#i adored edwina

[fivepaces]

If I add John Stirling to my multi would anyone be interested?

[elegantwoes]

edwina & sansa would get along really well i don't make the rules

They absolutely would. I am not gonna deny. Part of the reason why I am so taken to Edwina is because she reminds me of Sansa. In fact I would argue that Edwina is the closest to seeing book!Sansa in live action. Her sweet, charming, courteous, and wide-eyed demeanor with a hint of snark just captured my heart. In my eyes she’s perfect and can’t do no wrong.

[teiasviago]

I appreciate there being an adult in this fandom.

Thank you? I suppose I just hate being negative without being articulate.

[abitbatty]

Didn't look too flashy for a lunch date today, until you looked at my shoes.

[mrsjellymunson]

@starthecozy I’ve never written a wholesome smallholding AU, and I have zero knowledge of that area so it may as well be about alien life forms, but now I REALLY WANT TO!! 😆

Also, you are more of a writer than I’ll ever be an artist 😉😂

Beekeeper Steve spending some time chilling with nature and befriending these nice cows (under the loving watch of Eddie, his farmer friend and owner of the land) x

[hiatuswhore]

𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝑀𝑜𝓊𝓉𝒽𝓎 𝒪𝓃𝑒 𝒱 — 𝐵𝓇𝒾𝒹𝑔𝑒𝓇𝓉𝑜𝓃

♕ A/N: Yeah so this hiatus has been so criminal. Honestly my “writers block” has just been insecurity. I’ve gotten into this bad habit of comparing my writing styles to others and that is such a viscous and toxic self attack. Long story short, I’m a little dummy who needs to remember why I got into fanfic writing in the first place, to have fun. If you feel like it. Please please please send feedback. There’s one final part left. Maybe some bonus chapters with the new season.

♕ SUMMARY: Oh, the most scandalous season of the year has come to pass. After quite the successful year for the Bridgerton’s the eldest son plans to throw his hat in the ring. Concurrently the Sharma sisters do just the same. One a spinster, the other hopeful romantic, and the middle daughter? What can be said about such a force that is not said when she enters the room. Good luck to all who pursue her.

♕ WORD COUNT: 4.7K

♕ WARNINGS: None

previous — Masterlist — next

BLINK. SMILE. NOD. You remind yourself every few seconds. Edwina leads the conversation with a jubilant smile.

Meanwhile, you tally each time Kate’s gaze meets your own as she watches you walk a tightrope, waiting for an inevitable fall. You sit out of place, Kate on your right and your mother on your left. Both rubbing the mustard yellow onto Edwina’s arms, your nose scrunching at the pungent wafts of Haldi. Each time Edwina’s gaze meets your own, you smile. You tilt your head, doing what you do best, offering your unwavering support—no matter how much your chest knots.

“Didi, are you okay? You are so quiet,” Edwina says, leaning forward to capture your gaze. You smile, lying through your teeth, “You are to be wed soon. I shall miss you, is all Bon.”

“You must calm yourself, Bon. Keep still,” Kate smiles down at a jittery Edwina. Her joy practically spills out, her every move indicating pure excitement.

”It is all so strange. I have faced a thousand tomorrows, but they all have been leading to this one,” You pause. Tomorrow. Every laugh, jest, slight—all of it leading to tomorrow. The day you make a fool of yourself—the mark of your first-ever regret. Though your mother speaks, the words do not reach you. The sinking in your chest renders you silent, almost queasy.

”Oh, it has...caused you doubts?” Kate’s cautious tone has your ears perking up, and your absent gaze finds Edwina. Your mother nudges you with a gentle smile, a reminder of her presence.

”Bringing the wedding forward is a sign of genuine feeling, but...well,” Edwina pauses, a sigh leaving her lips as she finds her words. Your heart was banging against your ribcage as Edwina glanced at you. “It has unnerved me. Didi, perhaps you should truly consider Lord Beauregard’s proposal. He’s a wonderful companion to you, and he seems to care. That way, we can navigate all this together.”

”I don’t know, Bon. It’s a lot to consider,” You tilt your head, a tight-lipped smile across your lips, "but right now is not about me or Lord Beauregard. It’s about you and the Viscount.”

“Your sister is right. Rest assured, Edwina, the Viscount adores you. He has devotedly courted you and made his intentions clear from our first arrival. Even going out of his way to procure (Y/n)’s and Kate’s approval. There is no lady better suited for the Viscount,” Your mother’s adoration beams on her prized child, your expression faltering nearly imperceptibly.

“I just—I still wish that when he looks at me, I could be certain that he truly loves me. Like—like—“ Edwina looks around as though the words sit in the room with all of you. Then her gaze finds yours again, “Like how Lord Beauregard looks at (Y/n). His fondness for

her is so evident, written right on his face. I fear, in fact, that the Viscount does not look at me often enough to even tell.”

Your mother and Kate glance at each other with a collective sigh. You lower your gaze, fiddling with the top lace of your peach gown and swallowing the sizzling golf ball in your throat. Kate speaks softly, this time avoiding your direction entirely, “Looks can be powerful, Bon, but also fleeting. Displays of mere passion, perhaps. Nothing more.”

”So the Viscount feels little passion for me?” Edwina exclaims, amusement dancing in her gaze as your mother chuckles. You force a chuckle from your lips, quiet and timid, the antithesis of your very being.

Clearing your throat, forcing a smile to the surface, you grin, “What Kate is failing at saying is that true love is different. It’s complicated and unpredictable. That’s the fun of it. It’s there when you least expect it. You worry now, but fear not, Bon, when it clicks, it clicks.”

“Since when have you become so knowledgeable about love, Miss, avoiding marriage and love?” Your mother teases. Each of your giggles fills the room, and for a moment, only a moment, the dread no longer exists. For a moment you are back in India, in your childhood home.

You cringe at the sudden intrusion, turmeric overwhelming your nostrils as Edwina’s hand gently swipes the mixture across your cheek. Her saccharine giggle contrasted with your wide-eyed stare. She speaks with a whimsical glint in her eyes. One like your own but doe-eyed and hopeful, not calculated and mischievous. “It is said, when spread on an unmarried person, Haldi will help them find a worthy partner that brings the complicated and unpredictable excitement too.”

”Well, Haldi can mind their business,” You tilt your head with a sarcastic smile, earning your mother's pointed stare. Kate chuckles and shakes her. Edwina turns to Kate, who offers a warning stare.

“Now, now. You shall receive it too,” Edwina says, stroking the Haldi across Kate’s cheeks. You fail to ignore the Haldi on your cheeks. It sits like a reminder that tomorrow will come whether you are prepared or not. You shall watch him marry Edwina. Your sister, nieces, and nephews shall be his—but never you.

“Hey!” You exclaim, once again pulled from your thoughts as your mother spreads Haldi across your chest. Reaching into the mixture only takes seconds before the four of you make a mess of it. The giggles are seemingly endless.

Despite the joyous moment, it’s fleeting as the hours seem to fly. Before you know it, you stand in a lavender gown that matches Kate's. You maintain an expression void of emotion, seemingly zoning out—the subtle indicators, near imperceptible. Light sweat coated your brow, and deep sighs left you as though the air was limited. You thank every and any god above for the smokescreen that keeps your beloved family from noticing. Sitting by the window as servants help Edwina prepare, you watch as Kate retrieves the gold bracelet with emeralds dancing across the band.

Edwina stands in front of the full-length mirror. Her eyebrows pinch at the sight she catches in the reflection. Her smile was curious and of awe, “Didi? What are those?”

”I brought them with us from home. I knew this season would be a success,” Kate smiles down at Edwina as she closely inspects them with a warm gaze. You keep your gaze outside the window, willing yourself to ignore every ailment that plagues you. Far too busy pondering potential ways to avoid attending Edwina’s pending nuptials.

