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#anthony bridgerton imagines
imthebadguyyy · 3 months
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the bridgerton blues
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pairing : anthony bridgerton x reader
fandom : bridgerton
synopsis : it's the first time after your wedding that anthony sees you sporting the signature bridgerton colour : blue, and it does things to him that he can only express in a much more....physical manner.
warnings : smut, heavy smut and excessive amount of fluff
a/n : i miss my grumpy viscount!!! happy reading :)
anthony huffed impatiently, foot tapping against the marble floor at bridgerton manor.
the season had begun again, and much to his relief, he would only be a spectator this year, having married the love of his life, lady, well, current viscountess y/n, which meant he didn't have to deal with the frills and fancies of the hawk like mama's in the ton, awaiting the right moment to swoop upon him with their daughters.
but by God, you were taking forever to get dressed and come down to leave for lady danbury's ball. beside him, benedict and colin sat, engrossed in a game of chess, while francesca and eloise lounged on the couch in the drawing room, catching up about life.
his mother was with his darling wife, much to his surprise, helping her get ready for a ball. he had been caught off guard when his mother had bustled in, dressed in a powdery blue gown, and had proceeded to shoo him out of the room.
"what exactly is keeping mama and y/n?" colin asked, brow furrowed in concentration as he focused on the chess board.
"if I knew I would tell you brother" anthony mumbled, checking the watch that hung on the golden chain from his waistcoat, smiling as he traced the cover, suddenly hit by a burst of nostalgia, and a surge of fondness for his late father.
he brushed it off when a giggling hyacinth came running down the staircase, leaping into his arms, forcing him to rush to catch her, eyes widening in surprise.
"hyacinth! you must always give me a prior warning or I may not be able to catch you" he chided, tucking a stray curl behind her ear and setting her gently on the ground.
"brother!! wait till you see y/n/n!! she looks like a princess!" his youngest sister exclaimed, almost vibrating with excitement. a shy gregory emerged, blushing a little as he nodded, making the three older bridgerton boys smirk, well aware of his little crush on anthony's wife.
when anthony had first befriended his wife, they had been at a mere age of ten, and anthony had rescued y/n when she had fallen off her horse at a picnic with his family and the cowper's.
ever since then, they had been inseparable, joint at the hip and at the heart.
it was of no surprise to anyone in the ton when finally, ages later, he had announced he was marrying the lady montgomery, or as everyone fondly knew her, "y/n/n"
"why so bashful greg?" benedict jested, watching his youngest brother turn a dark crimson.
"n-nothing" he stuttered out, darting in to see his sisters.
"it's because of y/n! I'm telling you brother, she looks like an absolute angel!" hyacinth chirped in, now bouncing about from step to step, just as the door of Anthony's room creaked open, and the dowager viscountess stepped out.
"she's ready" she smiled warmly at her son's, hurrying in to get her daughters to mark the momentous occasion.
brows furrowed, the eyes of the bridgertons rested upon the long winding staircase, awaiting to see what exactly was this magical outfit that had their mother and sister gushing like birds.
and what anthony saw, made his jaw drop to the very ground.
at the very top, his darling wife came into view, hair in sleek, meticulous curls, perfectly cast up in an intricate updo, adorned with pearls, framing her face with the delicate curls. her makeup was subtle, emphasizing her flowing complexion with a touch of rosy blush and wine coloured lips.
she adorned a pearl necklace and matching earrings, gifted to her by anthony himself, adding a timeless elegance to her stature.
but what really caught everyones attention was the dress that she wore, more specifically, the colour of the dress she wore.
a rich dark blue silk gown, carefully tailored, hugged her frame, showcasing the intricate details that add to its allure. the bodice, adorned with delicate embroidery, depicting subtle butterfly motifs that caught the light as the she moved down the stairs. the neckline gracefully framed her collarbone, delicate lace butterflies attached to the neckline,while the sleeves tapered down to her wrists, showcasing more of the exquisite lacework that adorned her body.
the skirt of the gown was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, flowing generously in layers of silk that rustled with each step. the deep, rich hue of the fabric evoked a sense of opulence, reminiscent of midnight skies. as she walked down, the silk caught the light, casting a mesmerizing play of shadows and highlights.
the dress matched anthony's waistcoat perfectly, and the sight was enough to make the viscount choke over nothing.
as he saw his wife adorned in the resplendent dress for the first time, his eyes widened with genuine admiration.
a hushed gasp escaped his parted lips as he took in the sight before him.
his wife, cloaked in the elegance of the dark blue gown, the bridgerton blues appeared to be like a living portrait of timeless beauty.
a warm smile formed on his lips, expressing both surprise and deep appreciation for the grace and sophistication she was emanating.
"my darling" he murmured as he swept forward, extending his arm to welcome you into them.
smiling sweetly at the bridgerton clan, you floated down, linking your arm with anthony's.
"sister, you look utterly perfect in blue!" benedict exclaimed, pressing a delicate kiss to your hand, as violet fondly caressed your cheek.
"doesn't she look like a princess brother?!" hyacinth squealed, looking excitedly at anthony. "just like one out of the fairytales" he said, looking at you with nothing but admiration and love and fondness.
"you really do look utterly regal" colin said, flashing a warm smile at you. eloise and francesca came upto you, with even eloise admitting that the dress you were wearing was nothing short of a work of art, while francesca gushed over how the silhouette was so perfect for you.
"alright, we must leave if we want to reach lady danbury's ball on time!" violet said, clapping her hands, leading her children out to where the carriages awaited.
"wait behind for just a second my love" anthony whispered into your ear, as he walked up to his valet to whisper something into his ear.
slowly, the other bridgertons departed, after you promised them to join them very soon, ignoring the smirks and nudges colin and benedict sent your way.
anthony pulled you into his study, hand gently caressing your waist, feeling the rich silk in his hands, the other hand gently reaching for your chin, lifting it to look into your eyes.
"you look utterly divine my beloved" he whispered fingers gently fondling your face, eyes absorbing every detail of your face, not that he hadn't already memorised it.
"thank you my dear" you whispered back, hands settling on his broad shoulders, taking in his waistcoat as well, the dark blue velvet clinging to every rippling muscle in his body, brass buttons complementing the coat.
"i always knew you'd look stunning in bridgerton blue but....it seems as though the bridgerton blue was crafted for you" he murmured, tightening his grip on your waist, "so stunning that infact, i do not feel the need to leave for lady danbury's ball, for I'd much rather stay here with my breathtakingly beautiful wife" he murmured again, lips ghosting over your own as his hands squeezed your waist, drawing you flush against his body.
"my lord, we cannot... we must be present at the first ball of the season" you lamely protested, heart hammering against your chest as the intoxicating scent of his musky, woodsy cologne filled your nostrils.
anthony dropped his lips to your neck, lips brushing a feather soft kiss to the sensitive skin, drawing a gasp from you.
"what if we do not go? what if we just stay here and...i worship my wife in the way she deserves? like the goddess she is?" he asked, like gently pressing kisses down to your collarbone, still as light as a feather, just enough to ignite something feral in you, but also enough to keep you wanting more.
"my lord it's the first ball of the season, and we have to-"
you were cut off by anthony's lips pressing against yours.
they were soft and plush against yours, pressing perfectly like a jigsaw puzzle, initiating a warm glow in the pit of your tummy.
as your lips met, the sensation was like a feather's gentle caress — soft, fleeting, and subtly warm. it feels like a delicate dance, a tender exploration that sparked a gentle flutter within you. the touch was akin to the brush of downy feathers, teasing and inviting, as if he was testing the waters of intimacy.
yet, as the moment unfolded, a magnetic pull takes hold, drawing you deeper into the realm of passion. the softness transforms, gradually intensifying into a fiery connection. the initial delicacy gave way to a fervent exchange, each kiss building upon the other with a growing hunger.
your lips, once feather-light, were now engaged in a rhythmic and passionate dance. the subtle warmth amplified into a blazing fire, and what began as a gentle exploration evolved into a fervent expression of desire.
the world around you faded and in that heightened connection, every kiss becomes an electric charge, a testament to the undeniable chemistry between your two souls entwined in the artistry of passion.
anthony's hands ran rampant on your body, clutching every part of your body through the silk dress, yet taking care to not scrunch the silk in anyway.
