#miss portia ask

[obesericewrites]

How are the ROs on thanksgiving?

(Written as the quad poly route)

The shop is brimming with a mix of family and food. At one of the main tables skillfully crafted by Mr. Jaha, lively activity unfolds. M and Dawn share a common trait—they silently observe everyone at the table. Currently, M calmly blows on a small spoon they're holding, cooling it down before extending it to their daughter. Despite the action, neither M nor Dawn exchange glances; instead, their focus is fixed on Erica and S.

“—you get three partners and you think you’re all that?!”

“Oh, please. I know I am. Dont get mad at me because you can’t get one!”

S and Erica are expected to get into a fist fight before the turkey is served, and nobody finds this surprising. Meanwhile, B is in the kitchen, blissfully ignoring the chaos in the dining room and concentrating on the turkey they've been preparing for the past two days. When B finally brings the turkey out, Mr. Jaha looks visibly frustrated with the assassins.

He sat at the head of the table, his face buried in his hands. He occasionally peeked through his fingers to glare at the assassins. Miss Portia, at the opposite end of the table, looked equally tired of the holiday. Her children surrounded her, eagerly picking food off her plate.

The atmosphere takes a turn when B finally presents the dish on the table. Mothers eagerly dig in, and the initial arguing briefly subsides. However, chaos ensues during dessert as the children abandon any filters in their speech. Points are fiercely debated, and tensions escalate to the point where the assassin nearly climb jump across the table.

There is no boring thanksgiving with this lot. Only affection disguised as chaos.

[civil-corps-wife]

One of my absolutely favorite moments is that two of my favorite husbands from each game are here, in one scene and actually interact. Couldn't ask for more!

Oh, and... I guess Fang... he's there too? Kind third-wheeling, pal.

[dragon-kazansky]

Bridgerton shade of blue

Benedict Bridgerton x Female Reader

Benedict bumps into you, quite literally, at a ball while trying to escape his mother's attempts to find him a partner. You decide to humour him with a dance, not realising just how entwined you would become with him. It seems the universe will find every excuse to push you and Benedict together, no matter how much you fight it.

{Masterlist}

{Previous Chapter} - {Next Chapter}

Season one

Chapter Four - Roots for friendship

♡♡♡

The ball was entirely outside. It was beautifully done. You had been in awe from the moment you arrived.

You left your mother's side in order to explore the grounds and see who and what was happening around you. The music was lively and many people were out dancing. This felt far more comfortable and free than the last ball.

You pass Colin Bridgerton, who is approaching Penelope Featherington. The poor girl is looking rather down. It is, unfortunately, well known that she had not danced at all at the last ball. Nor did her sisters, but you felt most for Penelope.

You were lucky to have even bumped into Benedict that night. Otherwise, you were sure you would have had the same fate as poor Miss Featherington.

The gown Penelope was wearing was much nicer than ones you had known her to wear. You had heard Portia had a habit of dressing her daughters in the most unruly shades of pink and yellow, sometimes even red. Tonight she looked rather lovely.

You carry on walking, leaving them to talk. Though you think Penelope would make for a good friend, you think she would rather talk to Colin alone. You wonder if perhaps there is something between them.

Cressida Cowper walks past you. She doesn't even look your way. You don't see how she approaches Colin, spills her drink on Penelope on purpose, or Colin stepping in to dance with his friend.

Your eyes land on his brother. Benedict is standing off to the side with his eldest brother. Anthony isn't paying much attention to his, though. Benedict nurses a drink in his hand.

You approach. "Good evening, gentlemen."

Both of them turn to you. Benedict smiles. Anthony bows his head in your direction.

"Good evening," Anthony greets you first.

"Are you looking for Daphne?" You ask. He nods. "I saw her over there with your mother."

Anthony glances over, but does not leave to join them. "Is she well?" He asks.

"Seemingly so."

Anthony takes your answer. As long as Daphne is well, all else is well.

You turn to Benedict. "Not dancing?"

"Haven't found a partner." He smiles.

"My card is empty," you say.

"I shall have to remedy that then." He finishes his drink and puts the glass down on the table behind him.

However, before he can ask for the next dance, the music quietens, and a voice calls out amongst the crowd. "I present Vauxhall's newest spectacle of illumination."

You all turn to see what's happening.

"Feast your eyes above."

You look up. All the lanterns above your head light up at once. You smile. It was quite beautiful. You applaud with the rest of the crowd.

You hadn't noticed that Anthony had drifted away from your side to seek out his sister.

"Shall we dance?" Benedict's hand came into view. You chuckled and took it. Benedict led you off to the dance floor, and you both danced to quite a merry tune.

You laughed and smiled. This dance felt quite friendly. No one could ever assume he was actually trying to court you. Not that anyone was paying much mind.

"It seems mother is too distracted. I might had a lucky escape after all."

You laugh at his words.

"Well, thank you for enlightening me regardless."

You both finish the dance with a bow.

"That was quite a lot of fun." He grins at you.

"It is good for one to enjoy a dance, do you not think?" You giggle.

He nods and escorts you back to the sidelines. Benedict catches sight of Anthony looking less than pleased at something. Benedict excuses himself and goes after his brother.

You find Penelope standing alone now. Colin nowhere in sight. You decide to approach. "Are you enjoying the ball?"

The poor girl looks startled as she turns to you. "Oh, yes. Quite."

She doesn't sound overly convincing, but you decide not to push her. You smile and introduce yourself properly. She smiles and introduces herself in return.

"You look lovely." You compliment her.

"Thank you. Mother had to stay home, so I was able to dress myself. Do you like it?" She smooths down the front of her gown.

"I do."

"You were dancing with Benedict, were you not?" She asks.

"I was. We have become friends, of sorts."

Penelope smiles. "Colin is my friend."

"The Bridgerton's seem like good friends to have."

"They are."

You smile at her and link your arm with hers. "May I keep you company a while?"

Penelope looks quite pleased by your offer. "Yes."

You decide to take a turn around the garden with her. You have decided if nothing else, this season you would make new friends in London.

As you finish your lap of the guests, everyone seems to fall quiet and turn off to the side. You and Penelope stop to look also.

There, entering the ball once more was Daphne Bridgerton. Right beside her was the Duke of Hastings.

"My word," you whisper.

Penelope says nothing as she watches the two. People begin to whisper. You would never have guessed that had any interest in each other after the dinner party last night. Tensions at the table had almost been unbearable, and yet, Simon leads Daphne to the dance floor.

As fireworks light up the sky and the music plays, they dance among the other couples.

Penelope slips from your arm to take a closer look. You watch them with a smile. They had seemed ao unlikely, and yet, the way they danced with each other made you wonder.

Anthony Bridgerton was seething. You could almost feel it.

Violet Bridgerton was thrilled.

♡♡♡

An invitation to the Bridgerton house was not something you were rather expecting so suddenly, but it seemed Benedict was trying to make you quite comfortable with the idea of visiting them.

He had stated to his mother quite clearly that you were his friend and should be allowed to come by as you wished. Violet had agreed with him and reminded you upon entry to her home that you were always welcome.

Funnily enough, it was not Benedict who greeted you right away, but Daphne. She smiled when you entered the drawing room.

"Are you coming too?" She asks.

"Coming where?"

"To promenade with us in the park." She checks her hair with her hand carefully.

"I was unaware you were all going out." You confess to her.

"You're more than welcome." Violet walks past you with a smile.

"I'd be delighted." You smile.

Benedict enters the room and smiles brightly. "There you are."

"Did you invite me for this on purpose?" You ask.

"Perhaps."

"Devious," you chuckle. "Still, a walk would be lovely." You turn back to Daphne. "I assume this has to do with the Duke?"

Daphne puts on a smile, but her eyes don't quite light up. You don't question it. "It may," she says softly.

Benedict offers you his arm. "Shall we?"

You take it and nod.

While Daphne would be with the Duke and chaperoned by Lady Danbury and her mother, the rest of the family were free to stroll at their leisure.

Benedict kept you on his arm as you walked with him and his brothers.

"It's lovely out." You comment.

"Yes, very." Anthony responds, but his mind is elsewhere. "Excuse me." He walks off in a hurry.

"What's wrong with him?" You ask.

"I do not know," Benedict sighs.

Daphne and the Duke have gone way ahead. Lady Danbury and Bridgerton are following them.

"Shall we walk this way?" Benedict suggests. You walk with him, Colin trailing behind with his younger siblings, Gregory and Hyacinth.

"How did your sister manage to catch the Duke's attention? Not that she isn't beautiful or witty enough to capture such a gentleman."

Benedict laughs. "Gentleman? I've never heard him described as such."

"You mean because he is known for being... well, a rake?" You ask.

"Precisely."

"Are you a gentleman?" You ask him, looking at him curiously.

"Of course. All us Bridgerton boys are."

You hear Colin try to hide his chuckle behind you. You smile. "Somehow, I question the truth behind that statement."

