Lilies and Conspiracies pt. 4
Anthony Bridgerton x fem!reader
Lilies and Conspiracies pt. 4 - Safeguard
Warnings/Tags: fluff, Max being Max
Word count: tba
Authors note: Hello my loves! I know it's been a while, and I'm so sorry for it! Im not really happy with this yet, and im still not a hundred percent sure how this story will fold out.
Im sorry if this seems like more of a filler (or if it doesn't make any sense idk) or if it's too much time with the brother, but I'm trying to build this story into something that has a certain depth... even though I'm not sure if it works or not...
Anyways,
Enjoy!
Series Masterlist
Dear reader,
One would say a stroll in the park would cool one's mind, but I have the feeling that maybe for some it will not. This author is sure that some of them will burn rather quickly in the sun. Maybe even some heads will start to smoke soon, too.
We can only wait to find out.
Lady Whistledown's Society Papers, April 1814
You changed into a more proper gown for the park, your maid helping you. She made your hair, applying some blush to your cheeks, before you went downstairs again, searching for your brother.
Max was waiting in the foyer, leaning against a pillar with his arms crossed. He looked up as he heard your footsteps approaching. A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he took in your appearance.
"Looking lovely, darling sister." he said, pushing himself away from the pillar. "You're sure to capture some hearts at the park with that outfit."
You chuckled. "That's the goal, right?" you asked. "I'm ready to go."
Max nodded, offering you his arm. "Indeed, the more hearts you capture, the closer we are to finding you a suitable match."
He led you out the door and towards the waiting carriage. Once you were both seated comfortably, he signaled to the driver to start the ride.
"Now," he said, leaning back against the seat. "We have some time before reaching our destination, so I have a question for you."
You cocked a brow at him. "What question?"
Max shrugged casually, a playful glint in his eye. "Consider it a... hypothetical question." he said and paused, studying you for a moment before continuing. "Let's say, hypothetically speaking, a particular Lord has caught your eye."
He paused again, waiting for your reaction.
You didn't react to it, though, not letting him see anything in your posture. He had a thing for making everything complicated.
Max smirked, noticing your lack of reaction and the way you kept your composure. "Oh, don't play coy with me, darling sister. Your poker face is not quite convincing." he said, chuckling. "But for the sake of the hypothetical, let's say this Lord is handsome, charming, and has a bit of a reputation as a rake."
You rolled your eyes, slumping back in your seat. "Really, Max?" you asked, getting annoyed. "What are you getting at?"
Max chuckled, enjoying your reaction. "Just a hypothetical, darling sister, a simple what-if scenario." he shrugged, feigning nonchalance. "But I'm just wondering, if this hypothetical Lord was interested in you, would you be interested back?"
You blinked a few times in confusion. "Only if I like him, if he piques my interest. Why?"
Max feigned innocence, shrugging slightly. "Just curious, is all. Hypothetically, of course." he smirked, unable to resist teasing you a bit more, and you groaned. "But let's say, hypothetically, this Lord has a reputation, a wild and carefree past. Would you still be interested?"
You frowned, irritation clear on your face. "Really, you're insufferable, Max." you said. "But yes, I might be still interested."
Max chuckled, not seeming at all offended by your remark. "Insufferable, or just enjoying myself immensely?” he teased, raising an eyebrow. "So, you wouldn't be intimidated by a Lord's reputation? Even if he has a tendency to partake in... debauchery?"
You huffed, not sure why he was asking that stuff. "You're no better, Maximilian." you said. "What would you say if someone was interested in you?"
He chuckled, grinning at your comment about his own reputation as a rake. "Ah, touché, darling sister." he said, leaning forward in his seat, resting his elbows on his knees. "If someone were interested in me, eh? I would say, firstly, that they have good taste." he explained, smirking. "But beyond that, I suppose I would be flattered. Provided they are not a dreadful bore, of course."
You rolled your eyes again. "Would you tell her the same you tell me?" you questioned further, leaning slightly forward, too. "To be cautious because of your reputation as a rake? Or what would you tell her?"
Max raised an eyebrow, sensing the hint of a challenge in your words. He chuckled, playing along. "Why, I would be honest with her, of course." he said, holding your gaze. "I would inform her of my past. My time spent in college, the parties, the dalliances. I would not attempt to sugarcoat my reputation. Honesty is, after all, of the utmost importance."
