.

It had been a few days almost to a week now since you saw Eloise. The next ball but three days away. At the promenade, you were enjoying some fresh air. Smiling at those who passed you from the other direction. The world couldn’t be better as you knew Eloise would be waiting for you. Share a life together and call her yours. You couldn’t stop yourself from smiling by even thinking about it. Looking back up, your gaze caught Eloise. Freezing as she did the same.

Eyes widening at each other. Your gaze immediately gliding to the side to see Eloise with a man. – “Eloise.” – you called out in shock. Eloise smiled embarrassed, turning towards the man. – “Phillip can you give us a moment.” – she asked. Phillip bowed, walking further up to give Eloise and you some privacy. – “Eloise?” – you said confused as to why she was with a man.

“Y/n…” – Eloise spoke nervously. – “What is the meaning of this? Why are you promenading with a man?” – you accused her, utterly shocked as you thought she would keep to your arrangement. – “Y/n…” – Eloise spoke keeping her voice low. She reached her hand out to you, touching your hand.

“Are you calling it off? Why are you calling it off?” – you asked desperate, having a sense she was forcing herself to marry a man just to be accepted by society. – “You don’t understand Y/n!” – Eloise shouted pulling her hand back. It made you scoff shocked. – “Oh but I do. You don’t want to call it love. You want to stop the feeling, but for the world you could never!” – you told her. Supressing her feelings would not do her any good. – “Y/n please.” – Eloise begged reaching for you again. You moved your hand back so she couldn’t take it. – “Have it your way Eloise.” – you told her. Eloise blinked saddened.

You came a bit closer again to tell her the hard truth. – “When you wake up next to him in the middle of the night. With your head in your hands, you’re nothing more than his wife.” – you made clear. Eloise swallowed nervously at the harsh truth. – “And when you think about me, all of those years ago. You’re standing face to face with ‘I told you so’!” – you called out furiously.

Eloise stumbled a bit back, breathlessly at the shocking truth. You turned on your heel, walking off. – “Y/n! wait!” – Eloise called out coming after you. Coming to a firm stop, you spun around. – “I told you so!” – you warned her. Eloise’s shoulders slouched, defeated at her own doing. Phillip came at her side, touching her elbow as Eloise moved her elbow away. Not wanting his touch. The world slowly spinning around her, dizzily at the fool she has been, by not calling it love.

-----------------------------------------

Read more of my fics on my Masterlists!  

[dreamtheatre]

What I Write

Doctor Who (9-15th Doctors and their companions, the Master) Star Wars (The Acolyte -> Prequels -> Clone Wars -> The Bad Batch) The Hunger Games (Finnick Odair and Coriolanus Snow) Bridgerton (The Bridgerton Brothers - Anthony, Benedict and Colin) Shadow and Bone (The Darkling, Nikolai Lantsov, The Crows)

What I Write: Fluff, Angst, Drabbles, Headcannons, Fics, Oneshots, Series (Maybe?)... and more! Mostly x F!Reader, but can be GN or M! as well.

What I Don't Write: Smut (Sorry, I just don't feel comfortable writing this sort of text). Homophobia, Transphobia, or Racism Really Dark Stuff (non con, dub con, stalker, kidnapping... etc. unless i think that the level of the stuff is acceptable)

If you request, please accept my boundaries with respect. I appreciate every person that takes time to read things that I write, and I'll do my best to write good pieces! Thanks!!

dreamtheatre xx

[oneammuses]

Chapters 20 and 21 of Mr. Bridgerton and Lady Debling are now on AO3!

Excerpt:

As summer transformed into fall, so too did Penelope Featherington. From overlooked wallflower to Countess Penelope Anne Debling.

It was an enviable transformation, but that didn't stop Penelope’s hands from shaking throughout the ceremony. She hadn’t heard the priest when he first asked her to speak and when she finally did, her voice came out so weak the man asked her to start over and enunciate. The small audience giggled, waving it off as nerves of a blushing bride.

-----------

Colin was struck by a dumb idea. He was sober enough to have the idea, but likely drunk enough to execute it terribly.

The risk of falling didn’t seem as bad as tossing and turning in bed with thoughts of Penelope pressed against him, but calling out another man’s name. Unable to find a release from the torment, he decided to scale down the tree and found himself in White’s.

He had hardly come to this bar since Mondrich’s opened up, but he couldn’t bear to look at his friend tonight. So he found a dark corner of this subpar bar and drank glass after glass.

He started with whiskey, but the moment the first drop touched his tongue, he was reminded of how she tasted during their first kiss in France. He “mistakenly” knocked the glass over and proceeded to order one of anything else.

[caprine-bees]

I had no idea how Brigerton was going to make me ever want Colin and Pen to end up together after meeting Lord Debling. I launched myself off of the Colin train. I would have roasted that man on a spit. Lord Debling is everything Pen deserves. I almost abandoned the show for fanfic. I was feeling violent.

Lord Debling deserving better than Pen was not the thing I was expecting to hit me like a right hook.

[dragonfruit-7]

I know that people when they find out their not the only one who’s does something, the classic “I’ve never had an original experience ever” which I have experienced but I loved finding out people also looked at the imginary camera. 😭😭

Knowing that others cut to camera while reading or watching something gives me sense of solidarity tbh.

[monowritestoomuch]

Fandom Showdown Round 1: Group 108

[random--rants]

Mannnn I realised something awful,

"Family Line" would've made it to Franz Kafka's Top Song on Spotify every year......

"And if I now try to answer in writing it will still be nowhere near complete...... 💔" (Kafka's letter to his Father)

"All of my past, I tried to erase it

But now I see, would I even change it?

Might share a face and share a last name, but

We are not the sameeeee....😫" ( Family Line, Conan Gray)

[jaeberry-smoothie]

don’t know how i got here (but i’m all alone)

summary: was it too much to ask not to be around a man who used to eye fuck your sister while professing his feelings for you?

fics that inspired this one

title: just a waste by pinkpantheress

____________________________________________

truthfully, edwina doesn't know when her feelings toward her... prior engagement turned into a wave of scalding hot anger. it felt like one day she was fine; she could laugh and smile easily.

even if no one noticed how her eyes lacked their usual shine.

she was accepting invitations to the brigerton house.

even if it makes her skin crawl to be near anthony once more.

she was attending balls and dancing with potential suitors once more.

even if she knew those same men whispered behind her back.

edwina brushed off the first embers of resentment that began to form in her. she was a rational thinker who had read extensively on the mind and man. unsurprisingly, her situation with lord bridgerton is causing her current negative feelings.

knowing it was kate that held his affection did not make the situation better.

however, as the new season progressed, edwina became less inclined to accept her sister's request for a visit. she felt more obligated to burn the parchment with each invitation. why must kate insist on forcing this blending of families? was it not kate who let the farce between anthony and edwina go on? was it not anthony who purposely pursued her, knowing he wanted her fucking sister?