Edwina’s head tilts as she searches for familiarity, “they are quite beautiful. How have I never seen them before?”

“They belonged to my mother. Amma wore them on her wedding day and saved them,” Edwina asks if they were saved for Kate. Kate chuckles lightly, “I brought them for you. I insist, beautiful bangles for a beautiful bride.”

”Will you wear them with me?” Edwina asks, but Kate shakes her head, assuring Edwina she will be no bride any time soon. Edwina’s gaze shifts to you, “Well then, Didi, you may very well be a bride soon. Could you wear one with me?”

“Bon—“ You sigh, your gaze meets Kate. The pity in your eyes only furthers the stir in your chest.

“I’m so nervous, but you are the bravest person I know. I don’t know, it may be silly, but wearing this, I shall have a piece of Kate with me up at the altar and knowing you’re wearing it too,” Edwina pauses, her gaze pleading as she holds the bracelet out to you, “It’ll be like we’re in this together. Maybe I can channel some of your courage.”

At the touch of your fingertips, the metal chills against your skin as it soon shackles you to your living nightmare. As Edwina returns to getting ready, you visibly falter for the first time. While your sweet little sister fails to see it, Kate’s quickly at your side. She excuses the both of you slyly, your hands trembling in hers as you both exit the room.

“Bon—“ Kate says, but you offer her a sharp, “don’t.”

You walk with haste to the nearest glass, throwing down a quick shot, ignoring Kate’s advisory against alcohol. Your eyes are misty as your defenses crumble around you. Taking a deep breath, you quickly steel yourself, marching back into the room, rendering Kate unable to console you.

It all passes in a blur as you stare absently out of the window once more. The arriving guests. The bracelets. The wedding gown. Your mother's gushing of Edwina’s beauty in her gown only fuels the fire that slowly burns from the inside out.

“Didi,” you gaze from the window onto your approaching sister. She smiles warmly, taking both your hands. Your heart caught in your throat when she said, “You love him.”

“Wha—I—uh?” You stammer, eyes widening as you try to wrap your brain around her easygoing persona.

“You should not be afraid to tell Lord Beauregard how you feel. You have been nothing like yourself, and I’ve forgotten you have not seen Lord Beauregard in some time now, and you shall see him today. Just tell him,” Edwina says, smiling sweetly. The panic fades into a tremendous relief as your shoulders fall.

“Today is your day. Don’t worry about me, Bon,” You smile, gently squeezing her hands.

“Oh, my beautiful girls,” Your mother says, her gaze moving between you. Her gaze lingers on you for a moment longer, her eyebrow pinching, but the door opening steals her attention away. Concurrently, your body tenses.

“Come. Let us put all the nasty gossip behind us for once and for all,” Your mother stands, taking one of your hands and Edwina’s. Kate joins, taking your own and Edwina’s free hands. She offers you a comforting squeeze. “Let us give the ton a wedding to remember and show them who we truly are.”

Outside the curtains, you stand at Kate's side as if a prisoner were standing before the guillotine. Your corset seemingly constricting as your mind fails to move your legs. You grip Kate’s hand tighter, your ears ringing so loudly you can hardly hear your whisper to her, “I fear I cannot do this, Didi.”

”You are the strongest person I know, Bon. You can. I’m with you all the way. For better or worse,” she whispers. Looking up at her, you blink back tears, and a nervous chuckle leaves you with a final quick whisper: “It sounds as if we are to be wed.”

Kate lets out a soft as she gently pulls you along with her. Servants pull the sheer curtains away as you both pass through. Your gaze finds William in seconds, sitting with Aunt the Queen. His gaze was cold and focused on the groom. You never meet the groom's gaze despite it searing a hole into your head.

You curtsy to the Queen, and William’s gaze remains behind you. As you take your place behind Kate, your gaze meets the grooms for only a second—your breath hitch as you approach the entrance, awaiting the inevitable. A smile takes your face at the sight of your mother and Edwina. Despite everything, your dear little sister always amazes you with her beautiful presence.

Archbishop begins the ceremony, but his words do not reach you. The ringing of your ears grows louder, your right hand soon fiddling at your side. Your smile falters into an absent stare as the bangle on your wrist becomes more noticeable than the gown that covers much of your skin. You let out a shaky exhale, your left hand crushing the stems of your bouquet.

Squaring your shoulders, you take a deep breath and stare forward. A weak smile on your lips as Benedict shoots you a wink—the calm brief as your gaze meets the groom. You refocus on Benedict, but it’s mere seconds, and you both return. The bobbing of his Adams apple, light sweat above his brow, his gaze unfocused, hazy—perhaps you imagine it. You are in Edwina’s place, standing before Anthony, not with a joyous smile but a smug one. A reminder that each day would be a challenge, one you’d both happily accept—a future.

“My lord,” The Archbishop shatters the fantasy with a firmness, tearing your gaze from him; you focus on Kate’s shoulder.

A brief reprieve as the wedding crashes violently with the present reality. Your left hand grips the bouquet stems so tightly it rips beneath the force of your palm as your right hand trembles at your side, the bengal sliding menacingly around your wrist. You tense as your racing heart becomes your only focus, clashing with the loud ringing in your ears.

Anthony looks around the room, and again, his gaze finds you. Edwina’s eyebrows pinch as she follows his gaze. You do not look up from Kate’s shoulder, confident that one wrong move shall bring your end. Even as Edwina turns back, prompting Anthony, his gaze flicks to your unwavering stare on Kate’s shoulder. Your trembling hand matches the pace of your raging heart as you force your tears to remain in your lids.

“I, Lord Anthony Bridgerton,” Archbishop recites, his words ringing loudly in your ears as they hit you head-on. The bengal slips from your wrist, releasing you from its confines. Your eyes close with a sigh of relief as everything quiets. Anthony stands before you when your eyes open, holding the bengal out to you. You glance at Kate, her gaze panicked as she looks between Anthony and yourself.

Lifting your hand, you falter for a second; the moment has lasted far longer than it should. Your gaze locks with his own as you reach out cautiously. His thumb brushes against your own faintly at the touch of the metal. Muttering a thank you and apology, you return to your spot with your gaze low and lips pursed, holding the bengal not placing it back on.

“I need a moment!” Edwina shouts, her voice echoing through the silence. Your eyes widen, and she’s rushing down the aisle from the altar before you can even process. A sea of indiscernible chatter fills the room as you watch your mother rush after Edwina. It all soon returns, the ringing in your ears and your chest constricting. William rises from his seat, his gaze gentle as he stares at you. You look everywhere but at Anthony. Kate grabs your hand, pulling you back down the aisle out of the ceremony.

”—we will call for tea, and once you have something in your stomach, you will be strong enough to go back out there. The Viscount—“ You stand in the doorway, Kate standing a few paces in front of you, your mother a few in front of her. Edwina paces the room, taking deep, haggard breaths. Your mother fumbles to recover the moment, “The Viscount will understand, yes Kate? (Y/n), dear, perhaps you might find that tea—“

“It is not tea that I want; it is the truth!” You freeze in place as Edwina looks at you in a way you have never seen her look at anyone. Though words enter your mind, they do not leave your parted lips. Your mother voices her confusion as you stand as a deer in headlights, teary-eyed and guilty. Edwina continues mercilessly, “Still uncharacteristically quiet, sister, how telling of your deceitful nature!”

“I don’t understand what is happening,” Your mother's gaze bounces between you. Kate sidesteps in a failed attempt to hide you from Edwina’s view, your presence only furthering her rage.