"You simply don't know us well enough yet. In the last few weeks you've seen very little of us." He looks at you.

"I've seen you a great number of times for someone I bumped into at a ball."

He grins. "Funny."

"Is it?"

"I think so." He continues leading you through the park. "Are you coming back to ours after?" He asks.

"I'd hate to intrude further on your family."

"Nonsense." Colin speaks up from behind you. "You're welcome in our home."

You smile back at him. "Thank you. It feels strange to become so close to a family I've only really gotten to know."

Benedict looks at you softly. "I rather like having a fresh face to look at."

You laugh. "Careful. If your mother hears, she'll be on your case about finding a wife again."

"She knows I shall not find one in you."

"Splendid. I am certain there is some fine gentleman somewhere in London who will suit me quite nicely."

Benedict chuckles.

♡♡♡

You find yourself back in the drawing room of the Bridgerton Estate. Violet had fetched tea for everyone which you were currently enjoying quite nicely.

Daphne was playing the piano quite nicely in the background.

"Two dances? With a duke?" Hyacinth asks, smiling.

"He was quite taken with your sister, Hyacinth." Violet says proudly. "The entire party was, for that matter. All eyes were on Daphne."

You smile at them as you glance at Daphne. She is focused on her piano playing.

"Are you sure the entire party was not simply eyeing a tear in her dress?" Colin asks, sitting next to Benedict.

You were sat across from the brothers. You give Colin a narrowed stare.

"Or some misstep she took on the dance floor?" Benedict asked.

"You two are terrible," you say to them. Both of them smile at you with boyish grins.

"I do wonder, Daphne, might we count on the Duke at the Crawford ball?" Violet asks her daughter.

"I should think it a fair chance."

"What about the Ramsbury ball, Friday? And what about the grand picnic?"

"We shall see, Mama."

The excitement was evident in Violet. She was happy for her daughter's chances.

As the youngest siblings discuss Francesca being away for the rest of the season, Eloise comes in with quite the question.

"How does a lady come to be with child?"

You choke on your tea.

Daphne stops playing.

"Elosie, what a question!" Violet exclaims.

"I thought one needed to be married," she says right after.

"Whatever are you talking about?" Daphne asks her sister.

"Apperantly, its not even a requirement." Elosie says.

"Eloise, that is enough." Violet puts a stop to this conversation.

Eloise nods and goes to sit between her two older brothers. Violet tries to encourage Daphne to carry on playing the piano.

"I take it the two of you know?" Elosie asks thr men beside her.

"Do not look at me," Benedict says.

You hide your chuckle behind your cup.

"Have you ever visited a farm, El?" Colin asks.

Benedict smacks him round the back of the head, nudging Eloise in the process, who growls in discomfort. Violet turns around to face her children. "I do hope the two of you are not encouraging improper topics of conversation."

"Not at all, Mother." Benedict says.

"In fact, we were just heading off to... take our sticks out."

"Colin Bridgerton!" Violet scolds.

"A round of fencing!" He clarifies.

You bite back a smile as Benedict rises from seat along with his brother. He looks at you with a grin and then departs.

Poor Violet looked like she was going to suffer from those boys.

All other conversations in the room are put on a halt as it is declared that Humboldt is coming.

Daphne rises in delight.

You look up at watch as Humboldt enters the room.

"Has someone arrived, Humboldt?" Daphne asks.

"Callers for Miss Daphne, ma'am."

Daphne squeals with excitement.

"But... the duke? You already have a caller, dearest."

"Well, I suppose now I have more." She says excitedly.

You rise from your seat and approach Violet. "I shall take my leave. I think, perhaps, you're going to be quite busy."

Violet smiles at you softly. "Yes, quite. It was good having you, dear. Come again, won't you?"

You nod with a smile. As you walk past Daphne, you smile again, tapping her arm gently. "Good luck."

She thanks you and you leave.

As you exit the house, you find many gentlemen making their way to the door. She did not just have one or two callers. She had many.

Daphne was a diamond after all.

♡♡♡

@callmemana - @lilscast - @imgondeletedis - @benedictbridgertonss - @clownsdiehard - @wxnterwidow333

@sillynilly27 - @autumn-slaves - @ben-has-arrived - @ajdelilah - @aadu2173

@booknerdlife - @tamlinrose - @sarahskywalker-amidala - @cheryyluv - @louschan - @lou-la-lou - @cultish-corner

@hopshusushi - @katherinejess - @nannabug - @afunkyfreshblog - @f0x33 - @dd122004dd -

[obsessioncorner]

•benedict bridgerton•

Summary : Benny sees you at your presentation to the queen and becomes infatuated with you

A/N : My DMs are open for requests x

NO WARNINGS

—————————————————————————————————————

Your arrival at the Featherington residence is met with a whirlwind of activity. Aunt Portia is determined to make you the belle of the season, and Penelope, sweet and supportive as always, assures you that you will shine. Despite their assurances, you can’t help but feel a twinge of anxiety as you prepare for your presentation to the Queen. This is your first season out, and the weight of expectation is heavy on your shoulders.

The day arrives, and you find yourself in the grand palace, standing among a sea of debutantes. The air is thick with anticipation and the scent of roses. As you wait for your turn, you try to steady your breathing, smoothing the delicate fabric of your gown and brushing a stray curl behind your ear. Your heart pounds as your name is called, and you step forward, curtsying deeply before the Queen.

In that moment, as you rise and meet her gaze, you feel a pair of eyes on you from across the room. You glance subtly to the side and see him—Benedict Bridgerton. His piercing blue eyes lock onto yours, and for a moment, the world seems to fade away. There’s something about the intensity of his gaze, the way he looks at you as if you’re the only person in the room, that sends a shiver down your spine.

The presentation continues, but you are only half-aware of the proceedings. Benedict’s gaze haunts you, lingering in your mind long after you’ve left the palace. That night, you find it difficult to sleep, his image replaying in your dreams, leaving you restless and yearning.

The first ball of the season is a grand affair, the Featherington’s ballroom adorned with glittering chandeliers and fragrant blooms. You stand near the edge of the dance floor, feeling both excited and apprehensive. The music swells, and the room is alive with colour and movement.

And then, you see him. Benedict Bridgerton, looking as dashing as ever, his eyes scanning the room until they find you. He makes his way towards you with a purposeful stride, and your heart races in anticipation.

“Miss Y/N,” he says, bowing gracefully. “Would you do me the honour of this dance?”

You nod, unable to find your voice, and place your hand in his. He leads you onto the dance floor, and the world around you seems to blur. The music, the other dancers, the whispers—they all fade away. It’s just you and Benedict, moving together in perfect harmony.

“You’ve been on my mind since the presentation,” he admits, his voice low and earnest. “I couldn’t wait to see you again.”

Your cheeks flush at his confession, and you feel a flutter in your chest. “I’ve thought of you as well, Mr. Bridgerton,” you say softly.

His smile widens, and he draws you closer as the dance continues. There’s a connection between you, something deeper than just the steps of the waltz. When the music finally stops, he doesn’t let go of your hand.

“Would you care for a walk in the gardens?” he asks, his eyes searching yours.

You nod, and he leads you outside, the cool night air a welcome contrast to the warmth of the ballroom. The garden is bathed in moonlight, the flowers casting gentle shadows on the path. You walk together in comfortable silence, the sound of your footsteps mingling with the distant strains of music.

Suddenly, he stops and turns to you, his expression serious. “Y/N, there’s something about you that I can’t ignore. You’ve haunted my dreams and my waking moments since the first time I saw you.”

Before you can respond, he closes the distance between you, his lips capturing yours in a gentle, yet passionate kiss. The world seems to stand still, and you lose yourself in the moment, in the feel of his lips against yours.

When he finally pulls away, he looks stricken. “I’m sorry,” he says, his voice filled with regret. “I shouldn’t have—”

You place a hand on his arm, stopping his apology. “There’s nothing to apologise for, Benedict.”

He looks at you, relief and something deeper shining in his eyes. “I must go,” he says, stepping back reluctantly. “But know this, Y/N—I’m going to marry you. I won’t rest until you’re mine.”

With that, he turns and walks away, leaving you standing in the moonlit garden, your heart full of hope and promise. As you watch him disappear into the night, you know that this is just the beginning of your story—a story that will be filled with love, passion, and the unbreakable bond that has already begun to form between you and Benedict Bridgerton.

[iliveforyouilongforyouvesuvia]

Is it okay if I request hc for an MC that loves to make flirty signs/gestures to the M6 while they're busy to see how they try to hide their reaction? Like, the LI is busy talking with someone and the MC will walk past them and wink, or make a "call me" gesture or blow them a kiss?