(once, after everything was...better, kate admitted to sleeping with him before edwina's wedding ceremony. edwina didn't know whether to strangle her, laugh, or cry. god, what a fucking idiot she was.)

after a few narrow yet successful attempts at avoiding the bridgerton house, amma finally talks with her.

('ed, would you care to tell me what is wrong, my love?' 'nothing, amma. i am fine.' cue a fake smile. her mother does not falter.

'why have you not been visiting your sister as of late? she thinks you are terribly upset with her.' fake smile falters.

'i have been busy, amma, with suitors.' they both stare at each other.

they both know that edwina is a ruined girl.)

amma does not bring up the topic again and must have told kate as the contents of her invitations include discussing future prospects. edwina scoffs. as if kate's antics last season did not ruin her so-called prospects. no man wants a woman with a bloodhound for a sister, and no man especially wants a woman who runs from the altar.

god, she was truly fucked, wasn't she?

as the days continued and her discontent grew, edwina could finally root out the cause of her horrible disposition.

betrayal.

every single goddamn person around her betrayed her. everyone around her knew about kate and anthony's affection for one another. they saw her play the love-blind fool and said nothing.

not her mother.

not lady danbury.

not even her fucking sister.

hell, none of the bridgerton siblings could muster up the courage to tell what she was too dumb to see. with how rambunctious they are, she's surprised none of them blurted it out during that blasted game of pallmall.

she sees it later, however.

how everyone subtly looks at her when anthony shares a kiss with kate.

how eloise tries to engage in discussion with her about their latest reads.

how daphne always has a sad smile for edwina every time they see each other.

how anthony doesn't even look at her when making the announcement about kate's pregnancy.

how her mother gives her a look of pity at each rejected invitation to the bridgerton house.

it's such a shame that edwina did not know whether to scream, cry, or break something once her emotions hit her at total capacity. she is lucky for the presence of the moon, as she can scream into her pillow all night.

i'm just a shame

i'm just a waste

it's the way it is

'cause my mama said

[fitrahgolden]

Something That Digs At Us: 3 - You're the nicest thing I've seen

[Kate and Anthony have a second date, of sorts.

—

I must admit that I truly don’t know if anything interesting is gonna happen in this story and I’m sorry. I just like writing this version of Kate and Anthony.

—

TW: Brief descriptions of a panic attack.]

Anthony opened his eyes to find Kate, still asleep, cradling his head against her chest. He shifted just a little to look up at her. She looked serene. There was no other word for it. He couldn't help the swell of pride in his chest, however unearned it was. He was happy he could be what she needed to sleep through the night, at least one night. Don’t get ahead of yourself. Don’t fuck this up. Still, it made him optimistic about her trusting him and their potential to be together. She had to trust him. He kissed the part of her arm that he could reach and was content to continue lying there, soaking in the warmth of finally being in Kate Sharma's arms.

Eventually, Kate started to stir and moan. Well, that sound is gonna be a problem. Maybe Kate just didn't want to have sex last night. Maybe she didn't want to have sex with him at all. Either way, he imagined Kate waking up to find Anthony lying on top of her with an erection would probably be awkward at best.

He tried to calm himself down when Kate started squirming as she was becoming more and more awake. Anthony squeezed his eyes shut. Jesus Christ, I have to get off of her. He moved over to lie beside her instead. He could tell she was going in and out of sleep, slowly becoming conscious. He watched the process unfold, and felt compelled to stroke her hair and just…marvel at the vision beside him. Wake up, Foxtail.

"Who's that?"

Shit. I said that out loud? "Hey, good morning." He propped himself up and looked down at her.

Kate reached up and patted his cheek. "Good morning. Who's Foxtail? Another code name from the picnic basket caper?"

"Uh…" Anthony ran his hand over his face and sheepishly peeked at Kate, who seemed equal parts curious and amused. "Foxtail barley is my favourite species of grass."

There was silence as Kate's brow furrowed. Then she smiled and chuckled softly. "That's cool."

"No, it’s not. Having a favourite grass is absolutely not cool, Kate."

"Who’s Kate? I thought my name was Foxtail."

“Jesus.” Anthony fell onto his back and covered his eyes with a forearm. "I know giving you a nickname when we aren't even… Well, it's weird as fuck. It just slipped out, truly."

It was Kate’s turn to roll onto her side to look at Anthony. “I may like it. I have ‘Professor Death Blade’ ready to go if we get there. We’ll just have to see how it goes.”

Anthony peeked at her from under his arm. Don’t ask. It will ruin the moment. “Does… does that mean you had a good time last night?” Anthony grimaced. Idiot.

Kate nodded. “I did. Did you?”

“I had an amazing time last night. I’m glad it finally worked out.” Kate looked down, seemingly embarrassed. Anthony rubbed her arm. “No, no. I understand. I wasn’t trying to… I had a great time, Kate. And I hope we can do it again.”

Kate visibly relaxed and put her head back on her pillow. “Sorry. I mean– Ugh, I’m trying not to apologise for, like, um, for just being who I am. Or for doing what I need to do to be OK. I used to do that all the time. My therapist called me out on it. Rude.”

Anthony nodded and lifted a hand up to Kate’s hair and pushed some back over her shoulder. “Very rude.”

She twisted her mouth. “Can we inelegantly change the subject?”

“My specialty.”

Kate giggled. “What do you have on today?”

“Well, what with Daphne and Simon getting engaged, Mum wants us all at the house today and tomorrow for all kinds of celebrations and family bonding and tormenting of Simon.”

“Poor Simon.”

“I’ll be gentle.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“Yeah, I wouldn’t, either.”

Kate looked up at the ceiling and took a deep breath as she spun the ring on her finger. “Kent’s a bit of a drive from here.”

“Yeah.”

“Do you need to leave, then?”

“Not really, I just need to go across the hall and pack an overnight bag and go.”

Kate nodded with a quiet, “mmm.”

Anthony shot up to sitting. “Shit, was that you telling me you want me to leave? Sorry, that went completely over my head.”

“Anthony. If you want to leave, you can go, but I wasn’t telling you to. I… don’t want you to.”

“Oh. Good, ‘cause, um… I don’t want to leave, either.” He really didn’t. This almost felt like they were already on a second date. Anthony leaned back against the headboard and Kate followed suit by sitting up. Anthony took a chance and slid his hand into hers and could not stop the sigh of relief when Kate intertwined their fingers and rested her head on his shoulder.