“I shall tell you what is going on, Mama. Your daughter does not love chaos, as she claims. She loves destruction! Decimation at the tips of her fingers, slowly poisoning all she touches!” You blink through your tears, unable to find the words or even begin an explanation.

“Edwina—“ Kate interjects and appears to be the only intervention that deters from her verbal assault.

“Oh, you cannot deny it now, Kate! You enable her! You always have. The two of you are constantly deceiving me. Together in your deception! You knew! Didn’t you? You knew of her feelings for him, ” Edwina narrows her eyes at Kate, the implication of her words giving your Mother much-needed clarity. Meeting your mother's gaze, your head tilts, all but pleading for comfort without words.

“Alright, that is enough. No good can come from this at present. Let us all take a moment to calm ourselves, shall we,” Your mother says, moving to Edwina’s side. She sits Edwina down, dissolving into a bundle of tears. You try to voice an apology, but your Mother turns to you, speaking sternly, “I said that is enough. You have done enough today.”

”Mama, please. I didn’t want this, please. I’m sorry,” You cry, panting softly as your words spill out. The ringing in your ears returns and grows louder steadily with each passing second. Kate interjects only to receive the same sternness, “And you. You have kept so very much from me.”

”Mama, please,” You cry; reaching out for her, she pulls away and points to the door.

“Anywhere else right now, (Y/n),” She says. Rushing out of the doors, everything splinters into a heap of colors and sounds. You pant as though you have run miles rather than mere steps. When you rush into the first set of doors you find, you rush past several faces you cannot make out. Your breathing choppy and staggered, your hand trembling without pause as you pace vehemently.

“(Y/n),” You cringe at the sound of your name, shaking your head as sobs rattle you to your core. He takes your hands, guiding you to the floor. “Hey, it’s okay.”

“It’s not William. I’ve ruined everything; I’m a terrible sister—a terrible person,” You cry, shaking your head; he places a hand on your cheek, stilling you as he wipes a tear.

“You’re far from a terrible person. Stubborn, sure, but not terrible,” He chuckles, tilting his head down to meet your gaze.

“You don’t understand—“ Panting endlessly, William keeps his gaze locked on you and takes a deep breath in and out. He continues to do so until you follow, and even then, he continues for a few moments.

”I’ve made my intentions with you—my uh, my feelings very clear. And when I realized your impact on Anthony and me, I was angry and jealous. He’s so at ease with you even when you’re annoying him, and you seem to forget anyone else is around when the two of you interact,” William says with a slight smile. Your face falls at his words.

“William, I am so sorry—“ Your voice wavers and William chuckles, shaking his head before you can continue. He nudges your side with a grin.

“No apology needed. I only wish for you to be happy (Y/n) just as I wish for Anthony, and with time, your sister will share this sentiment. Of that, I am sure. I must warn you, though, things will grow far worse before they grow better,” William says, resting your head on his shoulder; he kisses the top of your head. You close your eyes, refocusing on deep breaths.

After a few minutes you clear your throat, “I should go, the last thing I need is another scandal.”

“You’re nothing but trouble, Miss Sharma,” William grins, shaking his head. A giggle leaves you as you wrap your arms around him, squeezing his tight.

”Thank you for this,” You mutter, squeezing a little tighter as he kisses the crown of your head once more. As you head back to the room, you pause as Kate sits outside with her head in her hands. She looks up at the sound of your approaching steps, quickly rising at your sight. Neither of you says a word before silently agreeing you both must face this head-on, accomplices. You knock gently upon the door, and Edwina’s face manages to sink even further at the sight of you.

“What?” She asks coldly; before you can get a word in, Kate inquires about your mother, but Edwina cuts her off, “You seem to know all. How could I possibly offer any insight of my own?”

”Edwina, please. Your anger is with me, not Kate,” You say, earning a huff in response.

“Mother is off, getting some air,” Edwina opens the door wider before moving from it entirely. You take a cautious step inside, still lingering by the door as Kate closes it behind the two of you.

“Edwina, I never wanted to hurt you. By the time I realized, it felt far too late to say something. So, I thought that I would swallow it down to avoid this because I wanted you to

be happy. I know you wanted this badly, but I didn’t realize how deep this ran. But it does not matter; I am unfit to be Viscountess, but you, you’re perfect for it,” Your voice wavers as her teary gaze meets your own. Edwina scoffs, shaking her head.

“He said the same thing. I half expected to discover that the two of you prepared it ahead of time. Perhaps it speaks to your compatibility or your deceitful nature,” Edwina shakes her head at you, her gaze cold as ice.

“Edwina, (Y/n) has always supported. You and I both know she is not deceitful. Misguided, certainly. Stubborn almost all the time. But she’s our sister,” Kate says, eyebrows pinching as her head tilts. Edwina’s gaze bounces between the two of you. Her eyes land on Kate.

“I do not know which pains me more. Both your betrayals or your pity,” Edwina says, her head held high with a conviction you never knew her to be capable of.

“Edwina, we are sisters—“ Kate takes a step toward her, reaching out for her hands but halts at Edwina’s next words, “Half-sister, with the misfortune of having (Y/n) as a sister. I want you both to recognize that I am a grown woman and for the first time in my life, I can make a decision based on what I would like.”

Edwina glances over at you, her at ease presence furthered unraveling your nerves, “I have already imagined the life I would lead with Lord Bridgerton as Viscountess at Aubrey Hall. It lives in my mind and is mine to do with as I like. So, if I choose to marry Anthony, it will be because it pleases me and no one else. I need you both to understand that. If I go through with this wedding, it will have nothing to do with either of you.”

You swallow thickly every version of reality where you have no place in her life evident. Kate's reassurances fall victim to the high pitch. Like nails to a chalkboard in your ears. Your personalized torture.

Kate remains at your side, the silence jarring. Uncertain of an appropriate reaction, you find yourself in a hazy void. You refuse the tears pushing at the edge of your lids, no words in reach to synthesize the depths of the pit in your chest. Time fuses into a distorted blend of unrelenting dread. The footman delivers the summons, the neat handwriting familiar.

Kate hesitates as you ask her to join you. Would it fuel the fire? Further the divide? Perhaps. Even still, you both cross the silks and satins of the entryway—the wedding hall. It's still as breathtaking as you all left it.

”You sent word for me?” Your eyebrows pinch as Anthony's words linger in the air. Kate answers as your lips merely part, and no words leave you. You glance at Kate, who mirrors your visible confusion. Approaching footsteps carrying the answers to each lingering question.

Edwina enters like the calm before a storm. Her hands clasped in front of her, her gait determined, and her mindset. She passes Kate without sparing her a glance, Edwina’s gaze bouncing between you and Anthony, “I have made my decision. I thought it best that you both hear it from me.”

“Edwina, perhaps we should speak privately,” Kate suggests, earning a mirthless chuckle.

“No, and quite frankly, I am giving our sister a courtesy I was not granted,” Edwina keeps her head high, her presence delicate yet commanding. She turns to Anthony, who has not looked away from you. A rare sight of pure vulnerability in your eyes as you look at Edwina. Silently pleading for forgiveness. A soft sigh leaves Edwina as she keeps her eyes on Anthony, not continuing until she has his full attention, “I cannot marry you, Lord Bridgerton. You cannot provide me with what it is I want. What it is that I deserve. What everyone deserves. I may not know exactly what true love feels like, but I certainly know what it is not. It is not deception or, wandering eyes, or a role to be fulfilled. I cannot marry you because I cannot betray myself. You will never meet my eyes in the same manner that you met my sisters on that altar today. You will never...”

Edwina falters, a sigh escaping her as she briefly glances toward you and back to Anthony, “You will never look at me the same way. I would be your Viscountess, your wife, the mother of your children, but I would never be yours because you’ll be hers.”