"you have no idea what you do me darling" he growled against your lips, drawing back for just a moment to watch your chest heave and eyes glaze over, hands clutching his coat and cravat so tight he feared you would rip it off.
"every breath you take, every word you speak, the very sound of your melodious voice and the very beat of your heart, all allure me to you, draw me to you like a moth to a flame" he continued, his own heart hammering against his chest.
his chest rose and fell with every word, eyes ablaze with burning passion. "every second of every day, i crave you, i long for you, i need you, and it drives me feral. but the sight of you in my colour makes me want to rip off that very dress off your body, claiming you as mine in more ways than one" he growled, hands scrunching the material on your behind.
"anthony..i crave you every second of the day as well. i need you" you whispered, a soft whimper slipping past your lips.
"hush my sweet darling" he said, sending you a saccharine sweet smile.
then, much to your chagrin, he took his hands off your waist, fixing the material and fixing his own coat.
"now, we must hasten to lady danbury's" he smirked" and you groaned, a painful throbbing between your legs becoming more prominent.
"but my lord-" you protested, only to be cut off by another searing kiss. he kissed you deep and long, and then drew back, pushing a stray curl on your forehead back behind your ear.
"our family awaits dearest" he smiled, and gently led you out to the hall.
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the grand ballroom at lady danbury's unfolded into a dazzling spectacle as it embraced the opulence of a gold and maroon theme. golden hues enveloped the space, casting a warm, regal glow. glittering chandeliers, adorned with intricate gold details, hung from the ceiling, their crystals refracting light in a dance of elegance.
luxurious maroon fabrics draped the walls, creating a sumptuous backdrop that added depth to the golden ambiance. tables adorned with golden tablecloths and maroon accents contributed to the harmonious blend of colors. golden candle holders flickered with the soft glow of candles, casting a gentle radiance on the rich maroon floral centerpieces.
the women's dresses shimmered with embellishments, and the men's attire featured accents, creating a visual symphony of sophistication, into which you walked with anthony, arms interlaced, as you bowed before queen charlotte, who had taken quite a liking to you.
"it's lovely to see the bridgertons led by a couple as magnanimous as you" she bestowed a rare compliment, bringing a hot flush to your cheeks and even to anthony's pale visage. "but now we anxiously await the news of a young bridgerton" she said pointedly, and you kept your eyes low, trying to ignore the heat blooming in your cheek.
around you, guests were engaged in a dance, the dance floor became a stage for a waltz of colors, with the many colours and tones reflecting in the mirrored walls. the orchestra, bathed in the warm ambiance, played melodies that echoed the richness of the color palette.
you noticed simon and daphne dancing, looking fondly at each other, and saw colin sharing a dance with young penelope featherington, which made you smile, always having harbored a soft spot for the girl.
you spotted eloise by the food table, with francesca, both enjoying the strawberries that were being served. benedict seemed engrossed in exploring the rich collection of paintings in the hall, and was surrounded by a group of friends.
anthony led you over to his sisters, a soft kiss to your wrist a promise to be back in a moment lingering on his lips, as he was dragged off by countless lords for a drink and a conversation about the next round of a hunt they were engaging in.
as eloise began to speak about the many cruelties of lady featherington, you spotted cressida cowper scowling over at the two of you, dressed in a pink so bright you felt momentarily blinded. she shot a contemptuous look at you, scoffing at your gown and sharing a laugh with lady cowper, that had your eyebrow creasing with insecurity.
much to your horror, she began to march over to you, along with her mother and lady featherington, much to your dismay. you searched desperately for your mother-in-law, but found her engrossed in conversation with the queen.
"my my, if it isn't the happy bridgertons" cressida sniped, flashing you a tight lipped smile. "hello miss cowper" you smiled, ignoring the anxiety bubbling in your tummy.
"cressida" eloise said coldly, linking her arm with yours. she was well aware of the contemptuous rumours she had spread about you when you had begun courting anthony and had made it her mission to protect you from her.
"what a rather unusual colour for you dear" lady cowper commented, eyes trailing down your body in disdain.
"it gives you the impression of being a little washed out" she stated, opening her fan to hide her smirk.
you ignored the tear that sprang to your eyes as she continued to comment, on the fall of the dress, the shape of the silhouette and the way your jewellery was far too showy.
you could feel eloise glowering beside you but silently begged her to keep calm, not wanting to lose her calm in front of everyone.
to your surprise, a familiar baritone cut in, a nd a strong arm wrapped around your midriff and waist.
your husband appeared beside you, a smile on his face that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"i see why you might think that, lady cowper, for all you can pull off is that rather obnoxious shade of viscous pink, and while i understand your envy at my wife's ability to outshine everyone else here in any colour she chooses, i must remind you are speaking to the viscountess bridgerton, and hence must adhere to the degree respect she commands" he stated coolly, hand gripping your waist so tight you were sure it would leave marks.
stunned speechless, the cowper's backed away, egos more than bruised and enraged , subject to sniggers and chuckles from the other lords and ladies in the room. your brother walked to anthony from across the hall, patting him on the back and whispering a "good man" to him as he hugged you, and eloise drew anthony into a hug as well.
anthony led the two of you over to his mama, who couldn't hide a smile herself at the love her son had for his wife, so reminiscent of the way their father had loved her.
"I am sorry if I caused humiliation to your name mama, but I cannot and will not let anyone talk to my wife that way" he said firmly, only to be cut off by his mother.
"I believe everyone here has been waiting to say that to miss cowper since the beginning of time, my darling, so take your wife and go home. you have done your job and proved your love and passion and told everyone that your relationship rhymes true" she said, drawing you into a warm hug and bidding you goodbye.
the carriage ride home was silent as your held anthony's hand tight, his thumb tracing patterns over the gloves you were donning, a pearly white to match your jewels.
"thank you my love" you whispered to him, eyes glimmering with unshed tears.
"my darling, i love you, all of you. please do not ever belittle yourself, because your beauty is awe worthy" he said, eyes contorted as if he was in pain at the thought of you being in pain.
"I'll try my best not to" you whispered against, leaning forward to press your foreheads together. and you stayed like that till bridgerton manor came into view.