The Arcana Mini-HCs: M6 when MC distracts them with a flirty gesture

Julian: forgets the conversation he's in, does the gesture back with the sleaziest grin he can manage, and then flails to explain himself

Asra: stammers, giggles, fights to hide their blush as they wrap up the chat, and then ghosts his friend to ask you what that was about

Nadia: trails off mid sentence while staring at you, then says a polite "excuse me" to her friend so she can hunt you down and follow up

Muriel: pauses mid-sentence to decipher what you're trying to say, only to turn bright red and exit the public area as fast as possible

Portia: doesn't miss a beat, returns the gesture with a wink, then pulls you into the conversation so she can gush over you to her friend

Lucio: puffs out his chest in pride because that's right, you should be flirting with him, then derails the chat to brag about what you just did

[grace-williams-xo]

RAMBLING THOUGHTS AFTER FINISHING PART TWO. GONNA ADDRESS MY P1 THOUGHTS FIRST. SPOILER WARNING.

1 & 2: I think Debling could’ve worked in the second half, and I’m kinda sad Cressida didn’t get a happy ending. The Creloise fell of a CLIFF after ep 5 but I think it could still be saved

5: no cishet man has ever loved his wife more than Anthony Bridgerton I’m gonna be ill

6 & 12: kanthony’s absence was felt BAD in the finale, I think their reactions to LW were sorely needed. Also Jonny and Simone have both said they’ll be at every sibling’s wedding and stick around for years but they missed Francesca’s??? Also felt their absence too much then. They’re both booked and busy I think we’ll continue to only get a couple episodes a season from them

8: Francesca did get to thrive happy in pt 2 my baby I love her

9: I think they managed to disconnect the mondrich plot even further like 😭 once again, I don’t mind them their plot just feels very empty

10: Pen and Delacroix CONTINUE to be my fave duo I love them so freaking much and they can never get rid of it

13: Portia’s growth this season continued to be 10/10 I loved her and Penelope’s relationship it really showed what it’s like to be closely related to people you oppose and the process of needing to forgive and understand them for your own peace of mind

14: that was not how I was expecting Colin to find out about Whistledown

15: Marcus felt a little rushed in part two but I think I need to watch the whole season together to fully decide

17: this was indeed the longest 27 days of my life I got Covid day after it dropped lmfao

MY ~NEW~ THOUGHTS:

We finally got character development from Cressida and if they write her out I’ll be inconsolable (as will Jessica Madsen)

I hope they paid Golda Rosheuvel good for her feet exposure. Worth more than titties in this economy

I feel the need to tell everyone that £5000 in 1815 is in the realm of £500,000 today and we cannot brush over the fact Penelope has made herself the equivalent of a literal millionaire

Anthony has two moods ‘I’m obsessed with my wife’ ‘I want to win this game’ like it is comical how drastically different his facial expression is in the game of charades compared to pretty much every other scene

Anthony saying the marriage is perfect and not hard work and Kate being like BOY I will humble you,,,, doing the lord’s work I love her so much

At some points I felt like Francesca was fighting Anthony for ‘Violet’s least favourite child’ award lmao

John saying he’s off to look at the wainscotting was unfairly funny

Cressida in the red dress is even better than I imagined fuck even if she’s not gay then I am

Peneloise back together the universe is healing I love my babies all we need now is creloise lovers and peneloise friendship simultaneously I don’t like it being one or the other sue me

However much Brimsley is getting paid isn’t enough,,,, Hugh Sachs the man that you are

I adored Penelope’s wedding dress so much and as bitter as I am still about no kanthony wedding in s2, it felt kind of right somehow for Polin to be the first wedding we properly see in this show

Most of the costumes and makeup feel like they got worse,,,,, big ‘I hired a 14 year old’ energy. I don’t need historical accuracy but I would like a modicum of care and the costume/hair/makeup dept looking at a single historical reference from before 1850,,,, please

We all got the bi Benedict we’ve been asking for and I appreciate it, and recognise that he needed Tilley to explore that, but I still would’ve preferred if they first main queer experience was not a threesome

If they go straight into benophie in s4 (which idk, I’m so torn bc I feel like F, E and B all could work well next season) then I also feel like bi Benedict was just them throwing a bone for 5 mins but meant nothing

The CONTENTIOUS Michaela Stirling,,,,, I was undecided until I saw it but that was the definition of gay panic from Francesca and it worked so well I am so excited.

As your resident peerage expert, it is much easier for women to inherit titles in Scotland than England so I wonder (not that anyone on this show knows anything) if that was a reason they chose Francesca to be sapphic [general peerage info and female inheritance info if you care]

On the above, if they can canonically end racism with one marriage then they can end homophobia with one marriage as well

We all know Eloise was the easy and obvious choice to be the queer love story but part of me does kind of like them not taking the easy route, and them going something more unexpected, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want Creloise/Sapphic El like they had eight children let’s be honest

Finch’s sneeze and Phillips’s “now Varely! The bugs!” were unfairly funny

Everything Lady Danbury said to Penelope about suspecting her and what not felt very in character and you can fight with the wall idc

Did they tell us the name of Polin’s baby boy???

Hyacinth saying she thinks of Gregory as the family pet,,,,, girl you an icon walking amongst mere mortals

Predictions I got right:

Anthony didn’t kill Colin, but “are you gonna duel your own brother” lmao I was on the right track

I knew Polin would win the Featherington baby race and I love that for them (but why were Prudence and Phillipa pregnant most of the season, barely showing, Kate was showing almost immediately, and then in the epilogue the sisters all had baby’s similar-ish ages???? Give the writers room a calendar please)

I SAID FROM DAY DOT THAT THE FURNITURE THEY BROKE FROM SEX WAS A CHAISE I CANT FIND THE POST BUT I KNEW IT I FUCKING KNEW IT WHERE DO I COLLECT MY PRIZE SOME OF YOUR GUESSES WERE TRULY FUCKING COOKED

Okay that was too long if you made it this far I’ll make you cookie ily

[bigblab-talktotalk1]

I feel a lot of people misunderstand Portia in why she ask about Colin's love

One thing I find really disheartening about reactions/opinions on this episode is the conceptual clap backs of "Did Debling love her?!?!"

🙄😮‍💨

Because that response makes me feel someone is missing something in the storytelling. As a response, it has never made sense to me, because.... he never had to!

'Lord Debling was a reasonable match." This guy has acted in every single way The Gentleman. This guy has money, this guy came to Lady Featherington like a respectable adult and asked for Penelope's hand, this guy will be absent, and so THIS guy also Won't Hurt Her! She laid this out in episode 4, To Portia he is an IDEAL catch.

Then comes this news of Bitch-boy Colin (painting from a Portia-esque perspective), that she read IN WHISTLEDOWN!! He does not hold water with her 🚫 This Season, all she has seen of this dude is that he is a flirt. "The most desired man of the season." Regardless of what she thinks Penelope's feelings likely are, she only sees that Colin is NOT serious about her. Freshly back from galavanting across the sea, she does see Colin as serious PERIOD. All the letters Pen wrote, All the teas at Bridgerton house....for years Portia has watched him NEVER WANTING HER! Yet somehow an engagement occurred some time between her daughter leaving a party and family breakfast the next morning... 🤨🧐 Chat shit right?? Her mind must be screaming: HELP ME UNDERSTAND! (In a snarky, passive aggressive way - because she's the one)

---

Portia has a right to feel awful disrespected that Colin "I'm a gentleman" Bridgerton didn't come to her first. Like they don't have beef!! 😳 He's been engaged to someone from the Featherington household before, yet... there was no wedding. But Pen (who she thinks of is having less attractions than Marina) somehow is different?

You know who extended the olive branch to the Featherington name to help saved them from drowning in the social ruin of the reveal of Marina's pregnancy? DAPHNE! He was mad at Marina sure, but you know who he showed he didn't care what happened to while he turned his back? You Penelope!! 🤷🏻‍♂️He could have helped soften the blow like Kate, Edwina, and Anthony tried to do after their failed wedding. But he didn't. And that's who Pen threw away an entire future to gamble on?? 🫨😣

---

And while Portia doesn't know it yet, the fault for them being in that super precarious social is the SAME EXACT fucking person who is standing in front of her like she don't smell her own shit!! (personal mad when sitting in Portia's perspective)

---

THAT 'S the guy Pen wants Portia to celebrate, who Pen believes is a better choice. Portia's looking for the better. "What more can you ask for?" she says an episode 4. The only thing Penelope seemed to believe held her back from commiting to Debling as her husband is this 'Love' nonsense. So if Colin is the Superior choice, he must be giving her what she thought was missing from a marriage, something she thought Debling couldn't provide!

"You have it?" - Portia.

Penelope says she's SURE he CARES about her. But 'care' wasn't the exceptional parameter? To be so certain that you just threw away a good 90% qualification-meeting gentleman, you must have heard this truth that gives you that 10% to match the fantasy were "LOVE"(which Big P don't believe in) is. Right? You thought, you know, but what did he say it??? Has he told you he's giving you what makes choosing him over Debling worth it? Are you getting what you gambled for?!

Portia looks DEFEATED because Pen is betting on fantasies and wishes, without even the vocalized proof of Colin's feelings!!!!!!