Your eyes find Anthony as her words seep into your bones. Edwina addresses you and Kate with words of contempt and eyes of sorrow. Her retreating form leaves a heavy silence as Kate rushes after her. Neither of you move, Anthony at the altar and yourself a few paces down the aisle.

“I thought I taught Edwina nothing, but I fear she too shares the ability to scorch the earth in a fit of rage,” You chuckle, the tight-lipped smile dissolving into a huff, “I have ruined everything.”

”You speak as though you did it alone,” Anthony says, meeting your gaze in the same spot where he was meant to recite his vows.

“I should go,” You whisper, watching as he glances off, seemingly pondering something. Clearing your throat, you square your shoulders, “Lord Bridgerton.”

”You should stay,” He says, an odd ease to his demeanor. You can only wonder if he feels the turmoil that rages within you. He tilts his head, “Your sister is braver and wiser than us both. She had the courage to act on what she sensed between us. And here we are, you ready to flee and myself standing perfectly still. We’ve felt it for months.”

You inhale sharply, and the reality is apparent: you cannot escape this. Speaking hardly above a whisper, you fidget with the skirts of your dress, “I’ve lit more than enough fires today. If I were wise, I would go.”

”Then, only for a moment, my pyromaniac, play the fool with me. Humor me in this inevitability, a fate that cannot be. Explore the untenable depths of our desires for this moment only before we face the reality waiting for us out there,” Anthony holds out his hand to you. His smile does not reach his eyes as you stare at his hand before you.

A sigh leaves you as you chew on your bottom lip. You cross your arms, raising your head high, “If I am to play the fool, you will have to address me by my proper honorific, of course.”

”And what’s that?” Anthony’s eyebrows pinch as you turn your head.

“Viscount Bridgerton, of course,” You smirk as the realization slowly dawns upon him. A hearty laugh leaves his lips as you accept his hand with a gentle grin.

“The sky could be falling in, and you would find a way to jest,” Anthony smiles as he shakes his head. You nod, chuckling beneath his gaze, far closer than you were a few seconds prior. Neither of you, aware of when or how you got so close. The warmth brings a merriment that blurs the line between what can and cannot be.

The violins.

The flowers.

The gossip eager Ton.

The bride and groom at an altar without wedding bells. ”I fear I have destroyed my relationship with my sister.”

“And I, with my best friend.”

You give his hands a gentle squeeze on your own, gasping as he pulls you forward. The touch of your lips light at the climax of your shared fantasy. As you both pull apart, the warmth chills. You are not husband and wife; you are a scandal.

A smudge on both of your reputations.

[newtonsheffield]

wait in the surprise neddy au were josie and anthony friends in high school or not?

I think they were friendly. Not necessarily friends but they took a lot of the same subjects, they were probably in competition a lot. I think Josie was… surprised to get Anthony’s phone call asking for a meeting because what the bell would he have to talk to her about?

They haven’t spoken since university and she sent him a vague message of condolence when she heard his father had passed away because everyone knew how close they were. And as far as she knows Anthony lives in Kensington and doesn’t have any interests in her constituency of Hackney North and Stoke Newington. She doesn’t even follow him on social media which she realises after the meeting is clearly stupid because then she might have seen that Anthony’s partner is related to the woman who’s been absolutely hounding her office for six months.

Edwina Sharma is someone she vaguely knows of, no idea what she looks like, couldn’t name a single song from her band. Her band is popular with… indie alt girls? She thinks? She’s not exactly sure? She’s just pretty sure that she’s not the demographic.

Josie wasn’t expecting a lot of things when she went into that meeting, finding out Anthony’s the father to a three year old who’s more adorable than any child of Anthony’s has any right to be (privately she’s put Neddy’s little dimples down to his mother who again; More beautiful than a partner of Anthony’s has any right to be) for one thing! She definitely didn’t expect Edwina Sharma to burst into the room as though she was on an episode of Cheaters. But more than that she didn’t expect the way Edwina’s smirk made her teeth clench and her cheeks flush and her breath almost catch in her throat even though she was absolutely infuriating.

And if she spends all afternoon searching for the right one of Edwina’s bands songs to use in her video just to annoy her? So be it. Because it works perfectly. The video’s hardly been up fifteen seconds before she gets the comment notification.

We are in a blood feud! No using my musical genius against me!

Another thing Josie didn’t expect was all the comments under this one

Enemies to lovers 250k

Edwina Sharma Political WAG loading…

Edwina Sharma future wife of the Prime Minister please. It would be so funny

[therosebunpost]

So, I may or may not have started writing #2-

But I will definitely write whatever wins next!

If you’re curious, here’s a sneak peak:

So, I woke up this morning with this song in my head and was struck with a bolt of inspiration, but I don’t know what direction to actually go, so! I’m leaving it to the polls! (I think I’m addicted to these, they’re so fun)

Here’s the song:

And here are the options!

[siswritesyanderes]

OMGGG YANDERE BRIDGERTON PLEASE

Okay, brainstorm.

I'm torn between wanting the characters to be ruthless in the non-violent social sense that leaves their opponents destitute, or leaning fully into "They're rich enough to get away with murder."

So, I'm thinking the Bridgertons are just ALL yanderes. It's just a family thing; just yanderes all the way down. They banter about it. Violet and (the dad; I forgot his name) were yanderes for each other, and their children are all amazed at how well their mother survived losing him so suddenly.

In their childhood, the Bridgertons are all platonic yanderes. (When they do have childhood crushes, they don't usually feel yandere towards those; they're just cute little childhood crushes.) With their friends, they tend to be highly protective, or clingy, or jealous. Any one of them will kill for their family without a second thought and bury the body on their own land. Maybe someone hurts little Eloise's feelings, Daphne tells their older brothers, and Anthony, Benedict, and Colin sink a body in the river that night. Or rather, Anthony and Colin do, while Benedict preserves their alibi.

(At this moment I'm going to write about the canon relationships of those of them who have those. I'm open to asks about what specifically you're looking for.)

Daphne is yandere for Simon. She has modeled herself to be the perfect diamond, and Simon, as much as he tries to be, cannot make himself harder than a diamond. In fact, he is moldable, and fragile, and she adores him. Simon is not a yandere and also doesn't really get that Daphne is a yandere. He hasn't been romantic like this with anyone before, so he doesn't know what a normal level of possessiveness is. He's been taught that women need to be wary of him, not vice versa. Her genuine innocence to matters of the flesh shields her from a lot of scrutiny. How can someone who has never touched herself be thought guilty of taking undue license with a man? How could someone with such wide, naive eyes be thought guilty of manipulating anyone? At every step, she guides him into the palms of her hands, and she loves how he succumbs.

If she ever had her eyes on someone other than Simon, in keeping with my fondness for poly yanderes, most likely she would first verify that Simon likes the person, too. It's not beyond her capabilities to guilt him for liking someone else and leverage that to get him to go along with whatever her plan is to pursue this unconventional relationship. But I think she would pick a gentler way to convince him, and only resort to shaming him if he resists the gentle approach. Maybe the one they both love can be hired as a "nanny" or "tutor" for their children, and they can enjoy their intimate company in the comfort of their own home. That could work even if the person marries someone else, and anyway, who's to say the unfortunate rival won't trip on a slick road or drunkenly fall into the Thames?

Anthony thought he felt that Bridgerton obsession for Siena; he pursued her relentlessly on the basis of what he believed he was supposed to feel. When that didn't pan out and he still felt basically like his normal self, he decided that he must not be like the rest of his family. And good! Because he didn't want to fall in love anyway.

