#eloise i love you explain yourself

[devastatinglygreen]

remember how they set it up so colin knew something was wrong with penelope and he was spiraling with worst case scenarios only for eloise to convince penelope not to tell him about lady whistledown so she tells him she's always loved him and he was so happy thinking that's what she needed to confess but then—

[lydiimae]

Jealousy

A.N: OMG I am finally starting this blog. I am so so excited. This is a Benedict Bridgerton fic ofc. The true loml. I'm still debating if I will write only Bridgerton orrrrrr others? I dunno... but for now, here is a lovely, smutty, cutie, Ben fic hehe <3

Warnings: semi-public sex, fingering, vaginal sex, drinking, dirty talk, heavy praise, talk of public heavy petting ;)

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x fem!reader

Minors DNI!! 18+

He sighs from beside Eloise, shifting on the picnic blanket for what has to be the millionth time. "Brother, you worry too much about that woman." She mutters with an amused glint in her eye, taking a bite of one of the strawberry tarts the family maids had made for the occasion.

A family picnic was not a rarity during the social season, especially for the Bridgerton's. What was a rarity is that Benedict had invited a woman along, an incredibly important woman at that. Y/N L/N, a daughter of an influential Viscount. The woman he found himself to be head over heels in love with.

"I am not worried. I am merely observing so our brother does not make a fool of himself in front of her." He replies with a huff, taking a sip from his flask before tucking it back into his pocket.

You were merely speaking with his brother. His happily married older brother. He has no reason to be jealous, really, but something in him still tugs painfully at the sight of you speaking to another man. It is only when Kate comes to steal her husband away that you scootch back over to him, a bright smile on your face.

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You move back over to Benedict and look up at his cute pouty expression, smiling at the warmth that blooms in your chest as a result.

You wished to get to know his family before the inevitable happens. Marriage. You know, as well as he does, that you were both going to tie the knot as soon as it was acceptable to do so. You also know that he would scoop you up and marry you tomorrow if he had his way.

At the very first ball of the season, Lady Danbury insisted that she had someone for you to meet. Someone who enjoyed painting just as much as you did. So, she took your arm and led you away from your father to the Bridgerton family. You were confused, at first, when the already happily married Viscount, Anthony, turned to greet you. And then, as if the sea was parting, he appeared. A crooked grin on his face as he moved to see you. Benedict Bridgerton, although he is a second son, stole your heart as soon as you saw him.

From then on you waited with bated breath for every dance you would share, dreamt of him in your bedroom when you got home, and thought of nothing but him in between. You shared stolen glances at every event and even snuck off to any hidden corner or garden you could find for breathless kisses and entirely impolite words that sent your mind into a whirlwind you could not explain.

Soon enough, he started inviting you on promanades and even sooner he wished for you to dine with his family. Get to know his life outside of the stuffy ballroom, to which you found yourself falling even deeper in love than you could've ever imagined.

"You're pouting, Ben." You hum, taking a sip of your lemonade with an eyebrow raised in curiosity. "Indeed. Perhaps if you were not so caught up with my brother I would not have a reason to pout, hm?" He returns, moving to take another sip from his flask.

He was jealous? Of his married brother? You sigh and move your hand over his, shaking your head slightly. You hand him a glass of lemonade. If he truly is jealous, the last thing he needs is whiskey.

"If you truly wish to hear what we were talking about, I shall tell you." You return as he takes a sip of the lemonade you gave him. He moves his hand over yours, just out of sight of his family. A possessive gesture that makes your heart flutter.

"Yes, in fact, do enlighten me." He grumbles with a sigh. "His wife, Benedict. He was talking about his lovely wife, which if you have forgotten, happens to be my dear friend." You sigh, running your thumb over his knuckles.

He looks over at you, his green eyes sweeping down to your lips, then your chest, before finally looking back up. "I care not of what you were speaking about, I should like you to speak with me when it is I who invited you." He practically growls, the tone of his voice making the place between your legs heat up and dampen instantly. A feeling that only happened with him, something he had explained as both desire and arousal.

"You know that I-" You begin, but are cut off by him pulling you to your feet. The glasses of lemonade are now completely forgotten. "Mother, I should like to promenade with Lady Y/N." He fibs.

What he would really like to do is rip the skirt of your dress open, spread your legs wide, and plunge his cock so deep inside of your soaked cunt that you forget everything else. He wants to paint your insides with his seed right here, in front of the whole ton, so that every man can get a glimpse of who you truly belong to.

"Of course, dear. We shall not keep you." Violet replies with a smile before delving back into conversation with Eloise, who also looks up with a confused expression but quickly rolls her eyes and continues to speak to her mother.

You shoot him a questioning look to which he just raises an eyebrow and offers his arm. You take it and he begins to lead you away from the picnic canopies that many families have set up to dine under.

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"Where are we going?" You question after a moment, realizing that you are not following the path around the lake but rather the path to the carriages.

He stops and tugs you behind a tree, pushing you up against the trunk. The bark bites into the little exposed skin the back of your dress grants you and your cunt flutters when you see his expression.

Desire is different for men, he taught you. You can see it in the way his trousers tighten at the front and in the way his eyes haze over. His hands move to your waist and he bends down, pressing kisses all the way up your neck until he reaches your ear.

"Agree to marry me and I shall show you." He whispers, biting the soft flesh beneath your ear causing you to shiver and whine. He grins and licks over the tender skin, soothing the sting.

"You already know very well that I would say yes to any proposal you give me." You breathe, leaning your head back as your eyes flutter shut. His hand skates over your stomach, running up the smooth fabric of your dress until he meets your breast. He cups one and swipes his thumb over your hardened nipple through the fabric.

He pulls away, swiping the saliva off his bottom lip with his thumb before picking you up. You squeal and he chuckles, paying the driver of his carriage off before tucking you inside. He closes the door and the curtains on the window, darkness enclosing the both of you.

"Benedict." You whisper as he lays you back on the velvety bench. "Hush, my love. I shall not do anything before asking I swear it." The title makes your heart almost burst out of your chest. He dips down once more, pressing his lips to yours briefly.

You pull him back down before he gets very far, chasing one of those open-mouthed kisses he gave you at the last ball. He groans, his tongue swiping over yours. He grins over your lips at the sound that escapes, moving his hands to yours where they rest on his chest before breaking the kiss.

"Ben please." You whine, wanting him to continue so desperately. He only smiles, taking off your gloves. "You must have patience, my sweet girl. I am going to ravish you in due time." He assures, pressing soft kisses from your palm all the way up to your shoulder as he takes off his gloves as well.

He reaches your neck, to which he takes a deep breath. Taking in your scent of lavender and citrus, making him groan as it always does. "Do you remember when I taught you to ride my thigh?" He whispers, running his tongue down to your collarbone, nipping the skin.

The memory makes you flood your underwear. You remember well, how could you not? He had lead you to the garden at one of Lady Danbury's balls and sat you down on his lap on the edge of the fountain. He hiked up your skirt and led your hips back and forth until something inside of you snapped so hard you saw stars and stained his trousers. That is where he taught you about his arousal, about yours.

"Yes." You breathe, your eyes fluttering shut as one of his hands moves under your skirt. His slender fingers skating teasingly up your thigh. "Good girl." He praises. He cups your cunt without warning and you cry out, your hips canting.

"Fuck. You are absolutely drenched." He whispers, relishing in the moans he draws from your body just from keeping a hand over your cunt. "And I told you about sex, do you remember that darling?" He murmurs, watching your eyes flutter.

He slowly pushes your skirt up so he can slide off your panties. He tucks them into his pocket, smiling to himself. "Yesss." You moan as the air hits your bare sex. "You told me it happens when we get married." You whisper between whines as his hand comes back, his fingers curling into your pubic hair.

"Such a good listener. So good for me." He praises, sliding two of his fingers along your drenched slit before finding your clit with expert touch. He rubs a slow circle on your button and you moan loudly, throwing your head back. "Now, when a man has honor he waits to take a woman's innocence. But my honor disappeared when I saw you with my brother," You try and protest but he pinches your clit and you cry out before you can get so much as a whisper out.

"So I will take you now. In this damn carriage." He growls, moving his free hand to your hips to hold you down. You whine when his fingers move down. "Fuck you are perfect," He breathes. "I'm going to slide one of my fingers inside now, darling, alright?" He murmurs, the switch from possessive to sweet sending your mind reeling. So overwhelmed, so mindless Just how he likes you.

You nod tentatively, your heart rate spiking which he picks up on. He shifts so he is over you, and kisses the crown of your head. "I'll go slow, hm? Nice and slow. All you need to do is pat my arm twice and I'll stop." He assures, calming your heart. You nod and nuzzle his neck.

He slowly plunges a long finger into your weeping cunt and you whine at the invasion. "Good girl, fuck you are so tight." You gasp and writhe as he curls his finger, the feeling sending a shock straight to your clit. He slowly adds another finger and you moan loudly, your eyes rolling back.

"Ben... so good. Feels...." You cry out when his fingers curl into a spot that sends waves of pleasure through you. He grins and begins to rock his fingers, drawing heavenly noises from your soaked cunt. The carriage filled with the sound of your moans and the squelching of your pussy.

He licks a stripe up your neck, beginning to suck as he rocks his fingers. You curl a hand in his thick curls and tug, your hips desperately trying to move against the palm of his hand.

He kisses your jaw, and then your chin, before finally capturing your lips. His tongue immediately sliding past your swollen lips and tangling with yours. You moan into his mouth as his thumb presses down on your swollen clit, moving clockwise as he rocks his fingers into your body.

He breaks the kiss and pulls out his fingers, much to your dismay, before unbuttoning his trousers. "Benedict... why did you stop? It felt so very nice..." You whine, grinding on nothing to try and gain some sort of feeling.

He groans at the sight, bending down and pressing a sloppy kiss to your cheek. "My harlot of a fiancee. So needy for something she does not even know the half of." He praises as he slowly frees his cock, the sight along with his filthy words making you gasp.

He pulls back and strokes himself with the help of your delicious wetness, before looking back at your sweet face. All flushed and wide-eyed. He moves his free hand to your chin, running his thumb over your bottom lip.

"It will not fit, Benny." You whisper, suddenly frightened. His eyes soften and he moves down pressing a swift kiss to your lips. "It will, my love. We will go slow, I promise. Remember what I told you, two pats on my arm and we will stop." He hums, peppering your face with kisses which causes you to giggle and calm a bit. "Perhaps one pat for apprehension, hm?" He murmurs with a smile, pulling back. You nod.

"Good girl." He hums. He leans in and runs his length through your soaked folds drawing moans from the both of you. "Fuck. God, I love you." He grunts and you smile, draping your arms over your eyes to cover your blush. "I love you too, Benedict." You whisper back.

He slowly pushes into your body, throwing his head back at how tight your pretty pussy is. You cry out at the invasion, your hands shooting down to grasp at the edges of the carriage bench. The feeling is a strange mix of pain and something different. A tart taste on your tongue paired with a tingly feeling in your already hot womb. "Fucking hell." He groans before tucking his face in the crook of your neck, stopping halfway so you can adjust.

You whine and wrap your arms around his neck after a moment. "P-Please..... more. I need more, Benedict." You gasp after the pain subsides. God, he almost comes right there. He wants you like this all the time, mindless for his cock. Begging him to fuck you.

"Good fucking girl, Y/N." He grunts before bottoming out inside of you. You moan and toss your head back into the seat cushion and he groans at the feeling. "You feel so good, my love. So ripe, so wet. God, so very tight just for me." He praises.

He begins to move slowly, the slap of thighs meeting thighs filling the carriage. The feeling is so foreign but fuck you never want it to stop. Moans and whines slip past your lips before you can even begin to try and stop them, and you cry out as he speeds up. The noises he is drawing from your body would embarrass you if you didn't adore the way he feels inside of you to the point that you can think of nothing else. You wish to be like this as much as you can, full to the brim with his cock.

"Benedict." You moan and he stalls, gritting his teeth. "Never ever stop moaning my name, you vixen. God, I am a lucky man. The luckiest man in the world." He praises you as he begins to slam into you.

You grip his coat so hard you are surprised the velvety fabric hasn't torn. You cry out when his thumb finds your clit, the feeling sending you up to the clouds. "Come for me, my love." He grunts from above you with a slight slap on your thigh. That sends you over, your vision going white as you scream his name.

He thrusts a few more times before pulling out and pumping himself. He releases with a groan onto your stocking-covered thigh before collapsing on top of you.

After a moment he lifts his head to look at you, brushing your fallen hair out of your face. You smile, almost drunkenly, as you look at him. "That was heavenly." You whisper and he smirks, pressing a kiss to your lips.

"Just wait until we are married. I cannot wait to fill you with my seed and see you plump with my child." He murmurs. resting his head back on your shoulder. Your hand absentmindedly finds his hair, running through his messy curls.

"We have to go back." You whisper to which he shakes his head. "Not yet. I paid off the driver. We have as much time to rest as we wish, dearest." He hums, his eyes closed. You grin and close yours as well, slowly dozing off with him.

You are the luckiest woman in the world.

[plussizefantasia]

More Body, More Money

Anthony Bridgerton x wife!reader

Word Count: 1.1k

warnings: Allusion to smut towards the end, references to a female body and that body being bigger

an: holy shit sorry for disappearing for so long. I make no promises as to when I'll come back as I seem to have a habit of breaking those. I've been in a Bridgerton mood recently though and typed this on my phone in like an hour so no promises that it's all that good. I will say though that I've been working on a request recently and it's currently at 4k and counting which is by far the longest fic I've ever written and I'm not even to the good part yet. I've also finished outlining the rest of the parts for my Kili x reader fic. I think that's it though, thanks for reading this far if you did and for putting up with my bs.

“Darling, could you come here a moment?” Your husband called from his desk. Recently you had taken to reading while lounging on the couch in his study. It was a great way to spend time with your busy husband while also letting him get his work done. 

You didn’t exactly know what he was working on at the moment but apparently, your presence was needed to solve whatever issue he had stumbled upon. It wasn’t until you got closer to his desk that you noticed the receipts and ledgers sprawled across his desk. He was updating the families' books and tracking the spending that you and the rest of his family had done that month. 

“Yes, my love?” You moved to rest your hand on his back and traced it across his shoulders and on his neck. It was as if you two were magnets, unable to keep apart for very long. If you were close enough then you would feel your hands gravitating towards him. And if the way his arm moved to rest on your back as well, he had the same urges when in proximity to you. 

“I’ve noticed something odd in the charges from the modiste.” Anthony handed you the papers. Both you and Eloise had gone to the modiste at the beginning of the month to be fitted for some new gowns to prepare for her second season in the marriage mart and your first season as the Viscountess. 

“I’ll admit to not being the most knowledgeable about gowns and other frivolities my love, but is it normal for the cost difference to be this large? I mean when Ben and I get new suits the price is almost always similar.” He pointed to the two prices listed on the bill from Madame Delacroix. 

You didn’t know how to respond to this, you knew the reason behind the price difference between yours and Elioises dresses, of course, it was something that you had thought of already. After all, it was the same reason that your younger sister always got more gowns than you every season that the two of you attended growing up. You were larger, and as the modiste you had gone to grow up with had said “More body means more fabric means more money.” more money that your father had deemed unnecessary so you had only ever gotten one or two new dresses while your sister would be fitted for five or six of the newest and most flattering styles.