He smirked, leaning forward as well. "And if she were still interested after that, well, then perhaps..."
"See." you cut him off, before he could have ended that sentence. "So why lecture me then? Lord Bridgerton seems honest about his reputation, no different than you are. Why shouldn't I be interested? Why should I be cautious?"
Max chuckled, realizing you had caught him in his own argument. “You sneaky minx.” he said, unable to keep the smile off his face.
Then he sighed, leaning back in his seat again. “Very well, you have a point. But you must understand, I am merely acting as your older brother.” He paused for a moment, his expression turning a bit more serious. “Lord Bridgerton is honest about his reputation, but… sometimes honesty can be dangerous, especially to an unguarded heart.” he then said a bit softer.
You shook your head at your brothers words. The carriage luckily took the moment to halt in the park, and you sighed to yourself. This argument would have been pointless – it had been the last few years, and it wouldn’t change.
One reason more to proof him wrong about it, to show him that love and practicality were both possible in a marriage.
Max stepped out of the carriage first, offering his hand to help you out. He smiled reassuringly, as if sensing your thoughts. “Chin up, dearest sister.” he said softly. “Enjoy this day. Perhaps the perfect admirer will catch your eye.”
He linked his arm with yours as you began to stroll through the park.
You looked around the people gathered, trying to make out if Anthony was there, too, whilst the servants put up the pavilion and stuff.
As you glanced around the park, looking for Anthony, Max noticed your subtle gaze and smirked slightly. “Looking for someone in particular, darling sister?” he asked, his voice teasing.
You shook your head. “No, just checking who is in the park. Might be someone amongst them I could have a pleasant conversation with.”
Max chuckled, knowing full well who you were looking for. “Ah, a pleasant conversation. How dreadfully boring.” He squeezed your arm playfully. “Come now, have some fun. Let loose a little.”
You chuckled slightly. “Be grateful you don’t have to have these pleasant conversations.”
Max pretended to shudder, feigning disgust. “Indeed, it would be a dreadful fate, having to engage in boring conversations.” he chuckled, nudging you lightly with his elbow. “But you, dear sister, have a knack for making even the dullest conversations bearable. I’m envious of those poor sods trying to charm you.”
You scoffed. “I could find a wife for you, if you’re so lonely.” you offered playfully. “Maybe someone that likes to talk all day.”
Max pretended to consider this for a moment, stroking his chin theatrically. “Hmm, an endless conversationalist, you say?” He let out a exaggerated groan. “Oh, the horrors. The incessant prattle. The never-ending barrage of chatter. What a nightmare you would inflict upon me.”
“Serves you right.” you gave back. “For making fun of me.”
He chuckled, his eyes glinting mischievously. “Oh, come now, darling sister. A little teasing between siblings is just part of the family bond.” he said, playfully nudging you with his elbow again. “Besides, where’s your sense of humor? I’m just trying to lighten the mood. Can’t you take a little jest?”
You nudged him back, maybe not the most ladylike act, but you didn’t care. “I’m full of humor.” you said. “Why do you think I can endure your presence like that?”
Max let out a hearty laugh, pretending to clutch his chest in mock pain. "Ah, you wound me!" he exclaimed. "I’m hurt, dearest sister. I pour my soul into entertaining you, and this is the gratitude I receive?"
He grinned, his laughter dying down. “You know you love me.”
“You’re lucky I do.” you retorted, eyes still flitting through the park in search of Anthony.
Max chuckled, his grin widening as he noticed your persistent glances around the park. He knew full well who you were looking for, but decided to play along, feigning ignorance.
“Looking for someone in particular again?” he asked, his voice laced with playful innocence.
“Cressida Cowper.” you shot back. “I’m feeling like some dreadful company.”
Max raised an eyebrow, his expression mimicking surprise. “Cressida Cowper? My, my, you are in a rebellious mood today.” He chuckled, shaking his head in mock disapproval. “And here I thought you valued pleasant conversations. Seems like you’re craving some chaos.”
You chuckled. “Where would be the fun without some occasional chaos?”
He laughed, shaking his head in amusement. "Ah, there’s the mischievous side of my dear sister." he said playfully. "I was beginning to worry you had completely taken on the role of the perfect young lady."
He squeezed your arm lightly. “You do know you’ll drive me to an early grave one day, don’t you?”