Then he met Kate, and suddenly his ruthless self is unleashed in full. She was the sun in the morning, the air he breathed, and he needed as many hooks in her as possible to make sure she didn't go anywhere. When she seemed to distrust and resent him, he courted Edwina. Now Kate had to be around him. But as he wormed his way closer to her, she planned to leave for India as soon as Edwina was married. That couldn't be allowed. Every step he took was contrived to erase the possibility of Kate leaving him. Honestly, we could say that he deliberately caused her to fall off her horse, if we wanted to. Kate does recognize that he feels and behaves abnormally toward her, but once she comes to terms with being romantic with him in the first place, she's able to handle his yandere side pretty easily.

If he ever had his eyes on someone other than Kate, he might kidnap them in secret. Again, he just needs them not to leave. Kate finds out, because she's on top of everything always. She isn't really yandere, but she already manages his obsession with her on a daily basis. Now, she manages his obsession with the new person, the ethics of kidnapping, and the need to contain the scandal of what he's done, by basically helping him to craft a plausible narrative around what happened. (Maybe they found you in the woods, having gotten lost and ill, and were keeping you in their home until you were well enough. You're still not allowed to see anyone; who would question the Bridgertons? Kate makes sure you're comfortable and reins in Anthony where necessary. He worships her for being so understanding of his needs.)

I haven't seen season 3 yet and so I don't have a full handle on Colin right now.

Benedict will gladly pine forever. He has a kind of romantic enjoyment of the sensation of yearning, so he could paint his love and watch his love and tease his love forever. But, given the expectations of the society they live in, his love might be obligated to marry someone. He will very amicably ruin anyone his love courts. Scandals everywhere. Without the slightest dip in his wistful smile, he will set everything into place to have his rivals socially destroyed, in the ton, and when his love is left with no one else to court, then he will appear with all the love in his heart. If the person is looking for a husband, then he's their last chance. If they're looking for a wife, then Benedict will cleverly contrive it so that they read as best friends, artistic partners, whatever else. Maybe his love has found themself to be inexplicably cut off from any money and resources they once had. The crucial thing is that he will never have to vie for attention. He only has to introduce himself, and they will concede to his love willingly. And then he'll unload his deluge of paintings and sculptures and poems onto them. He might do this with Madame Delacroix.

Also, maybe Penelope's a yandere? Just separately. Idk, she has too much subtle power to ignore.

[viviennevermillion]

*breaks into your inbox*

Hello again! I loved the first one and I'm absolutely in love with Sampo and Blade so can I request headcanons for them with a partner that loves to just shower them in affection? Like they love to hold hands, hug, compliment them, and just give little kisses all the time? :3

Showering them in Affection

✧ ɴᴏᴛᴇꜱ: thanks for the request ryker! also guys check out my hsr network @masked-fools! feel free to apply to join us! also do tell me if you want to be on my taglist for any characters!

✧ ɴᴏᴡ ᴘʟᴀʏɪɴɢ: feels like home — edwina hayes

✧ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀꜱ: sampo, blade

✧ ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢꜱ: none

Sampo may seem like an "easygoing fella", as he describes himself, and seems to talk more than he is silent but it's a role he plays. Getting Sampo to open up and be genuine and honest with you is incredibly difficult and takes a long, long time and through it all he is pining so much. So once he's actually with you and fully gives his heart to you, he craves your affection like it's the air he breathes

He always indulges you when you decide to basically shower him in affection. You'll be planting kisses all over his face and Sampo has the proudest, happiest smile on his expression as if someone just crowned him king of Belobog.

He loves deep kisses. He'd be up for kissing you for an hour straight if you wanted to. He puts on a nice lip balm in your favorite flavor just for you. Just so you keep feeling like kissing him. He adores when you cup his cheeks and kiss him like this is your last day together. It makes his heart flutter.

Sampo feels he's living the dream with someone as affectionate as you. He's a man who wants to be spoiled and pampered. Literally melts and wonders whether he's in heaven already when you hold him in your arms and place soft kisses on his forehead. He snuggles closer to you, nuzzling your neck and you can smell his shampoo as you rest your head on top of his. It's really nice. Occasionally he pecks your neck and tries to cling to you even more than he's already doing.

You know those couples who make out in the hallway whilst other people are present? That's Sampo except in the Administrative District of Belobog. He thinks you look cute holding a small bouquet he got you at the flower shop and he decides if he wants to kiss you now, the tram and its driver, who is already cursing at you for standing in the way, can wait.

He's always happy when you want to hold his hand. But it also is never enough for him. You reach for his hand and he pulls you into a hug or presses a kiss to your lips almost reflexively.

Listen, Sampo is a sucker for compliments. He was thinking about "tall, blue and handsome" but any compliment that comes out of your mouth literally sounds so much better than that. He'd love to be called a pet name like "love" or "darling". Makes him feel like in a way you're partners in crime even if you're not participating in his scams.

There's nothing that makes Sampo's heart beat faster than you being bold with your affections. Pulling him into a kiss in front of a whole crowd. Trailing soft pecks down his neck while you're hiding from the Silvermane Guards. Announcing to your friends who may not approve of him as your boyfriend that he's the love of your life. He's down bad when you do stuff like this.

Blade tries to not show it on his face how much he adores how affectionate you are with him. He's never imagined himself as someone who's into this type of thing but surprises can come even to someone who has lived as long as he has.

Blade prefers slower, more soft affections from you behind closed doors as opposed to Sampo. He loves when the two of you are cuddled up in bed and you tell him how much you love him and kiss his cheek repeatedly.

Sometimes when he's back from a mission for the Stellaron Hunters, you'll immediately run up to him to embrace him. You'd pull him into a desperate but slow kiss, whispering against his lips that you were worried and that you love him, and Blade leans into your touch and his expression changes from one of stoicism or concern to an uncharacteristically soft and affectionate one. "Don't worry... I'm here now. I'll be alright", he always reassures you even on days where that couldn't be further from the truth.

After a long and stressful day, Blade loves when you drag him to have a warm bath with you. You help him wash his long hair and he falls asleep with his head on your chest inside the bathtub because the feeling of your fingers massaging his scalp makes him relax into your embrace immediately. You have to chuckle at how peacefully he rests in your embrace. You only decide to end his nap once the water has started feeling a little cold. You wake him up with soft kisses and he hums quietly as he's waking up. As soon as he's aware of his surroundings again, he turns his head for his lips to find yours.

When Blade comes back from a battle, his skin is often sore and he feels tense so he loves when you help him relax by giving him a nice massage or pressing kisses to the scars that line his shoulders while whispering soft praises. You can see his facial expression relax and he looks so much more at peace already. His shoulders are also very sensitive so he just leans back and focuses on your kisses for a while whilst holding your hand in his.

Blade has calloused hands and slightly chapped lips. He's happy you still want to hold his hands and kiss him even though his skin is not soft. You tell him that this just means he has been through things and needs your love even more. "What would I do without you?", Blade chuckles lightly and lets you pull him into a hug.

Gets flustered at PDA. Especially if it's in front of his fellow Stellaron Hunters. He'll be chatting about Elios recent prophecies with Silver Wolf and Kafka and if you're the type of person to run up to him and try to bear hug him he's like 😳

Let's you call him Bladie but only if it's followed up by a kiss or an "I love you"

Blade is more of a passive lover but you can be certain that he enjoys every bit of your affectionate side.

[spaceorphan18]

The Lady Whistledown Papers : 2x02 Off To The Races (Part 4)

Welcome back, Gentle Readers, to The Lady Whistledown Papers, where I’m taking an in-depth look at Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton’s character arcs and romance within the show Bridgerton!

For previous issues, follow tag : The Lady Whistledown Papers

The Danbury Soiree

Is this the only scene where Penelope and Kate are even near each other? *sigh* it is a tragedy that they haven't had any good scenes together. Tragedy!