But how could you explain this to Anthony? That your dresses cost more than his sisters because you were bigger, and that meant more money.

You knew Anthony loved your body, he worshiped it often in fact but there was a difference between getting lost in the softness of your embrace and seeing the real-life sometimes the financial consequences of living in a bigger body.

“Oh, Anthony, it is uh- just a matter of resources I suppose.” 

He raised a brow at you. “I’m not sure I understand. What do you mean by resources?”

“Well dear husband, you and your brother are very similar in height and build which means the two of you have very similar resource usage, whereas myself and your sister are quite different in the… resource usage department.”

“My love, I need you to speak to me as if I am an idiot.” 

You deeply sighed and prepared yourself to have the conversation that you had been trying and failing to get out of. “Eloise is small, therefore it does not take as much fabric to make her dresses, whereas I am quite well endowed and my dresses require more material. More body means more fabric means more money it is as simple as that.” 

“That is preposterous, are you both not getting dresses?” His tone was getting more defensive, and it warmed your heart to know that he was willing to get upset at the simple fact that Madame Delacroix had charged you more because your dress was bigger. You had expected him to be embarrassed, and deep down somewhat afraid that he would realize that he had signed himself up for these extra expenses for the rest of his life by marrying you. 

“Well darling, think about it, would you expect to pay the same amount for a child as you would for yourself? Do you not pay more for your suits than you do Greg’s?”

“No, I see your point darling.”

“That is all this is my love, different sizes of clothing cost different amounts. If it is a problem I can just see about getting some of my old gowns altered to make them somewhat nicer for the new season, that way you would not have to spend as much.”

“What? No. Darling, this is not about the money, I was merely worried that that woman had tried to take advantage of you, charging you far more than Eloise for the same thing. I couldn’t care less about the money. In fact, I think you should get ten more gowns made, show everyone in the Ton that I am married to the most voluptuous, sensual, and desirable woman in the world.” He pulled you closer to him so that you were standing in between his spread knees, you still standing over him as he leaned back in his chair.

Anthony began training kisses up and down the arm that he had grasped within his hand. Turning your wrist over so that he could place one at the center of your palm. 

“I do not need ten new gowns, Anthony, that is far too much.” You giggled and protested, feeling more enamored with the man you married with every word out of his mouth.

“Perhaps I shall buy you ten diamond necklaces then so that I can have an excuse to stare at your chest as often as I’d like.” You snorted and gently smacked the back of his head. “Anthony Bridgerton, that is scandalous talk and you know it.”

“Nothing is scandalous between husband and wife, especially when the two are alone.” He wiggled his eyebrows at you and lifted the corners of his lips into a sultry grin, one that had your knees feeling weaker by the second. 

“All I really need, dear husband, is you.”

A smile that you could only consider adoring spread across your husband's face.

“And I you, my love.”

“No Anthony, I need you.”

His grin turned to a full-blown smirk spreading across his face, “Well, what the Viscountess needs she gets…” 

;)

[gyeomsweetgyeom]

[4:59 pm]

(cw: spoilers for Bridgerton season 3, description of a steamy scene from Bridgerton)

You had been waiting two long years for season 3. A season that for you and many other was highly anticipated since you already knew the characters that were going to fall in love. You were excited to see the shenanigans the Bridgertons would get up to, if Eloise and Penelope would med their friendship, and how Anthony and Kate would act like a married couple. You were beyond excited.

You'd gotten all your errands and some chores done earlier in the day just so you could have your afternoon free to watch part 1 of season 3.

You'd made it all the way through episode 1 with no distractions. Then came episode 2 and Jaehyun had lingered behind you while watching Colin "train" Penelope. 10 minutes later he was still standing behind you and asking questions. You were frustrated, sure, but you still paused the show to explain the Bridgerton lore. And 5 minutes later you were restarting part 1 for Jaehyun to watch from the beginning.

Now, here you were on the last episode of part 1 at the edge of your seat. You felt your heart ache for Penelope, Lord Debling really could have been a nice match for her. Was she in love with him? No, but what else was Colin doing besides being stupid?

"Wait!" You heard from the screen.

Jaehyun gasped, "it's Colin!"

"Shut up! I can't hear!"

The door of the carriage was pulled open and sure enough, there stood Colin. Jaehyun turned up the volume and you leaned forward, closer to the screen. Something big was going to happen, you knew it.

You bit your lip as you watched Penelope snap at Colin, ugh she was so right. You rolled your eyes as he gave his reasoning, as if she owed him anything. And then feelings! Colin has feelings for Penelope!

You throw yourself back and kick your legs with excitement, he likes her! Your heart soared hearing his confession, god, every confession in every season was amazing.

"But I'd very much like to be more than friends," Penelope breathed heavily.

Jaehyun yelled excitedly, "they're kissing! Again!"

You watched with your jaw dropped as the kissing got steamier and steamier, then the kissing led down her chest, and woah- exposed shoulder.

"What is his hand doing?! What is he doing!?" Jaehyun yelled with his hands in his hair, stressed but intrigued.

Penelope's jaw drops and the music peaks, Jaehyun gasps, "People can see! There's a window right there!"

Your own hand is over your mouth, watching in absolute shock as Jaehyun watches Colin... explore beneath Penelope's dress until the carriage comes to a stop in front of the Bridgerton house.

You both sit in silence, trying to process what you watched, taking in the words and the rest of the scene, too in shock to laugh at Colin's horniness.

Colin pulls Penelope's strap back onto her shoulder and your jaw drops once again. You can hear Jaehyun's surprised whisper, "his fingers."

Colin steps out of the carriage and you're confused, eyebrows furrowed, until Colin says, "Are you going to marry me or not?"

You squeal and Jaehyun stands in shock before pausing the show to gather his thoughts.

"That's it? He kisses the girl 2 times, has a sex dream, and gets under her dress and he wants to marry the girl? All the seasons are like this?"Jaehyun asks out loud.

You think it over, "um, similar but more angst."

"More?! What are we doing? Put them on!"

[fayes-fics]

When The World Is Free: Chapter 3 - C’est Un Gars

MASTERPOST PREV | NEXT

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x fem!reader, WW2 AU.

Warnings: none... just some instant attraction and flirting ;)

Word Count: 2.6k

Author's Note: Multi-chapter fic based on a request by the lovely @amillcitygirl! Please see the masterpost for a synopsis of this story. This is when reader and Benedict finally meet. Yep, that's the whole chapter. Thanks to @colettebronte for beta reading. Enjoy! <3

Paris, September 1939

Benedict doesn't turn up the next day. Or the day after that. Some snag with travel arrangements that Eloise doesn't explain, and you don't pry. You suspect she championed any excuse for him to delay his trip. But it does mean his arrival is not particularly front of your mind as the days slip by.

It's a week later - after an exhausting workday in uncomfortable shoes - when you get home and notice the door is unlocked. Assuming it's Eloise, you enter the apartment distractedly, reading a flyer you picked up on your journey home.

“El, did you see this?” you call out without looking up, dropping your bag as you unbuckle your T-strap heel, the relief to your foot palpable, flinging the first aside. “There is a new jazz night in Montmartre… I think we should go, seeing as your troublesome brother is never turning up…”

“He is actually…” a refined, resonant voice calls out from across the room with a wry tone. There, silhouetted by the bright window, is the outline of a tall man.

You stumble in shock, twisting your ankle quite heavily as you remove the last shoe, and he rushes forward to your aid, large hands grasping your waist, stopping you from falling down and righting your stance. His hold is gone as soon as you are stable. 

Discombobulated and embarrassed, you find yourself staring up into the most handsome face you have ever seen in your twenty-two years on earth, tongue-tied and awkwardly holding your right shoe. Not the introduction you would want with anyone.

“Benedict?” you squeak, mouth rapidly running dry.

“The very same,” his acknowledging smile is crooked, and something gallops hard through your chest. “Y/n, I presume?”

All you can do is nod. You can see the family resemblance - chestnut hair, blue eyes, a proud jaw - but damn if this is not the most fetching male version of Eloise’s prettiness. Tall and broad-shouldered, he looks very dashing in a royal blue three-piece suit with a crisp white shirt and burgundy and gold striped tie. 

“Are you alright?” his forehead creases in concern as he nods to your ankle.

“I… I think so?” you stutter. There is a slight throb there, but it's almost background to the riot in the rest of your body at the very sight of this man. 

Oh god, Eloise is going to disown me…  

Her warning from last week is ringing in your ears as you attempt a step but can't hide the wince at the bloom of pain as your weight transfers.

“Hmmm, I think that's a no,” he hums. “Come, take my arm, let's get you seated and this foot raised…..”

And so you find yourself clinging to the arm he offers, feeling the latent power under the layers of fabric as he provides a solid brace to lean on. Still a touch mortified, you drop onto the sofa as elegantly as you can, raising your ankle onto the coffee table and sighing with relief. You don't miss how his eyes linger briefly on your stockinged leg before he bustles over to your refrigerator and grabs a chilled bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. 

“Here, this should help,” he explains as he walks back. 

“Drink until it doesn’t hurt anymore?” you guess drolly. 

His responding laugh is warm and crinkles his eyes so beguilingly. “Stop the swelling,” he explains as he slides to sit on the coffee table next to your leg and presses the bottle against your ankle. 

You hiss gently behind your teeth, the coolness seeping through your stocking. Your eyes meet, and you swear his dilate a fraction, the hand not holding the bottle wrapping around the inside of your ankle to align your foot better, long elegant fingers cupping your arch. Just that simple touch is enough to make your pulse race. Something about this man feels electric. Like standing beside a humming pylon, an energy coursing through you.

“It’s nice to finally meet the artist,” you murmur, gesturing to the artwork you know so well now.

His eyes track to the painting, and his face lights up. “You like it?” his tone so hopeful.

“It's beautiful,” you confess, a tingle where you can feel the warmth of his fingers flexing around your foot, contrasting to the cold of the bottle.

“Thank you,” he demures, bowing his head and looking up at you through his lashes, a dot of colour high on his cheekbones.

“What the….”

You both twist to see Eloise standing in the doorway, mouth agape. Benedict’s hand flinches away from your foot, and you realise it must look more incriminating from her angle, unable to see the cold compress. All she sees is him sitting on the coffee table, grasping your leg as you talk softly to each other….

“El! Hi!” you call, attempting a breezy tone, “I tripped on my way in, and Benedict here was just helping me. I’m okay,” you add preemptively.

He jumps up from the coffee table and indeed indicates your injury. Eloise nods to acknowledge it, then narrows her eyes at him before walking over and giving him a quick embrace, kissing his cheek.

“Hello, brother. I was hoping you would never show up,” she greets sardonically.

“Hello, little sister, always such a warm welcome…” he drawls.

You can’t help but giggle at their exchange, and both seem pleased to have entertained you, twinkles in their similar eyes.

“Well, this rather scuppers tonight’s dancing plans…” Eloise motions at your ankle.

“You and Solene go without me. Why not take Benedict, too?!”

“I’ve had a full day of travel. I’d rather not…” he confesses when Eloise looks at him expectantly.

“Spoilsport,” she rolls her eyes. “Where are you staying?” 

“I haven’t booked anywhere...” he confesses, looking a touch sheepish. as you clock a suitcase against the wall. 

“Well then, your choices are to find a hotel now or sleep on our sofa,” she shrugs. 

“If it means it will get you packed quicker, I’ll stay right here,” he answered pointedly, raising an eyebrow.

“Brother, have you ever been to Paris before?” You can tell Eloise is winding up for one of her persuasions with that opening gambit, so you chuckle and relax back into the sofa, crossing your arms, about to enjoy the show.

“Is this going to be a two-minute or a ten-minute Eloise soliloquy?” he misdirects dryly, catching your eye and winking, which makes your heart skip.

Undeterred by both of your reactions, Eloise launches into her argument. “I know for a fact you haven’t, so let me say this. You are an artist. This is the art capital of the world. It would literally be irresponsible for you not to stay a while. Enjoy the galleries. Soak up the atmosphere. Get inspired. Hell, y/n here works in a gallery and has quite the encyclopedic knowledge of all the artists on display in the city - a literal font of knowledge…” As she extols your virtues, his eyes cut to you, an admiration and curiosity in them that makes your lungs feel tight, “…I would personally judge you for not staying. At least a week? Maybe two…”

“Delay tactics, El,” he sighs, but even you can see him wavering.

“Paris may not always be here, at least not as it is now,” you append, unwilling to look at him as you say it, looking out across the rooftops wistfully. “The art truly is spectacular, and if war comes to its doorstep in the next few months, who knows what could happen? You may regret it for the rest of your life if you don’t experience at least some of it.” Your focus back in the room as you look upon his art again. “Someone who paints something that beautiful deserves to see the old European masters up close…” you end on a shrug.

His gaze feels heavy like a cloak as Eloise waves her hands towards you. “Yeah… THAT,” she adds with finality.

Benedict sighs and tips his head back, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallows heavily.

“Fine. Three days,” he capitulates. “But, Eloise, you must be packed and ready to leave by then. I mean it. I don’t need Mother’s wrath about this…” his warning avuncular.

“Promise,” she smirks, before grinning and whooping in victory, doing a little jig as he shakes his head with exasperated affection.

“Prêt à partir?”  Solene's face appears around the doorframe, her face made up for a night out.

“Not for me,” you pout as she opens the door fully. “ I twisted my ankle. But I’m pretty sure Eloise wants a bit more victory dance time,” you smile as Eloise nods furiously, still swaying. 

They all offer to help you to your room, but you steadfastly refuse, confident you can hobble to bed when the time comes. Wishing them all well, you’re looking forward to some quiet alone time after an eventful day. 

—

Half an hour later, you are reading a book and feasting on brie and crackers when there is a soft knock at the door.

“Come in?” your call is tentative, unsure who might be knocking this late.

You frown as a key jangles in the door, then a warm flush down your spine as Benedict appears in the doorway, suitcase in hand.

“Eloise gave me a spare key. The hotel is fully booked for tonight,” he grimaces apologetically. 

“Sofa it is?”

“Appears so…”

“So there’s only one hotel in the whole of Paris, then?” you tease softly as he removes his hat and drops his case.

“Only one in close enough proximity to ensure Eloise doesn’t have time to pack and up and abscond to god know where before I can intervene, yes…” that crooked grin reappearing.

“I’d never let her do that!” you gasp in mock outrage. “At least not without taking me too….”

He laughs heartily and moves to the counter to grab two wine glasses and a bottle opener, asking silently with an eyebrow raise if you want to join in, which you enthusiastically agree to.

“What will you do? When we leave?” He asks over the glugging sound of the glasses being filled. 

“My family has told me to move up my return sailing to as soon as possible…” you can’t hide the disappointment in your tone. “I know I should do it… I just…”

“…Don’t want to give up on something before you even know how much you need it?” He guesses as he hands you a glass.

You are momentarily floored by how accurately he has pinpointed your feelings.

“Yes,” your reply is quiet but emphatic, a jolt to your being as your fingers brush while taking the drink, “that’s exactly it!”

“I understand…” and there is a world of empathy in his tone, raising his glass in silent toast, which you mirror. “But time isn’t on your side…” he reminds after a sip, “a few weeks, months if we are lucky, and Paris may well be invaded.”