“Oh, I certainly hope so.” you muttered, though you didn’t really mean it. You bit your cheek, slowly fearing Anthony wouldn’t show up. You didn't even know why you were so excited yet anxious to see him again, yet you weren't able to suppress it either.
Max chuckled at your response, knowing fully well you were merely jesting. However, he sensed your subtle disappointment, noticing the way you bit your cheek.
“What’s the matter, dearest?” he asked softly, his tone somewhat more serious now. “You were hoping for someone in particular to join us, weren’t you?”
You sighed. “Maybe.” you admitted, spotting Lord Pendale. Stiffening, you fought the urge to turn around and run.
Max noticed your sudden change in demeanor and the way you became more tense. He followed your gaze, spotting the lord in question and immediately understanding your reaction.
He leaned closer, whispering discreetly. “Ah, Lord Pendale. Should I be concerned?”
“He seems uncomfortably interested in me.” you said. “Though it’s one-sided.”
Max frowned slightly, not liking the sound of Lord Pendale’s unwelcome advances. “I see.” he said, his voice laced with a hint of protective concern.
He glanced over at Lord Pendale, sizing up the situation. “Do you wish me to intervene? Throw him off your scent for the afternoon?”
You huffed. “And ruin my reputation? No, thank you.” you gave back, giving his arm a light squeeze. “I can handle him. He just doesn’t seem too fond of the idea of his wife being well-read. And he talks way too much about finances, just like this morning.”
Max chuckled, amused by your description of Lord Pendale. "Ah, a man of dull conversation and limited interest." he mused. "A true gem indeed." He smirked, feigning a shiver. “I can’t imagine how dull it must have been, listening to him go on about finances. My condolences for your ears, darling sister.”
You huffed again. “You can’t imagine the relief I felt when you walked into the room to announce we have an appointment.”
Max chuckled, recalling the events. “Ah, yes, my timely entrance to rescue you from the drudgery of financial discussion." he said. "I was merely looking out for your sanity, dear sister.”
He leaned in closer, a playful glint in his eyes. “You should be grateful for my impeccable timing.”
You nodded. “I am, believe me, brother.” you assured him. You still didn’t see Anthony, and your mood slowly dropped by the minute. You had hoped for at least one pleasant conversation.
“Don’t fret too much, dearest sister. The day is still young." Max said. "There’s plenty of time for your special someone to appear.”
You nodded, not convinced. “Maybe.” you mumbled. “Or maybe you were right, and he really isn’t interested in a courtship… Even though it seemed different this morning…”
Max noticed the slight waver in your voice, sensing your uncertainty and disappointment. He placed a comforting hand on your arm, giving it a gentle squeeze.
“Darling sister,” he said softly, his tone sincere. “Just because he hasn’t arrived yet does not mean he isn’t interested. Perhaps he has been held up by some unexpected business or other obligations. You mustn’t let your mind run away with negative thoughts.”
You nodded again with a sigh. “Right, how foolish of me to not consider that.” you mumbled, biting your cheek. “I only met him yesterday after not having seen him for years, I shouldn’t be so disappointed.”
Max gave you a sympathetic smile, understanding the depth of your feelings. “It’s only natural to be disappointed, dearest." he assured you. "But you mustn’t be too hard on yourself. These things take time.”
He paused for a moment, thinking over his next words carefully. “But remember, it is important not to get too invested too quickly. It can be dangerous for your heart.”
You nodded. “Yeah, you’ve been telling me about it for the past few years.”
Max chuckled faintly. “Ah, yes, I suppose I have, haven’t I?" he said, smiling softly. "But my advice comes from a place of concern. I only wish to protect you from potential heartbreak.”
“I know, I know.” you sighed, patting his arm. “But fear not, dear brother, I will be careful.” You looked around again, silently hoping Lord Pendale wouldn’t notice you before you found Anthony.
Where could he be? Was he really just delayed? Or did he not wish to see you again?
Max chuckled, noticing your subtle attempt to avoid Lord Pendale’s notice. He gently guided you, slightly altering your position so that you wouldn’t be easily spotted from where Lord Pendale was standing.
“Ah, attempting to play hide and seek with our dull-minded friend, are we?” he whispered, amusement obvious in his voice.