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frenzied kisses were pressed against your lips as anthony lifted you into his arms, earning a singular gasp from your lips. his hands, one wrapped tightly under your bottom and the other around your back was strong, as you wrapped your legs around his waist and he led you upstairs, ignoring the scurrying valet and maids and your ladies in waiting as he made it to your shared bedroom.
he dropped you gently on the bed, towering above you, hands shoving the material of your dress up. his hands crept along your thighs stealthily, finding the hooks of your stockings to your thigh garter, slowly dragging it down, exposing your bare skin to him, suppressing a groan at the soft skin.
to his surprise you reached up and grabbed him by the cravat, untying it and pulling him down to meet your lips. you kissed him roughly, a frenzied battle, with teeth and tongue clashing as he shrugged off his waist coat and began to unbutton his shirt, watching as you removed your jewellery and kept in on the table beside his bed.
his hands reached for your dress, carefully untying the many laces and unbuttoning the many buttons on your dress, watching as your bosom heaved in the corset wore.
deft fingers unhooked the corset without a struggle, and you moaned when the cold air hit your nipples, making them harden, as you pushed your chest out towards him.
anthony growled, the sound reverberating in his throat as he reached down to unbutton his tan pants, leaving him in just his underwear. his lips attacked your neck, biting into the delicate flesh and pressing kiss after kiss, sucking deep marks and hickies that were sure to stay for days after.
you raked your nails up and down his neck, stroking the skin there and raking your hands upto his hair, gently scratching his scalp as he trailed kisses down to your breasts.
his mouth enveloped your nipple in his mouth, tongue flicking and swirling around the sensitive nub.
he continued his ministrations, taking only a moment to move his mouth to your other breast and leaving lovebites on the skin.
he settled in between your thoughts, hips gently grinding into yours, as he licked and sucked to his heart’s desire, attempting to alleviate the growing tent in his pants.
you were beginning to pant, and he continued to pinch and stroke your nipple. his tongue wreaked havoc on one while his fingers gently tugged on the other. anthony could not wait any longer, the pain of the straining in his pants making him more loopy than he would admit, and he pulled away from your breast, a string of saliva from his lips to your breast.
he came back up to your mouth, kissing you with desperation. "i adore you" he painted above you, before kissing down your tummy to your thighs.
he stopped at the junction between your thighs, inhaling the musk of your scent.  
he reached for the cotton underwear you had on, gently pulling it down, and pushing your thighs apart, and a wave of cold air floated across your inner thighs, so open and exposed now.
anthony began to press hot, open mouthed kisses to the bare expanse of your thighs, stopping just below your pussy lips each time.
mere moments later, you felt an entirely new sensation— anthony's wet, warm tongue sliding through your folds. a cry of pleasure ripped from your throat, as you looked down at anthony, who had crawled between your legs with his tongue buried at the apex of your thighs.
your slick dripped down your pussy lips, costing them in your honey, and anthony licked it all up as if it was nectar and ambrosia, lowering his face to lick a long strip through your entire slit, before tilting his face even deeper into your pussy, swirling around up to your engorged clit and licking all around it and on the top of it.
the action had your hips jolting as he sucked on the nub, causing flashes of white to flash before your eyes.
"you taste more delightful than i could ever have imagined" he breathed licking the sour-sweet liquid off his lips. "my own precious honey pot" he cooed, making you flush again and your body heated up.
he sucked harder on your clit, fingers slipping into your slit to slide up and down, each stroking made your hips flail wildly.
“you taste so sweet” he murmurs, and the brush of his breath sears against your skin. the low rumbling of his voice, so characteristic of him, are dripped in hunger and arousal, the heat spreading under your skin and threatening to explode like a supernova.
"i have longed to have you squirming on my tongue my love. i will have you screaming my name until your lips know no other" he promised.
with a ravenous look at your heaving form, anthony lowered his mouth to your throbbing center again and licked a bold stripe up your clit, the sensitive bud jolting in shock and you scream in pleasure,
the ever composed lord bridgerton moans against your cunt when you tug his hair, hands holding down your hips as he watches you squirm. then anthony rolls your clit with his teeth and you come apart with a scream, hands gripping onto his hair for dear life.
you come, cunt clenching down, spasming around his tongue where he has you stretched open. everything else disappears for a moment, your body weightless with pure unadulterated bliss.
anthony shifts so he is in between your legs again, watching the fluttering of your pussy as you clench around nothing. your eyes are trained on his hips and he feels a surge of pride.
his cock was one not only of great size but of greater girth and greater skill, and he adored nothing more than watching your eyes become as large as saucers as you looked at his poor cock straining again as it had been ever since he saw you in his signature colour.
trained hands guided his cock to your entrance, tapping against it for a few seconds before he dragged the tip through your slick, making your body shudder at the stimulation. and then, he pressed a kiss to your neck, hips slamming against yours.
the first thrust was deep and claiming,and you cried out at the perfect stretch of him in your pussy.
you could barely think straight, hands digging into his back and nails sinking into his skin.
"so fucking perfect,” he murmured into your ear, rasped and breathless as he nipped on your ear. "'feel so good wrapped around my cock. so wet and warm for me my sweet sweet beloved. fuck, you're so tight right now. squeezing me so well, you love my cock, do you not my angel?"
"yes yes i love you and your cock" you changed as a prayer, eyes bashful at the use of the dirty word. "look at how your cunt clenches around me" he groaned, head dipping into the crook of your neck as his hips slammed into yours repeatedly.
you could hear the headboard banging against the wall as the pace of anthony's thrusts had your body sliding against the silken sheets.
and then he stopped
he stayed there, buried inside you to the hilt, and his cock twitched excitedly inside you. you watched the way he gripped the bedsheets tightly with his fingers until they went hite. it sent heat and pleasure into the pit of your stomach and you were sure you are going to burn. it was far too good, far too much, brimming on the edge of being overwhelming. 
there’s no warning as he pulled out, leaving his pulsing tip in, and then he thrusted all the way back inside, in one long and slick stroke back inside you, deep and rough. his cock slammed into a spot in you that has you screaming, something absolutely fucking delicious and it steals away your breath and makes you cry out. 
and then he grabs your legs, pushing them up towards your legs as he almost folded you in half, pushing your legs so far apart they almost touched your head, as he moved to his knees for a better angle.
his hips thrusted wildly as he kept fucking you, hand rubbing furiously at your sensitive clit, as you whined and moaned and screamed. he watched as your cunt, pink and perfect fluttered and twitched, and his ears revelled at the sound of the filthy, wet squelching that echoed in the room from your dripping cunt.
he landed a harsh smack to the back of your thigh that had you screaming as he then pressed his tongue to it, sucking a hickey on the spot.
sweat dripped down his forehead and yours, as you began to thrust your hips up to meet his perfect strokes, while feeling like his cock was going to split you apart.
"i want nothing more than to fill you with my seed" he growled, over the sound of your skin slapping together over and over again.
"fill me with your seed my lord. let me have carry your kin" you murmured, and you watched as anthony groaned, hand wrapping around your throat.
"such a minx" he grinned, squeezing and watching your eyes roll back.
without a warning, he flipped you over so you were on top, and his deft hands steadied you at the waist.
then he began to slowly pick your hips up, working you up and down on his cock, slamming you up and down on his cock, until you got the hang of it.
anthony felt himself drooling as he took in the way your tits bounced and you bounced on his cock as you ride him, nails now scratching down his chest as he laid a harsh spank to your ass that had you clenching on his cock harder.
he watched your body desperately ride him for all he was worth, thighs jiggling as they clapped against his own, and he pinched the fat around your waist and belly, teeth nipping at your nipple to increase the stimulation.
"m-my lord! I am going to cum!" you moaned loudly, only to turn to a wail as anthony's fingers unleashed a furious assault on your clit, as he rubbed it up and down and side to side and everywhere, covering his fingers in your slick.
with a scream of his name, you came all over his dick and his tummy, your juices spilling out of you like a fountain, watching as he scooped it up with his fingers to lick it clean.
he slammed your hips down on his even harder as you whined, and you felt his stomach tense and breathing stutter as he came, shooting his load inside you, and finally sinking into the pillow, limp.
panting, you rolled off of him, mind cockdrunk and unable to move. anthony peppered kisses to your skin and kissed the spots where he'd been rough.
"you were phenomenal, my love" he whispered, and to your intrigue, his fingers trialed down to your cunt.
you watched as he gently slid a finger in to your hole, shushing and kissing you as he blocked it with his fingers.
"i cannot have a single drop of me spilling out of you" he murmured and you moaned.
"i adore you", he mumbled, "my dear wife" he concluded.
"and i adore you, my dear husband" you smiled, meeting his lips in a sugar sweet kiss.
who would've known that wearing the bridgerton blue was all it would take for you and anthony to announce to the ton in the next three months that you were expecting the first bridgerton heir?