“England too…” 

“Perhaps, indeed. So you should go. Be safe. Back home to America…”

“What if that’s the very last thing I want?” your whisper is more fervent than you intended.

“That sounds more like a reason you don’t want to go than a reason you want to stay,” he surmises, again frighteningly on target with his assessment of your feelings, almost as if he’s in tune with them somehow. “But yet… Eloise said you’re engaged?” he aims for nonchalant, but you could swear there is dejection too.

“Sort of…” a wave of guilt crashing into you as your thoughts slide to Stanley. Good, reliable, comfortable, safe Stanley.

“How does one become ‘sort of’ engaged?” he frowns bemused, using air quotes. 

“Growing up down the street from someone your age whose father happens to be your own father's best friend and business partner?”

“Oh…” there’s a pause, “you’re not being pressured, are you?” his query filled with concern. It makes your ribs glow that he might even care.

“No… just… a life plotted out,” you echo the words Eloise threw at you on your first night here.

“And it’s not the life you want…?”

“I used to think so…,” you sigh, eyes cutting to the side as you feel a swell of a tear forming.

“You have the right to change your mind,” Benedict attests softly as you twirl your glass between your fingers. “You don’t owe anyone else your happiness.”

You want to climb into his lap, grab his jaw and kiss him senseless. The impulse so strong you can feel a tingle where his stubble would abrade your lips if you did so. Suddenly worried you'll act recklessly if you stay any longer, you rise to your feet, make your excuses and limp mildly to your room… laying in bed staring at the ceiling for a long time before sleep claims you.

–

It's the middle of the night when you awaken thirsty and decide to get a glass of water, your ankle much better from the laydown. Half-asleep, you wander out of your room, fumbling towards the kitchen area, when you almost trip for an entirely different reason. Well, perhaps the same reason you tripped in the first place.

There on the sofa, in a shaft of moonlight, is Benedict, fast asleep; his face is so peaceful in repose. But that is not where your eye lingers. He is topless, a blanket pooled around his waist, his chest rising and falling rhythmically. And you cannot look away. He is all smooth planes of skin peppered with occasional moles that your fingertips itch to trace patterns between. His shoulders are indeed broad without a suit, and it's obvious he is somewhat of an athlete; the play of muscle and ribcage as he breathes deep utterly entrancing. It's so completely different to how Stanley looks - hairy and stout - that you drift closer without realising it, drawn to the sight. It's the closest you’ve seen to a breathing Statue of David, a shape you didn't think real humans came in…. until now. 

So much so you don't even realise when his eyes flutter open, just transfixed by how his breathing pattern appears to change the flex of his abdominals.

“Are you alright?” his voice is a rough whisper and you startle. His eyes seem to focus, and you notice they flit down your body before he seems to stop himself.

“Sorry,” you stumble in apology, feeling your face flushing violently as your eyes fly to his face, then look away, embarrassed to be caught ogling so obviously.

“Do you need anything?” 

Yes, to run my tongue over that divot right there… your mind screams.

“No, no... I just came out to get some water and worried you might be cold uncovered,” you bluster. “I was going to cover you up, but you awoke before I could….” 

You are mildly impressed you can come up with an excuse as your heart pounds in your ears. Benedict’s face morphs into an intriguing mix of knowing, lopsided smile and bashfulness, pointedly pulling up the covers until they are tucked under his chin.

“Better?” he rumbles, and you could swear it is with a teasing lilt.

“Much…” you nod before awkwardly turning away.

“Y/n…” he calls softly, and you look at him over your shoulder, a flutter in your belly as you catch him glancing at your bottom.

“What…?”

“I'm glad your ankle seems better,” he offers softly.

“It is, thanks to you…”

“De rien…” his response, low and deep, in a flawless French accent, makes goosebumps break out over your arms.

Damn you, Benedict Bridgerton.

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

[weirdmorefics]

benedict with a younger sister who he catches at one of the parties he goes to talking to a man who has less than innocent intentions with her and she’s oblivious and just thought it would be a fun place to drink bcs that’s what she’d heard when was out at the park earlier that day

A/N- Sorry for it taking a while I really am starting to believe in the fanfiction curse. I also made up the seedy guy who had unhonorable intentions in this story just an FYI.

Readers Pronouns- She/Her

TW- Sexism

Word Count- 1,653

Summary- Benedict goes to a local gathering of artists and happens to find his darling younger sister enjoying the company of some of Benedict's unsavory friends.

Unhonorable Intentions

I am a rake. I take no shame in this fact. I am allowed to be a free spirit it is my birthright as the second-born son. No obligations no responsibility. I would loathe to be in Anthony's shoes. Though Y/n seems to have made it her mission for me to walk in his shoes tonight. What is she even doing in a place like this? Last I knew she preferred literature over the arts. Yet she hangs on a man's arm as he explains his next work. in progress that he is sure will be his Magnus opus. I glare at them hopefully sister notices my gaze burning into her side so I can continue my night as if nothing happened. However, when I glare at them I realize who the man she is talking to is and now I know there is no way I can continue my night. Unfortunately said man felt my gaze instead of Y/n and smiled and pulled her forcefully along with him.

"Bridgerton! It's grand to see you! We've missed you at the club!" Alexander shakes my hand roughly and I return it with an insincere smile. "Saw you eyeing my new muse, I regret to inform you I don't share." God, I want to gag as I know what he does with his so-called muses. Y/n smiles at being called his muse she does love it when I draw her but this man does not have honorable intentions. He and I have very different definitions of what a muse is. My idea of a muse is someone who inspires you to create, Alexander's idea of a muse is a woman to sleep with and then abandon.

I straighten back to assert my taller posture over the man, "And I regret to inform you your so-called muse is my darling baby sister." I look down at her with demanding eyes, "I do say it is time we get back to Mother. Isn't Y/n?"

She looks taken aback by my tone, "What do you mean? I just got here."

Alexanders' grin increases tenfold, "A Bridgeton! Benedict I had no idea you were hiding such a beauty to yourself! If I was her brother I'd never let her out of the house either." This man is truly revolting the artist community here is unfortunately very small and I have to find a way to remain civil.

Y/n smiles, "So you know Alexander? That's too bad really I was hoping to learn some different art techniques from him to impart to you! I had no idea you knew such a famous artist!"

I grit my teeth, "Famous now Alexander are we?"

This flusters him for a moment but he recovers quickly, "Aren't all artists famous in a different sort of way?"

I want to laugh at such an absurd response… sadly Y/n is far too naive for her own good.

"I agree wholeheartedly! Benedict is the most famous artist in our family! I'm quite jealous of his talent I must admit! It makes sense he would be at such a regal event filled with so much talent. To be truthful I overheard this soiree would have fabulous drinks on this morning's promenade and couldn't resist," she gushes over my talents and breaks my heart for not being more present in my siblings' lives.

Anthony just seemed to have it all handled, Daphne was married off, Eloise could certainly hold her own ground, Francessa was so busy with her studies, and Mother had Gregory and Hycanith under control. Even though Y/n is Eloise's twin she couldn't be any more different she believes the best in everyone and is too quick to forgive in my opinion and Alexander is taking advantage of that and I will not let that stand.

I smile down at Y/n, "Y/n you downplay your own talents no need to associate with a man whose talents consist of preying on women through false pretenses."

Her eyes widen to the size of quarters, "Benedict you can not make such outrageous claims!"

I pretend to not know exactly what she is talking about, "You mean your talents? Your poetry talent is outrageous and that's not a claim it's just a fact."

She blushes at the compliment but for some asinine reason still wants to defend Alexander. Though it seemed her brain could not keep up with the unusual compliment from me and the unflattering words I spoke about Alexander she just stuttered unintelligible anger, shock, and joy all marking her face. Alexander on the other hand was just fuming red.

"First you insult me Bridgerton then you demean poetry as a genre by encouraging a woman to write it." he snarls.

I have never seen Y/n turn so quickly and before anyone in the room knows what's happening a resounding slap is heard over all the chatter and everyone turns to the noise. Alexander's eye is twitching and a red welt in the shape of my sister's hand is forming on his face. He glares at her with murderous eyes but she holds her head high I have never seen her this determined and it makes me wonder what else I missed while she was growing up and I was galavanting around with men like Alexander.

She points an angry finger at him like Mother would when she would scold us, "Gentleman like yourself actually I wouldn't even call men like you gentleman but that's beside the point. Men like you say women are too emotional to do anything but care for the home. Poetry is all about emotion it's supposed to make you feel something like the art you make, or apparently don't make from what I just learned from Benedict's side comment. I would also like to remind you who is in charge of our country or rather what sex they are?"

All eyes are on us and Alexander looks like he might strangle Y/n with his two hands if the vein bulging out of his forehead is any indicator.

"Oh and by the way when I complimented your line work on your latest piece I was lying it was shit but you know how men can be so emotional I didn't want to hurt your feelings," she fake pouted. This is definitely not the young sister I once knew she may still be naive but she has now learned to use her talent with words as a knife.

Alexander's arm shoots to roughly grab her but I am quick to block, "I'm Alexander but we must be going. It was so nice talking to you as always. I would definitely take my dear sister's words under advisement to spend more time working on your line art." I then pull him very closely into my body and if anyone hadn't seen the previous incident they would have thought it was just two chaps hugging. I whisper, "Less time with lines of ladies and coke you might find yourself able to make straight lines. And if I ever hear you laid a hand on my sister I will kill you myself." I roughly release him and he scrambles backwards ungracefully as all eyes on him.

I link arms with Y/n, "Come on we must really be going now."

Once we make it outside away from prying eyes she quickly bursts into sobs, "Gods what have I done! I was just so angry he'd judge me just based on my sex. God, what if Lady Whistledown writes about me!" She starts pacing with her hands on her forehead and this is the Y/n I am all too familiar with, " Oh God what if Mama reads it! What if I ruin the Bridgerton name? Anthony will never forgive me!"

I clap and quickly gain her attention back, "You certainly won't be the first Bridgerton featured in Lady Whistledown and I am certain you will not be the last."

"Not helping!' She shouts back.

"No one will be mad you stood your ground… in fact, I am quite proud of you."

Her eyes study me, "Are you serious? I just slapped your friend in a soiree full of your peers."

"Anthony was more of an acquaintance," I add.

She rolls her eyes, "That is not the point!"

I sigh, "Yes, I am proud. You defended your honor and didn't need my help to do so. Though I am sure any of your brothers would be there in a heartbeat to defend it including me."

She smiles, "You're proud of me."

"I am not saying it again," I state.

she starts to repeat you're proud of me in a sing-songy voice.

"My pride in you is diminishing and my worry is growing. I think I will be around more often seems like Anthony isn't keeping a watchful enough eye on you if he let you go to a seedy event like this."

She tilts her head, "But you were at the event?"

"Exactly I only attend seedy events, though it appears now I must reform. Think of me has your second Anthony," maybe having responsibilities won't be so bad if I get to see Y/n chew out more men like Alexander.

She groans, "I don't want another Anthony how will I ever do anything fun."

"That's the point Y/n," I smile.

She groans, "I hope Lady Whistledown writes you into the story and makes you sound dreadful."

"As long as she writes how daring and smart my younger sister is we will be on good terms," I smile as she groans again at her failed attempt to get under my skin.

"Thank you, I guess," she responds.

I may be late in helping my siblings but at least they all still have some more growing to do and I plan to be there for all of it.

[ofstarsandvibranium]

Precious Truths: Part 13

Fandom: Bridgerton

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x F!Reader

Summary: After your father finds out you’ve been writing under a male pseudonym, he threatens to marry you off to an atrocious man unless you find yourself a husband within a month’s time.

A/N: hello! yes, finally, an update! thank you to all of you who were patiently waiting for this. tbh the Benophie announcement gave me a bit of a spark of motivation to finish this chapter! enjoy!

Series Masterlist

My dearest Y/N,

I am not sure what else to say other than I am sorry. I am sorry for making you feel as though you meant nothing to me. I must admit, due to my own self-induced heartbreak, I refused to read your letters previously. However, you will not find me doing that again. I have missed your friendship dearly. It is my own fault for doing this to us. I will never do that to you again, I promise.

Always feel free to write to me. You will receive a response from me, now and always.

Yours,

Benedict

You read the short letter over and over again. You're in a bit of disbelief, yet you're overjoyed. You kept your expectations low after sending that letter to Benedict. However, you're pleasantly surprised that not only has he written back, but he desires to renew your friendship once more.

You immediately go to your writing desk and begin to write a reply.

You spend some time writing everything down, how grateful you are for Ben, how you've been spending your days, as well as your moments of grief.

James' parents have provided good company to you. Ever since meeting you, that have been so kind and loving. They remind you of how your parents used to be prior to your mother's passing.

In your letter, your relay to Benedict how you've been trying to write poetry to help you process and cope James' passing, but nothing has come from these attempts.

Admittedly, Benedict was your muse for so long. After he left, James became your muse. Now he's gone. You don't want to think about Benedict potentially taking up the place as your muse again. A part of you feels as though that would be a betrayal to James, however, your muse was originally Benedict...

It's fine. You won't worry about it too much right now. You'll just take things day by day.

After you finish your letter, you fold and seal it. Calling upon a footman, you ask him to send it to Benedict and the young man leaves promptly.

__________________________

Dear Benedict,

I may be going stir-crazy here. Mama and papa have been very loving and supportive, however, I feel that, even in this large estate, I cannot get away.

I've been riding a lot more than usual now just to get out. I know, it is shocking to me as well since I was never fond of it. However, now I find myself wanting to ride every single day just to be out and about.

Maybe I should discuss with mama and papa if I can start accepting guests again. For I am not sure how much longer I can take this.

Anyway, I hope you are well. It has been some time since we last exchanged letters. I am sure you have been busy with the new exhibit coming up. I hope it is successful. Everyone will be able to see just how talented you are.

I am so proud of you and what you have achieved, Ben. Never forget that.

Yours,

Y/N

Benedict sighs, reading over your letter. He is visiting his family, taking break from working on his last painting for the exhibition.

"What ails you, brother?" Eloise asks as she sits beside him.

"Would it be improper if I were to visit Y/N soon?" he asks her with confliction written on his face.

"Why would it be improper? You two are friends again, yes?" Eloise asks confused.

He lets out a deep breath before explaining, "After the death of a spouse, it's customary to mourn them for a year before accepting guests and taking part is society again. It's only been sixth months."

Eloise scoffs, "Benedict, you know that I am the last person to tell you of what you should or should not do in terms of societal rules."

"Of course," he says with a roll of his eyes.

"What is it that you really want to ask me?"

Benedict remains silent, contemplating on how he should ask his sister.

The truth is, Benedict has felt whole again. Having you back in his life has brought so much happiness, familiarity, and comfort that he's been seeking for the past few years.

It's clear to him that his love for you will never seize. You will always remain a part of him and he will always hold you in a special place in his heart. However, if he takes this step to be close to you again, will it end in heartbreak once more? He doesn't want to think of such an outcome, but there's always a possibility. No. Nonsense. He can't think about that.

Benedict may love you, but you are first and foremost his best friend. Therefore, any feelings he has of you must be cast aside. Being your friend, in your company, speaking with you, being there for you, that is the priority. Benedict's feelings be damned. He will not make the same idiotic mistakes he made before. He's wiser and stronger now.