“I’m surprised Newton hasn’t run in here.”

He felt Kate shrug next to him. “He doesn’t come in here unless I tell him to. And it’s early, so he’s OK out there. May even still be asleep.”

They sat in silence for a few minutes before Anthony asked. “And do you have plans today?”

“Visiting Amma, probably. If I can get myself to leave my flat.”

Anthony decided to leave the second part of that alone. “Amma is… Kaveri, right?”

“Right.”

“And Mary is…”

“Mum. Or Mummy, if I’m being a brat.”

“But they aren’t together, right?”

“No, Amma was my dad’s first wife. And Mary’s my stepmother.”

“But Kaveri and Mary are friends?”

Kate nodded.

“That’s… lucky.”

There was silence for a while until Kate looked up at Anthony, “You want to ask more about it, don’t you?”

“Yes, but it seems really personal.”

“Well, seeing as how we’re lying in bed together with nothing but boxers and a satin nightgown separating us…”

“I’m very aware of that.” Too aware. 

Kate laughed before continuing. "My parents divorced when I was three. Appa married Mary when I was six. Appa and Amma stayed close. We were all this happy family, really, the four of us. Five, once Ed was born. People thought it was odd. Sometimes they thought Amma and Mum were sister wives, which we all thought was quite funny. Amma and Mary bonded after Appa died. They both… They were both in a pretty bad place for a while. And they had each other to be in it with."

"What was your dad's name?"

"Maaran."

"May I ask why your parents split up? Sorry if this is too many questions."

"No, no. It's fine." Kate looked away, sighing with a faint smile on her lips. "My parents loved each other. Truly. They explained it to me when I was older. They grew up together. Their families are close. They were best friends. Everyone assumed they would get married. It made sense to them, too. So, they did. But they were never in love. And that could have been fine, but they realised they both wanted the chance to find it. Like, passionate, romantic love. And Appa did with Mary."

"And Kaveri?"

"No. It hasn’t happened."

"And she's alright?"

"Oh, she's thriving. I can't keep up with her. And I don't think she needs me to."

Anthony recognised the resignation in her voice. “It’s odd, isn’t it?”

“What is?”

“May I ask how old you were when your father passed?”

“Eighteen.”

“Fuck.”

“What?”

“So was I.”

“Oh… Yeah, I think I knew that.”

“And you said Kaveri and Mary had each other.”

Kate started spinning the ring on her finger. “I did say that, yeah.”

“And who did you have? Who took care of Edwina?”

Kate sat up straighter and started shaking her head. “Anthony–”

“Kate, I know what it’s like.”

“That may be true but I don’t want to talk about it right now. I don’t want to think about it. Shit.” Kate started hyperventilating. “Shit!” 

Anthony moved to face Kate. “Shit, OK. Um…” Anthony heard rustling outside of Kate’s bedroom before Newton ran in carrying a bag in his mouth. He jumped on the bed, ignoring Anthony, and sat in Kate’s lap. Kate gathered Newton up in her arms and took the bag he was carrying. She opened it and out fell a pill bottle. Kate popped one of the pills into her mouth and swallowed it. As she stroked Newton’s fur, she took a series of slow, deep breaths.

Anthony was staring helplessly, at a complete loss. He wanted to take care of her, but he didn’t know how.

“It’s OK, Anthony.”

Anthony didn’t realise he had zoned out until Kate’s voice pulled him back. She’d calmed down, but she was still clutching Newton.

“Kate. I am so sorry.”

“Anthony–”

“I didn’t know what to do.”

“There was nothing you needed to do. That’s what Newton’s for. What meds are for. What breathing is for, remember that?” She smirked a little at that last part.

“Right. I still feel like I should have done something.”

Kate shook her head and put a hand up to Anthony’s cheek. “I know what you can do.”

He raised his eyebrows.

“Don’t make it about you.”

“Yeah. Of course. I’m s–”

Kate put her fingers on his lips. “I know. But this isn’t something you need to concern yourself with. At least not until–Well, unless… We’ll have to see how it goes, right?”

Anthony nodded with a soft smile. “We’ll see how it goes.”

Kate almost imperceptibly tapped Newton a couple of times and the dog hopped off the bed and wiggled his stout body out of the room. She pulled Anthony into a hug. He took the opportunity to inhale deeply. “You smell good.”

“It’s probably my soap. It’s–”

“Lilies. Trumpet lilies, to be specific. I imagine they were harvest from the region of–”

Kate pushed him away with a laugh. “Show off.”

Silence settled between them and Anthony found their hands clasped on the bed.

“I need to be alone for a while.”

“Yeah, OK. I need to get ready to go to Mum’s.”

They both nodded but neither moved for a little while.

“I’ll be back tomorrow.”

“Alright.”

“Can I kiss you good-bye?”

Kate nodded enthusiastically. “Please do.”

The kiss was decidedly not of the chaste variety and did not feel like good-bye at all. Still, Anthony found the willpower to crawl off of the bed. As he put his clothes on and turned to leave, Kate giggled.

“Wait a minute. What’s on the back of your arm?”

He looked over his shoulder. “Oh, right.”

“Is that a tattoo of foxtail barley?”

“I told you it was my favourite.”

“You did.”

“Still cool?”

“Even cooler now.”

—

“Ma?”

“In here, Chellam.”

Kate found her mother crocheting in her living room. Kate leaned down and kissed her on the cheek before sitting next to her on the couch. Newton looked at her expectantly and Kate pointed to her feet, so he settled there.

“What are you working on?”

“A jumper for Edwina. Mary helped me pick the colours. Nice, eh?” She held up the work in progress, rightfully proud as it looked like it was coming together beautifully.

“Very. She’ll love it.”

Kaveri’s hands continued to manoeuvre the yarn and hook around each other expertly. “So…”

Kate exhaled as she leaned her head back on the couch and looked over at her mother, whose eyebrows were raised over her glasses. “It…” A smile broke out. “It went really well.”

“Ah, nalla! When is he popping by?”

“Amma…” Kate rolled her eyes.

“I’m kidding–mostly. Somewhat. About thirty percent kidding. I’m happy for you, chellam.”

Kate said nothing.

“Shouldn’t I be?”

“We’ll see if he wants to go out again.”

“Why wouldn’t he?”

Kate shrugged. “Think he wants to. It’s just… I had a panic attack this morning while he was still at mine. We were talking about Appa and he kept asking about how things were after he died.”

“Why would he–”

“He was the same age I was when his dad passed. I really think he was trying to connect over it. But it was too much. I wasn’t expecting it and it was… It was just too much.” She didn’t realise her breathing had become shallow until Newton jumped into her lap. Kaveri pulled Kate over enough to hold her.