So - Lady Danbury is throwing this soiree where the dudes are attempting to show off for Edwina, and, honestly, it's kind of hysterical. The interesting thing about this scene, though, is that Penelope sneaks in during Kate and Eloise's dialogue. Says absolutely nothing, does not react to the conversation at all, and the whole time she is looking very solemn. Why??

Was there a cut scene before this? Did something happen? I don't think this originally came after the upcoming Polin scene, but maybe it did? It's interesting though, she seems so sad here.

I also kind of wondering if she's listening in as Lady Whistledown? Is it really that she's supposed to be gathering info? Idk, idk. Hmmm.

I'm including this because Eloise's face is hilarious. Also, at the end of this scene, Eloise takes Pen away. Again, is there a cut scene? Because we don't get any dialogue between the two. There's clearly more to this story on a cutting room floor somewhere.

Penelope is at least looking in better spirits as she's hanging on the sidelines during a break. Sweet Edwina comes along and compliments her dress. (And I kind of wonder if this is a nod to a scene in Viscount Who Loved Me when Kate and Penelope have a scene together, and Kate is very sweet.)

Penelope might be in her Spongebob Squarepants era (Nicola's assessment - but I do think she looks adorably cute, even if that dress is a lot.) but Edwina is still very kind to her. Penelope states she's grown weary of the color, but Edwina insists it suits her rather well. I'm not sure I agree but it's lovely that Edwina is so kind - and shows off Edwina's good heart.

Their conversation is cut short, however, when Colin enters the room and Penelope is full on - peace out, I got places to be...

And, omg, how adorable is this girl, fixing her hair, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, readying herself to have another conversation with the boy she cares so deeply about. I'm still so amused at how confident Penelope is shown to be at times - but being around Colin puts her head in a tizzy. But girl is excited as she approaches.

Side note... Prudence is totally clocking this interaction btw. I'm on team - Prudence and Philippa totally know about Penelope's crush.

Also, Pen and Colin bow to each other as she approaches. While more historically accurate (I suppose) they do eventually phase this out entirely, it's interesting to include it here. I wonder if it's because it's a more formal event? Because none of this kind of decorum was present in the previous to meetings in this episode.

Yeah, uh, so it's almost blink and you miss it, but the way he smirks when she approaches. He walks in and is fine, and then she approaches and he just lights up. Like, oh precious Penelope has come to join me. Fantastic. :) Also, Penelope is completely giddy. These two continue to be happy just hanging out in a corner together.

So, let's take a second and talk about Colin being there. I've seen some interesting discourse about it. Was he invited? I think all the Bridgertons were -- Benedict bailed to do artsy things. Anthony has his own agenda. Eloise and Violet are definitely there. I think this is one of those family outing things that everyone went to.

Did he need to be there? No. But he came anyway. Violet, in the previous scene, seemed to indicated that this was another family thing. And, idk, idk. He has zero intentions of finding a wife/partner/whatever so he's just there. And, I've seen people discuss that he came to hang out with Penelope. Which is - lovely, I love the idea! I don't know if I can fully buy it -- since it is an outing the family was invited to. But I do think he's all about hanging out with Penelope.

Penelope, in her joking and cute way, asks if he has some hidden talent to show off. Colin is so amused by her light teasing but plainly states that he's there as a spectator. And there are two things that stand out to me here: 1. That Penelope is quite aware that Colin really isn't interested in Edwina, even if she has fears about another woman in the picture, between Anthony's plain motivations and Colin's complete lack of interest, I think she knows Edwina isn't an issue (for her). 2. This kind of banter is what they do. Yes, it can get her info, but it also shows the ease between them - as they can joke with each other.

Penelope states that it's fascinating that there's so much interest in a girl any of them hardly know. Colin notes she's not a fan of mystery, and Penelope states she's one to always jump to the back of the book.

And that's a fascinating thing - I'm mean, her being the mysterious Lady Whistledown makes the statement amusing. But more so - Penelope is a character who is rather upfront about things. The girl wears her heart on her sleeve and can't help it. And honestly, Colin is the same way. He's going to try his best to not be that way, come season 3, but it's one thing these two have in common. They just can't help but express how they feel.

Penelope takes this opportunity to ask him about a possible young woman he's met - and, my god is she bold, but also really nervous about his answer. And he is so absolutely dumbfounded by the question. He's been so busy trying to get over Marina, figuring out who the fuck he is and enjoying Penelope's company via letters that other women just haven't even crossed his mind.

(Another point for Demi!Colin? Sure why not!)

This next bit, omg. So, Penelope goes on (awkwardly) to state that him not being lonely meant female companionship. And the look on Colin's face is kind of hilarious when he starts to understand. There's amusement there - but while Penelope means a solid love affair, I almost get that the impression that he thinks Penelope is wondering if he fucked his way through Greece. Which, he did not - he was too busy being emotional, getting high, and contemplating grass. Which I love for Colin. I really do.

Penelope, realizing that what she's asking is so not appropriate, kind of chokes off and awkwardly mentions the hoop-rollers. (It's such a cute little rom-com moment here.)

Alright. And then we start with this nonsense... Colin says she's right - that he wasn't lonely on his travels, that he started a conversation with someone that he's known a very long time, but whom he didn't know at all.... And the way Penelope just holds her breath as she thinks finally, good god, he might actually have noticed me....

...and then he says 'himself'.

And the

Okay. Okay, okay, okay. Let's break down that for a second - so what did Colin do? He goes off heartbroken over Marina. Decides he needs to get over. Starts writing with Penelope, who helps him see the world in ways he's never seen it before - and through that, enjoys his travels and probably does decide to start to figure things out for himself. It is, also, the first time he's on his own. No Anthony or Benedict to cast long shadows. No mother to tell him what to do. No younger siblings to contend or ridicule him. No pressure or pain from having a deceased father.

It's just him and the Mediterranean (and probably some weed). And maybe his travel journal? And Penelope's letters. It does give one the space to find oneself. That is a reason a lot of people travel. And as he's come back, he's so happy and proud and feeling good about life.

Is he over Marina? Not fully yet. Did he actually find himself? Meh, I think he still has some soul searching to do. Is he missing the bigger picture? Completely. But I don't think he's lying when he says he did connect to himself in a way he hadn't before.

This moment has always cracked me up (in a heartbreaking way). Colin says - myself, and Penelope has this total - what the fuck look on her face. She takes this gulp and she literally looks as though she's gonna deck him one. (which I get, Pen, I get)

Because yes, the writing here is intentionally double speaking. All of that does apply to her. And he did start a conversation with an old friend he realized he didn't know before and now sees in a new light. He's just too in his own headspace to even realize it. And he's too in his own headspace now to recognize how Penelope is taking all of it.

Colin, throwing salt in the wound, goes on to thank her.

My reaction ::

(I realize this is probably only funny to me, but I think it every time I see this scene.)

Anyway - so he goes on to thank her, stating that her letters are encouraging and that if Penelope can see him in such good light, then maybe he can see himself that way to.

Which. Like, my god, Colin. My god. He's basically saying that she's helped him find himself, makes him feel good about himself, and makes him feel good about the world he's in. I should also note that - by him saying this, it also means he hasn't/wasn't in a good place as he took off for Greece, and Penelope helped him through that. Maybe not entirely directly - I'm sure he didn't open up to her about his feelings for Marina or anything. But just by being her - and being this person who listens to him, who adores him, who is funny and entertaining and makes him think...

She's a goddamn light in his world. It is gonna have an effect on him when she's not there for next year's travels.

Poor Penelope - too young to really understand the deeper meaning of these words, and hearing all of this at face value just kinda reacts in the most heartbreaking of ways.