The relationship you two share is much more important, now that ever.

Benedict turns to Eloise and smiles, "I think I'll alright, Eloise," he stands with confidence.

His sister looks at him with uncertainty, "Are you sure? You're not going to do anything stupid again, are you?"

He shakes his head, "No. I promise, I am better. I will be better for Y/N."

"If you're sure," Eloise says before Benedict exits the sitting room.

______________________

The wind is blowing through your hair as you ride through the forest. It is midday and you have a lot of energy. James' horse, now yours, Bluebell, is fast and agile. She leaps over bushes and fallen tree trunks with ease.

You and Bluebell have gotten quite close these past few months. She's been able to grant you the freedom you've been aching for.

The first three months after James' passing were hard. Now six months later, you've finally accepted his death. It was unexpected and there was nothing you could do to help. You had loved him dearly and he accepted and understood you like very few have.

You are grateful for the short time you had with him, but now you'd like to slowly move on with your life.

You've been trying to get back into writing. Very few pieces have come out well. The rest thrown into the fireplace, burning to ash so you wouldn't have to see it again.

You've come to realize that the few works that have been kept, you've come up with while riding. Another reason why you have gone out a lot more. You're trying to find that spark again that you once had before James' passing.

You stop at a small creek flowing through the Montclair land. You dismount Bluebell and guide her to the water so she may quench her thirst and rest a bit. You sit by the creek, watching as the water flows by. You listen to the birds chirping, the trees swaying in the wind.

You think about how you've been feeling the past six months. How only in the late hours of the night is when you experienced the heart ache of James' passing, how you felt knowing you will no longer experience his freeing and doting love.

You pull out your journal from your satchel and begin to write:

Deep in the shadows where heartache grew

Mourning hearts match skies of grey

A love once bright as morning dew

Now drifted gone as night to day

The halls keep our memories

Our laughter and tears

Walking among those walls, memories sunken

deep within the seas

It's short yet conveys the feelings you want it too. You don't hate it, but it may need some work. So you keep it in your journal and stand. Some time has passed for Bluebell to catch a break. You mount her once more and head back to the estate in more of a trot rather than a flying gallop.

When you arrive back, you see Clarissa waiting for you.

"Something the matter?"

She gives you a small smile, "I know Jean Louis and myself have informed you of the mourning customs, however, it has been brought to our attention that sometimes one does not need twelve months to mourn the loss of her husband."

"Mother?" you ask her confused.

"I just know that you have always been more of a free spirited woman, which is why James was so drawn to you. I also know that you did love him dearly and I will not be upset that you shorten your mourning period. You wanted to be free from societal standards from the very beginning, therefore, we will allow you to start accepting guests back at this home. You are also free to go back to yours and James' home in London."

You're not sure why your mother-in-law is saying all of this, "I-Thank you, mama. I do appreciate all of that, however, I must admit I am confused why you are mentioning this."

"I received a letter from Mister Benedict Bridgerton. He was requesting to see you."

Your eyes widen in surprise, "I assure you, I didn't ask him to do that. I was planning on asking you myself."

Your mother-in-law chuckles, "Yes, well, it seems Mister Bridgerton beat you to it."

You sigh, "So it seems."

"Everyone mourns differently, cheri, we understand that you would also like to be in the company of others during this time. Mister Bridgerton is a close friend of yours, yes?"

You nod, "He is. I'll make sure we can be seen and-"

Clarissa chuckles, "You don't have to worry about those things here, cheri. I trust you. I will write back to Mister Bridgerton right now."

You curtsey, "Thank you, mama. As usual, your kindness is greatly appreciated."

The older woman sighs, walking up to you and cupping your face, "You never have to thank me for kindness. It is a mother's duty to listen and understand her children. Although you are not my blood, you are my daughter just the same."

Her words brings tears to your eyes. She reminds you so much of your own mother, it hurts a little. To know that your own mother can't be here with you during this time. You're sure she would have provided a lot of her wisdom and advice. Nonetheless, you are grateful to now call Madame Montclair as your own mother.

"Thank you, again."

"Of course," she kisses your cheek, "Best wash up before lunch, yes?"

"Right. Excuse me," you pick up your skirt and rush back into the house to have a quick bath.

[morelikeravenbore]

💕Positivity prime time! Share five things you love about yourself, four things you're excited about, OR three people you care deeply about and why. Pass this along to someone whose posts make you smile💕

CA-CAW BISH 💙

CA-CAW BINCH! 💙

Thank you for sending this, ya cutie! I didn't feel like writing about myself so I uh did this instead 👉👈 hehe I hope it spreads some positivity regardless.

Silly drabble, 600~ words.

Sebastian smoothed the sheet of parchment over the desk and reviewed his work with a small nod of satisfaction. Curfew was near, and the library was deathly silent save for the near-constant stream of dark mutterings coming from the girl beside him. Aurélie, for all her beauty, humour, and charm, was a force to be reckoned with when she was in a bad mood, and after an entire day of being grumbled, glared and snapped at, Sebastian was quite ready to put a stop to it. 

'Right,' he said decisively, squinting at his untidy scrawl. 'Are you ready?' 

'No.'

'First question —' 

'I still don't understand how this is going to help!' 

Not for the first time in his life, Sebastian thanked whatever higher power had given him a twin sister and thus a lifetime of experience dealing with the wildly shifting moods of girls: Anne was certainly a  formidable foe when she was upset, but even the volatile temper of a Sallow paled in comparison to that of a French girl when she woke up on the wrong side of the bed.

Still, vast experience notwithstanding, he exhaled a deep, slow breath before calmly explaining, for the third time in a row, ‘It's called practising gratitude. It's supposed to help you shift your mood so you feel better.'

'Fine,' Aurélie pouted, slumping lower in her chair. 'Ask the stupid questions.'

‘First,’ he began, referring to the list of prompts he'd compiled. 'List five things you love about yourself.' 

'Five?' she shrieked, bolting upright as if he'd just assigned her a twelve inch essay on the history of flobberworms. 'Pass. Next.'

'We'll come back to that one, then, shall we?' he said through his teeth. 'Share four things you're excited about.'

'Going to bed,' she muttered. 

Sebastian scribbled it down. 'And?' 

'That's it.'

Unwilling to concede defeat until he at least drew out a single, tiny, begrudging smile from her, he went on. 'Next question. Three people you love deeply.'

'Shoes.'

'Shoes are not people, Aura.'

'Shoes are a girl's best friend.'

'That's diamonds!' 

'Those, too. Write that down.'

'Alright.' With mounting frustration, he added "shoes" and "diamonds" to the list of people she loved. 'Who else? Real people, Aura.'

'Celeste,' she offered, leaning forward to watch him write her best friend's name on the list. 

'And? Come on, you might play the part of World’s Most Aloof Ravenclaw, but I know for a fact you love more than just one person…' 

'Hmm, Poppy. And Esme! And Jean, and Siobhan. And Lory, Cordelia, Tessa, Rosalie, Gibby, Allegra. Ummm...' She paused to catch her breath while Sebastian's quill flew across the parchment, struggling to keep up. 'Johanna, Calypso, Matty, Eleanor, Ariane, Winter, Alyn. Oh, and Artemis, and Lydia! And Violet and Pearl, and Eloise, both of them —' 

When finally she found herself out of names, Sebastian reviewed the long list with a bemused expression. ‘All these friends and you can't think of a single nice thing to say about yourself. Anyway —’ He shook his head and turned to look at her, ‘— you're missing someone.'

'Oh?' she frowned, critically eyeing the list of names. ‘No, I don't think so.’

'Mhm. A certain charming, good-looking, highly intelligent, freckled someone.'

'Oh!' She smacked her palm to her forehead. 'You're right! Garreth Weasley.'

Sebastian nearly choked on his tongue. 'I'm not writing Garreth fucking Weasley under "people you love deeply"', he refused, throwing his quill down. 

'Oh, but he's so friendly.'

‘No,’ he said flatly. 

‘Alright, alright, grum-py. How about this?’ With an impish grin, she picked up his quill and, in a long, elegant script, wrote “Sebastian Sallow” across the top of the parchment. 

Sebastian narrowed his eyes. ‘You couldn't have put me first?’ he grumbled.

‘I could've,’ she replied, smiling for the first time that day. ‘But it's much more fun making you jealous.’

🦋 Featuring my loves and some of Aura's AU besties: @sallowsangel @sallowslove @sloanesallow @lorriiraine @2centniffler @gingerlegacy07 @mianeryh @galaxiasgreen @lyworth @ravenwind-75 @dwightschrute11 @girl-named-matty @endless-starlight-legacy @yoshitsuno @moonstruckmoony @ps-cactus @polarisgreenley @esolean @vienguinn @myokk @thesuperiorfeeling

[the-other-art-blog]

No, Benedict, love IS finite and it begins and ends with Sophie Baek

It's a matter of time before we get s4 Benophie announcement. I have so many posts planned, but I need to be 100% sure that Sophie will be Sophie before posting them.

Meanwhile, I want to discuss Benedict's line "love is NOT finite."

This is an example of how advice may only apply to certain people in specific circumstances. Luke Thompson explained it perfectly:

Eloise needed to hear this to understand that marriage wouldn't take Colin and Pen away from her.

However, the way he understands it has a totally different meaning. He takes his advice for himself to go and have a threesome with Tilley and Paul. Luke Thompson talked about it and said:

Good for him! But the thing is that the love Ben offers is still quite superficial. Like, yes, let him experiment and be free, but what Tilley tells him is that eventually, it gets tiring. And this is not even about monogamy. If both Paul and Tilley had asked him for exclusivity, he would have still rejected them. Benedict has deep commitment issues because he has never needed to commit to anything or anyone.

For him, the "love is not finite" will bring more problems than solutions.

The way I think it's going to go is:

Ben will meet the LIS, remember what Tilley taught him, and want to commit. But she will disappear.

Then he meets Sophie as a maid and he thinks he can marry the LIS AND keep Sophie as a mistress.

He will think that he has room enough for both of them, that he can love them both and won't have to choose and lose his freedom.

Sophie doesn't think the same. For her, love begins and ends with Benedict. That's it, there's no one else. So, if she can't have him fully, she would rather let him go (I have a post planned about this because Sophie is a queen of self-respect and self-love).

Moreover, he is the one getting multiple partners. I may be wrong, but book!Benedict never thinks of the possibility that the LIS found love elsewhere. And he never talks about letting Sophie be the mistress of other men. Mistresses could leave if they got a better offer, so how is Benedict so sure that it won't happen with Sophie.

Not to mention that his arrangement with Sophie and his wife will not be in equal positions. One is a wife, the other a mistress, a dirty secret kept hidden.

In AOFAG, Ben says this:

Remember what Tilley told him?

It's all fun until you develop feelings and suddenly, you want that person just for yourself.

I know I KNOW we're tired of love triangles, but frankly, Shonda loves them and Benophie might be the season where a bit of competition can do good.

Of course, there may be the LIS-Ben-Sophie triangle. But I want to give a mini heart attack to Ben when someone else shows interest in Sophie.

I don't want Sophie to have feelings for anyone else, THAT will upset me. But think of a moment when a vendor or a solicitor goes to No. 5 and sees Sophie, maybe even one of the footmen. He's taken by her beauty and Hyacinth notices. And since Hyacinth can't keep anything to herself, she brings it up during dinner or tea time and Ben goes pale.

And that's where he's going to understand what Tilley felt when she saw him with Paul.

I would even include a scene where LW or the family discusses Benedict dancing with some lady during a ball, Sophie hears and Ben teases her. Sophie's jealousy elevates his ego, but once he learns other men are looking at her, that will make him empathize with her.

[smoooothoperator]

untouchable

02: Don't Blame Me

Lando Norris x OC (Violet Sinclair)

same group friend, unrequited love, acquittances to lovers, ski trip, love triangle

Words: 1.7k

Warnings: just lando being in love

a/n: Hello my loves! I hope everyone had a nice Christmas!! Just to say it: I'm reading ACOTAR and I swear I'm in love :) so yeah, I obviously had to add something about it. And yes, they place they will be staying looks kinda like Velaris!

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Sitting on an airplane, no matter if it's a commercial fight or in a private jet, with a couple, will always be tedious. 

And sitting in front of Harry and Eloise during the flight is like injecting a dose of self torture. Watching how he holds her, wrapping his arm around her is just a little tease of what I will be witnessing this whole week, watching how.he kisses her and how they cuddle because of the cold weather.

“Lando said he will go to the airport to pick us up” Harry said, making me nod and sigh. 

“That's so nice for him!” Eloise smiled. “Isn't it, Violet?”

“Mhm” I hummed, looking out the window.

It's not the first time something like this has happened. It feels like Eloise is trying to set me up with him, to make me look that he's a gentleman and someone I could be with. 

Maybe she knows that I like Harry? 

I focus back on my book, the one of many that came anonymously to my door. I just don't know who is the one that sends it, but it feels like that person knows me so well because it's the one I wanted.

“Oh? When did you get that book?” Eloise asked surprised when she saw it. “It was the secret admirer?”

“Secret admirer?” Harry asked, confused. “What?”

“Yeah! Every two weeks she receives a package with a book on it” Eloise explained. “She even receives her favorite book with different editions and languages”

“Oh, really?” Harry frowned, looking at me.

“You saw it” I said. 

“But I thought it was a collection you made by yourself, not because a creepy stalker is sending them to you” he frowned, looking away. “So stupid, and the fact that you welcome those gifs make it worse”

I frown looking at him. Stupid? 

“Well, I think it's cute” Eloise argued, making Harry scoff. “It's for sure someone that pays attention to her and wants to make her happy”

Something I don't like about Harry is how little attention he paid to me since he started dating Eloise. We were friends before he started dating her, we respect each other and never hide things. But somehow, he changed. He changed the way he talked to me, it only took him a few months to change his behavior. 

The moment the plane landed I got up first, grabbing my bag and the coat. I heard Harry sigh heavily, getting up and walking behind me.

I saw the flight attendants taking our suitcases out of the hold and I walked towards my suitcase, going towards the car I recognized as Lando's.

“Hey- oh” Landon said, getting out of the car but I immediately got inside of it after putting my suitcase in the trunk. “What's wrong?”

“Nothing” I sighed. “Just Harry being an idiot”

“The usual, then” he nodded, making me sigh. “That’s nothing new, I guess”

I sighed, looking back at the book in my hands, thinking that Harry would be right, maybe. Maybe it is something creepy, having someone that keeps sending me books and gifts, someone that knows my address. Should I be concerned? One thing is having a secret admirer at school that leaves little love notes on your backpack, and another thing is having someone that sends you books to your apartment’s front door.

“Nice book” I heard Lando say, looking at the book on my lap.

“O-oh, thanks… it's new” I nodded. 

He smiled and nodded, looking back at Harry and Eloise sitting on the backseats, and he started to drive.

“The house is really nice. Max, Pietra and I arrived this morning” Lando started to say. “It has really nice views”

“Where are Pietra and Max now, by the way?” Harry asked, frowning.

“Buying groceries and going to the ski shop to rent our equipment for the week” Lando answered. “I made them a list so if you want to add things…”

He gave us his phone with Max's chat open, messages of what he has to buy were written on it. I looked at the list, but what really got my attention were three things.