“Ah. Please don’t tell me that boy treated you poorly because of it.”

“No, no. He was fine. He was quite… attentive. But I’ve been through this before. Though I suppose it would be harder for him to ghost me since he lives across the hall.”

Kaveri sucked her teeth. “Let’s try to base our expectations on his actions, hm? Not any goyyala that may have come before him. And if he turns out to be one of them, he’ll have to answer to me, Mary, and Agatha. And we’re all scared of Agatha. OK, chellam?”

Kate nodded.

“So, he was at yours this morning, eh?” Her smile was cheeky.

Kate clicked her tongue. “Amma, please. It was a literal sleepover. I’m still as pure as the driven snow.”

[iamleech]

do i like historical romance as a genre? no, not really. do i eat up every brigerton au i read? thats not important

[frost-queen]

Travel fevers (Reader x Colin Bridgerton)

Requested by anon Forever tag:@missmelodramatic, @alex–awesome–22, @ellie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers, @merlieve , @queen-of-books , @glimmering-darling-dolly , @denkisclown , @wildieflower , @meyocoko , @justanothercoco, @subjecta13-thefangirl , @m-rae23 , @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr , @swampything07, @melsunshine , @panhoeofmanyfandoms , @venomsvl , @the-uncoordinated-house-cat , @rosecentury , @imagines-by-her, @evilcr0ne , @vviolynn , @niktwazny303 , @avada-kedavra-bitch-187 , @markive-m, @erikasurfer

Summary: Colin and reader meet on his travels to Spain. Your father having brought you along to his travels so many times when you were young. Colin and you started to bond more, falling deeply in love. When you return to Mayfair, he introduces you to his family with the intention to make you his.

“Those barrels go in the back.” – you said pointing with your pencil in the direction. Scribbling down on the paper you were holding as the man pushed the barrel further up the ship. Another man came up the plank from the port with a barrel. – “Spices Senorita.” – he said tipping his head at you. You nodded writing down on your paper, redirecting him to a corner of the ship.

Turning slightly around to the deck of the ship, you started counting to make sure your calculations were correct. – “That’s three barrels of salt.” – you said out loud to one of the workmen by your side. – “Four barrels of pickled fish. Two with peppers and twelve boxes of oranges.” – you finished looking at him if you were correct.

“Ay senorita.” – he answered taking his hat off to you. – “Wonderful. Go take a bottle of rum, Miguel.”  - you patted him on the bac. Miguel bowed at you before taking his leave. Another one of the worker approached you, needing a signature from you. You happily signed it, gaze falling down on a man standing to stare below on the port.

“Seeing anything you like?” – you called out, catching him off guard. – “I’m… I’m sorry but did you just…” – he began running up the plank, grabbing onto the railing to get closer to you. – “Is this your ship?” – he questioned making sure he didn’t violate your property by remaining on the plank. – “Yes.” – you replied seeing him gape with curiosity at you. – “Never seen a woman own anything?” – you asked moving your hands to your hip.

The man quickly shook his head. – “No, no I didn’t mean it like that.” – he corrected himself. – “It is just admiring.” – he spoke. – “A woman doing business?” – you teased, quirking your eyebrow up. The man chuckled amusingly. – “A woman traveling the world.” – he answered making you laugh loud.

He dropped to a bow, introducing himself. – “Lord Colin Bridgerton.” – he addressed himself. You dropped into a curtsy. – “Countess Y/n Y/l/n.” – you introduced yourself. – “Would my lord be interested in the invitation of welcoming on my ship?” – you asked, gesturing behind you. – “I will gladly accept, your ladyship.”

You moved aside for Colin to step on the deck. Guiding him to a spot on the deck near the masts. Using barrels as seating. Miguel approached, placing two glasses down. – “Apologies that it is not as comfortable as you are used to, my lord.” – you said while Miguel poured the drinks. Colin smiled politely. – “Part of the experience.” – he answered making you smile. Colin and you rose your glass before drinking.

You set your glass down, admiring the man for a moment. – “What brings you to Spain?” – you asked curious what an English lord was doing so far from home. – “The culture.” – he answered, setting his glass down as well. – “I needed to spread my wings a bit before returning home.” – he added. – “I see. The women must be interesting then.” – you responded making him nearly choke on his drink.

“I…I…” – he started, trying to hide his laugh, waving his hand across. – “Oh goodness did I make you blush?” – you teased looking mischievous at him. Colin set his glass back down, clearing his throat. Throwing you flirtatious glance back. – “Is there a lord Y/l/n?” – he wanted to know, being very curious.

You shook your head. Colin looked all smug, gleaming with your response. Placing his hand on the barrel in front of him, he was intrigued to know more about you. – “What makes a countess like yourself travel so far from England as well?” – he said. You leaned your elbows on the barrel, chin resting on your hands. – “My father used to bring me along to his travels ever since I was a young child.” – you told him. – “Travelling is in my blood.” – you finished.

“My father cared so much to be present with the imports. My mother died when I was very young, so he had no other choice than to take me along. He’d rather travel the world with me around then return after so long and having missed seeing me grow up.” – you explained, leaning back to gaze at the horizon for a moment.

“Your father sounds like a remarkable man.” – Colin answered. – “He is.” – you sighed out. – “Is he…?” – Colin was curious. – “Gods no.” – you called out half in shock. – “He is simply enjoying retirement. The longs trips take a toll on his body. He is back at home managing from afar.”

Colin hummed loud. He rose his glass once more. – “To your father.” – he said to toast. You brought your glass up as well, letting it touch with his. – “To travelling.” – you replied before taking a sip. – “What is your next destination?” – Colin asked pointing at the last barrels that were loaded on deck. – “Portugal.” – you told him. –“Then it is a trip back home.” – finishing. Colin glanced teasingly your way.

You leaned closer to him. – “Care to join or does my lord have other obligations?” – you flashed your gaze down to his lips before locking them on his eyes once more. Colin came leaning in as well, arm resting on the barrel. – “I have no other obligations my ladyship than to come with you.” – he answered, eyeing your lips as well.

If he were still in England, he didn’t know if he would be so bold. But something about being away from the ton and restrictions made him act more freely. Perhaps it was also the culture not being so stiff as England that he adored.

You poured him another glass, chatting a bit more till it was time to leave the port. Taking the long journey to Portugal. Colin has been on a ship before, yet this one felt special. You had invited him that night to dine with him. Something instantly clicking. Colin and you kept throwing glances at each other from across the table. His head spinning as he felt himself go feral for you. The way you were teasing him by just being present.