"Oh Penelope"= "Girl I feel bad for you", "you sweet summer child." She's repulsed that Pen was SO short-sighted.

I feel like while her reaction is extreme and harsh, it really isn't too difficult to imagine a semi-reasonable parent (with Portia's trauma) may be distraught hearing that their daughter chose to follow a career in ..... like the Arts, that she loves (Colin), when she already had a place at Yale law School (Debby). Without Colin's declaration it's like she mailed in her withdrawal letter and is packing to move into an artist collective commune -- without a lease! Not even guaranteed a spot, setting fire to your previous life plans! It is not right, and it is not okay to treat your children as if they need to live their life as you would. However, for someone who holds security above all Pen has thrown away her last chance at a good life. Pen has shattered a chance at bedrock that Portia knows Pen don't even understand how much she should value! Portia has shielded her from how it feels to watch the ground you've built your life on crumble from underneath her. The fear of having no husband, no son, and no money. Which I think adds to the anger in her tone.

Debling never NEEDED to love Penelope. Why he was a better, more secure match than Colin was everything BESIDES love. What makes Debling a valuable prospect has a very little overlap with what makes Colin Penelope's first choice. Therefore trying to grade them on the same standard..... it doesn't matter if Portia cares about love, it doesn't matter if Debling would EVER say he loves Penelope. So while it matters if Colin has told her that he loves her, he's the only one who has to.

---

I do not think she is right all the time, or even often. But one can likely tell from the above that I'm a Portia Featherington fan. I'm a fan of food in tummies and shoes on feet. Did she decide she needed big bucks to eat and dress the way she wanted.......👀🙄

---

As someone who looks at Colin as an insecure 23-year-old male... He is my baby. I defend all his big emotions. When he's having a temper-tantrum, I let him kick himself tired. I'm never villainizing him for basically anything he says or does because..... I know he's really a soft boy. And I know Pen doesn't mind. But that doesn't mean we can blame Portia (without having the audience view) for seeing him differently.

[devonpravesh]

Violet walked through the lush expanse of her garden, her hands clasped lightly before her as she surveyed the preparations for Colin and Penelope’s engagement party. The sun had just begun its descent, casting a golden hue across the carefully arranged flowers and elegant tents. Everything had to be perfect.

As she approached the first tent, Violet could hear the low murmur of voices. She paused just outside, her curiosity piqued. The Featherington servants, who had been generously lent by Portia, were clearly deep in conversation.

"Did you hear about the proposal?" one of the Featherington maids whispered excitedly. "Mr. Bridgerton chased after Miss Featherington's carriage and called it to a halt."

Another servant replied, "And then he got into the carriage with her! The coachman said he could hear sounds from inside."

"Do you think Miss Featherington was fully compromised?" a third voice chimed in, filled with curiosity.

Violet’s heart skipped a beat. She knew better than anyone how quickly gossip could spread, especially when it involved her family. She cleared her throat and stepped into the tent, causing the servants to fall silent and quickly busy themselves with their tasks.

"Is everything proceeding as planned?" Violet asked, her voice calm but firm.

"Yes, Lady Bridgerton," the head servant responded promptly. "The arrangements are almost complete."

"Very good," Violet replied, giving them a reassuring smile before moving on.

As she continued her rounds, Violet couldn’t help but overhear snippets of conversation from the next tent, where the Bridgerton and Featherington servants were working together.

"They say the coachman heard sounds from within," a Bridgerton servant was saying. "But did anyone actually see anything?"

"Not that I know of," a Featherington maid answered. "But they say Lord Debling didn't propose because he thought Mr. Bridgerton was in love with Miss Penelope."

Once again, Violet's presence silenced the chatter. She offered a polite nod to the workers, who bowed respectfully before resuming their duties with renewed focus.

Violet’s thoughts were a whirlwind. She had always known that Colin and Penelope shared a special bond, but to hear the details of their proposal from the servants was disconcerting. She made a mental note to have a discreet word with Colin about ensuring their privacy in the future.

Finally, Violet approached the last tent, where the more senior staff were organizing the final touches. She moved quietly, catching the tail end of a conversation between Mrs. Fairfax, the housekeeper, and Mr. Miller, the butler.

“It seems the Featherington staff are all abuzz with gossip about Miss Penelope and Mr. Bridgerton,” Mrs. Fairfax said, her voice barely above a whisper. “The coachman claims to have heard compromising noises from the carriage. If word spreads beyond the Featheringtons, it could cause quite the scandal.”

“Indeed,” Mr. Miller replied. “It’s said that Mr. Bridgerton asked her if she was going to marry him right then and there. Quite a bold move.”

“Hush now, we mustn’t let Lady Bridgerton hear us,” Mrs. Fairfax admonished as she noticed Violet standing just outside the tent.

With a serene yet gentle demeanor, Violet entered the tent fully. The servants instantly fell silent, their previous conversation hanging in the air like an unspoken truth. Violet’s warm smile and kind eyes put them at ease.

“Mrs. Fairfax, Mr. Miller,” she began, her voice soft yet authoritative, “I trust everything is proceeding smoothly for this evening’s festivities?”

“Of course, my lady,” Mrs. Fairfax replied, her tone respectful and deferential.

“Excellent,” Violet responded with a warm smile. “You all have done such a wonderful job. Thank you for your hard work.”

As she walked away, Violet's mind was racing. The details of the proposal were certainly more scandalous than she had imagined.

Her thoughts wandered back to the preparations for the evening's engagement party, and she decided to check on the arrangements inside. As she approached the house, she heard the soft murmur of voices coming from the drawing room.

Curiosity piqued, Violet stepped lightly across the threshold and paused just outside the doorway. The familiar voices of Colin and Penelope reached her ears, and she found herself unable to resist listening to their conversation.

Inside, Colin and Penelope stood near the grand piano, close to each other. As they drew apart from a lingering kiss, Penelope placed her hand gently on Colin's chest. "Colin, we must stop," she whispered, her cheeks flushed with a rosy hue. "I have only just managed to make myself presentable."

Colin's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned in closer, his voice a soft murmur. "Presentable, you say? Pen, you are always the picture of perfection to me."

Penelope shook her head, a smile tugging at her lips. "Flatterer," she replied, her tone a mix of affection and admonishment. "I truly must go home to prepare for the engagement party. There are a thousand things to be done."

Colin chuckled, his hand finding hers. "And here I thought the only preparation needed was to ensure my heart remains steadfastly yours."

She swatted his arm playfully. "If you continue to distract me, I shall never be ready in time. You, sir, are incorrigible."

"Ah, but you love me for it," Colin teased, his grin widening as he watched her eyes dance with amusement.

Penelope sighed dramatically, though her smile betrayed her. "Yes, I suppose I do. But that does not mean you are allowed to keep me here any longer. I must go."

Clearing her throat gently, Violet announced her presence. "I do hope I am not interrupting anything too important."

Startled, Penelope and Colin turned towards her, their expressions a mix of surprise and embarrassment. Penelope quickly withdrew her hand from Colin's, her cheeks flushed a deep pink.

"Mother," Colin greeted, a smile spreading across his face. "You are never an interruption."

Violet walked towards them, her eyes shining with happiness, and her voice warm and filled with genuine affection. "I simply had to see the two of you together. I cannot tell you how happy it makes me to see you both so in love."

Penelope blushed, curtsying slightly as she met Violet's kind gaze. "Thank you, Lady Bridgerton. Your words mean the world to me."

Colin squeezed Penelope's hand, his own smile broad and sincere. "Thank you, mother."

Violet stepped forward, enveloping Penelope in a gentle embrace. "Now, my dear, I will not keep you any longer. I know you have much to do before the festivities. But know that you are always welcome here, in every sense."

Penelope returned the embrace, her eyes glistening with unshed tears of joy. "Thank you, Lady Bridgerton. I shall take my leave now, but I will see you all very soon."

With a final smile, Penelope exited the drawing room, leaving Colin and Violet standing together.

Violet placed a hand on her son's arm, her eyes twinkling. "You have chosen well, Colin. She is a remarkable young woman."

Colin nodded, his gaze still fixed on the doorway through which Penelope had just disappeared. "I know, mother. She is everything I could ever wish for."

A shadow of concern crossed Violet's face as the servants' words echoed in her mind.

"Colin," Violet began, her tone turning serious, "there is something I must ask you."

Colin turned to his mother, noticing the shift in her demeanor. "Of course, mother. What is it?"

Violet hesitated for a moment, searching her son's eyes. "There have been rumors, Colin. Rumors that you have... compromised Penelope. Are they true?"

Colin's cheeks flushed, and he looked down, momentarily at a loss for words. He took a deep breath, his voice steady but tinged with guilt. "Yes, mother. But I assure you, that is not the reason we are getting married."

Violet's eyes softened, a mixture of understanding and sadness in her gaze. She stepped closer, placing a gentle hand on Colin's arm. "I see. I can see how much you love her, Colin. It is clear in the way you look at her, speak to her. But I must know that this marriage is born out of love and not obligation."