-Coffee (the mocha one)

-Ginger cookies

-Marshmallow bears

Those are things I like. How did he know that? Maybe it was Eloise who told him.

“Is there anything you need?” he asked me.

“No, no. It's alright” I nodded, passing the phone to Eloise.

I looked back at the book, frowning. This was exactly the book I wanted, one I have been talking about for a while with Eloise. Maybe she is the one that gifted it to me? And the other books? But why didn't she say anything? Why send them anonymously?

I looked back at her, how her hand was held by Harry's while looking at the groceries, resting her head on his shoulder.

God, I wish that was me. I wish he paid me as much attention as he pays to her. I wish I never introduced her to him.

I wish… 

The way to the house Lando rented was beautiful, showing an amazing snowy landscape with trees and the roofs of the houses covered with a white blanket. The chimneys of the houses were working, making sure to keep the house warm. And not far away, a mountain. It was a perfect picture, just how I imagined that city in the book I was reading.

“Wait until you see the views of your room” I heard Lando say. 

I looked at him and smiled nodding, looking back at the road and humming softly the song the radio was playing.

Every time she smiles my heart jumps. That’s what being in love feels like, I guess.

Arriving at the rented house I hear Eloise and Violet gasp, making Harry and me laugh. It wasn’t too big, but spacious. The porch of the house had a table with a few chairs, somewhere where you can sit and have a hot drink while looking at the ski zone next to the house. It has been snowing since this morning, so now the roof was covered in snow, but that didn’t mean that the interior of the house wasn’t warm.

“It’s a nice one, Lando” I heard Violet say behind me after she grabbed her suitcase from the back of the car. “This time you’ve outdone yourself”

“I’ll take that as a compliment” I laughed softly, watching her walk away carefully, trying to fall because of the snow. “I'll go pick up Max and Pietra, just get comfortable in the house”

Only a few minutes later I saw Violet walking out of the house, with her hands making tight fists and her jaw clenched.

“I'm going with you” she said, making me frown. “Don't give me that look! You and I both know what those two will do once they get inside their room”

“Oh, yeah” I nodded, laughing softly. 

I drove away, with her sitting on the passenger seat next to me. I heard her hum softly the music, watching outside the window.

Something I like about her is how simple she is, the way she can be happy with little and simple things. How something like snow falling can change her mood in a matter of seconds, or how a song she likes that is playing on the radio makes her sing under her breath.

Violet Sinclair is someone you definitely fall in love with the first time you see her, it's impossible to not love her. Everytime she walks in a room all eyes go to her, at least mine. The way her perfume hypnotizes me when she walks by or when she's close to me is something I never knew I could experience in my life. 

How can Harry be so cruel with her? How can he not love her? Why would he prefer Eloise before Violet? Why can't she see the way he is with her? Why can't she see that I love her?

Everytime I have her close to me it is like having a little taste of heaven.

“Did you see your room?” I asked, breaking the silence that fell between us.

“Yeah” she nodded. “You were right, the view from my room is perfect”

“I'm glad you like it” I smile. “I left that room for you, mine is actually at the other way of the house”

“Why? You came first, you had every right to pick the room you want”

“Because I know how much you love winter and snow” I said looking at her, and in that moment I saw her blush. “And I know how similar is this place with the one of your books”

I know her like the palm of my hand. And it might sound stupid, or delusional, or even creepy, but this week I want to show her how much I love her. 

I want to make her forget Harry.

When we arrived to the market where I left Pietra and Max I parked the car so I could help them to get all the things on the back of the car, making Violet wait inside the car.

“What did you do to make her come with you?” Max asked, surprised.

“Nothing, actually” I sighed. “I think it was Harry himself”

“God, that idiot…”

Everyone sees the way he treats Violet. Well, everyone except Eloise and Violet. And it just makes me feel worse, because it looks like she is under a spell that blinds her and doesn't make her see how he really is.

“I wonder at which moment he started to be an asshole with her” Pietra sighed. “She doesn't deserve to be treated like that”

“No, not at all…” I sighed.

When we went back to the house all of us walked with the bags in our hands inside of it. Harry and Eloise were out of sight, but the noises upstairs gave us an idea of what they were doing.

“How can they be so disgusting?” Max groaned, taking the things out of the bags and putting them on the cabinets.

“Let them be…” Violet sighed.

Why does she keep defending him? Why does she have to be in love with him and not with me?

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[quotergirl19]

A season 3 conversation between Colin & Eloise:

Colin: You may be able to walk away from Penelope forever because she has done something that you do not approve of or that you cannot understand, but I am not so fickle hearted. I will not abandon her. I will do everything in my power to try and understand why she has done the things she has done, and to try and move past her faults and mistakes because I know her heart and she is a good person. I cannot imagine my life without her. How can you be so quit to forget years of loyal friendship? Are you truly so disloyal?

Eloise: You call me disloyal!? Do you even know what she has done? Do you have more faith in Penelope than in your own sister?

Colin: I do. She is our oldest and dearest friend, and I know how stubborn you can be.

Eloise: You might feel differently if you knew what I know.

Colin: I know that my life is colder and darker without Penelope in it. I imagine you must miss her. I was traveling for months and I thought of her often and deeply missed her friendship. Why are you so unwilling to talk things out so you can forgive and move past—

Eloise: Ask her yourself!! Only do not be surprised when she won’t tell you because she keeps secrets and cares nothing for the pain she causes others.

Colin: Of course she cares! I have never mentioned this before because I knew you would probably never let me live it down but she warned me about Marina. I just refused listen and Penelope hates that she chose to be disloyal to her own family to save me from being tricked into a lifelong commitment with someone who was willing to lie to me and make me her fool. I may have decided to forgive Marina’s actions but make no mistake, it took a very long time for me to do that and I honestly believe it was only possible because she was thwarted. Penelope acted out of desperation and fear of what would become of me if she didn’t stop the wedding and I can honestly say that I am grateful because I was being impulsive and reckless. She hates herself for hurting Marina!

Eloise: She— wait, you know!?

Colin: Yes! I also know that what she did saved Daphne from Nigel Berbrooke and you from your own foolishness! Thinking you could lie to the Queen and get away with it!? All because you decided to ignore every rule of propriety to see a print shop boy who might have ruined you and our entire family! And you think Penelope is the only one in the wrong!? I think it’s time you looked in the mirror Eloise, and be honest with yourself about the part you played in everything that happened.

Eloise: Why would she confide in you but not me?

Colin: Because I allowed her the chance to explain. You should consider doing the same. Especially since you’re about to be sisters.

Eloise: You can’t be serious, you don’t want to marry Penelope. You’re too busy flirting and traveling the world so you can bore us all with your stories.

Colin: I can still travel with a her. In fact, I’ll be grateful for the company and flirting with Penelope is something I particularly enjoy. I have asked her to marry me and she has consented to be my wife. So I encourage you to mind your tongue and be civil because nastiness and hostility directed at my bride will not be tolerated, sister.

Eloise: Oh my god… do you love her, brother?

Colin: With everything I am and everything I will ever be. We understand each other, we’re truly happy to know we will always be together. Please, make things right Eloise. Do it for me and for yourself, and do it for Penelope. She misses you, and I know you’ve missed your friend. Talk to her.

[thesparkling-diamond27]

The Second Bridgerton And I: Chapter 10

Benedict Bridgerton x Reader

Summary: Y/n Clearwater is named the “Sparkling Diamond” by Queen Charlotte herself, but she doesn’t know what to do with all this attention. Of course she has her family, but sometimes that doesn’t seem enough. But what happens when she encounters a specific Bridgerton, which changes the course of her season.

“Excuse me.” Penelope said quietly as she exited the room.

I gave Benedict my glass of Champagne and excused myself as well so I could follow her.

“Pen!” I shouted.

But she did not hear me, or she chose to ignore me. I hope it’s the former. She entered a room and quickly shut the door. I approached the door she hid in and lightly knocked.

“Pen…it’s me Y/nn. Can you let me in?”

I did not hear anything, so I figured that she wanted to be alone. I began to walk away until I heard the door open and felt Penelope pull me into the room before shutting the door.

I broke from her grasp and turned to see Penelope with tears streaming down her face and her breathing unsteady. Penelope needed to calm down.

“It’s going to be alright.” I said.

I placed both of my arms on her shoulders.

“Repeat after me. In and out…in and out.”

I demonstrated how to breathe in and out and she did it along with and me. Slowly, but surely her breath slowed down until it was steady. I pulled my arms away.

“Are you alright?” I asked.

“Yes…no…”

Penelope began to pace, but I stopped her.

“It’s alright calm down.” I said, “start from the beginning.”

“After the ball this week, that night, Colin and I announced to his family that we were engaged. His family was obviously delighted, but Eloise was not pleased. We talked privately and she said that Colin cannot possibly love me until he knows the true me, which she is correct. Eloise gave me an ultimatum to tell Colin that I am Whistledown, or she will tell him herself and I have until midnight tonight and it is almost midnight and I have no idea what to do and I am so scared on what Colin will think when he finds out and…”

So that is why Eloise was talking with Penelope earlier. She was pressuring Penelope about the ultimatum. That also explains Eloise’s awkward speech. How could Eloise be so harsh? Yes I agree that Penelope should tell Colin her identity, but she should do it on her own terms and not Eloise’s. If I were Eloise I would give Penelope until at least her wedding day. But I had no time to dwell on that right now because Penelope needed me.

“Alright calm down.”

I placed my hands on her shoulders again and she stopped rambling.

“Eloise is not being a good friend right now, but her reasons are valid. Colin is her brother and she only wants what is best for him. I can relate to Eloise that way because I would be just as protective with my brothers if they were ever in this situation. Now her methods are not the best, they are rude in fact, but she just wants to make sure that her brother’s heart does not get broken and the only way to do that is to leave everything out in the open before you get married.”

I looked at the clock in the room and realized that it was in fact almost midnight like Penelope said.

“Alright you do not have much time left, but right now you need to clean yourself up, go back out there and tell Colin you are Whistledown before Eloise does. This secret should come from you yourself and not Eloise. If you want I can be with you if you need support.”

Penelope wiped her tears and shook her head.

“Thank you for the offer Y/nn, but this is something that I must tell him alone.”

“Very well then, but you must hurry.”

I quickly helped her look presentable, before we walked out the door arm in arm back to the drawing room. I tried to comfort her on the way there, but I don’t think she was listening to me and I couldn’t blame her. I would be extremely nervous if I were in her shoes.

We entered the drawing room and Colin immediately walked up to us.

“Pen where did you run off to? I was looking for you.” He said.

“I…I only needed a moment.”

I stepped aside to give them some privacy.

I looked to see that Benedict, and Alex, were already looking at me and were waiting for me to join them.

“Where did you run off to sister?”

“Penelope needed some air and I wanted to make sure she was okay.”

“Was she upset?”

“Yes, it was a silly matter, but she is feeling better now.”

“Well that’s good. It is her engagement party she should be celebrating.” Alex said.

“I agree with that.” Benedict said.

“Did I miss anything while I was away?” I asked.

“A story about muddy boots.” Alex said.

“Muddy boots?” I asked.

“Do tell.” Benedict said.

“Lord Kilmartin and his servants noticed a mysterious trail of muddy boots in his home. Lord—“

“Excuse us everyone.” Anthony began to say, but he was interrupted by Cressida Cowper of all people.

“I have an announcement.”

An announcement? What could Cressida possibly have to say?

“It is time that I put an end to the speculation.”

We all gathered around and gave Cressida our attention.

“You would all like to know who Lady Whistledown is? You shall know.”

Now I was really confused. Lady Whistledown was Penelope, but Cressida obviously knew nothing of the sort, so I had no idea where she was going with this announcement.

“I am she.” She finally said.

Now I was even more shocked. What was Cressida doing? What could she possibly gain from this? I quickly turned to see Penelope’s reaction and she was already looking at me. Penelope seemed just as shocked as me.

“Miss Cowper, surely you jest.” Lady Featherington stated.

For once I agreed with Lady Featherington. I had no idea what Cressida was doing, but all I knew was that she was trying to take credit for Penelope’s hard work.

“I jest not.” Cressida continued, “I am Lady Whistledown. And you are right. I can do whatever I want.”

Everyone was in a state of confusion.

“Am I dreaming right now?” Alex asked.

“No sadly you are not.”

“What a strange engagement party.” Benedict said.

Suddenly Penelope collapsed to the ground, but was quickly caught by Colin before she could touch the ground. I ran over to her, like everyone else in attendance, to make sure she was alright.

“Someone get water.” Colin said from Penelope’s side on the ground as Lady Featherington fanned her face. I stood nearby as I watched Anthony get some water.

What a strange engagement party.

—————————

I visited Penelope first thing in the morning the next day. I entered the Featherington household and one of Penelope’s maids, Sara, recognized me. Sara shortly returned after she went upstairs to notify Penelope that I have arrived.

“Penelope would wish to see you.”

I gave Sara a smile and she returned to the laundry that needed to be done. She allowed me to walk to Penelope’s room alone because I already knew the way. Of course it would be more proper for Sara to escort me to Penelope’s room, but I am such a frequent visitor that the Featherington staff slowly stopped caring.

I knocked on the door and heard “come in”.

“Y/nn! It is so good to see you! It has been too long since we properly talked.” Penelope said as I opened the door.

She rose from her position on her bed and brought me into an embrace.

“It is good to see you too! I wished to speak with you yesterday, but you were pretty occupied with the guests and after your condition…how are you feeling?”

“Much better after some proper rest.”

“That is good. I came over to see if you are alright, but now that I see that you are I wish to spend some time with you. The last time we properly spoke with each other was even before the night you and Colin became engaged.”

“I would very much like that. Do you wish to promenade outside? The weather is beautiful today.”

“That would be lovely.”

Penelope grabbed the blue pouch that I had bouught her and we stepped out on the street to begin our walk. We talked about how we have been recently and I finally was told the story of how Penelope’s courtship with Lord Debling ended and how her and Colin became betrothed.

“Penelope how scandalous!”

Penelope looked down with a blush.

“I know. It all happened so fast! I did not even know what would happen when Colin started, but I did rather enjoy it. I just hope it is not an issue, since we are not officially married yet.”

I gave her a teasing smile.

“Well it is a good thing you two are getting married. And you both seem very happy, so I do not believe it should be an issue.” I said.

“I can see why society shields unmarried girls from such matters.”

“Well I for one think that keeping us in the dark is the problem.”

Penelope looked at me with a curious look.

“Girls being naive makes it that much easier for men to take advantage of them, since they do not know any better. And then when a man is faced with the consequences of such actions they can turn a blind eye unharmed. Leaving the young girl with a tainted image and broken future.”

Penelope looked me confused and I was reminded that even though she did some things with Colin, she was still unknowledgeable about a lot of things. She was still in the dark about how children are made.

“Never mind what I said. Your mother shall share some new details with you before you are married and Colin can teach you a few other things as well. Do not worry. You will soon understand what I am talking about in time.”

Penelope nodded at my words and then a teasing smile appeared on her face.

“I told you about what I did with Colin, sooooo…”

“Sooooo…”

“Did you and Benedict do anything?”

I began to cough after her question and that was enough for Penelope to know my answer.

“I do not need to know any details…,but when and where?”

“Why should I have to tell you?”