It's funny because -- he goes on to say that he's sworn off love and women and all of it. Though Colin's big, romantic heart is still full. Because Penelope has been there to guide him through. He's gonna do the whole thing over again next tour, but really follow through in a way that he didn't in his Greek travels. (but we'll get there...)

And... they are so not in sync during this whole scene but the real disconnect is right here.

Penelope, fishing a little, confirms that he's swearing off women. He says - yup, until I can figure my shit out (and because he needs to get himself over Marina completely). And Pen is like, but, uh, I am a woman...

And this is Penelope putting herself out there -- even just a little bit. It's a little of, hey, look, I is a girl seeeeee. And Colin is like yup, nope, friendzone!!!

Look - here's my thing, because Colin has gotten flack for these lines, and this is where I think there's a deeper meaning buried in here that I think is worth noting. She says, 'I am a woman' and he responds with 'You don't count, you're Pen. You're my friend'.

And the surface and literal read of this moment sucks. It hurts. Penelope thinking he doesn't see her as a woman. Marina's words are still haunting her -- she's not a viable option. She's just... a friend.

But! This is my argument -- in saying this, Colin is placing her in an another, separate category entirely. There are -- all (other) women. And then there's Penelope. I mean, he is so adoringly happy to call her his friend. She is special to him. She gets her own category that transcends everything.

And, I mean, men and women weren't just friends in this time period. So this is a big, fucking deal for him to call her that. He has her on his same level. She means something to him. He's swearing off all women, and all that other headache. But not Penelope. Because my friend Penelope is special and dear to me and isn't a headache, etc, etc, etc...

So yeah, this moment sucks. It does. It really does. But it also means something more than the surface level words. Because Colin doesn't really realize what he's saying either. He hasn't figured out that this bond of friendship is incredibly important -- and more important than the 'love' he's felt in the past. That it's steadfast and true and opens him up and helps him find himself and there is real love there. Even if it is just friendship - I never want to discount the fact that love between friends is just as special.

It's the foundation they grown their romantic love on. And it's so, so, so important to this story. But - this just isn't the right moment or them to figure it out. Penelope needs him not to be on a pedestal. And Colin still needs to see her in a romantic/sexual light for a romance to work.

They're completely out of sync - but the building blocks are there.

The end of this scene is brutal. He walks away from her feeling good about chatting with his bff Penelope. (and, I mean, if it wasn't the end of the scene - might they have chatted more? he walks away as if a man on a mission to go somewhere, but why? oh, because the scene ends.)

Penelope, though, girl.... All of the little acting choices here make it so, so heartbreaking.

First of all, look at her back up into the wall. One of the themes in Penelope's story is coming out of the shadows, and here's she's pushing herself back into a corner, against the wall, and despite the candles, into the shadows where she feels she belongs. She (thinks) she put herself out there just now, only to be devastated to learn that the boy she loves thinks of her only as a friend.

And then there's the gasp for breath, the closing of her eyes, the nervous bouncing on her feet -- she is so close to breaking down but holds it together. Oohh it's so heartbreaking but oh so good.

The angst!!

Interestingly, we don't see Penelope, Colin, or Eloise (for that matter) the rest of the soiree. I wonder what the choice was not to have them there (other than giving the actors time off a lengthy scene?). Penelope is around, though, because LW definitely is noticing all the drama between the Sharmas and Anthony.

Lady Whistledown Business

I know this post is already too long, but I'm squeezing this in here because it's just a tiny bit left in the episode...

I'm so curious as to where they are. This is clearly another day - is this at the Featherington home? Is this Jack's stuff Penelope is playing with? Or is this at the Bridgerton home? I'm so curious as to who has telescopes and kaleidoscopes in their study. Also - I have to say the childlike wonder of Penelope in this moment is a treasure. In some ways, she is still so young - and having that juxtaposed against Eloise talking about the more adult LW stuff is fascinating.

Anyway - Eloise claims she's found LW, and Penelope sits up in fear. Eloise goes on to say that she's found the printer's shop where the pamphlets have been created. Penelope, nervously, asks if she's figured out anything. And Eloise goes on to explain that the misshaped letter 'k' has led her figuring all of this out.

Seriously... whose place is this? I wanna go there!

But anyway, Penelope - now determined to keep her identity secret, claims that they should keep a look out to see if the mistake is made again in the next issue. You can already see the plan forming in Penelope's mind.

There is a darker side to Penelope Featherington -- this face shows it off...

Penelope wastes no time (and, I mean, how does she get away with sneaking off in the middle of the day like this - it's again, fascinating). Anyway, she buys a new 'k' to replace the wonky one and no doubt gets it straight to the publishing house. She is crafty and clever and the way she barters in this scene is just so good. She is not going to let anyone figure her out, and is intelligent enough to keep it up.

However, not always indiscrete enough -- as she runs into Madame Delacroix on the street. Penelope runs away before any explanation is given.

It's funny that the closing LW narration is about keeping everyone else honest, as Penelope is so secretive about herself.

As the ominous music swells, and the LW narration talks about being thrust into the light, we get the Queen and her scheming. She is on the trail of a young lady who might possibly fit the bill to be LW -- and Penelope's card is on the top of the pile... ;)

[lookingfts]

Lover chapter 8 really got me with Kate coming to the realization that while she keeps saying she sacrificed her happiness for Edwinas happiness and would do it all again, she didnt realize she was setting her child up for a father that didnt love them. That absent fathers would be their normal. That marriage isnt about love and husbands leave their wives lonely and dont care about humiliating them bc they are indiscreet. Like that being the moment she can admit to herself like shes not ok with her decision she probably wouldnt do it again and she shouldn't have 😭😭😭

Oh, this is such a good (and sad) way to think about it. Edwina is in a loving marriage, and Kate is still grateful for that. But she always thought the sacrifice for that was simply her own chance at love, and that was a sacrifice she was willing to make. She never really thought, deep down, that she would fall in love anyway. And she believed that even if her husband didn't feel anything special for her, he would care for his children, and that would be enough.

But Fife isn't that person, and being with Anthony - seeing how much he adores her and her child, even though it's not his - has really opened her eyes to what could have been. Not only will Fife not be a present father, but what example does that set for her son or daughter when it comes time to make their own match? I think Violet says something similar in S2, about the example Anthony is setting for his siblings by marrying Edwina.

Kate has a lot of regrets, but she can't change it now. All she can do is allow herself to be selfish and hope that everything will work out. She knows that Anthony intends to be part of her life and her child's life, whatever that takes. (That conversation will be in the next chapter!)

[dollypopup]

i just. . .I just love everything about Colin Bridgerton and I can't stop. I love how heartfelt he is, I love how he makes others comfortable around him, I love how he fidgets, how he gestures, his quips and all his looks. How you can read an entire story just looking at his expressions and how he keeps so much under wraps. I love that he's buttoned up and everything proper on the surface whilst he breaks almost all the rules. I love how he told Penelope she doesn't count as someone he could give up because he cares about her, that she's his friend. How open his friendship with her is in an era where people insist that can't happen, when women aren't valued much at all (save for in a sexual sense) by most men. I love how he has a genuine friendship with her and cares about what she thinks, that he doesn't objectify her or pity her. I love how clearly he respects the women in his life. I love how he always listens to Penelope's insight and opinions, that he adores his mum and jokes around with her, that he played matchmaker for Anthony and Kate at Pall Mall, that he was clearly concerned for Edwina during the wedding. That he looks out for his littlest siblings and snarks with Eloise. That he's Daphne's favorite and how he always tried to ease Marina in S1. That the worst thing he's said about a woman in the entire series has been to call her 'cruel'. I love that he's lefthanded and that he's great with kids. I love that he loves love. I love that he's a flirt but also that he's not a fuckboi. I love that he's a hopeless romantic, that he talks about Leander going to see his love each night under the cover of darkness and has to be reminded that Leander drowned. I love that he doesn't often think ahead, that he runs in with his heart in his hands and a plan held together with a lick and promise and a bit of hope. I love that he loves yellow, that he's light and cheerful even when he knows heartache, even when he's sad. I love that he hides. I love that he says the wrong thing and I love that his charming demeanor hides so much beneath it. I love how he researches and dives into Greek mythology. I love that he's curious. I love his friendship with Will and Phillip, I love how he pushes back against Anthony's misogyny and that he hugs up on Benedict and encourages him. I love his integrity and nonsense. I love that he can't stop snacking and that he takes people at their word. I love how he trusts and how he loves others.