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a/n : I've missed writing for bridgerton so much!! i really hope you enjoy this, and as always likes reblogs comments opinions etc are appreciated!! sending u all love and happiness and remember, my inbox is always open and i love making new friends!! happy reading ☺️♥️
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rubysunnday · 8 months
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take my hand
summary: as much as y/n appreciates anthony's matchmaking efforts, it's hard to accept them when he's the only man she wants. luckily for her, a fall in the lake allows her to voice her feelings in more ways than one
a/n: 4.4k of pure angst/fluff and, yes, smut
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Promenading was probably one of the most pointless endeavours the ton insisted on participating in. Miss Y/N Moore loved going on walks around the city. But when she was surrounded by the ton and their watching eyes and gossiping mouths, it was hard to enjoy anything.
"Stop glowering," her mother hissed, elbowing her in the side. "Smile."
Y/N sighed. But she raised her chin and smiled politely as they walked past the Featherington family.
There was only one reason why her mother had forced her out of the house: the Earl of Newburgh.
He'd been courting Y/N since the second week of the season. They'd danced together at almost every ball, gone to museum visits together and he'd had dinner at her house. Twice.
They were practically engaged in the eyes of the ton.
Yet Y/N wasn't happy. She liked the earl, there was nothing wrong with him. He was a lovely man. But there was no spark between them. Their relationship just felt like a good friendship.
She had never confessed it to her mother, however. If she did, Y/N was certain her mother would swoon.
"I do not see the earl anywhere," her mother muttered, rising up on to her tiptoes.
Y/N tugged on her arm and forced her back down. "He might not be here yet, mama."
"He did invite you to promenade with him, yes?"
"Yes -"
"Then why is he not here?"
Y/N kept quiet. Sometimes, when her mother got annoyed, she talked to herself, grumbling about anything and everything. It was easier to let her talk aloud and not acknowledge anything - otherwise they'd end up in a fight and Y/N knew how they always ended.
As her mother kept rattling on, Y/N gazed across the crowd gathered down by the lake. There were awnings pitched up along the edge of the clearing, providing shade to the families sitting under them. It was a beautiful day and the lake had numerous boats upon it, gently gliding over the water.
Y/N's roving gaze moved past and then came back to an awning nearest the lake. It, and the carriage, were both light blue. The carriage door boasted the Bridgerton family crest and Y/N's heart stuttered.
It was as if he knew she was looking.
Viscount Anthony Bridgerton looked up. He was sat on a blanket, his youngest sister Hyacinth sat by him, tucked into his side. They were making a daisy chain together. It snaked down Anthony's legs, growing longer as Hyacinth added to it.
It was as if the world stopped for a moment, blurring everything out except Anthony.
"Y/N, darling!"
Y/N jumped slightly. She turned and saw the Earl of Newburgh walking towards her, her mother practically hanging off his arm.
"I found him!"
Y/N tried not to cringe. She kept her composure and smiled at the earl, curtseying as he approached. "My Lord."
"Would you care to promenade with me, Miss Moore?" He asked, smiling at her as he offered her his arm.
"I would love to," she replied, threading her arm through his.
Her mother giggled. Giggled. Y/N tried not to sigh but her composure must've slipped as the Earl patted her hand sympathetically.
They walked down the grass, past the families and toward the water. Y/N could feel guilt eating at her every time she glanced at the earl. She didn't want to inconvience him or hurt his feelings. But she also didn't want to trap him in a marriage that was one sided.
"Miss Moore -"
"My lord -"
They both stopped abruptly, hearing the other speak. The earl laughed, shaking his head.
"Please, go first, Miss Moore."
Y/N sighed. "My lord, I apologise but I... I would rather we remain friends than take this any further. I value you and our friendship," she added quickly, "but I just do not feel any..."
"Spark?"
Y/N smiled and nodded. "I know I am running out of time," she said quietly. "And any other woman would accept your suit and gladly become a countess. But I yearn for a love match, as foolish as that might seem. I want what so many of the ton have and I am not quite ready to give up on that idea yet."
"I do not think you should either," the earl replied. He took her hand in his. "We all deserve a chance at true love, Miss Moore. I can only hope you find it."
"As do I, my lord." She curtseyed. "I hope to see you around."
It was as if her mother knew what had just happened. As the earl walked away, Y/N turned, glancing over at her. She could see the fury on her face even from this far away. Y/N swallowed as she began to walk back to her mother, bracing herself for the fallout.
"Miss Moore!"
She stilled. The voice as achingly familiar. She could smell him and it filled her with a weird warmth.
Y/N turned. Anthony Bridgerton was standing there, hands clasped behind his back, wearing a dark blue jacket.
"Lord Bridgerton," Y/N said, curtseying.
Anthony smiled. "I was Anthony last week," he said, moving closer.
"My mother is watching," Y/N replied softly. She risked a glance over her shoulder. "I just ended things with the Earl of Newburgh."
"Why?"
Y/N turned back to face him. She shrugged. "There was no spark."
Anthony nodded once. He glanced over her shoulder. "Well, would you like to come out onto the lake with me?" He asked, extending his hand out. "To escape your mother for a moment?"
Y/N looked at his bare hand. Slowly, she placed her own bare hand in his, letting him guide her hand to the crook of his elbow. She could feel the warmth of his body even through the dark blue wool of his jacket.
They began to walk towards the dock set up on the edge of the lake. The sun emerged from behind the clouds, sparkling off the water for a moment before disappearing again.
Anthony held her hand as she stepped into the boat. He kept her steady as it rocked, not letting go until she did. Y/N sat down on the chair built into the boat. Anthony sat down opposite her, grabbing the oars.
One of the workers untied them from the dock and gave them a gentle push out onto the lake. Anthony began to row, the oars splashing in and out of the water. Y/N sighed, relaxing back against the cushions, grateful to have escaped her mother's wrath for a moment.
Anthony was quiet for a while. He rowed them away from the dock, weaving through the other boats on the lake.
"What made you deny the earl?" Anthony asked, breaking the silence that had fallen over them.
Y/N exhaled softly, letting her hand trail through the water. "There was no spark," she replied. "I felt nothing but friendship towards him."
"What is it you look for?"
"A love match," Y/N replied, taking her hand out the water and shaking the droplets off. "Despite how foolish it may seem, I yearn for a love match. One that matches the stories I read when I was younger. Whilst I know it will probably never happen, younger me isn't quite ready to give up on the idea yet."
"I do not think it foolish," Anthony said softly. He slowed the oars, holding them loosely in his hands. "Nor do I think you should give up on it."
Y/N found his gaze. The intensity of it almost took her breath away.
"I must admit, however, that I do not think the earl would have made a good match."
His words snatched her out of her dream. Y/N stared at him, affronted.
"Whatever does that mean?" She asked.
"Well, he lives in Scotland -"
"Do you have some personal vendetta against Scotland?"
"Other than the bagpies and the tartan and the constant rain?"
"Anthony, have you ever been to Scotland in your life?"
"Colin has."
Y/N sighed. "Your brother does not count." She paused. "Is Scotland the only reason?"
"Oh, I have a whole list."
"Oh for goodness sake."
Y/N knew Anthony had a soft spot for her. They'd been friends since she'd come out two years previously. He'd been a desired match despite his whining about not wanting a wife. Her mother had forced them to dance together numerous times and soon a friendship had formed.
Even if that friendship sometimes comprised of a very judgy viscount who seemed to make who Y/N was courting his business.
"Anthony, when will you realise that you cannot control who I court?" Y/N asked softly.
Anthony began rowing them back to the dock. "I do not claim to try to."
"But you do."