The ladies in Spain were pleasant, but you were on a different level. Perhaps it was the wine or the rockiness of the waves that made him act so out of control. Colin got up going round the table to you. You blinked surprised when he pressed his hands against your cheeks. Guiding you upwards as you rose from your seat. Eyes locked on each other with the most lovable expression.

“Forgive me your ladyship.” – he breathed against your skin before smacking his lips to yours. You felt the deepness of his kiss, holding him. Retrieving your lips, you turned round, swiping your hands over the table to clear the way. Colin smirked as you hopped onto the table. Grabbing him by his shirt, you pulled him close, wanting his lips on yours once more.

It took around a month to arrive at the harbour of Portugal. Colin and you deeply falling in love with each other. You were arranging the supplies as Colin was watching you from afar. Smiling admirable at you. Feeling himself lucky that he found you on his travels. Your gaze locked briefly on him, smiling. Colin walked over, feeling as if it was his cue to come closer to you. He approached you, taking your hand to kiss it.

It made you chuckle, giving him a playful shove. – “It is nice to see husband and wife travelling together.” – a worker said with a thick accent as he helped some crates board the ship. – “Oh we aren’t…” – You told him, waving your hand across. – “Not yet.” – Colin interrupted, making you gape at him. He took your hand once more, smiling.

“For I intend to make you mine once we return home, Y/n.” – he said leaving another kiss on your hand. It made you bashful. – “I’ll be holding you onto that dearest Colin.” – you replied giving him a playful shove. Colin assisted you in the business, recounting the supplies to be extra certain. You finished up the paperwork, paying the dockworkers from Portugal.

They were preparing the ship to sail out as you stood by the railing. Colin came over, moving his arms around your waist. – “Now another month of sailing before we are on English soil.” – you informed him as he left a kiss on your shoulder. – “The only reason I am looking forward to getting back home is to make you my wife.” – he breathed out leaving another kiss on your shoulder.

It tickled making you move your shoulder up. – “What will your family say?” – you turned around in his embrace to face him. – “Leaving to travel Europe and return with a girl whom you wish to marry.” – you said teasingly. Colin smiled keeping his hands against your cheeks. – “Not just any girl. My beautiful, beautiful Y/n.” – he responded before kissing you. A month passed as the ship was on English ground. The shipment send out to other businesses as you received payment for them.

Colin and you got into a carriage, riding for him home. You were very nervous as you wondered what his family might think. Colin holding your hand gave you some comfort. The trip was long with several stops, but you were glad to make it to the mainland. Mayfair. The hometown of Colin Bridgerton. The carriage came to a stop before the house. Colin getting out, holding his hand out to you. You accepted it, getting out as well.

The doorman opened the door. Colin held his finger up to you, wanting you to wait just a moment. He entered the drawing room as you heard lots of loud voices and screams of happiness. Stroking any last wrinkles out of your dress, you prepared yourself to meet his family. Colin reappeared, holding his hand out to you. You took it as he lead you into the drawing room. – “Mother, brothers, sisters I want you to meet my betrothed Countess Y/n Y/l/n.” – Colin introduced you as you curtsied deep for them.

Violet looked with surprise at her son. – “Countess?” – Anthony said to Benedict, surprised that his brother had aimed so high. – “It is a pleasure meeting you, Viscountess Bridgerton.” – you said, curtsying once more. – “She’s pretty.” – Hyacinth said to Francesca.

Violet smiled delightful, coming over to give you a hug. – “Oh look at you.” – she said holding her hand under your chin. Smiling, she held her hand, looking back at her own children. That was their cue as Hyacinth rushed over to you. She wrapped her arms around you, hugging you tight.

“I have a new sister.” – she said squeezing you in her embrace. Colin tapped her on the shoulder, to let go. – “I have brought gifts for you all from my travels.” – you told them. You handed Hyacinth her gift as she gasped loud. You then gave everyone else their gift as they were obsessed with how wonderful it was. Colin smiled back at you, kissing your hand.

Proud that his family had accepted you and seen just how wonderful you are. Colin and you waited till the appropriate time after the social season to get married. Forever binding to each other. Travelling Europe together for business whenever it was needed. A life Colin couldn’t say goodbye to anymore.

-----------------------------------------

Read more of my fics on my Masterlists!

[checkoutmybookshelf]

Of Fire and Featheringtons is 48,000 words, and it's getting close to being finished. I'm going to miss the end of January deadline I set, but it will be ready to go sometime in February.

The writing playlists for this one have been weird too, it bopped pretty consistently back and forth between old dance recital music and Songs of Middle Earth

[xxkissatmidnightxx]

Queen Charlotte & King George fanfics?

I think I can make that happen. Send some ideas/requests! We need some more on this app.

[ts19009]

Can I get a Taehyung x brigerton!reader fic please? This Pic does shit to me

[flawsandgoodintent]

Probably an unpopular opinion but l am really like mentally stuck on it

S1E5 Brigerton

What the actual fucking shit was that sex scene? Like what the fuck? Bad start, bad end. We were led to believe this man fucks and what was that? Also why did he like do a half Burpee, projectile launch across the bed? Is that his strat for not having kids??????? Just teleporting away to cum in the sheets before like laying across her with a pathetic, “was it good for you?”

I need someone to tell me straight sex isn’t that bad, but so far no one will negate it and I’m worried about y’all.

[lifesizehysteria]

I love this so much, it’s so good! I love all the family dynamics and I love the way this chapter weaves that in between everything going on between Violet and Reader, and the drama unfolding as well. Once again, I’m so impressed with the ease with which you are building this story and their modern world. It feels so authentic and true to the characters we know from the regency era. Two lines that I feel really encapsulates the most important elements of the chapter are this:

Violet to reader: “Yes, of course time with them is precious, but why would I say no to something we all wanted?”

Reader to Violet: “I’m not going anywhere.”

This so the essence of what you’re creating and the dynamic that is growing between them. They clearly care so so much about each other already and I’m so excited to see how these sentiments continue to grow into the romance that is (very slowly!!! 😩) coming.

Thank you for sharing this, Mimi!!!! 💜💜💜💜

𝐓𝐎 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒 [𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐎𝐋𝐄𝐓 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐎𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘]

PAIRINGS — Violet Bridgerton x fem!Reader [Modern!AU]

SUMMARY — Violet and Hyacinth attend Francesca's performance with the London Philharmonic and receive some shocking news.

WORD COUNT — 4.1K

WARNINGS — descriptions of panic and anxiety

NOTE — You guys it's been a hell of a week it's a miracle I'm getting this formatted now (ie. it's a miracle I remembered). Anyways hope you enjoy this chapter as things get more intriguing.

𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 | 𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 | 𝐀𝐎𝟑

𝑪𝑯𝑨𝑷𝑻𝑬𝑹 𝑽: 𝑪𝑶𝑴𝑷𝑳𝑰𝑪𝑰𝑻

Violet watched as Hyacinth rolled on the balls of her feet while they waited for an usher in the theatre to  lead them where they were to be seated. Unsure of why her daughter was so fidgety, Violet wrapped an arm around her shoulder and pulled her more into her side, pressing a kiss to the top of her neatly done hair. 

“Thank you for coming with me, dearest.” 

Hyacinth looked over at her mother and smiled, leaning a little more into her hold, careful not to have her hair catch onto her dangly earrings or to get any makeup on her shoulder. 

“I miss Franny too,” she said. “It’s nice she could get us tickets, even nicer that Gregory isn’t here to ruin it.” 

“Hyacinth!” Violet chastised with a chuckle, tickling her sides a little. 

“No, but seriously,” Hyacinth looked up at her mother, “it’s been a while since I’ve had a Mum and me day. It was fun getting ready together and going out for dinner beforehand.” 

“Yes and I must say I am pleasantly surprised I did not walk out of the washroom looking like a clown,” she teased and Hyacinth stuck her tongue out. 

“You love it when I do your makeup,” she nagged. “And pick your clothes, look at you Mum, you’re smashing.” 

Violet laughed at Hyacinth’s comment and looked down at her attire. It had been a while since she had really dressed up, mainly sticking to dress pants and blouses for work and at home, but Hyacinth had dug around in her closet and found a blue off the shoulders dress that she was entirely convinced she was now much too old for, but was lovingly bullied into wearing by her youngest regardless. Not to mention, Hyacinth was now old enough to steal her clothes as well, and so her dress was also a little number from the back of Violet’s closet. 

“Mrs. Bridgerton, Miss Bridgerton, I can take you to your seats,” an usher came and introduced himself, taking the two to their booth that Francesca had especially reserved for them. 

Both Violet and Hyacinth were anxious for the performance to start, and anyone who was watching could tell how much their smiles widened once Francesca made her entrance onto the stage. 

“Wow, Mum, look at her dress!” Hyacinth exclaimed in a whisper. 

Francesca was never one for much extravagance, and so, Violet was sure her peers or her conductor had something to do with her choice of outfit, a dress that trailed behind her gloriously and shone against the bright stage lights, accentuating her daughter’s radiance. 

Violet noticed how Francesca’s eyes drifted over to their booth, and both she and Hyacinth gave her a small wave, making her smile before she sat down and waited for the cue from the conductor to begin with the opening piece. 

She had never once imagined in the many performances of the London Philharmonic she’d attended with her husband, that one day she would be sitting and watching her daughter grace that very same stage. She only wished Edmund had been alive to see it. 

At the end of the performance, an usher came to grab Violet and Hyacinth, expressing that Francesca had asked for them to be escorted backstage so she could see them. 

By the time they managed to weave through the crowds of people, Francesca was in much simpler clothing, sipping on some water and speaking to the first violinist.

When she saw her relatives, she quickly wrapped up her conversation with her colleague and made her way over to her mother and sister. Hyacinth wasted no time in giving Francesca the biggest hug and singing her praises while Violet quickly pulled out her phone and took a few photos to keep for herself and maybe the rest of her children as memories of tonight.

“Mum, what did you think?” Francesca asked once she could finally get a word in between Hyacinth’s rambling. 

“I loved it,” Violet grinned, pulling her into a tight hug, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “Your father would be so proud if he could see you like this,” she whispered. “He was always proud of all of you, but this would have been special to share with him.” 

“I was thinking about him tonight, too,” Francesca admitted, still holding onto her mother. “Is it odd I almost felt like he was here?” she chuckled a little nervously as the two pulled away. 

“Not at all,” Violet held her daughter’s face in her hands, brushing a thumb across her cheek. “Actually that’s quite special,” she smiled, “but speaking of being here, where is John?” 

“Oh, he and his family came to my show last night before heading back to Scotland. John went with them for a week to take care of some family affairs,” she explained while they began to walk out of the backstage area in order to get to Violet’s car so that they could head out. 

As they re-entered the main entrance of the theatre, Francesca and Violet were so involved in their conversation, they didn’t notice someone familiar amongst the crowd, but Hyacinth’s eyes and ears were sharp, beaming as she ran off. 

“Hyacinth!” Violet exclaimed immediately, noticing her daughter’s escape. They quickly followed her path until they saw her, arms wrapped tightly around you while you laughed, a little surprised to see the youngest Bridgerton at the Royal Festival Hall.

“Goodness, Hyacinth, what are you doing here?” you asked, returning her hug with just as much force. Just as you asked your question you looked up and saw Violet standing there in front of you. 

You still held onto Hyacinth, but you were caught even more off guard by the staggeringly simple elegance Violet always seemed to have, now only accentuated by her choice of dress, the blue making her eyes more striking than you’d ever thought you’d seen them. 

“Violet,” your voice was much softer than you had anticipated. “Hi.” 

“What a pleasant surprise,” Violet smiled, enjoying watching the interaction between you and her daughter, each of you with an arm still wrapped around the other as you faced the other women. 

“Yes, quite pleasant,” you cleared your throat. “How did you two end up here tonight? A mother daughter outing?” 

“Sort of,” Hyacinth nodded. 

“We were here to see my daughter, Francesca, perform,” Violet placed a hand on Francesca’s back. 

“You’re Francesca Kilmartin,” you looked over at her, finally taking her in and recognizing who she was. “Oh my God, I thought you looked familiar.” 

Violet did the honours of introducing you formally, explaining your name and position to the second youngest daughter in the family. 

“I guess I never made the connection,” you admitted. “I think I’ve seen you in some of the family photos around the house, but your name made it totally slip past me.” 

“Yes, I recently got married,” Francesca explained. “I love being a Bridgerton, but…” 

Violet pulled Francesca closer and kissed her temple. 

“Life is quieter as a Kilmartin,” Violet finished, completely understanding where her daughter was coming from. 

“Can you come with us tonight?” Hyacinth looked up at you. “We always go out for ice cream after Franny’s shows.” 

“Oh, I wouldn’t want to intrude, I know your Mum doesn’t get to spend a lot of time with you guys, and she’s probably sick of me by now,” you chuckled. 

“I would like it if you could join us,” Francesca said. “I’ve heard bits and pieces about you from Anthony, but it would be nice to get to know you better.” 

“Oh, all good things I hope,” you said as you looked over at Violet, searching her eyes for any hint that she didn’t want you there, extremely careful not to overstep with her family. 

“Ice cream is always better with more people,” Violet assured you. “Did you taxi here?” 

You nodded your head. 