You chuckled uneasily. “Is it that obvious?” you asked, even though you already knew the answer. “I am simply not ready for a conversation with him again. My brain would decay.”
Max laughed, thoroughly entertained by your witty remark. “Ah, you and your sharp tongue." he chuckled. "I can’t blame you, sister. Lord Pendale’s conversational skills are akin to watching paint dry.”
He patted your shoulder lightly, a hint of playfulness in his eyes. “Don’t worry, I’ll keep you hidden from him as long as necessary.”
“Thank you, Max.” you said. “I appreciate it.”
He smiled warmly, a hint of brotherly affection in his eyes. “Of course, dearest sister. That’s what brothers are for.”
He leaned in slightly, his tone more conspiratorial. “We can pretend to have a long, elaborate discussion about something exceedingly dull." he offered. "That should deter Lord Pendale from approaching us.”
You chuckled. “Oh, I hope so.” you said. “Otherwise I’d have to be Cressida and suddenly faint.”
Max laughed heartily at your suggestion, clearly amused by the idea. “Oh, please do, dearest sister." he laughed, hand on his chest. "I should like to see Lord Pendale’s expression as you take a dramatic swoon on the grass.”
He shook his head, a grin on his face. “But let us hope it won’t come to that.”
“Fingers crossed.” you mumbled, biting your cheek once more, the sensitive flesh stinging already. Some of the lords looked your way, but they didn’t come over to talk yet.
Max noticed the lords stealing glances your way, too and chuckled. “Ah, it seems you’re quite the topic of conversation among them, dear sister.” He gestured discretely towards the men, a smirk on his face. “I can almost hear the gossip starting to spread.”
You refrained from rolling your eyes and instead smiled at the men politely. “Or they’re talking about how ridiculous you look.” you joked, keeping that smile on your face.
Max feigned mock offense, clutching his chest dramatically. “Ridiculous, you say?" he wanted to know. "Now that’s just hurtful, sister. I’ll have you know the peacock blue waistcoat is quite the fashion statement.”
He chuckled, clearly enjoying the banter. “But let’s not kid ourselves, they’re more likely staring at your radiant beauty than my exquisite sense of style.”
You chuckled. “Ever the charmer, are you not?” Then you looked around the park again, spotting the pavilion of the Bridgertons, and your heart stuttered before doubling its speed. “Let’s go over there.” you said, wanting to look if Anthony was amongst them.
Max followed your gaze, spotting the pavilion where the Bridgerton family was gathered. He raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile slowly spreading across his face. He caught onto your subtle motive for wanting to go over there. “Ah, so that’s why you suddenly want to saunter over there." he teased. "Hoping to catch a glimpse of someone special, perhaps?”
Oh, he very well knew who you were looking for. But if you wouldn't tell, he wouldn't say.
You shrugged, pouting but lightly tugging him in the direction of the pavilion. “No, I just decided I like the grass over there better.”
Max chuckled at your not-so-subtle attempt to hide your true intentions. He feigned obliviousness, going along with your explanation of liking the grass better. “Ah, of course.” he said, playing along as he allowed you to lead him towards the pavilion. “Because the grass is so much greener there, right?”
He suppressed a smirk, fully aware of your real purpose for wanting to go over there.
“It is indeed.” you agreed. “It’s a much greener shade than the rest of it.”
As you walked closer, you tried to scan the people, see if he was amongst them – but he wasn’t. You felt a pang in your chest – if his family was there, but he wasn’t, that could mean he was delayed – or he didn’t want to come.
Max followed your gaze as you scanned the people at the pavilion, noticing your slight disappointment as you didn’t spot Anthony. He tried to keep his tone casual but couldn’t help the hint of concern in his voice.
“Looking for someone in particular, dearest sister?” he asked softly, his eyes observing your expression.
You shook your head. “No.” you said, trying to hide your disappointment and wanted to turn in another direction when Violet Bridgerton spotted you – Anthony's mother. “Miss Barton!” she called out, walking over. “Lord Barton.”
Max smiled and inclined his head respectively as Lady Bridgerton approached. “Lady Bridgerton,” he greeted warmly. “A pleasure to see you.”
Max glanced at you, knowing of your initial attempt to turn away, only to be thwarted by Lady Bridgerton’s call. He gave you a subtle nudge, silently telling you to compose yourself and engage in the conversation.