"If you want me to stop, you need only ask."
"Anthony, that's not what..." Y/N sighed heavily. "I do not get a lot of choice in this world, please stop trying to control the one thing I do get to choose."
"I was not aware I was," Anthony replied, brow furrowing.
Y/N didn't want to say it. But she knew she had to.
"Well, you are," she replied gently. "I appreciate the concern but... I do not have long left to find my true love. And you, Viscount Bridgerton, are not helping things."
She knew it was a low blow. All Anthony wanted to do was protect her. But he kept scaring off countless suitors - sometimes before Y/N could even speak to them. It was a miracle the earl had managed to bypass Anthony at all.
The boat hit the dock. Y/N looked at Anthony and could see the muscles in his jaw clenching. He cleared his throat and stood up, pulling his jacket down.
Anthony climbed out the boat and crouched down, tying the rope back to the dock. He said nothing. Y/N hated the silence. She'd upset him, she knew that.
But she could not allow him to keep matchmaking for her when the only one she wanted was him. It hurt to see him try to marry her off to another man. All she wanted to do was be with him.
She'd denied it for months. The feelings that had begun to blossom inside her. They had become uncontrollable now, taking over her entire being whenever she saw him.
She was in love with Anthony Bridgerton.
The man who was against love, against marriage, against happy ever afters. He had made his intentions clear and Y/N knew he was not going to back down on them for her.
Her heart belonged to him and he didn't even know it.
Anthony held out his hand to her. "Miss Moore."
"Lord Bridgerton." She placed her hand in his.
Y/N stepped out of the boat and onto the dock. As she did so, she glanced down at their hands, fingers still holding on to one another.
Neither one of them wanted to let go. Even as the seconds ticked by. Anthony ran his thumb along her knuckles, hovering over the ring she wore on her middle finger.
Then, as if struck by lighting, they pulled apart. Y/N and Anthony both took a step back together, not realising another couple were directly behind them.
There was a yelp of surprise. It was a tangle of limbs and ropes and suddenly, Y/N found herself hitting the water. For a moment, she was blinded, but then she found her way upright and surfaced.
She turned her head, catching the splash as Anthony awkwardly surfaced from the depths of the lake, arms wheeling. The other man they'd knocked into the water was glowering at them but Y/N didn't care.
In fact, she was finding the entire situation highly amusing.
A crowd had gathered at the edge of the dock, her mother among them. Anthony was angrily shedding his jacket and cravat, slinging them into the water.
Y/N made the mistake of looking over.
His white shirt was near see through thanks to the water. It clung to his torso, highlighting the muscles and giving her a near clear view of everything.
Her cheeks began to burn and Y/N turned away quickly.
"Anthony, are you okay?"
Y/N looked up at the dock. Daphne Bridgerton, Anthony's sister, was stood at the edge, looking down at them, his brother Benedict next to them.
Benedict looked as amused as Y/N did at the whole situation.
"No," he grunted. "This idiot decided to tie his boat where there was no space!"
"You walked into me, my lord!"
Y/N rolled her eyes as the two man began to bicker. She half swam, half waded away back to the dock. The crowd moved back as she put her hands on the edge and pushed herself up onto it, gratefully accepting Benedict's help as he pulled her back onto dry land.
She knew she looked a mess. Her dress was covered in grime from the lake and there was a stray twig stuck in her hair. Yet she didn't seem to care.
Y/N shook her head, pulling the twig out. She looked up as Benedict straightened, giving her a smile. He held out his hand and pulled her to her feet
Y/N watched as Benedict crouched back down and offered a hand to his brother. Anthony slapped it aside, glowering at Benedict as he laughed at his brother's misfortune.
Anthony clambered back up onto the dock and snatched a towel from one of the workers hovering hesitantly nearby. He marched off, giving Y/N a tilt of the head as he passed by.
Y/N watched him leave. A shiver danced through her body and she wrapped her arms around herself. A warm jacket landed around her shoulders.
"So you have a reason to come by," Benedict whispered in her ear as he stepped back.
Y/N smiled up at him, pulling the jacket tight around her.
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She knocked on the front door of Bridgerton house, Benedict's freshly laundered jacket in her hand. It wasn't long before the butler opened the door and ushered her inside, taking her calling card.
Y/N waited in the foyer for a moment, admiring the paintings and the walls. Then, the butler appeared again and guided her up the stairs to the drawing room.
"Y/N!"
She'd barely taken one step inside the room before Hyacinth came barreling at her, wrapping her arms around her waist.
"Hyacinth," Violet admonished, hurrying over. "Please do not ambush Miss Moore."
Hyacinth beamed up at Y/N before skipping away, back to her marbles.
"Miss Moore - Y/N," Violet corrected, seeing Y/N open her mouth to do so, "what do we owe the pleasure?"
Y/N held up the jacket. "I believe this is your son's." She paused. "The artistic one."
Violet chuckled, taking the jacket from Y/N. "Thank you," she replied. "I do apologise for what -"
"Oh, it was not anyone's fault," Y/N said, shrugging. "A funny accident was all it was."
Violet sighed. "I wish Anthony saw it that way. He is still rather angry at being pushed into the lake."
Y/N knew that, whilst he probably was angry at that, it wasn't the only thing. Yet, she did not say so aloud.
"I apologise for the lack of people here," Violet continued. "All of them are out. Bar Anthony, he's in his office."
"Not to worry, I only came to drop the jacket off," Y/N replied. She paused, hesitating to ask her next question.
"What is it, Y/N?" Violet asked, her mother's instinct isntantly reading the heistation on Y/N's face.
"I may have said some things to your son that upset him," she admitted softly. "I should not have done so but..." She sighed. "I cannot explain it myself, to be honest."
Violet nodded, eyes full of understanding. "You do not need to. Your relationship with Anthony is a special one. I do hope that this does not ruin it." Violet smiled. "I always think it best to be honest with someone, Y/N. Even if it's scary. It almost always helps things."
Y/N nodded. "Thank you."
As she turned to go, Violet called her name, halting her.
"His office is behind the stairs," Violet said.
Y/N smiled at the older woman. She turned and made her way down the stairs. As she got to the bottom, she turned to the right instead of heading for the front door.
It was easy to spot Anthony's office. The door was slightly ajar and she could see his jacket, abandoned on a chair by the fireplace.
Y/N knocked gently on the door.
"Just a moment, Hy," Anthony called.
Y/N stepped in, peering round the door, holding on to the edge. "Should I be flattered that you assumed I was Hyacinth?"
Anthony looked up sharply, his quill scratching along the parchment in one, thick, ink heavy line. "Miss Moore."
"I believe it was Y/N the other day," she replied, throwing his own words back at him, hoping to lighten the tension.
It didn't work.
"Why are you here?" Anthony asked, gripping his quill tightly.
"I came to return Benedict's jacket," she replied.
His reaction was obvious, despite how hard he tried to hide it. His shoulders slumped and his demeanour changed.
"Ah," Anthony replied, turning back to his papers. "Did you get lost?"
"I came to see you as well," Y/N replied. She was still hiding behind the door. "But only if you'll hear me out."
"I might."
"And if you stop being so rude."
At that, Anthony looked up again. He stood up, pushing back his chair. "What do you want, Y/N?" He asked, walking over to a cabinet and opening the doors.
"To apologise for what I said," Y/N replied, edging further into the room. "I was stressed amongst many other things and I took it out on you. Of course I value your opinion and I appreciate your assistance."
"You did not seem to the other day."
"Well, I was having conflicting feelings."
Anthony scoffed. Y/N watched him pour out a glass of whiskey and drink it in one.
Y/N sighed softly. She walked further into the room, pushing the door shut behind her. "The truth is, Anthony, that... as much as I appreciate your matchmaking skills and your assistance with this whole thing I..." Y/N trailed off.