“We can go all together, I was planning on taking Francesca home afterwards, and she lives close to your place anyways,” Violet explained. “Shall we?” 

“Yes, definitely,” Hyacinth nodded, taking your arm and Francesca’s and dragging you along, Violet trailing behind with a laugh on her lips. 

Once you were all piled into Violet’s car, Hyacinth was quick to take over the music and you could hear Violet sigh with exasperation. 

“Dearest, we’ve been listening to this album on repeat, can’t you pick something else?” she asked. 

“Mum, you don’t understand, I have to prepare myself for the concert,” Hyacinth said. 

“Yes, but even concert preparations sometimes need a break,” you chuckled. “Why don't you indulge your Mum on this one?” 

Hyacinth looked reluctant while Violet pulled out of the parking lot, but she then pulled up her phone again, scrolling through her playlists until she landed on something else. 

You could see Violet’s eyes land on yours through the rearview mirror, a thankful smile on her lips, especially once she’d heard Hyacinth had switched to the music her grandfather used to play before he passed away.

“So, do you come to see the Philharmonic often?” Francesca turned back and looked at you while she asked her question. 

“I used to, but then life got a little hectic. This is the first show I’ve been to in a while,” you admitted. 

“As a member I have some privileges when it comes to seating. If you ever want to come to a show just let me know and I can see what I can do,” she offered. “It’s always nice to see someone closer in age to myself in the audience,” she chuckled. 

“I can imagine,” you nodded your head. “None of the other family could join tonight?” 

“Oh, God, no,” Hyacinth shook her head. “Getting them all in one place is impossible.” 

“They’ve all come and seen me, just not at the same time,” Francesca explained. “Mum’s come the most, obviously.” 

“And I hold onto that title with much pride,” Violet assured, pulling down another side street before parking the car in front of what looked like a small, empty ice cream shop. 

“How do you always find these little hole-in-the-wall establishments?” you asked while stepping out of the car, adjusting your blouse. 

“Mum likes to find places where no one else goes,” Hyacinth explained. “Most of the time.” 

“Yes, most of the time,” Violet agreed. “I think Edmund and Francesca actually came across this place together on a day out. Didn’t you?” 

Francesca nodded her head. 

“It was after he took me to see the orchestra for the first time,” she explained. “I was kind of hoping we might come here.” 

“Us Bridgertons are one thing if not sentimental,” Violet chuckled. 

“Would you three hurry? I want to take a picture and show Gregory what he’s missing out on,” Hyacinth said, while pushing the door to the shop open.

Francesca was the first to acquiesce to her sister while you and Violet trailed behind. 

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to intrude on your family outing,” you found yourself apologizing. 

Violet was in the middle of rummaging through her purse when you said that and she looked at you, surprised. 

“It’s not an intrusion,” Violet said, pulling out her wallet. “Hardly so.” 

“You don’t have to sugar coat it for me, I know how precious time with your kids is. Especially the ones who don’t live with you anymore.” 

You looked back into the glass window of the shop, seeing Francesca and Hyacinth playfully teasing each other about various flavours. 

“Yes, of course time with them is precious, but why would I say no to something we all wanted?” she asked you. “You heard Francesca and Hyacinth, they both wanted you to come, I wanted you to come.” 

You looked over at Violet and chewed the inside of your cheek, nodding your head. 

She placed a hand on your arm, using the other to open the door, now seeing that Francesca and Hyacinth had already gotten their cones. 

You and Violet both ordered, but before she could notice, you passed your credit card over to the cashier and paid for the four of you. When Violet reached the till and noticed everything was paid for she sent you a look and you shrugged your shoulders. 

“My treat,” you smiled. “Can’t quite convince Anthony this one’s a business expense.” 

Violet chuckled and conceded, moving over to take a seat with her daughters, Hyacinth already prepared with her camera to take a picture and send it to Gregory. 

It was an odd sight, four very well dressed ladies in an ice cream shop past nine o’clock, but you also supposed that was part of the Bridgerton charm. 

“So, how did you end up working for my Mum?” Francesca asked. “And Anthony, I guess, as well, but everyone knows it’s really her that runs things.” 

Hyacinth snorted, and you and Violet both chuckled at Francesca’s words, and you thought back to a few months ago when you had first gotten the job. 

“Well, I had just left my old position at a holding company, and I heard through a friend that your family was looking for a new financial manager. I’d heard about everything that happened on the news and I must admit, before, I didn’t really know who you guys were, but everything I saw made me think that I might actually enjoy this position. So, I emailed your mother, we arranged an interview that was interrupted by a Whitney Houston song, if I remember correctly,” you teased and looked over at Hyacinth, who blushed with a laugh and apologized. “And the rest is history.” 

“And do you like it?” Francesca asked. 

“Oh, I love it,” you nodded. “Not just the work, but getting to know your family has been quite the treasure,” you looked at Violet fondly. “I only hope it continues.” 

“I’m sure it will,” Violet nodded before looking down at her cup of ice cream and taking a spoon of it to put in her mouth. 

The moment was interrupted when your phone began to ring, and pulling it out of your pocket, you apologized and excused yourself, needing to take it. 

Francesca and Hyacinth continued with a conversation while Violet’s eyes remained on you, studying your body language, how you responded to what was being said on the other side. 

She began to worry when she saw your hand move to cover your mouth, stress evident and written all over your face. She quickly put down her cup and went over to you, pulling her dress slightly to adjust it while her heels clicked against the tile floor where she walked. 

“Is everything okay?” Violet asked quietly. 

You shook your head, still listening to what was going on. 

“Work or family?” 

Violet chewed her lip, waiting for your response. 

“Work,” you mouthed, and Violet could feel a lump begin to form in her throat. As much as she was happy that whatever the crisis was didn’t involve your family, she couldn’t help but wonder who in her family it did.

Eventually, you hung up the phone and sighed, pinching the bridge of your nose. 

“Violet, I’m so sorry. I-We have to go deal with this,” you pointed to your phone. 

“Is it…?” she asked, thinking she knew what the situation was just based on your response.

You nodded your head and looked away while rubbing the back of your neck.

“Mum, is everything okay?” Hyacinth asked, sensing the tension between you. 

“Just a work problem. I’m afraid we might have to cut our evening short,” she apologized to her daughters. 

“Mum, why don’t you leave Hyacinth with me at my home tonight,” Francesca suggested. “John’s away and I have the extra space…” 

“Hyacinth?” Violet looked at her daughter to see if she was on board with the change in plans and she seemed more than happy to comply. 

You all grabbed your ice cream and headed out of the store, first taking Francesca and Hyacinth to Francesca’s home before re-routing to Bridgerton House. 