You smiled at her politely, not sure why she chose to address you. “Lady Bridgerton.” you greeted her with curtsy. “It’s a pleasure to see you.”
Lady Bridgerton returned your polite greeting with a warm smile. “I must say, dear, you certainly look delightful today.” She glanced around, her gaze lingering on the group of lords who had been looking at you earlier. Then her smile widened a bit, as if she had an idea.
You smiled meanwhile, blushing slightly.
Lady Bridgerton chuckled softly at your blushing. “Ah, such a charming blush. I remember when I was your age, dear.”
Max, on the other hand, was watching the entire interaction with a mixture of amusement and caution. He could sense that Lady Bridgerton had something up her sleeve.
She always had, didn't she?
You chuckled quietly. “Oh, I bet you must have at least looked as wonderful as you do now, lady Bridgerton.” you said with a smile.
Lady Bridgerton chuckled at your compliment, clearly pleased. “Ah, what a delightful charmer you are, dear.” She turned her attention to Max for a moment. “She’s quite the catch, isn’t she?”
Max nodded silently, a knowing smirk on his face. He slowly got a hunch of what she was doing.
Lady Bridgerton turned back to you, her gaze appraising. “You know, dear, I’ve been thinking…” she said, pausing.
Max raised an eyebrow at the same time as you did, silently wondering what she was about to say. He discreetly nudged you gently, signaling for you to listen intently.
You elbowed him back but listened nonetheless.
Lady Bridgerton smiled slightly at the exchange between you and Max before continuing. “With the season in full swing, I’ve noticed some young lords expressing interest in you.” she said before she paused, gauging your reaction.
You swallowed, blushing slightly. “Not as many as Daphne had last year.” you pointed out, smiling.
She chuckled softly, the corner of her mouth lifting in amusement. “Ah, darling Daphne’s success certainly set the tone.” she said dreamily. Then, she paused for a moment before returning to her initial line of thought. “The thing is, my dear, with so many young lords vying for your attention, well…”
Max interjected, his voice smooth yet layered with a hint of humor. “Yes, Lady Bridgerton, do get to the point of it all, please.” he spoke pleadingly, fearing she would never get to the point.
You elbowed him again; maybe not as subtle as you wanted to, though. “Let her talk, Max. You’re so impolite.” you scolded him.
Max chuckled softly at your elbow, feigning offense. “Impolite, you say?" he asked. "I am merely trying to keep the conversation moving forward to its intended point, dearest sister.”
Lady Bridgerton chuckled as well, amused by the banter between you and Max. She resumed her thought. “You see, with so many young men expressing interest, it’s natural for a mother to consider their… intentions, let’s say.”
Max nodded, silently agreeing with her point of view. He could sense that she was leading up to something.
Lady Bridgerton continued after a moment, her gaze fixed on you. “It just so happens that some of these young men are, well… less than honorable in their intentions.”
You nodded. “Yes, I can imagine.” you said, biting your cheek. Your mother would have told you the same if she was still alive.
She nodded in agreement. “Precisely, dear. And as a mother, I have a certain responsibility to ensure that those intentions do not… shall we say, veer towards the Inappropriate.” she continued to explain.
You blinked at her a few times before you chuckled under your breath. “Oh, don’t worry, Lady Bridgerton.” you assured her. “I can protect myself if need be. But I appreciate your concern. It’s a fresh change to my brother’s non-stop babbling."
Lady Bridgerton chuckled softly, appreciating your confidence. “Ah, the overprotective older brother always has his ways, doesn’t he?”
Max rolled his eyes playfully, feigning annoyance at your comment. “Oh, yes, I’m sure my ‘constant babbling’ is quite an annoyance to you, dearest sister.” he muttered.
“You have no clue.” you mumbled but smiled.
Max chuckled, a hint of affectionate annoyance in his eyes. “Yes, I can only imagine how difficult it is for you to bear my company.”
Lady Bridgerton chuckled as well, amused by the back-and-forth banter between you two. She cleared her throat, bringing the conversation back to the topic at hand.
“Now, dear, while I have confidence in your ability to handle young lords, it is always beneficial to have… a safeguard, shall we say?” she explained, head tilting slightly.
“A safeguard?” you echoed, brows furrowing. Where was she going with this?