She could still change her mind. She could still lie to him, claim innocence.
But she didn't want to.
Now was her chance to tell him. To let it all out. It would hurt. The denial would sting. But she would get over it. And then maybe, she could find another match.
"I cannot have the man I love trying to marry me off to other men when the only one I want is him."
Anthony's glass clinked against the bottle he was holding. He went very still, frozen mid-pour. Y/N let the confession settle, the silence grow. She moved closer to him, the heels of her shoes against the wooden floor the loudest sound she'd ever heard.
"I can’t get you out of my head," she admitted softly. "You haunt my dreams at night and in the day. I find myself searching for you where ever I go, yearning just to hear your voice, to feel your hand in mine… your lips against my skin.
"You torment my very being. Whenever I see you, whenever I hear you there’s a spark inside me that demands to be let out. A spark that doesn’t exist with anyone but you, Anthony."
Anthony set the bottle down and turned to face her. Y/N didn't know how she expected him to react but the tears brimming in his eyes was not high on the list.
"I know that this might not be what you wish to happen," she added quickly, stepping even closer, "and if that is the case, I will walk away right now and forget this ever happened." She paused, breathing deeply. "But I think there is something, deep down inside, that yearns for this too."
That god awful silence fell again. The clock chimed from the mantle place, indicating that it was inching close to six o'clock. Anthony stared at her. Y/N stared at him. She let her fingers grip her skirt tightly.
"I will admit," Anthony said softly, his voice hoarse, "that I have felt something too. For a long time I have denied it." He swallowed. "I loved my father deeply and his loss aches even today. I fear to love anyone else as much or to allow anyone to love me as much because I do not wish to inflict that ache on anyone else.
"But what I have discovered since meeting you, Y/N Moore, is that the ache means that the love was so great, it cannot be put into words. We know what happens in the end, yet we love anyway. It has taken me a long time to accept that. To accept that falling in love will only mean more pain, more heart ache. But for you, I am willing to accept that. For you, I am willing to love again."
Y/N couldn't breathe. At some point during Anthony's confession, her breath had been stolen away by his words.
Here they were, baring their open and broken souls to one another. It shouldn't have felt this good. It shouldn't have brought her the relief it was.
Anthony stepped closer. Y/N followed his gaze, never breaking away. He lowered his lips to hers. It was slow and delicate yet the desire was there, the need for more was there. He pressed hard, pushing her lips apart slightly, wanting even more.
Then, they broke apart. Anthony took a step back. Y/N looked at him, breathing heavily. Anthony looked at her, his dark eyes burning into her soul.
There was a moment of stillness. A moment of calm.
Then Anthony surged forward, as did Y/N. They collide. His hands wrapped around her waist as he captured her lips again. They were desperate to devour one another, to know each others bodies, to feel one another after denying their feelings for so long.
Anthony lifted Y/N up and she wrapped her legs around his waist, never once breaking their kiss. He walked back and sat her on the desk, knocking over trinkets and piles of papers. His hands were frantic, desperately undoing the hooks at the back of her dress as she undid his waistcoat.
Desire coursed through them. The need to hold one another overwhelming them both. Y/N's dress fell down from her shoulders and ended up on the floor, forgotten.
As Anthony stepped back, Y/N jumped off the desk and pulled Anthony forward by his cravat. She smiled, licking her swollen lips as she pushed him down until he was kneeling in front of her.
Anthony chuckled, his hands reaching up and pulling down her stockings from around her thighs. Her drawers followed next. Anthony's hands danced over her hips and upper thighs as he guided the material down.
Y/N's hands caressed his face and combed through his hair with her fingers as he undressed her and Anthony tried not to moan in delight. He paused as her hands came around his throat, undoing the cravat and then drifting down to his shirt.
Teasingly, Y/N pulled the edge up, letting her nail lightly drag across his skin. A tremor went through his body, desire flaring between his legs. The shirt landed on the floor next to her dress.
Anthony paused, looking at her. “I will stop if you want me to,” he said softly.
"Please don’t.”
Anthony realised just how much he liked her begging.
Y/N lowered herself to her knees, looking Anthony in the eye. He recognised the look in her eyes and he slowly lowered himself down to the floor, the rug brushing his bare back.
She knelt over him, fingers dancing over his chest. Her hands moved down, brushing between his legs. He nearly came undone there and then. Y/N undid his trousers, sliding the fabric down his legs until they were both exposed.
Y/N lowered herself onto him, a sweetness growing between her legs as she did so. She yearned to reach down and relieve it. Instead, she straightened up, resting on top of Anthony. He tilted his head back, a groan burning in his throat. He let her warm to him, to his touch, and then he arched up slightly, encouraging her movements. Y/N moved with him, their limbs becoming one, entangling with the other.
Anthony reached the horizon of his desire, feeling it's release all over. Y/N rested a hand on his chest, breathing hard. She leant down, kissing his lips, the space behind his ear, his collarbone. She brushed her hand along the side of his face, taking in every mole, every detail.
Anthony took her face in his hands. He gently guided her up, until they were both kneeling again. Then, he pushed her backwards, letting her lower herself onto the floor. Y/N laid on the rug, looking up at Anthony, her eyes caught in his gaze. He knelt over her, his knees either side of her waist, his knee brushing her bare skin.
He smirked as slowly lowered himself downward, caressing every part of her body as he went. His hands ran over her covered breasts, hovering for a moment, before moving down to her stomach. He paused at her thighs and then, when he heard her whimper, went down further, to the sweet spot that yearned to be touched.
Y/N splayed her hands out against the rug as the sweetness between her thighs was eased by hands that knew exactly what to do and a tongue that knew just where to touch.
She didn't even hear the noises she made, so absorbed in the feeling of Anthony's fingers inside her. Her hips bucked up and he pushed them back to the floor, resting his other hand against her abdomen.
Needing something to grasp onto, Y/N reached for his hand. Anthony found it and gripped it tightly, riding with her as each surge of breath came in quick succession.
Y/N arched up, her head tilted back, exposing her throat, as she crested the wave of her release. Anthony finished off as she fell back against the rug, her skin glowing with sweat.
He laid down next to her, his hand coming to lie against her chest. He could feel her heart beating through the corset she still wore.
Neither one spoke - they didn’t need to. Y/N closed her eyes and turned her head, nestling into Anthony’s neck and breathing in deeply. His cologne was stronger there, evidently where he’d rolled it on that morning. Anthony’s thumb rubbed back and forth along her back.
In stark contrast from the hunger and desire that had gripped them moments earlier, they were both settled now. Anthony’s kiss was soft on her cheek, his hands gentle as he caressed her bare skin. Y/N found herself drawing circles on his bare back, following imaginary lines along the divot of his spine.
She sighed softly and relaxed further into his embrace, closing her eyes as she listened to Anthony’s heart beating in time with hers.
She awoke hours later. The candles had burnt down and the sky was dark outside the window. She was still in Anthony’s embrace, his hand lazily flung across her stomach, fingers on her thigh. She turned her head to look at him and he blinked at her sleepily, his hair mussed.
“I suspect I might have to marry you now,” Anthony whispered, tucking her hair behind her ear. He pressed a kiss to her forehead.
“I suspect you might, Lord Bridgerton” Y/N replied, smiling back. She brushed her hand through his hair. “Luckily for you, I’m all yours.”
“Lucky for me indeed,” Anthony murmured, pressing his lips to hers once more. Slowly. Deliberately.
For they had all the time in the world now.
3K notes · View notes
ijustwant2write · 11 months
Text
Reunion Of Sorts-Anthony Bridgerton x Basset!Reader
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(GIF credit to @mrsbridgerton)
Requested by anonymous: ‘Hi! If your requests are open I'd love to request an Anthony Bridgerton x Basset!Reader where the reader's Simon's sister. Prompts 14 and 15 please? Thank you so much, your works are amazing!’