I love his mischief and his spontaneity, I love that he always wants to make things right. I love how he knows how to properly apologize and I love when he doesn't. I love all his triumphs and all his fuck ups. I love how he tries. I love that he never stops trying. I love that his character is one people need to dig into to truly understand and appreciate. I love rewatching his scenes and noticing something new each time. I love his hero complex and his cowardice, I love how he runs and when he stays. I love that he was shorter than all his brothers and sisters as a kid and that he's the tallest when he's grown. I love how he teases, I love how he uplifts, I love his passions and his insecurity, his concerns and his celebrations, when he's out of his depth and when he's at ease. I love how he changes depending on who he's around and how we have to read him to see where he's being most genuine. I love that he has facets. I love that those facets aren't obvious. I love the surface level of him and all the depths.

I love everything about Colin Bridgerton.

[a-girl-in-neverland]

Once again, im here to complain about the bridgerton subplots and changes

So spoiler for Season 3 ahead

I hated that they just cast Anthony and Kate aside. Do they really had to go RUNNING to India and couldnt wait for FRANCESCA'S WEDDING???? Hello??? Werent they the head of the family??

The intention with that is great and loving but is the showrunner allergic to having Jonathan Bailey and Simone Ashley in our screens for more than 3 minutes????

Like at that scene of the night before Polins wedding. Colin mentions that Kanthony has "come back"??? From where??? Did they run off again??

(Also i would really like to know who Edwina married and a bit of her love story)

The way in which the writers simply forgot about benedict's art/painting plot is atonishing. The build up of S1 to S2 was great, with the art school, but then in S3 is like that never happened?? Why didnt they explore more Benedict's lack of purpose or even his disappoinment with Anthony's actions?? Noooo, they just rather have him have sex with people all season long

(Before you come after me, im not critizing Benedicts sexuality, im just pissed that his character had barely nothing to do this season other than have sex, but i did enjoy a lot his scenes with eloise)

The Mondrichs plot was sooooo inconsequential and had nothing to do with any other one in the entire season. What was the point of keeping them?????

Somehow the writers in this show can make up irrelevant plots for lukewarm characters but cant come up with anything for the most beloved ones

And lastly about Michaela Stirling. So many people on twitter are fighting over this that is sickening. But lemme tell you this, all my life i had the pleasure (or better, the experience) to see many books i adore turn into movies/tv shows. Sometimes in adapting change is good, sometimes is necessary. But this change alters the whole story.

To be clear, i am NOT trying to be disrespectul, or homophobic or even mean about it. I dont mind the representation. In fact i think stories centered around LGBTQ+ leads, in this period of time, is a niche that could be much explored. Bridgerton could inspire people who belong in this community to write these stories, which is great.

However, the change of introducing Michaela completely transforms Francescas story. The second-love with the exploration of sexuality trope has great potential. But changing so greatly a story thats well known between the fans is risky to say at least.

Francescas book is not my favorite (by far actually) but it is for a lot of people, and a lot of readers have been enamoured with michael for the last 20 years, at least. So i understand if people get upset, because i would too if my favorite couple/story changed so much out of the blue

And honestly, i think this is one of the ways the show is trying to remain relevant. I AM NOT trying to say that TV should use LGBTQ+ love stories as clickbait. But be serious, the books were written as 8 straight love stories, in todays society people would be complaining if they followed if by the rule.

Anyway, Polin were wonderful. Nicola and Luke you are so so so loved, we couldnt have actors that loved their characters more

(And at this point i might be a Portia Featherington stan, she grew a lot on me)

If you read this far, i hope you have a great week and please dont come for my critics, they are not hate opinions, i just needed to rant <3

[silverhallow]

I know a lot of people think that Benedict's love interest will be changed, but I don't know. While the other seasons add subplots and change things slightly, they still somewhat follow the book and since one of the biggest conflicts in AOFAG is that she doesn't want to get pregnant and have a bastard child that would end up how she was. So it'd be kind of a huge change. I feel like it'd be like changing who Whistledown is. It just kind of changes the major conflict of the story.

Honestly... I could write a fucking essay on this.

Sophie's story, because it is HER story not Benedict's (yes he learns and grows through AFOAG but it's Sophie's life, Sophie's story...), is about the other side of the ton.

She is a bastard. She WAS a ward but then became a servant at the hands of her abusive step-mother. because lets be honest, there is no other way around it. IT'S ABUSE.

if it was modern times her being a bastard wouldn't be an issue, Richard would still be her father and Araminta would be her step-mother and the fact she was born out of wedlock wouldn't be an issue.

a GIRL born out of Wedlock is literally the lowest of the low in social standings back then, even a boy out of wedlock wouldn't be as much of an issue, most men would have looked after a boy more... cared for them a bit more but GIRLS? heaven forbid?!

so changing any of that cheapens her story. her life as a woman, a bastard, a ward and her social standing that changes upon the death of her father is Sophie's narrative.

it is what makes their entire story, its the REASON she refuses to be Benedict's mistress despite the fact she LOVES him and wants to be with him. she refuses because of the stigma she knows, the abuse she had to suffer. she doesn't a child to have that, even though she knows Benedict would love her and the child, she still refuses because she doesn't want that stigma...

to change any of that... changes the essence of her story.

it would be like Simon not having a dick for a father and his stutter and the reason he initally doesn't want children.

it would be like Kate not being almost an extra mother to Edwina and not being the "spinster" that no one wanted to marry.

it would be, like you said, penelope NOT being Lady Whistledown.

it changes the entire story.

yes the other things can be changed, things around her story can be changed but the essence. her past, her trauma, her bastardary is what makes her her!!

to change it, changes the story completely and means you can sell the follow on, you CAN'T call it An Offer from a Gentleman, because IT WOULDN'T BE THAT!!

Honestly, if you change the end game love interests for any of the Bridgerton's, it is NOT the story.

it is not the book, it's not even BASED on the book.

it's taking characters from a story and writing a new story completely, which is FAN FICTION.

these stories, can be adapted, but the base of the story, the background of the characters stays the same but the other details can be changed.

honestly, i could go on and on about what they COULD change about Sophie's story, who she works for, how she meets Benedict in the end...

but honestly... I don't care about any of that as long as Sophie is still in essence, SOPHIE. A Bastard, ward, Maid who is sassy as fuck, stubborn as a mule but kindhearted and adorable.

and thats the fucking tea.

[mogitz]

Okay - It’s actually cracking me up that the Bridgerton family keeps fucking over the queen.

First Daphne with the prince.

Then the Edwina/Anthony/Kate fiasco.

Now Francesca’s adorable ass not drinking the lemonade.

The queen is going to reach a tipping point so soon.

(oh, yeah, and Colin Bridgerton is just going to marry her greatest arch nemesis, lest we forget.)

( I haven’t read the books, do they ever stop burning her, or does she eventually learn to leave them alone??)

(Also I don’t have animosity towards the queen I love all the characters on this show it’s just pure comedy that this family is so favored and yet soooo messy)