She nodded, her expression serious. “Yes, a safeguard." she nodded. "Someone to ensure that those less honorable young men don’t overstep their bounds.”
Max, sensing her intention, raised an eyebrow, his expression silently asking where she was going with this, too. He was already said safeguard, so why was she inclining this?
Lady Bridgerton smiled discreetly, her eyes glinting with determination. “And, I believe I may have found the perfect solution to our little dilemma.”
Max looked at her with curiosity and slight amusement. “Oh, really?” he asked. “Do enlighten us, Lady Bridgerton.”
She chuckled, clearly pleased with her own cleverness. “It occurred to me that having a trusted, available member of the family who can keep an eye on things might be beneficial.”
Max chuckled, a knowing smirk on his face. “A member of the family, you say?" He asked. "And pray tell, who did you have in mind for this esteemed role if not me - her brother?”
Before Lady Bridgerton could continue, though, he stepped closer, his tone slightly teasing. He leaned in closer to her, a sly smile on his face. “Ah, let me guess, Lady Bridgerton. Is it perhaps a certain eldest son of the Bridgerton family…”
Lady Bridgerton chuckled, seemingly amused by his guess. “Ah, always astute, aren’t you, Lord Barton?" she retorted. "Indeed, I was thinking of Anthony.”
Your heart stopped for a moment before it doubled its speed. “What do you mean, Lady Bridgerton?” you wanted to know, brows furrowed slightly.
She chuckled softly, clearly enjoying the effect her words were having on you. Max observed you with a watchful eye, noticing the slight change in your expression.
“Well, dear…” she began, her voice smooth and measured. “As I’m sure you’re aware, Anthony has a certain… reputation among the young ladies.”
Max couldn’t help but bite back a chuckle at this.
“Lady Bridgerton,” he interjected, his voice light. “Are you suggesting what I think you are?”
You frowned even more in confusion, gaze flicking between them.
Lady Bridgerton chuckled softly, amused by your confusion. Max watched you closely, his eyes silently asking if you’d caught onto what they were implying.
“I’m saying that, perhaps, having Anthony look after you might… deter the less honorable young men from getting too close.”
Max chuckled quietly, unable to help himself. “Lady Bridgerton, you’re being quite subtle, aren’t you?” he quipped.
She smiled mischievously. “Well, sometimes subtlety is a lady’s best weapon.”
You bit your lip. “Are you trying to make it look like Lord Bridgerton is courting me, to scare less honorable men away from me and lift his reputation as a rake?” you wanted to know, cocking a brow.
Lady Bridgerton chuckled softly, impressed by your astute observation. Max smiled, silently admiring your sharp wit.
“I must say, you’re quite perceptive, dear,” she admitted. “But yes, that’s essentially the idea.”
Max chuckled again, enjoying the discussion. “I must admit, it’s a rather clever plan, don’t you think, dearest sister?”
You frowned at him. Was she trying to manipulate the ton - just like her daughter did last year? “And what does Lord Bridgerton say about this?” you asked.
Lady Bridgerton sighed, her expression slightly concerned. “Unfortunately, Anthony is… less than enthusiastic about such prospects." she admitted. "He’s quite stubborn, that boy.”
Max chimed in again, a sly smirk on his face. “Ah, yes, quite the reluctant participant, I imagine.”
It hurt a bit that he didn’t seem interested in a courtship, even though he’d been at your house this morning. You didn’t show it, though, thinking about the offer. “So you’re trying with me and your son what went on with Daphne and the Duke of Hastings?” you asked. “But wouldn’t it result in me having more suitors and your son…” you thought about it. “Either they would leave him in peace, or they would throw themselves at him.”
Lady Bridgerton chuckled softly at your observation. Max snickered quietly, unable to hold back his amusement. “Ah, you really are quite astute, dearest sister,” he commented, a smirk on his face.
Lady Bridgerton sighed. “Yes, it’s a bit of a gamble, I must admit. But I believe it’s necessary to at least give it a try.”
Max laughed slightly, finding this entire situation rather humorous. “Oh, Anthony is going to absolutely love this,” he said sarcastically, unable to hide his amused expression.
You huffed. “I have the feeling he won't.”
Lady Bridgerton chuckled softly, her expression hinting at her agreement. Max smirked, his eyes glinting with playful humor.
“Ah, you’re probably right,” he chimed in. “Anthony isn’t one for being told what to do, particularly when it comes to… well, anything, really.”