14) 'It's only good news depending on how you look at it.'
15) 'I just wouldn't have expected this!'
Characters: Anthony Bridgerton x Basset!Reader, Simon Basset x Basset!Reader (siblings), Daphne Bridgerton x Reader (platonic), mentions of Bridgerton family
Meanings: (Y/N)=Your name
Warnings: Just extreme fluff!
                                            *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Are you quite alright, (Y/N)?" Simon asked his sister as they journeyed in their carriage.
(Y/N) had started fanning herself a little faster."I don't know why I'm so nervous. I just hope to make a good impression."
"Of course you will. I'm sorry you haven't met them sooner."
"I could have at least met your wife at the wedding, if I had been invited."
"We have been through this, (Y/N)."
"Yes, and I'm not trying to argue with you, Simon. I know you married in haste, and I know why, but you must admit, you've left this far too long. You have a son now!"
"You have been cooped up in that house with your matron as father intended. I think she would have had my head if I tried to get you out of there."
They laughed together.
"Simon?"
"Hm?"
"I am very excited to meet your wife and my nephew."
As usual, the Bridgerton house was abuzz with excitement and chaos. Eloise didn't understand why she had to dress up so much for this visit, Gregory and Hyacinth were bombarding everyone with questions about Simon's sister, Colin and Benedict tried but failed to escape the madness, Anthony watched everything unfold and Daphne nervously bounced her baby boy on her knee.
"Daphne, do not fret. His sister will love you." Anthony tried to reassure his sister.
"What if she's like their father? What if she heard all the rumours about us and judges me for it? Simon has never spoken of her, I have no idea what to expect."
"I met Simon's sister many, many years ago. She was nothing like the things you are dreading. (Y/N) was a lovely, respectable young lady, I'm sure she hasn't changed."
Daphne let a small smile grace her face, trying to convince herself that everything was fine. Simon had kept his family such a secret, she just wanted to ensure that his sister would want to stay and be part of theirs.
Simon playfully rolled his eyes as (Y/N) asked how she looked, not in vain, but in anxiety. Her dress was beautiful, her hair perfectly in place, her jewels glistened but they weren't ghastly, nothing was wrong. Her nerves were getting the better of her. Just as she was about to ask again, the carriage stopped. Simon chuckled at her panicked look, already stepping outside.
He held out his hand for her."You'll be absolutely fine. Just be you."
(Y/N) took a deep breath before taking her brother's hand, being extra cautious to not fall on her face, especially since the entire Bridgerton family were stood on their front steps.
As head of the household, Anthony was ready to start introductions, until (Y/N) lifted her head, showing her dazzling features. He had only admitted to himself that he had a fancy for her when he was younger, though who wouldn't? She was beautiful, smart and didn't try hard to impress anyone; she was just joyful to be around. (Y/N) had never pined for Anthony or tried to grab his attention at every moment, or any man for that matter. He definitely considered her a friend, he was somewhat angry at himself he hadn't written to her over the years. But seeing her now, it was a mystery as to why she hadn't been married yet? That was quickly solved when he remembered Simon was her brother.
Simon stuck beside his sister until Daphne stepped forward. They shared a short but loving kiss, before Simon took their son into his arms, cooing and laughing as the baby gurgled. (Y/N)'s heart melted at the sight.
"Oh, how we've missed you." Violet beamed, greeting her son-in-law.
"I apologise for the delay, the weather was not suitable for travelling. Nevertheless, everyone, this is my sister, (Y/N) Basset."
(Y/N) curtsied as all eyes were on her."Thank you for welcoming me into your beautiful home. I have been so excited to meet you all."
"Well, why don't we go inside? We can have proper introductions in the warm." Daphne hid her nerves, presenting herself well.
Everyone agreed, leading (Y/N) inside. The family lined up like soldiers, with Anthony stepping forward to introduce everyone.
"I hope I don't have to reintroduce myself." he teased.
"Of course not, how could I forget you, Anthony? After all the trouble you and Simon got into?"
He chuckled, but cast a worried look towards his mother. He quickly continued.
"My mother, Violet, sisters Daphne, Eloise and Hyacinth, and my brothers, Benedict, Colin and Gregory."
"And your nephew." Simon added.
(Y/N) reached out a finger for the baby to hold."Yes, he's bigger than I thought he would be."
"Children do grow so fast." Violet said.
"But you're here now to see him grow." Daphne quickly added. "And we're all very happy that you're finally here."
Everyone knew that it was Simon who had kept (Y/N) away. He loved his sister with all his heart, which is why he never saw her; she was living a happy life, he didn't want to dampen that.
"The chefs have prepared a marvelous lunch. The table is all set if you are hungry now?" Voilet asked.
"Oh, yes, as long as everyone else is."
As soon as (Y/N) agreed, Colin, Eloise and the two youngest were off. They were starving, even though they had eaten only a few hours ago. (Y/N) giggled to the relief of the others. They slowly followed behind, but Simon was hesitant. (Y/N) gently nudged him forward.
"Go, see your family. I have all the time in the world to get to know Daphne."
Simon thanked her, still carrying his son as his other arm wrapped around his wife. Another arm appeared in front of (Y/N), ready for her to take it.
"May I escort you to the table?" Anthony said.
"Thank you, I much appreciate it."
They both knew they were being dramatic, though it was sweet of Anthony to make the gesture.
"How many years has it been?"
"Too many."
"I'm sorry your brother hasn't involved you. If the...situation between him and Daphne had been different, I know you would have been here straight away."
"I know. And I understand how stressful that all was. But as said before, I'm here now. I must say Anthony, I have missed you."
"Really? Even after all those times Simon and I riled you?"
"Yes. Although annoying, you both had your tender moments. I remember one evening, you and Simon were returning from your club, and you both had found yourselves in a quarrel with some other members. They followed you home, and I was waiting by the back gate to sneak you back inside. They were closer than expected, and do you remember some of the horrible things they said to me?"
"Unfortunately I do. And I unfortunately remember what happened next."
"It was very chivalrous for you to defend me, though you needn't have fought. Your nose wouldn't stop bleeding!"
"But you were right by my side, holding a handkerchief for me."
"Yes, because if you got blood on the carpets, you would have something worse than a bruised nose."
The pair were laughing to themselves as they walked into the dining room. Most were already seated. Anthony guided (Y/N) to her chair, next to Simon, who stood to tuck it in, but Anthony beat him to it. Simon watched his friend's moves very closely, knowing deep down that Anthony was just being polite; however, he wasn't too fond that they were sat opposite each other, able to gaze into each others eyes.
Simon tapped his glass with a knife once everyone was sat, standing with said glass in his hand."Before we begin eating, I would like to propose a toast."
Everyone immediately grabbed their own glasses, except Eloise, taking her time as she huffed; couldn't they at least toast after the meal?
"To my sister, (Y/N). I am so happy that you're here with me, with us. I'm sorry I haven't been a better brother but that will change now. And I can't wait for you to get to know this loving family, who made me one of their own, as I know they will you."
"To family." Benedict finished.
"To family." Everyone cheered.
"Now the food. Please." Eloise needed a plate in front of her.
All through lunch, Simon kept a close eye on his sister and Anthony. He was awful at keeping up with conversations, slow at eating, he just had a weird feeling when he glanced at them both. Simon constantly apologised to Daphne, blaming the long journey for his daydreaming.
However, Anthony and (Y/N) might as well have been dining at their own table. They were in full conversation, of course others chimed in to join, but they couldn't stop reflecting on the past and laughing. It was impossible to not notice how well they were getting along, and Violet had a glint in her eye as she saw how much Anthony was smiling. He never smiled this much, and the way he was looking at (Y/N) reminded her of how her husband used to look at her.