“I told you everything!”

I took a deep breath.

“It was at the ball earlier this week…on a balcony?”

“A balcony?! And you called me scandalous!”

“Well we were concealed from the naked eye.”

“I would hope so. I knew something would happened between the two of you! I sensed it!”

I playfully punched her in the arm, when suddenly I realized something.

“Wait…is that why you never wrote about my first public outing with Maxwell and I after his return? Is it because—“

“Because I want you and Benedict to be together. Well to answer your question. Yes! Y/nn I see the way you are with one another! It is clear as day that Benedict worships the ground you walk upon. I also see the way you sneakily glance at Benedict. I only want you to be happy.”

“I am. Or I think I will be.”

“That is wonderful Y/nn.”

I thought about the conversation Benedict and I had last night. He wanted to be with me and maybe even get married. The idea of being married to Benedict made me feel giddy.

“What are you going to do about Maxwell?” Penelope asked.

“After careful consideration, and a conversation with Benedict, I have decided to end things with Maxwell. He is a great man and he will be the most perfect husband, but if I marry him I will be settling for him and he deserves more than that. If Benedict wasn’t in the picture then I think Maxwell and I would be getting married, but I simply cannot. Not when there’s Benedict.”

A smile appeared on Penelope’s face.

“Y/nn! You’re blushing!”

“No I’m not!”

“Yes you are, but it’s okay. You really like Benedict.”

“I really do.”

“Maybe you even love Benedict.”

“I don’t think I’m there yet Pen, but I will be.”

“Ahhhh I am so happy for you Y/n!”

Penelope brought me into a hug.

“Now.” I began after we broke away from each other. “Can we talk about what happened last night?”

“With Cressida?”

“Yes! Is she mad?”

“Well I think we both already knew that.”

“True. But I simply want to know what her angle is? What does she gain from claiming to be Lady Whistledown?”

“I do not know.”

I looked around before quietly asking.

“What are you going to do Pen?”

“I do not know. Eloise suggested earlier this morning that I should quit being Whistledown.”

“What?!”

I was surprised. Why would Eloise ask such a thing from Penelope. Penelope created an anonymous name for herself as Whistledown and the progress she made is astonishing. Why would Penelope give something up that is a part of her?

“I disagree with Eloise! Whistledown is your life’s work and you have to do something! You cannot let her get away with this. You have worked too hard for the credit to go to someone like her!”

“I agree with you, but Eloise said it is in best interest for Colin and maybe she’s right.”

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“I am going to be married to Colin now, so his needs to become my first priority—“

“Let me stop you right there.” I said as I raised my hand up.

“You may be becoming Penelope Bridgerton soon, but you are still you. You still have dreams and ambitions and none of that should change when you become a wife. I know society thinks differently than I, but you are Penelope Featherington and you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. I do not want to hear any more of this nonsense about your dreams and ambitions being cast aside. So, you should write another issue. Say that Cressida is a fraud. Anything to ensure that the people know that she is not telling the truth.”

Penelope thought upon my words for a moment.

“I belive you are right.” She stated, “I actually already began writing an issue, but I have been having trouble writing it.”

“That’s alright. I can help as well if you need it.” I said with a comforting smile and she returned the favor.

Eventually we made it back to where our houses resided in Grovener’s Square.

“This is where we part.” I said.

“Wait Y/n!”

I looked at Penelope expectingly.

“I have a question for you.” Penelope asked shyly.

“Alright.”

Penelope began wringing her hands and took a deep breath. I could tell she was nervous. She smoothed down her dress and began to speak.

“My mama and I began the tedious planning of my wedding and…the topic of my maid of honor came up…and I could never ask my sisters because…well you know…and the only other person I could think of was…was you Y/n. So I am asking. Y/n will you be my maid of honor?”

I was speechless. Penelope and I have not been friends for long, our friendship beginning this season, but she quickly became a close friend. The genuine connection I feel with her seems to be reciprocated with Penelope. I felt honored that she thought of me as worthy of a friend to be her maid of honor.

“I would be honored to be your maid of honor Pen.”

The nervousness shown on Penelope’s face was replaced with relief.

“Really?!”

“Absolutely!”

“Oh Y/nn thank you.”

She brought me into a bone crushing hug.

“Do I have any duties as maid of honor?”

Penelope pulled away.

“Not anything in particular. Just be present on my big day.”

“Consider it done.”

“Thank you once again Y/n.” Penelope said with a smile.

“Of course.”

—————————

Benedict

“Cheers to Lord Kilmartin.” Colin began.

Colin, John and I all raised our cups in unison. We were all currently mourning/celebrating Will’s departure from his club. I know how much pride he takes in his club and I know he’s sad to step away, but he is doing what is best for his family now that he is a part of society,

“To having you join our family very, very soon, I hope. A pleasure to have you out with us.” Colin continued.

“The pleasure is mine.” John added.

“Ah. Your spirits seem high tonight. Have you gone all simple with love.” I teased Colin

“Gentlemen!” Will shouted with a bottle of alcohol in his hand, “One of my finest bottles of brandy. I cannot have it going to the new proprietor.”

“Another? You’ll have us wish you closed the club every week.” I stated. We already drank five bottles of alcohol tonight and Will was offering us more. Or did we drink four bottles? I honestly cannot remember.

“Sadly this is the very last bottle.” Will said sadly.

He began to pour the brandy into a cup, but we all soon realized there was only enough brandy for one.

“Damn. I thought there were at least a few more pours.”

“Surely the drink is yours.” Colin suggested, “To celebrate your last night owning this fine institution.”

“You mean to mourn my last night. I refuse your pity drink.”

We all laughed in response. Will’s reasoning did make sense though.

“Well if it is a pity drink, then perhaps I deserve it.” Colin grabbed the cup and brought it to his lips, but he stopped when I burst out in laughter.

Colin looked at me weirdly.

“You?” I asked.

“You are right. Love has made me so simple I cannot even write a sentence this week. It is torture really.” Colin said using my words from earlier.

“What do you need to write?” I asked curiously.

Colin was no writer and he did not have Anthony’s responsibilities, so Colin was writing just to write. I had no idea he had an interest in writing.

“I am writing a manuscript in fact.” Colin responded.

I was shocked, but proud to hear such news.

“Oh, are you?” I jested. He was definitely going to talk about it right now.

“What is it about?” Will asked.

“I am editing the story of my travels. Or in principle I am.” Colin brought the cup up to his lips and was about to sip the brandy.

“No! No, no, no, no, no, no, no. No.”

I grab the cup from his hand.

“Why you think you deserve it?” Colin demanded.

“You at least have a direction for your life while I am floating, purposeless, with no discernible path forward.” I responded dramatically as I brought the cup up to my lips.

Everyone laughed in response.

“What? And are you not the happiest you have ever been?”

“Oh right that is true, yes.” I said as I set the drink down.

“Why is that by the way?” Colin asked.

“What do you mean?”

“Why are you the happiest you have ever been?”

I opened my mouth to speak but closed it shortly after. I looked around and noticed that Will and John both had curious looks on their faces. They too wanted to know what had me in such a good mood as of late, but they were too afraid to ask.

I wanted to tell them about Y/n, but it is simply too complicated. The news will definitely come to a shock to my family, especially my mother (although she will be overjoyed), but Y/n is currently in a public courtship with Maxwell.

Before we can start anything, that relationship must come to an end first. I may be in love, but I’m not stupid. I do not want any bad blood with the Tewkesberry family and I especially do not want to bring Y/n into a scandal.

“What I am about to say, you cannot tell another soul. At least not any time soon.”

“Why is it so secretive?” Will asked.

“Just swear it.”

All three of them agreed to swear to never tell another soul (at least not yet). I cleared my throat.

“There is this girl. And she has been making me very happy, but for now it is a secret, until we are both ready.”

“Is it Y/n?” Colin asked.

How did he figure out it was Y/n so quickly?

“Wh-wha. How do you-“

“Know? I did not know you two reciprocated feeling for one another, but I did know that you two are close friends. Y/n is the only girl that you spend your time with, so I made the assumption that it was her. I’m guessing from your response I was correct?”

I nodded.

“Y/n…that sounds familiar.” Will said.

“Isn’t Y/n the youngest daughter from the Clearwater family?” John asked.

“Yes that would be correct.”

“She is courting Maxwell Tewkesberry is she not?”

“Yes that is where it gets complicated.”

The three of them looked at me with eyes full of curiosity, waiting for my next words.

I then explained to them everything. How we first met, how our friendship started and how it bloomed into something more. Our situation and how I promised to give her all the time she needed to end things with Maxwell.

“I know Y/n cares for Maxwell and wishes not to break his heart when she breaks the news. That’s simply in her nature, not wanting to hurt people. But I’ll wait an eternity if that is what it took to be with.”

“Look who’s the one who became simple due to love.” Colin teased me.

“Yeah, yeah.”

“I am happy for you Benedict.” Will said with a smile.

“You are?”

“Of course I am! You are a dear friend of mine and it is nice to see you so happy. I hope nothing, but the best for you two.”

“Thank you.”

It felt good to finally get everything off my chest. This was the first time I ever mentioned Y/n and I with romantic context and it felt amazing to put everything out in the open. I know telling them this information is tricky, but I know deep down that none of them would ever share this information.

Then I thought about the topic of conversation before we went on a tangent about Y/n and I.

“I think I know who deserves the drink.” I stated.

“Do you?” Colin asked.

“It is the most obvious choice.” I gestured to John who was across from me. “Kilmartin.”

“I believe you are correct. I believe the drink is mine.” John replied and grabbed the drink that was on the table. “If I am correct in reading that the winner of this game is whoever is the most fortunate.”

We all protested at John’s explanation and I’m pretty sure Colin and I internally gagged at what he was implying.

“No! Please do not start saying sentimental things about our sister.” I said with my eyes shut tight.

I am happy for Francesca and John, but I want to be spared of all the details.

“I was going to say I am the most fortunate amongst us because I have spotted another bottle.” John continued.

We all turned around to see where the bottle was and the three of us watched John walk around the couch, where Colin and I were sitting, and pluck the bottle that was in the corner.

“He has!” Colin and I both said.

He presented the bottle to us and we all applauded at his action.

“Fortunate indeed!” I said.

“Hawkeye.” Will added.

John poured three more bottles of the liquid and we all stood to our feet to toast one last drink.

“To Mr. Mondrich’s fine club.” John stated.

“To the club.” We responded and then drank the liquid in one swift swig. It was strong, but it had quite a nice flavor.

“Another we must finish it. You have to you are in the family.” I said to John and I meant it.

These three men were my brothers by blood and chosen (minus Anthony). I would do anything for them and I know they would do the same for me.

—————————

Everyone was up bright and early to attend church in order to hear the calling of the banns of marriage. People only attend these things if they are blood related to the bride or groom or if the bride or groom’s family invited you.

The Bridgertons invited us which is why my family and I were up at the crack of dawn, so that we could arrive on time. Normally I would be complaining about being awake so early, but I kept quiet because it was a big day for Penelope.

I felt a piercing pain at my ribs.

“Hey!” I whisper yelled at Alex. “That was unnecessary!”

“You were half way asleep. Someone had to make sure you remained awake.”

“That doesn’t give you the right to jab me in the ribs!”

“Shhhh!” Noah said from beside Alex.

“Sorry.” Alex and I mumbled.

Who can blame me for almost dozing off. If these events don’t concern you, then they are extremely boring.

“This is the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Now, today, I publish the banns of marriage between Colin Bridgerton and Miss Penelope Featherington. This is the first time of asking. If any of you know cause or just impediment why these two should not be joined together in Holy Matrimony…ye are to declare it.”

Silence filled the room, which was expected. I peeped around a guy’s head to look at Penelope’s reaction and she was already looking across the aisle at a nearby pew. I already knew who she was looking at before I followed her gaze. Colin was looking back at Penelope with a smile so filled with love, it looked like he was bursting at the seams. These two were definitely in love with one another.

My eyes wandered from Colin to Benedict, who was separated from Colin by Gregory and Hyacinth, and Benedict must have sensed my eyes on him because he turned around discreetly( as best he could). When his eyes met mine his face turned into a wide smile. I smiled in return and quickly ducked my head.

I slowly rose my head to look at the man who was two pews in front of me and in the pew behind Penelope. Maxwell and his family were here as well because his cousin was engaged. Having both Maxwell and Benedict here made me dread breaking the news to Maxwell even more. How was I going to tell Maxwell I wanted to end things?

I didn’t hear the rest of the judge’s words and before I knew it the court session was over.

Alex nudged my shoulder.

“Are you alright Carina? You seemed like you were in a daze.”

“Yes I am sure.”

“Are you sure? Remember what we talked about.”

I remembered what we talked about, but I knew that I had to talk with Maxwell without the guidance of others. This was something I had to do alone.

“Yes I am sure. I just remembered that I have something to take care of, but once it it done I will make sure to tell you right away.”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

He seemed satisfied with my answer.

“Alright then. Let’s hurry up. Mother and father are almost out the door.”

Alex and I quickly walked out of the pew and tried are best to weave in between people to catch up with our family. By the time Alex and I managed to reach the exit, our family was already waiting for us.

“Why is it that we are always waiting for you two?” Noah asked.

“It’s a gift.” I responded as I looped my arm with his.

“Indeed it is.” Noah said with a chuckle.

My family and I were walking down the steps of the church when my father noticed Viscount Lord Tewkesberry.

“Victor! It has been awhile!” My father stated.

“Indeed it has Sirius. I believe the last time we spoke was before Maxwell and I left for Paris. Oh I believe you haven’t met my wife. This my wife Lucinda.” Lord Tewkesberry gestured to a petite woman standing beside him.

“Pleased to meet you.” Lucinda said. “I’m sorry you have not had the chance to meet with me as of late. My cousin has been having some health issues, so I have been spending time with my family.”

“It is alright. We all understand the importance of family.” My mama said.

Lucinda’s gaze landed on me and a warm smile appeared on my face.

“You must be Y/n. It is lovely to finally meet you.”

I broke from Noah’s embrace and slightly curtsied.

“Oh dear you do not need to be so formal.”

I rose from my curtsy and Lucinda pulled me into her arms and I almost broke. She was being all nice and welcoming without knowing that I was about to break her son’s heart. We both pulled away from the hug.

“You make Maxwell very happy.”

Hearing that I make Maxwell happy was like getting a punch in the gut. I was going to be sick, but I pushed down whatever threatened to come to the surface.

“Where is Maxwell?” I asked in a high pitched voice.

“Oh he is over there talking with our footman to arrange our carriage. Why don’t you walk over to him dear.”

Lucinda’s hand found a place on my back and she gently pushed me in Maxwell’s direction. All I heard was my racing heartbeat as I walked to Maxwell and his footman. Just one foot in front of the other I thought.

My eyes were pointed downward so when I approached Maxwell I was looking down at his polished shoes.

“Y/n?” He asked.

I looked up to see his smiling face looking down at me. Now I really want to throw up. I tried to hide my inner emotions, but Maxwell saw right through me.

“Y/n are you alright?”

Curse my vulnerability.

I cleared my throat as best as possible.

“Y-yes I am. I simply wanted to talk with you about something.”

“I wish to talk to you about something as well. Shall we?”

He extended his arm out for me to take and I hesitantly took it.