Colin met his mother's gaze, his eyes sincere and unwavering. "I love Penelope with all my heart, mother. I would marry her regardless of any scandal. She is everything I have ever wished for and more."

Violet studied her son for a moment longer, then nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "I believe you, Colin. And I believe in the love you and Penelope share. It is rare and precious."

Colin's expression softened, and for a moment, the tension seemed to dissipate. But then, a thought struck Violet, and her eyes narrowed in contemplation. "Is this the real reason Lady Featherington has been trying to push up the wedding date?"

Colin chuckled, the sound breaking the somber mood. "Lady Featherington does have a flair for the dramatic," he admitted. "But perhaps moving up the wedding date isn't such a bad idea, especially considering the afternoon Penelope and I just had."

Violet raised an eyebrow, a mixture of curiosity and amusement on her face. "What do you mean?"

With a sheepish grin, Colin replied, "Let's just say that there might be another Bridgerton baby on the way."

Violet gasped, her hands flying to her mouth in surprise. Then, she burst into laughter, the sound echoing through the room. "Well, in that case," she said between giggles, "we had better start planning the wedding sooner rather than later."

And as a mix of Violet's and Colin's laughter filled the room, she couldn't help but feel that everything was going to be just fine.

(@nightshadedawn violet's pov! hope you like it :))

[thearcanagame]

THE ARCANA LOVE QUEST

🎉 Big Announcement! We know it's been some time since we made active announcements in these channels, but we want to tell you about something fun we're doing on Dorian, and we'd love to invite you to join us!

This event will give you chances to win exclusive, BRAND NEW ARCANA FIGURINES, merch gift cards, custom art prizes, and even $500!

Plus, you'll get a chance to test your knowledge about the Arcana and prove that your favorite love interest deserves to reign supreme!

✨ What's the Love Quest About? Vesuvia is calling you to the Winter Ball, but to earn your spot, you'll need to prove your true love in three unique dates with your chosen love interest. Show off your knowledge, charm, and wit to secure the Solstice Crowns and an exclusive romantic evening. Can you make the magic happen, or will you miss your chance?

How to Join:

🌟 Take the Quiz: Discover your ideal love interest. https://form.typeform.com/to/ZACI4MDX 🌈 Share Your Results: Win prizes before the games begin. Post your resut with @thearcanagame and @dorianlive tagged and use #TheArcanaLoveQuest for a chance to win a $50 Merch Store gift card! 🃏 Get Your Tarot Love Reading: Get a custom tarot reading for your fate with your love interest! [links to each game on dorian] ⚔️ Claim Your Guild: Your love interest needs you! Pledge to one guild to set your allegiance! * Asra’s Magician Guild * Nadia’s High Priestess Guild * Julian’s Hanged Man Guild * Muriel’s Hermit Guild * Lucio’s Devil Guild * Portia’s Star Guild

Mark Your Calendars: 🗓️ Dating Challenges start on December 4th! 🎉 Winter Ball Finale on Dec 20!

Check out the whole event plan: ✨ home.dorian.live/the-arcana-love-quest 💫 Still have questions? Keep your eyes peeled, there's more to come! Can't wait to ask questions? Our ask box is open!

[quotergirl19]

Lord Debling is looking for a love match and he takes an immediate liking to Penelope Featherington but he can see there is something between Miss Featherington & her friend Mr. Bridgerton who keeps a suspiciously close eye on her. Penelope assures him that they are childhood friends so Debling makes a point of telling Colin that he will do everything in his power to make Penelope happy because she’s is exactly the sort of woman he’s hoping to secure for his wife. Debling goes on to express his surprise that Colin did not marry her himself since he clearly cares for her and must know that it would be a terrible waste for such a remarkable woman to become a spinster when she’s such a rare jewel and Colin appears quite taken with her.

Colin immediately tells Debling that Penelope is his oldest and dearest friend and with no father or brother to look after her, he has promised to look out for. He insists he only wants what is best for his friend but Debling’s not fooled and proceeds to watch their interactions very closely.

Forgetting that they shared the first dance of the evening together, Colin takes Penelope’s hand for a dance and he is clearly unsettled by his conversation with Debling. He tries to ask Penelope if she thinks she might come to love Lord Debling but she doesn’t want to talk about it and it’s clear Colin believes Penelope is forming an attachment to the gentleman. He is visibly bothered by this.

When the dance ends, Violet, Anthony and Portia Featherington all notice that Colin fails to bow and release Penelope, instead he keeps her in his arms, starting a third dance which is immediately noticed by another several members of the ton because more than two dances is improper and widely considered to be an engagement announcement. When Penelope tries to tell Colin that people are watching them, he doesn’t care.

Again, Colin asks Penelope if she believes she might come to love Lord Debling and she tells him she is fond of him but does not know if that will ever become love, adding that she has had to abandon any hope of love in order to focus on securing a match at all. It dawns on Colin that Penelope is guarding her affections which seemed unlike her. He asks if she is scared to risk her heart because of what he said last season. He tells her not to let anyone or anything ever make her feel unworthy of great love, that she’s more deserving of happiness and devotion than she realizes and Penelope nearly bursts into tears hearing that from Colin of all people and she flees the ballroom.

Colin immediately follows Penelope out into the garden insisting that she’s the best person he knows and she will make some gentleman a very lucky and happy man no matter who she chooses to marry. He insists she should not rush or settle, that she should wait for love. Penelope pleads with him to stop but Colin continues, insisting that she doesn’t see herself the way he sees her. That she thinks she’s invisible but he sees her and he thinks she’s perfect. Intelligent, loyal, kind and beautiful… everything a good man could ever hope for and right there in a moonlit garden, Colin Bridgerton kisses Penelope Featherington and it is glorious. But they’re witnessed by Cressida Cowper who intentionally brings Colin & Penelope’s disappearance to the attention of Lord Debling who leaves the party but later wishes Penelope every happiness with her Mr. Bridgerton when their paths cross again after the engagement between Miss Penelope Featherington & Mr. Colin Bridgerton is announced.

[obesericewrites]

For the high school AU with the RO’s as students, how would the RO’s react if a teacher caught them making out with the MC somewhere supposedly private like in a closet or under the bleachers?

Oooo this is gonna be good. I’m gonna make the teachers Portia and Jaha to make it better.

(Miss portia finds you two inside a closet with a few of her students. Mr. Jaha finds you alone)

M feels nothing but horror when just as their lips trace your neck, they hear Miss Portia’s voice speak, “Really? You two couldn’t have waited till after school?” Both of you freeze as your heads slowly turn toward Portia. Who is looming over the two of you with a shadow over her eyes and lips pulled back in disgust.

“I-..we can explain—!”

“—I don’t want to hear it. Get your asses out of here before I report you to the principal and have your horny fuckers expelled.” She snarls, and the amount of curses leaving her mouth makes M and yourself scramble to escape her growing rage. The both of you ignore the crackles of her students as you run however you can't ignore the pain in the back of your head from the pencil case she threw out you.

S feels their soul leave their body when they’re just about to put their hand into your shirt and they hear a thunderous voice roar from behind them, “Oh hell no! You’re fucking dead, S!” S shouts when they feel a hand grab the back of their clothes and yanks them off of you. Mr. Jaha tosses S outside of the closet and when S lands on their ass. They immediately scream bloody murder when they see your father figure glower down at them and run away.

“Get back here—!”

“—Mr. Jaha, leave them alone!” As your trio chases each other, a few teachers peak outside of their classes in worry. But turn away with a sigh when they see you, Mr. Jaha, and S running about. This was nothing unusual. The chase lasts eleven minutes before S scales up the flag pole and taunts Mr. Jaha. Who is already planning their murder.

B is mortified when Miss Portia’s voice comes from directly behind you as you’re just about to deepen the kiss. You both freeze as B looks over your shoulder from where they’re sitting and they’re immediately met with a dark smile from her. “What an interesting study session, I could’ve sworn you two skipped my class for a good reason besides to make out.”

“Miss Portia—!” B starts.

“—If you’re wise, B. You’d shut up and leave this damn closet and you’d both get back to your own classes.”

You help B get their crushes and make a walk of shame out of the closet, with Miss Portia's disapproval just as loud as her snickering students. B prays their mothers don’t find out along with trying to fight back the utter fear they feel whenever Portia sends them a death glare for the rest of the day.

[xaharadesert]

Petite MC - Headcanon

Arcana Characters (Main 6) x MC

A/N: Can you believe that I wrote like 150 Arcana headcanon sets before someone asked for a petite mc? I feel like this is a classic that I missed out on in my early days. Please let me know if there are any spelling or grammar mistakes :) requests are open!