“Violet,” you paused her before she pulled out of the driveway. “Maybe I can take the wheel.” 

She looked over at you, the stress and uncertainty of the situation clearly getting to her. 

“We have to talk about this and I don’t want you to be stressed and driving at the same time.”

Violet’s hands were still firmly on the steering wheel, looking ahead at Francesca’s townhome, seeing the lights go on and the silhouette of her two daughters behind the curtains of the windows. 

“Okay,” she said quietly while turning off the car and unbuckling her seatbelt, switching sides with you before you started your conversation and the drive back. 

“So, Pat called me,” you began. “She saw something on the news that said Landon had released a statement saying you were complicit in the embezzlement from the charities.” 

Violet’s heart dropped to her stomach and she immediately felt her hands going to settle there in an attempt to suppress her nausea. 

“I think I’m going to vomit,” she covered her mouth. 

You looked between her and the road a few times before pulling over and giving her a chance to breathe without the added motion of the car. 

“Violet, it’s not looking good,” you shook your head. “At least from an optics perspective.”

She could feel the bile begin to rise in her throat at the mere thought of what tomorrow might bring. She wanted to hold her head between her legs, to steady herself, but she couldn’t do anything in the dress she was wearing, let alone in the car.

You pressed your lips together and looked at her, clearly still in shock from the news and made a decision to turn around and instead head in the direction of your apartment, at least temporarily, as a landing pad. 

Violet hadn’t spoken a word since you had turned around, and even when you arrived in the underground parking, slipping out quietly and heading up to your floor, she remained that way. 

When you entered the apartment, you rummaged through some old boxes, finding some clothes a previous partner of yours had conveniently never picked up and you had never gotten rid of, handing them to Violet so that she could get changed.

When she came out of the washroom, her face was washed and wiped clean of any makeup, her jewelry most likely tucked away in her purse, her hair fell into loose curls on either side of her shoulders, and the clothes hung off her frame in such a casual way you’d never really seen before on her.

You hated yourself for staring when the situation was so dire, but she always seemed to make it hard not to.

“Did Pat say anything more?” she asked. “About what….what was on the news? In the statement?” 

“Not much,” you shook your head. “I phoned the lawyers while you were getting changed, they haven’t heard from the police yet, but if this is legitimate, they’ll expect a request to interview you.”

Violet ran a hand across her face, squeezing her eyes shut, trying not to let overwhelmed tears form in her eyes. 

Her stomach began to churn again and she shook her head, moving over to your couch, sitting down and placing her head between her knees, attempting to take deep, steadying breaths. 

You kneeled down in front of her, placing one hand on her back, the other on her leg, both rubbing gentle and soothing patterns. 

“What am I going to do?” 

Her voice was so quiet and broken; you could feel your heart begin to tighten in your chest. 

There were a million questions running through Violet’s head, but none stopped long enough for her to ponder, creating a hurricane in her mind, the noise of thunder becoming louder and louder until she felt a hand against her cheek. The sounds became more muffled. Her head lifted, gently, tenderly, until she saw your eyes, the sympathy, the conviction that things would work out in the end. It wasn’t until your arms wrapped around her and her face was partially buried in your shoulder, her own hands wrapped around you gingerly at first, until she gained the confidence to hold onto you like you were her only tether to the world, did everything fall silent. The thoughts racing in her mind, quiet. And she clung onto that feeling for dear life. 

There was no question in your mind that Violet was innocent. Of course she was; she was Violet. Nothing in her nature or her character pointed in that direction, but you knew that wasn’t what the public would see. 

“I-” she began, her voice slightly choked. “I would understand if you wanted to leave. My family’s employment, I mean. We both know it isn’t a position that will be around forever, I-I wouldn’t want to tarnish-” 

“Violet?” 

“Yes?” she whispered into your shoulder. 

“I’m not going anywhere.”

She pressed her lips together and nodded her head, the tears she had been trying so hard to hide and push away finally pouring out of her eyes like silent rain, wetting the fabric of your dress as she clutched onto you. 

A part of her was always hoping you would say that, given the nature of your work together, she’d like to think your relationship had become more than just employer to employee, but a true friendship and partnership, and this surely confirmed that for her. 

“The children,” she said, pulling away from you for a moment. “I-I have to call them and tell them before it gets too late a-and before they see it anywhere.” 

She wiped away her tears quickly with her hands before you passed her a tissue, which she used to quietly blow her nose before pulling out her phone and started with Anthony, knowing it would be the latest where he was. 

One by one, she called and spoke to her children with almost alarming calmness, explaining to them the situation, how it would affect her and then, in turn, how it might affect them. You could see she was most concerned when speaking to Gregory and Hyacinth, both of them having been much more sheltered from the media than their siblings and knowing the spotlight could be hot and intense.

She figured after tonight, when Hyacinth came back from Francesca’s, it would be good for everyone to lay low for a little while. 

Next, you called Pat together, trying to craft a statement you could release to the public in an attempt to mitigate some of the damage done to the family’s reputation, but there was a key and strategy on what to say and when to release it, all of which Pat was very helpful with. 

After your call with Pat, you checked the time and saw it was getting quite late, and Violet would need to be home tomorrow to deal with everything that was coming. 

“Let me drive you home,” you suggested, but Violet had since sobered up to the reality of what was happening and shook her head. 

“No, I can drive myself,” she said. “It might be my last chance for a while.” 

You nodded, understanding her need for some time alone, and gave her a bag for her dress before letting her go with one more reassuring hug that you both lingered in a little longer than normal. 

Given the late hour, the streets were more or less empty on the way back to Bridgerton House, and Violet savoured the silence the car ride home offered, with one hand on the wheel and her other elbow resting against the car door, her fingers interlaced in her hair. 

She pulled into the driveway and walked through the front door,  noticing a few lights were still on, signalling to her that Gregory was still awake. 

She heard a rustle she assumed was coming from the kitchen, and before long, her son was in front of her, taking a moment to look her over.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in sweatpants.” 

Violet chuckled a little at his comment, using it to cover up a sniffle and wipe away a few tears that were stubborn and still lingered. 

“Mum, are you okay?” he came closer to her, watching as she bit the inside of her cheek and carefully shook her head, which was all it took for the young man to close the distance between them, wrapping her up in his arms. 

Violet wrapped her arms around her son, and they stayed there in silence for a moment before Gregory pulled away and placed a hand on her back leading her towards the kitchen. 

“Come on, I made you some tea. You should have a cup before bed.” 

She leaned into her son’s side and gave him another silent squeeze, so grateful that through his years, he’d retained his caring and kind nature. 

And through all the craziness that was yet to come, Violet thought, perhaps, she might appreciate the calm before the storm. 

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