“Don’t be shy Y/n. It is only me.”

“I know I know.”

“You wish to share something?”

A part or me wanted to come clean right away and end things, but I knew I needed a few more minutes to collect my thoughts.

“I do, but you can go first.” I offered.

“Very well then. We’ve been courting for awhile now and I have come to enjoy your company.”

I already knew that.

“I can tell that you enjoy my company as well and our families seem to get along just fine.”

This was also true.

“It is like what my mother says: “True love begins with friendship”.”

My mind thought about Benedict and I’s relationship and how it began with friendship, but that is not important now. What’s important right now is this conversation with Maxwell and where he was going with this.

“Society can be rather suffocating and like most families, my family resides in the countryside every once in a while.”

I definitely understood how suffocating society couple be, but now he was talking about the countryside and I was getting more and more confused as he continued talking.

“I am having trouble following on what you are trying to say.” I said.

“Well let me get right to it then.” He answered as he stopped us from walking any further.

He grabbed both of my hands before saying.

“Would you like you and your family to join myself and my family this weekend at our family estate?”

[thekatebridgerton]

For the reverse tropes ask: reverse fake dating for Philoise

Okay so I made it a Reverse fake dating S3 Philoise au

Anthony sighed looking over at his family as he reviewed the guests for their next dinner " Baron Honeywell, Lady Astley, Madame Olsen, oh and for tonight's dinner the man who Eloise paid off to pretend to court her, will also be showing up so I want you all to be perfectly polite"

" I've said it before he's actually courting me !" Eloise snapped

"Of course he is" Daphne patted her shoulder

" We're just wondering how much you paid him to promenade with you" Hyacinth added " Sir Phillip doesn't look like he's strapped for money "

"I didn't pay him off! He asked me to promenade, it was his idea to dance with me at the Cowper ball" Eloise huffed

" We believe you sister, he also brought you flowers voluntarily" Benedict hummed "And whatever blackmail you have over him will never leave this room "

" Fine, Eloise didn't pay him off, I make a correction " Anthony rolled his eyes, but before his sister could thank him for defending her he continued "the man Eloise blackmailed into faking a courtship" The rest of the family made various humms of understanding

Eloise eye twitched, looking dangerously like she was about to punch someone " is it really so hard to believe that we actually like each other?"

Her siblings looked at each other and shrugged "Yes"

" You have to admit El, Sir Phillip is so normal and you are so.... You" Colin said gesturing to all of her being

"Hey what's that supposed to mean?!!"

"We don't mean to offend sister, it's just that you do tend swear off marriage in front of every man you meet" Francesca tried to explain gently " And Sir Phillip has two young children, that's not exactly a spring bachelor"

" He also likes gardening, medicinal tea brewing and estate management" Kate piped up ticking off her fingers " And you... The last time you picked up a flower arrangement pamphlet you used it as a cover to attend a political rally "

" He's a good boxer, and a good marksman but dislikes practicing both" Simon pointed out, seemingly being the only one who had actually spent time with Sir Phillip "You on the other hand almost got yourself shot chasing leads of lady Whistledown"

" You're fresh off a scandal, he's fresh off a failed marriage, admit it Eloise, there's no way you're actually courting" Colin pointed out cynically

" But we are! And I see that we don't have a lot in common but I do like him, I like him a whole lot, and I like his children" Eloise protested " why won't you believe me? he's been trying really hard to win you all over because he also likes me"

"Of course he does and just in time to make people forget about the political rally business" Violet Bridgerton announced entering the drawing room giving Eloise a wink " Sir Phillip has been the picture of the perfectly devoted suitor, whatever threat you have him under, it's certainly working" she said giving Eloise a proud pat in her shoulder

Eloise sighed, how could she convince her family that her relationship with Sir Phillip was real without revealing that they've been bonding over the loss of their loved ones and a secret love of banned books, in fact most of the things Eloise talked with Sir Phillip would either land her in scandal sheets again or in jail. But he was an avid listener and answered all her questions, no matter how impertinent or illegal. She was teaching Sir Phillip the finer points of social interaction because he seemed to be worse off than her when it came to facing crowds, while he taught her about the things he'd learned in University, Eloise didn't think they were that badly suited and welcome his courtship openly.

The problem lay in the fact that nobody believed they were actually courting! By this rate Phillip would propose and everyone would still think it was a ruse. God help her

An: I had so much fun writing this one

[starry-slithers]

Actually, scratch that, this is the perfect day

Pairing: Liam Calloway x Eloise Babbit ( @myokk )

Summary: Liam mans up and asks Eloise on an unofficial date. Mutual pining ensues

“Hi Bun.” Smiled Liam, though quite awkwardly, averting his eyes. He still felt terrible about kissing her, albeit on the cheek, but it was still awful in his opinion. “About what uh- happened yesterday evening I figured…oh come on Liam snap out of it-…I figured I should take you on a proper day out. To make up for it? What do you say?” 

“I’d love to.” The corner of Eloise’s lips quirked into a smile. Liam was smiling too, bashfully, his ears tinted a little pink.

“I’ll pick you up at the entrance hall then? Does this evening work for you? We’ll have to miss dinner but I’ll treat you to a meal while we’re out. Whatever you want. Your wish is my command Miss Babbit.” He stooped down low, playfully bowing. 

“That sounds perfect Mr Calloway.” She teasingly curtsied. 

“Have you started the books yet?” 

“Yes, they’re delightful. Thank you, they’re exactly what I wanted.” 

He reached out to tuck a hair behind the younger girls ear. 

“You can tell me all about it on our walk, hm?” He enjoyed her rants and rambles. Mainly because he just liked her voice. But he stowed away that information into a little corner of his mind- hidden behind a soft green door labelled ‘Bunny’ with heart and star doodles around it. 

“It might be a bit cold out so bring a scarf, ok?” He glanced at the clock. He was going to be late for Care of Magical creatures if he kept up the chat. He gave her a pat on the shoulder. “I’ve got to go…see you tonight.” A smile graced his lips. The one reserved only for his favourite girl. 

“See you tonight Liam.” She called. The way she said his name made his heart flutter. His gaze lingered on her as she walked to Charms, which he only knew because of course he’d memorised her timetable. 

He waited at the entrance hall that evening, his breath making little puffs of ‘dragons breath’ into the air. Eloise soon appeared and his breath caught in his throat. Although she was always gorgeous, she looked especially beautiful in the soft light of the torches and candles. Though he had this reaction every time he saw her. What? He couldn’t help it, she was just the most beautiful angel on earth he’d ever seen. 

“Shall we?” He held out his arm for her to take, as linking arms was the gentlemanly thing to do. But to his surprise, she took his hand instead. 

“Let’s go.”

They stepped out into the cold and he briefly let go of her hand to take his scarf off and wrap it around her neck, seeing as she’d forgotten her own. He had no clue it was intentional. Eloise had the cutest little pink nose and flushed cheeks from the cold…no, no, Liam, stop! She doesn’t love you back, you saw her reaction to the cheek kiss. Control yourself for Godric’s sake! 

“So…which book did you start?”

“Pride and Prejudice.”

“My little sister loves that book. Tell me about it.” 

“Well, the Bennet family live in Longbourn and Mrs. Bennet shares some news with her husband, Mr. Bennet, that a wealthy young gentleman, Charles Bingley, has just rented the nearby estate of Netherfield. Mrs. Bennet  wants him to meet her daughters and hopefully marry one. And Mr Bennet’s favourite daughter is Lizzy so he’s determined to put in a good word for her which I think is unfair because-“ and she was just rambling the whole way to Hogsmeade.

Liam was nodding along and asking questions at the appropriate times but was getting more distracted by the way her lips moved…no, no stop! He was leaning in. You idiot no! His breath just fanned her cheek and- she’ll hate you for this!- he kissed her cheek again. Softly as the first time. Though a little more tentative. She stopped talking at the action and he was just about to explain when she turned to face him and he could see something swirling in her beautiful green eyes- his favourite colour. Before he could ask what was the matter, she grabbed his collar and pulled his face closer to her own and her lips pressed against his, brows furrowed in determination.

He made a sound of surprise before he quickly reciprocated, large calloused hands cradling her cheek, fingers playing with the hair at the nape of her neck. And honestly? It was better than he imagined, and he’d imagined it a lot. 

They cut the date short, more content to just sit and chat and smile and finally be openly affectionate without worrying about the other not reciprocating. Though Liam did treat her to dinner like he’d promised. 

When they got back to the castle, they kissed goodnight and Liam was on cloud nine, in an absolutely love drunk daze as he practically stumbled back to his dorm. His bunny loved him. And he loved her. And they could be happy. 

[lovelyo]

Live in Reality: You Would Not Want a Friend Like Penelope

I can’t with people talking bout Cressida is meaner than Penelope or that Cressida is a bully and Eloise is a bad person for befriending Cressida. The difference is Cressida is upfront with her mean girl attitude. She isn’t two-faced and would let you know upfront that she doesn’t fuck with you, totally opposite from Penelope who would write the muddiest of shit about you behind your back and feel absolutely no remorse, while on top of that gaslighting into believing she’s the victim.

Unless you’re a masochist, who would want a friend who smiles in your face but has secretly been resenting you and your family for years, has been tricking and lying to you for years; the friend has been disrespecting your family behind your back, gaslights you, is jealous of you every waking moment, always singing the same “woe is me, life is unfair” song to you but accuses you of being a bad friend, betrays your trust, thinking that hurting you even is a viable option, throws you under the bus to save their own neck and tries to manipulate it as they were trying to “help” or “save” you.

Anyone with a well-adjusted mind who has a friend or who sees a love one have a friend such as that will immediately take the action of cutting them off, despite any history, despite the memories, we would clearly think that a friend as toxic as that is not a good friend or rather a good person to be around.

So why does the individual who has been dealt with such a friend has to apologize or accept the toxic’s friend past and current bullshit. Does it make sense that that individual who has been treated like that by the toxic friend apologize to the toxic friend?

That’s y’all’ logic when it comes to Eloise and Penelope.

When you holler your chewbacca war cry in defense of Penelope, you are rooting for that toxic friend I have explained earlier knowing damn well that if someone like that was in your life or in the life of someone you deeply care for, you would NOT be associating with them or advise others not to.

But Eloise mustn’t be upset and must accept Pen’s hollow apology despite all the things that she has objectively done because…🤷🏾‍♂️ we’re not allowed to be mad at the plus size character cause she’s plus size, that’s the reason people are mainly giving me.

Who cares about size? A toxic person is A TOXIC PERSON: short, tall, small, curvy, a person’s character isn’t defined or should be given a free pass because of their appearance. That’s what you guys are doing with Penelope and it’s insane dawg 😭. You can’t attack people for focusing on her size when YOU FOCUS ON IT! I hope people noticed that, Penelope defenders always bringing up fatphobia and the girl’s size while the Pen critics don’t mention are size at all.

P.S. Given from the spoilers, Pen apologizes to Eloise about the betrayal and being LW but goes back to the same schtick, talking shit bout her brother so ask yourself how genuine she really was

P.S.S Even Colin thinks what LW did was wicked and unnecessary, especially since in season 2 he said if Marina had told him bout the pregnancy, he would’ve still went with the marriage. Plus his sister got dunked on….but hooray for Penelope getting a HEA and being a part of a family she disparages.

[paracosmic-murdock]

Tell me what are my words worth ; Benedict Bridgerton x Reader

Chapter 4: "Les mots de Whistledown"

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x fem!reader

Summary: While the other ladies have grown with the mindset of marrying and having children, you, as the daughter of a man who wanted a son, grew up being both. You learnt how to embroider, play the pianoforte, fence and manage the estate. However, there were some things that not even the Duke of Burgundy could do, so after he passed and you thought there was nothing left for you, you decided to move to London for a while and go to the Royal Academy of Art.

Nothing was going to keep you from what you wanted, and you would do whatever it takes: you would lie to everyone, you would live to death, you would pretend to be a man. You had a plan and it would be a piece of cake for you. But again, when has something that she wants and should not do easy for a woman? Especially when a man like Benedict Bridgerton gets in the way in more ways than one.

Warnings/tags: idiots in love, eventual smut, love triangles (but not really), lgbtq+ themes, bisexual benedict bridgerton, feminist themes, historical inaccuracy (for the sake of the plot), inspired by mulan (1998), song: the lakes (taylor swift), other tags to be added

Chapter summary: After enough days hiding in plain view, your arrival in London gets announced by Lady Whistledown. Its consequences—dozens of suitors— wrecked your plans for the day, but the dinner at the Bridgerton home wasn't one of those, but unfortunately, there is one Bridgerton brother you are still yet to meet.

Word count: 3.7K

❁ Series masterlist

❁ mila's anthology (main masterlist)

Dearest gentle reader,

It is this author's duty to keep you informed of the most important news, and it mortified me to not have a positive thing to notify you of in recent times. However, it has come to my attention that there is a charmant new arrival in town.

Walls have ears, doors have eyes, trees have voices, and so do I, and we all have gathered here to tell you, dear reader, that the distinguished Lady Y/N of Burgundy, daughter of the late Duke of Burgundy, took a trip from France to delight us with her presence.

By now, you are sure I cannot grant you incomplete information here, so I must let you know that Lady Y/N is nothing but grace, elegance, kindness and virtue in the flesh. If she had arrived at the beginning of the Season, and we could count on Her Majesty's judgment to be correct, she would have been named the Queen's diamond.

That takes us, dear reader, to our next topic of conversation in this issue, a matter most must be pondering about. Surely, there is a reason for her to be in London, and do not think for a second your beloved author will leave you in the dark any longer: she is looking for a husband!

Now, I plead the gentlemen of the Ton not to get eager, for there are certain requirements you must possess in order to even consider courting her: heart, wealth, face, and brains!

If you are a respectable gentleman and consider yourself not only in possession of those requirements, but also worthy of her, do not hesitate to pay Lady Y/N a visit at the Carrington Mansion.

And a little help: it seems like she is quite the emerald enthusiast.

Sincerely yours,

Lady Whistledown.

"Mama! Your dearest Lady Y/N is on today's issue of Lady Whistledown!" Eloise yelled after reading the paper.

Violet Bridgerton frowned. "Is she really?"

Eloise nodded eagerly, starting to read the article out loud to her mother and some of her siblings that were in the room.

"Is she to be a duchess, then?" Hyacinth asked.

"That is not how it works, Sister." Anthony said.

"Is she pretty?" Colin questioned.

"Oh, she is." Benedict answered to Colin with a smirk.

"You know her?" Eloise looked at her brother wide-eyed.

"The director of the Academy, Lord Carrington, is her godfather. I even painted her portrait the day before yesterday," he explained. "How do you know her?"

"Her father was friends of your father and I," Violet replied. "I reunited with her at Lady Danbury's first, but yesterday, Eloise and I were at the Modiste and saw her again."

Benedict smiled and stood up with a groan, hoping that maybe you would go to the Academy today for whatever reason. "I am off to the Academy!"

Lady Bridgerton shook her head at her son. "If you or your brother try to get close to her, let me warn you that you shall only do so if you have the best of intentions."

"Did you know she was the one to send those cufflinks you're wearing, Brother?" Eloise questioned, looking at him attentively as he admired the precious emeralds adorning the cuffs of his shirt. Even after so many years, he still wore them from time to time.