❤️Julian❤️

He was already constantly filled with anxiety and an ever looming sense of dread, but meeting you has somehow increased it

Logically he knows that your size doesn’t diminish your many talents and capabilities, but he worries all the same

He likes to keep you in his line of sight, and in crowded spaces he’ll hold your hand or place one of his hands on your back or shoulder so you don’t disappear into the fray

Often he can be seen looking behind you, a bit hunched over so he can hear what you’re saying

He likes to think he looks like a scary guard dog, but depending on the circumstances there’s a good chance he looks even more scared than you

🧡Portia🧡

You can be short legends together

She hopes you’re okay with short jokes, because now that she has a partner who’s just as short as her, she’ll be making them all the time

Says you can tag team taking out people’s ankles if they piss you off

She really likes that she doesn’t have to worry about getting on her tiptoes to kiss you since you’re about the same height

Once joked about having you sit on her shoulders with a cloak to pretend to be Muriel while committing crimes

💛Lucio💛

Loves being the taller one in the relationship, it makes him feel strong and important

He’s always been a fan of heels (the higher the better), but he does appreciate that he can give his feet a break when he’s out with you

Does try to talk you into wearing heels for special events though; he says it’s more fun to look down at people

Makes short jokes when he’s feeling petty, but they’re not very well thought out, and mostly come down to “well, you’re short, and that’s bad because I say so”

Still feels really bad about this later, and insists that you should feel insulted even if you were totally unaffected

💚Muriel💚

He may actually cry from the stress

He’s always been uncomfortable aware of his own size, and that sensation is heightened whenever you’re around

If he bumps into you, you will be going down, and he is terrified of that

He tries to make himself smaller by hunching over whenever he’s standing or sitting next to you to draw less attention to the size difference (obviously it doesn’t work, and most people just pity him since he looks so awkward)

Hates that people are perceiving him as a sort of guard dog for you; he feels like the juxtaposition is leading to stereotyping, and you’ll need to reassure him that you don’t see him that way

💙Asra💙

You know, he’s never really noticed it all that much

Of course, on a physical level he knows you’re pretty small, but as someone who has always been right in the middle of short and tall, he doesn’t really see it as a very big deal

He does like that you’re just short enough to fit under his chin when he hugs you, but that’s about it

You don’t have to reach too far to give him a kiss, which is also a plus

And he’s already got plenty of step-stools around for reaching the top shelves, so there’s no need to ask (not that anything but decorations ever goes on those shelves anyway; if neither of you can reach them on your own, why bother giving them a practical use?)

💜Nadia💜

Adjusting to your height takes a bit of getting used to for her

She’s the type to wear heels and keep perfect posture, so she stands tall even among people of a similar height

She accidentally looks over your head until you call her attention down to you pretty often

Expect to be gifted plenty of heels or platform shoes early on in the relationship

She’s not particularly fond of the idea of abandoning her own heels, but if you struggle with yours then she’ll switch to something a bit more practical so she can kiss you more easily

She complained about neck pain exactly one (1) time, and silently prays that you never bring it up again to tease her

[andmineisyellow]

I think episodes 4 through 7 have some of the consistent writing we've gotten from Bridgerton. And on a micro-level, I enjoy episode 8 as well. I love most of the individual scenes and moments we got (minus the epilogue). My personal favorites are the Cressida and Colin scene, everything with Portia and Pen, John and Francesca's wedding, and Penelope's speech. But on a macro-level episode 8 also underserved Colin and Pen's arcs.

I understand why the writers decided not to have Colin reveal Whistledown like he does in the books. This version gives Pen more agency, which on the surface, I prefer. But having Pen handle it all by herself also doesn't satisfy the over-arching narrative the show has set up.

Yes, Colin needed to realize that Pen doesn't need to be saved all the time, but Pen also needed to realize that it's okay to ask for help and to rely on others. The resolution should be meeting in the middle and working as a team. We should have seen them use their individual strengths to come up with a solution together. This would have been easy to do as they've already established that Colin is a schemer with how he handled Jack in 2x08 and sneaking Pen into the house 3x02. There's no reason for him not to participate in the plan. Some potential payoff was definitely missed that could have easily connected to his arc. And on top of that it should not have been Portia standing beside Pen before she stands up to speak to the queen. It should have been Colin.

And, this is more of a nitpick, but season 1 clearly foreshadowed an assured, furvent, and loud speech. It feels strange that we don't get that moment. They could have given Pen her moment and also given Colin his as well.

[vesuvianhermitcrabs]

The Arcana M6 When The Bed Is Covered In Plushies

Asra

The bed has disappeared. Not from magic or anything like that, it's just no longer visible beneath the absolute mound of plushies you own

Oh, how does Asra feel about it?

Who do you think was supplying you with all these stuffed animals?

He thrives in this environment

They immediately crawl beneath all of them and become one with the plushie pile

He makes expectant grabbing motions to lure you into the pile of snugness, where he will trap you for all eternity

Faust also thrives in this environment and often is found squeezing the life out of a plushie

Speaking of Faust, she gets lost in the plushie pile so often you will have to check for her before diving in

Do not dive on top of her

Asra will accidentally kick half of the plushies off the bed in his sleep

Nadia

Her poor heart

The first time she walks in on you sitting in your mound of soft little friends she completely freezes. There's this dewy glittery haze in her eyes that makes you feel as if she's about to keel over

I hope your bed is big enough to accommodate all the plushies you're about to receive

She doesn't care that it's impractical, it makes you happy and that makes her happy

Although if she's being completely honest, this might be healing something for her

Not that she'll tell you that, you'll find out through her having a bit of a snuggle session with your plushies while she thinks you're gone

(DO NOT BRING IT UP SHE WILL GET FLUSTERED AND YOU WILL NEVER SEE HER DOING THAT AGAIN)

If anyone tries to make fun of you she just purchases you more (there's nothing quite like retail therapy, I guess??)

Julian

He doesn't register the plushies on the bed at night, he just crashed there immediately due to working for 4 days straight

In the morning (late afternoon), he notices. He lets out a frightened "GAH!" and asks you where all of them came from (they've been there for a week)

You explain to him why you own so many and he turns away, smiling a little at the sight of them

Julian's started to have some weird behavioral changes since this discovery. He's started to come to bed a little earlier, and when he doesn't, you end up noticing your plushies missing and later finding them on top of his papers or sitting on the dining table

When you leave to go run errands you'll often come home to him clutching one of your plushies (he's pretending he wasn't just snuggling the shit out of one while sobbing into his pant leg out of depression and loneliness)

Portia

Oh. Oh my.

The first time she sees you cuddled up with a soft toy she physically can not handle it. It's just too cute for her

It doesn't help that you're in a big pile of cute soft fluffy things either

She needs an outlet or else she's going to combust, so she ends up punting one of the plushies off the bed and into the hallway (this was followed by a disgruntled yowl)

You look at her in complete owl-eyed shock and she seems to realize what she's done with a surprised laugh

Portia giggles out a series of breathy apologies before going to put the plushie back in the room

Sticks a band aid on the injured one

Bless her soul, she loves you too much for her body to physically be able to handle

One day you came home to a little crocheted Pepi and an apology note from Portia

Muriel

He saw you with a couple on your trip with Morga

In all honesty his first thought was... well. There wasn't really one. It was like you had scrambled, deep fried, and microwaved his brain, all at the same time

When you moved into the hut he wasn't quite expecting you to move in with all of those

He finds it oddly endearing

But... how are you all going to fit on the bed

Genuinely considers going back to sleeping on the ground

After you frantically convince him that this won't be necessary, he huffs a tiny little sigh of relief before you both wonder what to do next

You decide to build a shelf to keep the majority of the stuffies on, while a select few go in the bed with you

Inanna loves them very much and will adore and protect them like her own pups

She loves them so much that she pulls them off the shelf and into bed with you, her, and Muriel, putting you back to square one

Lucio

Complained so much about your bed of plushies that you were considering running off into the woods to never be seen again

Okay well you wouldn't really do that, and seeing as you don't really live in a house your bedroll is covered in plushies

"MC, why are you holding a plushie when you could be holding me?" Becomes a nightly conversation

This problem is mostly solved when you get a plushie of him commissioned

What helps the most is when you buy him some of his own

Cue sniffling and eyeliner stained fluids running down his face

Much like Nadia, you're pretty sure this is actually very healing for him so you indulge him

Sometimes you'll hear him ranting to the plushies with his face all squished into them, which you always stop to listen to. Especially when the conversation turns to you

[iliveforyouilongforyouvesuvia]

(This could be full headcanons or short headcanons, whichever you prefer) MC suddenly asking the M6 "did it hurt when you fell from heaven?" And then casually walking away

The Arcana Mini-HCs: Asking M6 "Did it hurt when you fell from heaven?"

Julian: has heard this one before and doesn't miss a beat: "I wouldn't know, you're the closest glimpse I've ever had of it" while grinning

Asra: laughing because that was so cheesy and bright, bright red because it worked. "I've never been, maybe we could find it together"

Nadia: actually hasn't heard this line before, but isn't one to be outdone either: "if I told you it did, would you kiss me better?"