Lady Bridgerton sighed, a mixture of frustration and resignation in her voice. “Yes, he can be quite… difficult." she admitted.
After what happened with his father, he'd built that wall around himself, closing himself off to the world in a sense of way.
And boy, did she hate it.
You nodded. “That seems rather… interesting.” you said. “And you’re sure this will work? I mean, what exactly do you promise yourself from this, Lady Bridgerton?”
She smiled slightly, appreciating your curiosity. “Well, dear,” she began. “I'm hoping that by having your presence around him, it will somehow… calm his rakish behavior.”
Max snickered, unable to contain his laughter. “And perhaps it might even improve his own reputation, eh, Lady Bridgerton?”
Lady Bridgerton nodded. “Yes, that’s the hope, of course.”
“Well, that either means I’m desirable and he is supposed to only have eyes for me, or it means I’m undesirable, and he will lose his… what did you call it earlier, brother? Appetite?” you said, fingers fumbling with the fabric of your dress.
The idea seemed strange, yet it seemed to promise more time with Anthony.
If he was willing to participate in this.
Max chuckled, amused by your observation. “Ah, you’ve hit the nail on the head, sister." he agreed. "Precisely, the idea is that he shall only have eyes for you.”
Lady Bridgerton nodded, her expression hopeful. Max raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening. “And if you are, indeed, undesirable… well, let’s hope it doesn’t come to that, shall we?” he quipped jokingly.
You shook your head slightly. “So this all depends on him agreeing, right?”
Lady Bridgerton sighed, her expression a mixture of determination and mild concern. “Yes, unfortunately, you’re correct. Anthony’s cooperation is essential for this plan to work.”
Max chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with wry amusement. “And let me tell you, dear, getting Anthony to cooperate when he doesn't want to is like trying to tame a wild animal.” he teased.
You huffed. “I can imagine.” you mumbled. “But tell me, Lady Bridgerton, why me?”
She smiled slightly, appreciating your directness. “Well, dear,” she began. “I’ve watched you over the years, and I think you’re quite an admirable young woman. You have a certain grace and strength about you that I find quite commendable. Your mother and I always joked about connecting our families. It only seems fitting.”
You mulled about it for a moment. You could picture your mother and Lady Bridgerton making plans, always having been curious about their tea times when you were younger.
You had to find someone to marry you, and even if Anthony wouldn’t be that one, his attention would surely make more lords interested in you.
“Okay.” you then said slowly.
Lady Bridgerton's expression lit up with hope, her eyes shining with optimism. Max chuckled quietly, a smirk on his face at your unexpected willingness to agree.
“Excellent,” she said, a hint of relief in her tone. “I’m glad to hear that you’re on board with this plan, dear.”
Max chuckled softly, still finding the whole situation slightly amusing. “You’re going to be the talk of the ton with this little scheme, dearest sister. Lord Briderton is not going to know what hit him.”
You nodded. “We shall wait what he says about this.” you said.
Lady Bridgerton nodded in agreement, a hopeful expression on her face. Max stifled a laugh, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Oh, I have a feeling he will protest quite loudly.” he chimed in. “But I think we’ll eventually wear him down, my dear.”
Lady Bridgerton chuckled softly, a hint of determination in her tone. “Yes, I’m sure it will require some persuasion." she agreed. "But I’m confident we’ll convince him in the end.”
“Where is he, may I ask?” you asked, gaze flitting through the park. “I thought he would be with you, seeing as almost your whole family seems gathered here.”
Lady Bridgerton glanced around as if expecting to see him nearby. Max chuckled quietly, his smirk widening. “Ah, Anthony has a habit of keeping to himself, even at family gatherings,” he said. “He’s probably off in some corner brooding, or perhaps trying to drown himself in a glass of bourbon.”
Lady Bridgerton rolled her eyes slightly, her expression slightly exasperated. “Yes, my son does enjoy solitary moments.” she said. “And his tendency to brood is… quite remarkable.”
Max chuckled, his smirk growing wider. “Ah, don’t mind him, dearest sister,” he joked. “He’s just allergic to anything resembling a joyful occasion.”
You huffed. “That’s great for this… deal.” you said, sarcasm shining through. “How shall this work if he doesn’t want to participate in such activities?”