"Oh, is she also the one who sent us wine a couple years ago?"

"Yes, it was her," His mother gave him a quick glance. "You should know that the wine came with a heartfelt letter thanking me for the condolences I sent for her father's death, so you must not mention that to her during dinner tonight."

"Is she coming tonight?!"

"Yes, Sister, my mother invited her for dinner," Eloise told Hyacinth. "Although, I fear she might not come when she hears that both Colin and Benedict have their intentions set on courting her."

"Benedict is not going to court her," Colin stated, ignoring where his brother was the past afternoon. "And I cannot conceive the idea of her ignoring me! I've got the heart, the wealth, the brains and the hair!"

"Heart, wealth, face and brains." Eloise corrected him.

"The great hair is surely a bonus point in my favor, is it not?"

Hyacinth laughed. "You don't even know her!"

"I have heard enough." He smiled.

"What could Lady Whistledown even know anyway? Y/N arrived just a few days ago, and for Whistledown to say such amazing things about her, it would mean they have known each other for a while or simply Y/N did something nice for Whistledown, doesn't it?" Eloise theorized. She gave it a thought in silence and then ran to her room.

"She is everything Lady Whistledown says," Lady Bridgerton commented, giving Colin a serious look. "She is also self-righteous, obedient, honest, and service-oriented. She would make such a lovely wife… But as I just said, if you do not have the best intentions, Colin Bridgerton, don't you dare get near her."

"You are taking all the fun out of it, now I think I do not want her anymore."

"Good."

Hyacinth looked at the scene in amusement, returning to the pianoforte.

You woke up to Antoinette's insistence. "Antoinette! Is it not too early for you to wake me up so violently?"

"You are in the newest issue of Lady Whistledown!"

"Who on Earth is that?" you questioned with a frown.

"It is a gossip newspaper here in London, you must read it!"

"Does it have to do with Antoine?"

"Thanks to the Heavens, it does not."

"Then, I couldn't care less. I have a few minutes of sleep left until I have to go to the Academy."

Antoinette sighed. "I am afraid you won't be able to attend the Academy today."

"What?" You wrinkled your nose. "Why not?!"

"Because there is a long line of suitors waiting just for you, my Lady."

You sat up immediately and took the newspaper in Antoinette's hands, reading it all in less than a minute.

"Mon Dieu !" you groaned. "How many men are waiting for me?"

"At least four dozens." A tired exhalation indicated just your mood as you stood up and got changed with the help of Antoinette.

Once you were ready, you went downstairs to meet with quite the entourage of gentlemen. The staff of the mansion were running here and there, trying to accommodate everyone as best as they could.

"At least one of these must be interesting enough to marry."

You laughed. "Everyone younger than me or old must be sent away. The same applies if the man seems slow or a shag-bag, I am not going to tolerate that. Other than that, let the games begin," you instructed, letting your pettiness get the best of you. "This must be fun!"

"Anything you say."

"If any of them is Lord Walker or Mr. Schwartz, let them in," you said. "Madame Delacroix recommended them. Oh, you remember about Benedict, do you not?"

"I do, he was here yesterday."

You smiled at the memory. "If he is here, make him come first."

Antoinette tried not to laugh as she nodded, and soon enough, you were sitting in front of the third gentleman Lady Carrington had sent your way. Antoinette was your escort and some of the staff.

"Was the 'heart, wealth, face, and brains' your line?" he asked, making you chuckle.

"I did not say that, though it is not like those are four qualities I don't search for in a man. Especially the heart and the brains."

Lord Weber smiled. "Parler français est une condition nécessaire, aussi ?"

[Is speaking French a requirement also?]

"Uh, oui, mon copain doit parler français car je viens de France," you explained to him that your husband must speak French because you are French. "And you do."

"Are you looking to marry anytime soon?"

"I was exposed by your clownesque gossip writer, so I must say yes."

He chuckled. "Do you not want to marry?"

"I do, but not as soon as that woman said. She made me look desperate, did she not?"

"Just a little."

"I only ever wanted to make my debut during the Carrington ball and see what happens," You shrugged. "At least I know that the men Lady Carrington threw out will not come back."

She did all of us a favor, did she not?"

"She did," You curved your lips. "So, tell me about your family: do you have brothers or sisters?"

"A younger brother and an older sister. My father passed away a few years ago, and my mother lives in the country," he replied. "We have a manor in the outskirts of town, actually. Maybe you and the Carringtons could come and stay with my family for the annual Weber Masquerade Ball if you wish."

"Oh, when is it going to be held?"

"The last weekend of the next month, my Lady."

"I shall speak to the Carringtons about it and give you an answer, then, my Lord."

He gave you a charming smirk. "Would you be interested in walking along the promenade with me this afternoon?"

"I'm afraid I already have plans for the afternoon, Lord Weber, but perhaps we could arrange it for another day." you said, wishing for him to not invite you anywhere if it was time for you to be at the Academy.

"Tomorrow afternoon sounds good?"

You nodded. "Tomorrow afternoon sounds perfect."

Lord Weber stood up and offered you his hand to help you stand up. You took it and once you were both standing in front of one another, he kissed your knuckles.

"Would you forgive me if I said to everyone that you are an insufferable young lady? All is fair in love and war, or so I've heard."

"I would be very offended and disappointed that you didn't stand a chance against some men who do not even speak French, my Lord."

He winked. "You're right. See you tomorrow afternoon?"

"Yes."

When he disappeared, you threw yourself on the couch.

"This is not as fun as I thought it would be," you complained. "I am tired of them, are there many more?"

"Around ten."

You groaned. "They are always inviting me to do something and I am obliged to say yes! What if I am busy doing something actually important? They are inviting me to go for walks and do stuff when I should be in…"

Your face shone with enlightenment when the idea crossed your mind, and a loud, excited shriek echoed in the entire room.

"Every cloud has a silver lining!" You hugged Antoinette, who laughed as she tried to push you away. "Bring them all in!"

"Did you tell your sister you're going out tonight?" Cortez asked you. You gave him a condescending look.

"I am invited to go to dinner tonight at someone's family, I have no idea where, to be honest. So, right after dinner, I'll go to White's."

"Yes!" he cheered. "But don't you be too late."

"I will not promise you a thing, Santiago," you replied. "That I am going must be more than enough for you."

"We will be drowning that hostility in whiskey, Antoine!"

"I am more of a wine person, you know?"

"Oh, let's get this man back to his homeland!" he yelled. "Not at White's tonight, by the way. It will be a private party at the Cortez Manor."

"Sure, see you there." You got inside your carriage with a big smile. "We should get going to the Carrington Mansion so I can get ready to go to the Bridgertons for dinner and then I'm going to the Cortez Manor for a private party!"

"You are doing what?!" Antoinette questioned, altered. "It has been a very long, hard day, my Lady. Go back to the Carrington Mansion after dinner, listen to me."

"I already promised Santiago I would go. Antoine Voclain is a man of his word."

"Antoine Voclain doesn't exist, my Lady, please stop this before it gets out of hand!" she pleaded. "We can still say he passed away and you will not get in any trouble."

"I will not get in any trouble, Antoinette," you told her, taking your clothes off. "And I'm not going to stay in Art School my entire life, just for some time until… I don't know, until I find out who I am."

She sighed. "You are Y/N Voclain, the future duchess of Burgundy. You are a respectable Lady, you are intelligent, talented… You are going to make an excellent wife, mother to many children, and you are going to marry a man who can see that. You will bring so much pride and honor to your father to watch from the Heavens."

"Look at me," you demanded. "I am taking off the clothes that I stole from my cousin, I just finished another day at a school I am not allowed to attend, I am on my way to the home of a family who received me with open arms and open doors, the same family I lie to every single day. I am sitting in this carriage I stole from home, with the maid and the drivers I forced to travel for two days to a strange city with me. I should be looking for a husband, but instead, I wear jewels a second and a hat the other. Most ladies are only allowed to have makeup and ball gowns, but I have all of that plus a library of all the books I have read and the poems I have written, I have a bow and arrows, I fence, I travel, I paint, I do the numbers, I speak, and that is not who a respectable lady is supposed to be! I hate to think that I was born to be a wife and a mother while my father raised me to be more than that… Once I realize who that person is, I will return to France. Not a second before."

Antoinette felt silent while you wiped the tears you didn't notice had run down your face. You arrived at the mansion but didn't leave the carriage until you were ready.

"My, my, where have you been?" Lady Carrington asked as soon as you were in front of her.

"I went out for a walk with Antoinette," you mumbled. "I asked your maid to please tell you."

"She did, but you must let me know when you are going out, you're a lady!"

You nodded. "I understand, Lady Carrington. My apologies."

"It is okay, dear," She exhaled. "Are you going to the Bridgertons'?"

"Yes, I will get ready first."

"If Lady Bridgerton invites you to stay a little longer for some tea, stay. I know you must be tired for such a hectic morning full of suitors and the promenade in the afternoon, but it would be rude not to."

"I will, Lady Carrington."

"It is a pleasure to finally have met you all," You smiled. "Though, I was informed that there were eight of you."

"Our brother had a… matter to attend to," Anthony informed. "But he sends his apologies for not being here."

"Very well," You nodded. "I am looking forward to seeing him later."

"So is he." Gregory mentioned under everyone's apprehensive glance, and his sister Hyacinth jostled him.

You ignored it with a small smile.

"Shall we start?" Lady Bridgerton asked.

"Yes! I am starving." you agreed.

Most of the siblings thanked you.

"How has been your time here in London, Lady Y/N?" Colin asked.

"It has been great! I have met a lot of nice people, thanks to that I could see your mother again," you replied, muttering a thank you to the maid who served your food. "Everything was perfect until that absurd Lady Whistledown exposed my arrival to absolutely everyone, and had the Carrington Mansion full of gentlemen."

"No one caught your attention?"

You chuckled. "It's not that. Lady Carrington filtered all the men for me. I suppose that knowing everything about everyone is convenient from time to time. Lady Whistledown made me look desperate, did she not? It was humiliating to some extent."

"That is what I thought, too," Eloise said. "To anyone it could be flattering, right? But she described you like a trophy to get!"

"Exactly!" you exclaimed. "I thought I could make the most out of it, but I am a little offended that she made me look like nothing but a lovely bride."

Eloise smiled widely, but before she could say anything, her mother interrupted her. "Was there any suitor interesting, my dear?"

"One or two," you confessed. "I am afraid they will lose their interest in me once they find out I would rather be visiting my mother's family in the Americas instead of attending balls like a trophy."

"Have you been to the Americas?" Colin asked with wide eyes.

"Yes! My mother is from there, and her family owns the biggest emerald mines," you replied. "I wish to return soon, but I have never traveled such distances alone. After my father's death, I am afraid my voyages will have to wait until I marry."

"You travel a lot?" Anthony asked.

"I used to with my father… ever the explorer," You took a sip of your drink. "I would go with him whenever and wherever he went, so I have been to many places."

"I was traveling, too, a couple of months ago. My favorite stop was the Greek Islands." The rest of the Bridgertons groaned at Colin's intervention.

"I have been to Greece also. My father wanted paintings of the Greek Ancient Ruins in Athens and Epidaurus," you commented. "Although I would not change the Kingdom of Tahiti for anywhere in the world, it is certainly the most glorious land I have set foot in."

"Y/N, Colin will never shut up if you keep feeding him with information about travels."

"Eloise!" Lady Bridgerton scolded her.

You laughed. "It is not a problem, if you wish I will stop talking."

"Do not listen to her," Colin asked you with a grin. "Did your father get the paintings?"

"He did indeed, I painted them." you answered, and Eloise and Anthony looked at each other with knowing eyes.

"It is such a shame that our brother is not here, he would adore you." Eloise commented, making you look at her in confusion.

"He will regret not being here, certainly," Daphne smirked. "I hope you see each other at the Carrington ball."

Colin shook his head. "Please, ignore them."

You frowned. "Uh… the food is incredible, Lady Bridgerton."

"I am glad you like it, dear." She sighed in relief. "Did you like the wine?"

"I did," You nodded. "Which reminds me, did you like the wine I had sent to you the last time?"

"We all did," Lady Bridgerton answered. "Actually, Colin was telling me how much he had enjoyed it earlier today."

"That is good to hear!" you exclaimed happily. "It comes from our winery."

"It was one of the best wines I have ever had." Anthony added.

You smiled. "Thank you very much, my Lord. I will make sure to send a letter and have some bottles sent to you directly from Burgundy."

"We will be looking forward to it," Anthony said. "And please, call me Anthony."

"However you please, Anthony. Please, call me Y/N, too."

"And how is Burgundy, Y/N?" Francesca asked you.

"It is a wonderful region, dear Francesca," you told her. "And all of you are more than welcome at the Château de Germolles, the Château du Clos de Vougeot, or the Palace of the Dukes."

"Thank you, dear, we will take it into consideration. Perhaps for vacations." Lady Bridgerton answered.

"I hope it doesn't stay in consideration and I get to have you. All of you are welcome, there is more than enough space for all the Bridgertons. I am sure you would adore the Palace... it is enormous, there is art everywhere, the most precious gardens for you to explore."

"We must tell Benedict everything, he will be so mad to have missed her!" Eloise whispered to Anthony, and they both chuckled.

"I would love to!" Hyacinth nodded eagerly.

"Then I will be expecting you. Your presence would be a treasure to have in my homeland." You winked.

The rest of the dinner was great. Daphne talked about her husband and child, and invited you to Hastings whenever you wanted to. There was some teasing at Anthony when you mentioned, accidentally, that you had met the Sharmas at Lady Danbury's, and somehow Colin managed to find a way to mention his travels again.

After the dessert, you said goodbye to everyone and returned to your carriage.

"Now, we shall go to the Cortez Manor." you told Antoinette, who told the drivers. Once the carriage started moving, you started getting changed.

"You cannot tell Benedict about everything that she said!"

Eloise laughed. "They have already met, Colin."

"Oh, they would make the perfect match, would they not?" Hyacinth commented.

"I hear wedding bells." Francesca added with a smile.

"This counts as treason." Colin shook his head, making his siblings laugh.

"Colin, Y/N does not have a father to look after her, so I feel personally responsible for her now that she is here in London. If you do not have good intentions, I beg you to stay away from her."

"Why do you not have faith in me?"

Daphne laughed. "You have said more than enough times that you do not wish to marry, so forgive Mama for doubting you."

"So has Benedict!"

"While it is fairly obvious that she is too good for our brother, and this is coming from someone who is deeply against marriage, me, you have to admit that they have enough in common to make a good couple," Eloise told Colin. "And I would only support her getting married because that is what she wishes for."

Her mother looked at her surprised. "I hope you do not brainwash her into not wanting to marry, Eloise."

"Do you think she would have been named the Queen's diamond had she arrived earlier?" Hyacinth wondered.

"She surely would have." Colin replied.

"Then she would be engaged to Anthony." Eloise joked.

"I would have proposed, just so you know, Colin." Anthony mocked his brother. "We would be with child right now."

"Anthony!" his mother chided.

"Y/N would not marry Anthony if she knew Benedict… Being engaged to the wrong brother sounds awful, does it not?" Daphne gave Anthony a look, making him roll his eyes.

"Then it is good no one is engaged to a wrong sibling." Anthony cut the conversation, leaving the dining room.