Muriel: it goes completely over his head. "... I didn't? I never fell? I'm not from heaven, MC. ... are you saying heaven is real?" so confused

Portia: "ooh, you sly charmer, you!" chases after you and might say something like "it didn't, but I'd be happy to show you sometime"

Lucio: genuinely annoyed that you stole his favorite pickup line from him. reverts to the old "I know you did, but what about me?" classic

[shmaptainwrites]

𝐓𝐎 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒 [𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐎𝐋𝐄𝐓 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐎𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘]

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

SUMMARY — Violet and Reader enjoy their first business trip together in Rome

WORD COUNT — 3.5K

WARNINGS — none

NOTE — And the next installment of our story is finally here! Literally cannot describe how excited I am for you to see where all of this takes them! Thanks again to my gals for beta'ing and editing!

𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 | 𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 | 𝐀𝐎𝟑

𝑪𝑯𝑨𝑷𝑻𝑬𝑹 𝑰𝑰𝑰: 𝑾𝑯𝑬𝑵 𝑰𝑵 𝑹𝑶𝑴𝑬

“Oh, are you sure you two will be okay?” Violet asked, pressing her lips together in a thin line. “Because I could cancel, I don’t need to go-”

“Hate to be the voice of reason, but you actually do have to go,” you interrupted as Violet spoke to her children. 

“Mum, we’ll be fine,” Hyacinth assured her. “We know the rules, and you’ll only be gone for a few days.” 

“And you’ve already told Agatha to come check up on us even though we’re not seven,” Gregory rolled his eyes. 

Violet still seemed nervous, but a reassuring kiss from her daughter and your hand on her back was enough to pull her away from her two youngest. 

“Alright, you’ll call me if anything happens? And don’t burn the house down, your grandmother would be rolling in her grave,” Violet warned. 

“We won’t. Now go, you’re going to make yourselves late,” Gregory urged, pushing his mother out of the house, you following after her with a small chuckle. 

“You’ll take good care of her, won’t you?” Hyacinth asked you and you nodded your head. 

“I think she’d argue and say she’d take good care of me, but we’ll just let her think that, huh?” you nudged the teenager’s arm and she smiled. 

“If she gets stressed, make her tea. She’s very British that way,” she whispered. 

“Got it,” you winked. “No sugar, English breakfast?” 

“That’s the one,” Hyacinth confirmed, and you smiled. 

“I’ll see you two when we get back, I wrote my number on the notepad in the office if you can’t get ahold of your mum,” you told both Gregory and Hyacinth. 

“Okay, we get it, you’re reachable, now go, you’re seriously going to miss your flight,” Gregory practically pushed you into the passenger seat of the car and you chuckled, closing the door once you sat down. Violet was already in the driver’s seat, waving to the two children as you pulled out of the driveway and headed out onto the street. 

“Gregory seemed awfully eager to get us out of there,” you looked over at Violet. 

“He’s always been like that when it comes to travel. We missed a flight once because Eloise had wandered off and we couldn’t find her. I think he’s  just been a tad bit traumatized,” Violet admitted. “Do you mind pulling up the itinerary, though? I haven’t had a chance to look through it yet.” 

You nodded your head and pulled out your phone. 

“First is a meeting with one of the companies your family owns that works out of Rome. Then, tonight, there's dinner with the head of your literacy foundation. Tomorrow, you’re scheduled to make an appearance at that fashion fundraiser the Featheringtons are organizing-” 

“Wait, is this the one where I promised Portia I would-” 

“Walk the runway? Yes, yes you did.” 

“Christ, how did that happen?” she groaned. “Actually, I know how it happened. One too many glasses of wine is how it happened.” 

You laughed at her self-recounting how she’d gotten herself into that predicament. 

“There’s no way I can get out of doing that and just attend instead?” 

“I’ll see what I can do,” you told her. 

“Is this the ‘different kind of challenge’ you were looking for when you applied?” Violet teased. “I know this isn’t really in your job description, but I appreciate you doing it anyway.” 

“With a life as crazy as yours, I can see why you’d need an assistant. I don’t mind filling that role until Marianne is back,” you assured her. “And it’s nice to think of something other than numbers every once in a while.” 

Violet smiled at your words, and you drove comfortably the rest of the way to the airport where you rushed through security and made it just in time for boarding. You both took advantage of the down time on the flight, getting a few things done here and there, but also taking quick naps to refuel for the next few days, knowing it would be long, and you’d both be without much rest. 

“You know,” Violet began, as you walked with your bags towards a man who held a sign at the arrival terminal with the name Bridgerton written across it, “things are going to be hectic while we’re here, but if we get the chance, there’s some place I’d really like to take you.” 

“Somewhere you’d like to take me?” You looked back at her, surprised. 

“Yes, why is that so shocking?” she chuckled. 

“I-It’s not,” you could feel your cheeks grow warm under her gaze. “It’s just-can I ask where it is?” 

“Actually, no, you may not,” she shook her head, a playful smile on her lips. “It will have to be a surprise.” 

“Promise you’re not taking me somewhere to murder me and dump the body?” you asked, and she laughed. 

“I certainly promise that.” 

“Good, then I can handle a little bit of suspense,” you nodded. 

The man holding the sign led you to your car and, for once, Violet was not in the driver’s seat. You could see how fidgety it made her, but a part of you found it endearing. 

Without so much as a second thought, you placed your hand on hers while going through emails on your laptop, ceasing her movements. 

Too focused on your screen, you didn’t notice the way she looked up at you. The way her blue eyes became almost black, her irises only visible along the edge of such a dilated pupil. The way she had to steady her breathing and try not to think too much about what your touch was doing to her. 

Violet just felt as though it had been so long since anyone had ever comforted her in such a way, that’s why her heart was beating in a manner that felt so unfamiliar to her, that’s why she had to take a moment to compose herself, to remind herself of where she was. There wasn’t anything more to it, it had just been a long time.

She heard your voice ask her a question, but it was muffled, and she had to blink a few times and look over to you. 

“Sorry, can you say that again?” she asked. 

“Are you good to be by yourself for the first fifteen minutes or so?” you asked. “I just need to grab something before I join the meeting.” 

“Should be fine,” she swallowed, noticing how dry her mouth felt. “First fifteen minutes are for catching up anyways.” 

“Perfect, I promise I won’t be long,” you squeezed her hand. “Then afterwards, we can check in at the hotel and you can change before dinner, sounds good?” 

“Sounds good,” she repeated, forcing a small smile. 

You removed your hand from hers, to begin typing something up in an email, and Violet moved her hand immediately to rub the back of her neck, fiddling with the clasp of her necklace. 

For the rest of the drive, Violet’s hands stayed in her lap and she made a point to keep them still. When you arrived at the building where the meeting was to be held, you parted ways briefly. 

Violet made her way inside the familiar building and was immediately greeted by warm smiles and open arms as she was ushered upstairs to the board room. 

“Is it just you who is joining us today Mrs. Bridgerton? I thought you had brought someone else with you.” 

“I have,” she confirmed. “My new financial manager, she’s just gone to run a quick errand, but she assured me she’d be back-” 

“I’m here.” 

Violet turned around at the sound of your voice, noticing the smile on your face as you introduced yourself to the others in the room. 

“I got this for you,” you whispered, handing her a takeaway cup. “You seemed a little stressed in the car.” 

Violet smiled and inhaled the scent coming from the cup. 

English breakfast. Simple, classic, her favourite. 

“Thank you,” she mouthed at you, and you placed a gentle hand on her back, pulling out a seat for her to sit in. 

“So, shall we get to business?”

The meeting went on without any hiccups, the company had been doing well and numbers were increasing each quarter, which was a good sign. Violet had to admit she was finding it hard to concentrate on everything that was being said, her mind wandering here and there. 

She decided it was perfectly unreasonable to blame herself, not when it was so easy to get lost memorizing every line and mark on your face. She told herself it wasn’t different that she was admiring you; Violet had always liked admiring beautiful things. 

“Mrs. Bridgerton?” 

“Hmm, yes, sorry,” she apologized and brought her focus back to the conversation.

She was grateful when the meeting ended, knowing they would be heading back to the hotel and she would be readying herself for dinner while you dealt with a few administrative things. 

“Oh, by the way, I managed to get you out of that thing with the Featheringtons,” you mentioned to her on the way up to your rooms. “Still have to attend obviously, but we managed to work out an alternative.” 

“Really? Oh, that’s wonderful,” Violet sighed, now knowing she was free of that one responsibility was a weight off her shoulders, and she didn’t feel the need to ask you any questions about how you managed to do it. 

You said your goodbyes once you reached your rooms and a part of Violet was a little sad you wouldn’t be attending the dinner with her, but she pushed the feeling out of her heart and focused on the task ahead. There was plenty of work to do and she could not get distracted.

—

“Aren’t you going to come sit with me?” Violet asked, curious as to why you were walking off in another direction at the fundraiser. 