Lady Bridgerton sighed, her expression a mix of frustration and determination. “That’s definitely a challenge,” she admitted. “Anthony does have a tendency to… isolate himself sometimes.”
Max snickered quietly, his smirk betraying his amusement. “Oh, yes, he prefers to wallow in his own misery rather than engage in social activities. It’s quite annoying, really.”
You sighed. “Great.” you mumbled.
Lady Bridgerton chuckled slightly, a hint of resignation in her expression. Max rolled his eyes playfully, his smirk growing wider.
“Oh, don’t worry, dear,” he said. “Anthony may try to resist, but we’ll find a way to drag him out of his brooding cave eventually.”
You nodded as you saw Lord Pendale approach. “God, no.” you mumbled under your breath, sending him a smile, but hoping he would take a sudden turn and go the other way.
Lady Bridgerton raised an eyebrow, silently observing the situation.
“Ah, the illustrious Lord Pendale,” Max quipped, a smirk on his face. “I can see why you’d prefer he doesn’t come over.”
You kept smiling. “Now would be the perfect time for Lord Bridgerton to appear.” you said to Lady Bridgerton through gritted teeth, keeping your voice quiet.
She chuckled softly, a smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. Max stifled a laugh, enjoying the unfolding of this little scene.
“Oh, wouldn’t that be quite the spectacle?” he mused. “The brooding Lord Bridgerton rescuing you from the clutches of Lord Pendale.”
“I would be so- Lord Pendale.” you cut yourself off to greet Lord Pendale with a small curtsy.
Lord Pendale approached with a confident smile, his gaze fixated on you. He returned the curtsy, his voice dripping with a false charm.
“Ah, Miss Featherington,” he greeted, giving you a sly smile. “A pleasure to see you, as always.”
“Miss Carina Barton.” you corrected him politely, surpressing a huff. “The pleasure is all mine.”
Lord Pendale furrowed his brow, his expression momentarily taken aback. He recovered quickly though, his charming smile returning.
“Ah, my apologies, Miss Barton,” he said, a hint of arrogance in his tone. “How silly of me to forget such a significant detail.”
You bit your tongue to refrain from any sarcastic remark. To be mistaken for a Featherington, was… definitely something to remember. “No worries.” you assured him.
Lord Pendale chuckled, his eyes roaming over you appreciatively. Max observed the interaction silently, a smirk on his face. Lady Bridgerton watched quietly, her expression a mixture of amusement and concern.
“How is it that someone as… captivating as yourself remains unwed for so long?” Lord Pendale asked, his tone dripping with false flattery.
You chuckled politely. “Well, I guess I simply haven’t found the right one yet.” you said. “But there’s still plenty of time this season to change that.”
Lord Pendale chuckled, his smirk widening slightly. Your brother suppressed a snort, enjoying the unfolding conversation. Meanwhile, Lady Bridgerton observed quietly, mentally noting your composure and polite demeanor.
“Ah, yes, there is indeed plenty of time left this season,” Lord Pendale agreed. “Although with so many gentlemen clamoring for your attention, I’d imagine the decision must be quite… difficult.”
You smiled. “I’m sure the right one will be chosen in the end.”
You silently pleaded for Anthony to make his appearance. Even though you only engaged with him once after years a day ago, you preferred his presence much more already.
“Oh, I have no doubt about that,” Lord Pendale said, his confidence seemingly unwavering. “I imagine you must have many suitors vying for your favor. Quite the envy of the ton, I must say.”
You smiled, feigning shyness. “Well, I must have missed it then.” you said.
Lord Pendale chuckled, his arrogance growing a bit in response to your feigned shyness. Max stifled another chuckle, silently finding this interaction far too amusing.
“Oh, come now, surely you must know the effect you have on gentlemen,” he said, his tone slightly condescending. “Don’t deny it, my dear. You are a vision to behold.”
“Thank you, my lord.” you thanked him politely, feigning flattery with a downcast glance.
Lord Pendale’s smirk widened further, seemingly satisfied with your response. “You’re most welcome, my lady,” he replied, his tone dripping with false charm. “A beauty such as yourself deserves nothing but the finest compliments.”
Your patience thinned with every passing moment, but your mask stayed in tact, as you suddenly saw someone approach out of the corner of your eye: Anthony.
You could have cried out in luck.
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