“I have to go take care of a few things,” you informed her. “I hear they’re serving champagne though, go get a glass and relax for a bit,” you suggested. 

Violet nodded her head with a polite smile and you parted ways. She could feel the lenses of the camera following her, like the unrelenting eyes of a watchful hunter, but then again, they were taking pictures of everyone and everything. 

When she sat down, she took a small pocket mirror from her purse and made sure her hair was still clipped up properly and her makeup hadn’t accidentally gotten smudged. 

“Violet!” 

She looked up at the sound of her name, seeing Portia Featherington making her way towards her, a bright smile on her face and a glass of champagne in her hand. 

“Portia, how are you?” Violet stood up and they exchanged kisses on the cheek before both taking their seats once more. 

“Marvelous,” she answered Violet’s question once they were seated again. “Things could not have fallen into place more splendidly for this fundraiser. Prudence, Philipa, and I are so pleased with how it turned out.” 

“And what about Penelope? Have you heard much from her and Colin?” Violet asked, also curious to see if there was any news of her son while he and his partner were on their travels together. 

“She is busy working on that article about the um-oh damn, what is it called again?” 

“The effects the droughts and floods are having on the local population,” Violet said. “Yes, she was telling me about it the last time they called.”

“Yes, that’s it,” Portia smiled. “But she’s been so kind as to write a small piece about this endeavor of her sisters and I. Hopefully it will spread the word and encourage more donations.” 

“Wonderful,” Violet smiled and patted Portia’s back. “And I apologize for not being able to help you like we had previously discussed.” 

“Oh, nonsense,” Portia waved her hand. “Things sorted themselves out quite nicely.” 

“They did, did they?” Violet asked and Portia nodded, just as she saw the signal from her two eldest daughters that they were about to start and she excused herself, going to join them so they could welcome everyone before the show began. 

Violet twiddled her thumbs, quietly wondering to herself where you had gone or what you could possibly need to do right before things were to start, but her attention was drawn away from her thoughts as she heard Portia’s voice ring through the microphone. 

Violet finally took the moment to take stock of all of the intricacies of the decor and wondered how the garden theme would tie into the fashion they were presenting today. 

It quickly became clear that floral patterns and insects were the main inspiration of the designers and it was indeed very true to the Featheringtons' tastes. 

She had leaned back in her seat, her legs crossed and her hands held onto her knee as she watched the models walk the runway. Part of the charm was that the models were mostly members of prominent families who had made donations in order to participate. 

Violet had obviously kept her donation to the cause, but was more than happy to be in the audience, instead of on stage. 

She saw a few faces she had recognized, a smile coming up on her lips appreciating how much fun it seemed everyone was having. Even Prudence and Philipa walked the stage together, wearing complementary outfits. 

Just when she thought things were going to end, there was a last wave of models walking the stage, one by one, in sequence, and suddenly she thought her eyes were playing tricks on her.

She blinked a few times to ensure she wasn’t seeing things and when you certainly remained standing in front of her on the stage, she had to make an extra effort to make sure her jaw didn’t drop. 

You wore an intricate gown that looked as though the skirt was made up of petals, perhaps similar to an upside down tulip. The green fabric that covered your torso mimicked the receptacle of the flower, and the sleeves acted as leaves, adorned with small insects, whose wings fluttered every now and again. 

Violet could feel her mouth begin to go dry, her fingers coming to her lips and curling around her mouth as she drank in every last detail of you.

You were biting back a chuckle at Violet’s reaction, on your walk back towards the end of the stage and Violet was still in her seat, finally taking the time to make the connections as to how you managed to get her out of her commitment. 

As soon as everything was over and had wrapped up, Violet was the first out of her seat, slipping past everyone to head backstage, seeing you change back into the clothes you had arrived in. 

“Were you ever going to tell me you took that bullet for me?” she asked, coming up behind you while you were buttoning up your shirt. 

You turned around, still working at the buttons, a laugh on the tip of your tongue. 

“I thought a surprise might be more fun,” you admitted. “Mrs. Featherington was very nice about it all though, I’m glad I could lend a hand. Both ways.” 

Violet wanted to respond to your comment about the surprise, but she found her eyes lingering on your hands as they travelled along the centre of your shirt. 

“Violet?” 

Violet quickly brought herself out of her trance, a nervous smile coming across her lips. 

“I suppose I owe you one now,” she ended up saying. 

“Just make sure we have time for that surprise, and I think we’ll be even,” you grinned. “Mrs. Featherington wanted a quick chat about something, can I meet you at the car?” 

“Sure, I’ll see you there.” 

Violet chewed on the inside of her cheek as she made her way back to the valet where the driver for the trip was waiting for both of you. 

She got into the car and you joined around five minutes later, two bottles of wine in your hands. 

“A present from the Featheringtons,” you said, handing her one of the bottles. “She said she asked Colin what your favourite was.” 

Violet looked at the bottle in her hands, a reminiscent smile coming across her face. 

“That boy,” she said fondly. “I’ll have to call Portia later to thank her.” 

The driver began the route back to the hotel and you took the time to relax in your seat, closing your eyes for a moment, grateful you didn’t have to answer any emails or resolve any current crises. 

“Maybe an early night is wise,” Violet suggested, noticing your relaxed state. “For both of us.” 

“Yes, especially with that board meeting tomorrow,” you groaned and ran a hand across your face. “No matter what job I get, I never seem to be able to escape those.” 

“Oh, you poor thing,” Violet teased. “We’ll survive. And I promise there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.” 

“Whatever you say, my Lady,” you turned your head over, still leaning it against the headrest and tipped a fake hat towards her, making her chuckle. 

When you arrived at the hotel, you went your separate ways, each to your own rooms. You went straight to bed, but Violet sat on one of the couches, grabbing a glass from the counter and placing it on the small coffee table in front of her. 

As she sat down, she opened the bottle of wine and poured herself a glass, taking her phone and scrolling through her favourites on her contact list before seeing who she was looking for and dialling the number. 

She placed the phone to her ear and listened to it ring a few times before there was a familiar gap signalling someone on the other end had picked up.

“Mum? Is everything alright?” 

“Must something be wrong in order for me to call my daughter?” she chuckled, lifting the wine glass to her lips and taking a sip. 

“No,” Francesca replied with a similar laugh on her lips. “I suppose not.” 

“I just wanted to check in,” Violet said. “Your other siblings are all quite active in the family group chat so I, at least, know they are alive.”

“Is this about me not responding to your message about bringing John over for the long weekend?” Francesca said. “Because I told you I need to talk to him, his family usually does something and since the wedding, we haven’t spent much time with them either and they’re all in town from Scotland.” 

“No, I’m simply teasing,” Violet chuckled. “You don’t have to worry about John, or any of those things, we’ll figure it out, whatever works for you both, I’m sure I’ll survive…” her voice trailed off. 

“Mum, is everything okay?” Frnacesca sensed something on her mother’s mind and attempted to pry. 

“Yes, everything’s fine, dearest,” she assured, sitting up straighter. “I suppose I am just missing you.” 

“I miss you too,” Francesca admitted. “Maybe you could come to one of my shows soon? I know you are very busy with work and I always have rehearsals or am locked away in a practice room, but…I would very much like to see you.” 

“As would I, my darling,” Violet agreed. “As soon as I am back from Rome, we’ll arrange something.” 

“I would love that,” she smiled. “And are you sure everything’s alright? Daphne says you haven’t been up to visit her in a while, that's quite unlike you.” 

“I know it is,” Violet sighed, leaning back into the couch again, sipping her wine. “I don’t know how much Anthony has mentioned to you or your siblings, but there are a few things we’re still dealing with after everything that’s happened with Landon, and I suppose it’s taken up a lot of my time,” she explained. “I would love nothing more than to go see your sister, or my grandchildren, for heaven’s sake, but I barely have enough time to keep my wits about me at the moment.” 

“Ah, so you’re missing being a grandmother,” Francesca teased. 

“Oh, you know I dislike that word,” Violet playfully chastised. “It makes me feel old.” 

“Well it is not my fault both you and Daphne decided to have children young,” Francesca countered and Violet laughed. 

“No, it certainly is not,” she shook her head. 

“Look, Mum, I really want to talk longer, but-” 

“You have to go practice?” Violet asked and Francesca sighed. “Keep me on the line for one song?” 

“Always.” 

Violet waited for a moment as Francesca prepared herself, and before long, the melody of the piano filled her ears. With Francesca, even if it was the same song, each time, there was something new. Violet could always tell. 

She tried to let all of her feelings, her worries and anxieties, the confusing thoughts that had been plaguing her mind recently, float away until it was just the music that came across the speaker of the phone until the piece was over and the static silence filled the air. 

“Sleep well, Mum.” 

“I will, my dear. I’ll see you when I get back, and thank you.” 

“Anytime,” Francesca said softly. “I love you.” 

“Love you too.” 

Violet hung up the phone and sighed, sipping at her wine once more, not thinking she would ever get used to the quiet. 

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