After dinner, they retired to the drawing room, sipping on fresh lemonade as Hyacinth showed off her new skill on the piano. Simon sat with his child in his lap, Daphne by his side, and although he was thoroughly enjoying the time with his family, he couldn't stop gazing over at his sister.
Unsurprisingly, (Y/N) and Anthony were cosied up, still smiling ear to ear as they continued talking. How could they have so much to talk about?
"Let's put him to bed Simon, for a nap. He's getting fussy." Daphne interrupted his thoughts.
Simon didn't want to cause a scene, agreeing to put their son down together. Even as they left the room, Simon's eyes lingered, and he immediately became tense once they were out of sight.
"Has my brother dazzled you?"
Simon was quiet as he laid down his son."Hm?"
"Well you haven't stopped staring at him all night."
He sighed."Was I that obvious?"
"You were indeed. Would it be so bad?"
"What?"
"Would it be so bad if my brother loved your sister?"
"Daphne-"
"Has he been disrespectful? Has he done her wrong? Has he done anything that we did?"
He was stumped. Although his brotherly instincts were kicking in, wanting to protect (Y/N), realistically he knew Anthony would never hurt her. Anthony was trustworthy, he knew him inside out and just from tonight, there was something there.
Simon didn't reply, but Daphne knew he wasn't ignoring her. She could see him thinking it all over as he walked to the window.
"It's only good news depending on how you look at it."
"I know, but it will be fine-"
"No, look!"
Daphne quickly joined her husband at the window, trying to see what he was looking at. Down in the gardens was Anthony and (Y/N) taking a stroll. The pair were lit by the setting sun which was casting a beautiful orange and pink glow across the garden. Although they had not stopped talking through the afternoon, now they were silent, both silently worrying that the other had no more to say.
"(Y/N)-"
"Anthony-"
The spoke at the same time, pausing for a moment before laughing. Anthony said nothing, being a gentleman and letting (Y/N) speak.
"I was just going to say how much I have enjoyed our time together. It feels as if no time has passed since the last time I saw you."
"How long will you stay?"
"Sorry?"
"Well, are you staying for a short visit? Or perhaps an extended time?"
"Simon and I have not discussed that as of yet. I am to be staying with a friend of mine who lives in the Ton, so I shall be here for a little while."
Anthony couldn't help but smile."Good, that is good news."
They were quiet again as they continued walking, only taking small steps as they wee nearing the end of the garden. They were standing close to one another, and although they had linked arms before and been sat on the plush sofas, this held more tension. Perhaps it was the way neither of them wanted to startle the other, despite their desperate want for affection. As their minds drifted off to where this was leading, their hands ever so delicately brushed. Both were startled, halting their steps and looking at each other.
"My apologies-"
"Anthony, it's fine. I...I just wouldn't have expected this."
Anthony thought for a moment, glancing down at their hands that were no longer close. He didn't like it. He wanted to be bold and take the next step, even if it was just holding one another's hand. But this was Simon Basset's sister. And it was (Y/N), who he had the upmost respect for.
"Miss Basset?"
"Anthony, why are you calling me that?"
"May I enquire into the address of your new lodgings?"
"Yes? Why?"
"So that I may call on you in the morning?"
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imaginecentralworld · 10 days
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💎The Season's Diamond💎
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✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚
ʚɞ Anthony Bridgerton x female reader
ʚɞ PART 2 and PART 3
ʚɞ Summary: Amidst preparations for the Queen's ball where the season's Diamond will be chosen, Lady Y/N Dalton navigates her feelings for her close friend Anthony. As plans and secrets unfold with the help of the Bridgerton family, Y/N faces a transformative evening that could determine her future.
ʚɞ Word Count: 530 (Words), 3,158 (characters)
ʚɞ Warning: This ends with a cliffhanger, more parts will come.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊˚.
At the bustling French boutique Modiste, Madame Delacroix flitted around you, pinning and tucking the fabric of a gown that shimmered like the morning dew. The air was filled with the scent of fresh silks and the soft murmur of anticipation. Lady Bridgerton, standing by your mother, was deep in conversation, plotting with a fervor only matched by their desire to see you named the Diamond of the season.
"You truly have an eye for elegance, Y/N," Lady Bridgerton praised, watching you twirl gently in your nearly finished gown. "This shade of blue not only complements your eyes but also sets you apart in any crowd. The Queen herself will be enchanted, I dare say."
Your mother nodded in agreement, her eyes gleaming with pride. "Indeed, Violet. With this gown and the right presentation at the ball, Y/N will outshine all. We must consider every detail meticulously."
As plans were laid and laughter shared, the evening sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows through the windows of the Bridgerton estate where dinner awaited. You felt a flutter of excitement, not just for the ball but for the chance to spend more time with Anthony, whose earlier attentions had left your heart racing.
Dinner was a lively affair at the Bridgerton household, filled with boisterous talk and the clinking of silverware. Anthony sat across from you, his gaze often lingering longer than was customary, filled with an unspoken question. Every smile, every glance sent a thrill of wonder through your heart about his true feelings.
As dessert was served—a delightful array of sweets that only added to the evening’s indulgence—Anthony cleared his throat, capturing the attention of everyone at the table.
"Lady Dalton, Y/N," he began, his voice steady but imbued with a warmth that made your pulse quicken, "I have been considering the upcoming ball and the Queen’s selection of the Diamond. While we all hope for the best, I believe Y/N’s brilliance is evident to all, regardless of titles or accolades bestowed."
You blushed, heart pounding, as murmurs of agreement circled the table.
Anthony continued, "In fact, I would like to propose a toast." He raised his glass, his eyes locking with yours. "To Y/N, whose grace and beauty surpass any jewel in the Queen's crown. May she always shine as brightly as she does tonight."
Glasses clinked in unison, and cheers filled the room. Your eyes met Anthony’s, and in that moment, you sensed the depth of his regard, something perhaps deeper than mere friendship. But before you could ponder it further, Lady Bridgerton leaned in, her voice low and conspiratorial.
"And now, my dear, we have a surprise for you tomorrow that might just tip the scales in our favor for the Queen’s decision," she whispered, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.
Your heart skipped a beat, curiosity piqued. "What kind of surprise?"
"You shall see," Lady Bridgerton replied, the mystery lingering in the air as dinner concluded and the evening waned. You were left wondering about Anthony’s lingering looks and the impending surprise, your mind a whirl of possibilities as the night drew to a close, setting the stage for an unforgettable day to come.
︵‿︵‿︵‿︵︵‿︵‿︵‿︵︵‿︵‿︵‿︵︵‿︵‿︵‿︵︵‿
Just binged Bridgerton in prep for Season 3 and now I'm basically an expert on all things Anthony 🎩✨. Brace yourselves for a deluge of Bridgerton bros content - it's about to get regal up in here! 🍿👑 #TheViscountWhoLovedMe #MoreBridgertonBrosPlease
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crazyk-imagine · 2 months
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There’s a Heat Between Us, You Must Admit
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Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Plus size!rader
Characters: Plus size!reader, Anthony Bridgerton, Benedict Bridgerton, Colin Bridgerton, Daphne Bridgerton, Violet Bridgerton, Mildred “Millie” Nightington (reader’s cousin), Bernard (the servant), Eloise Bridgerton, Francesca Bridgerton, Gregory Bridgerton, Hyacinth Bridgerton, Simon Bassett, Augie Bassett
Warnings: Anthony is an idiot, the bee scene (mainly from the book scene), drama, Daphne doesn’t want to see her friend end up alone, reader gives Anthony the biggest side eye ever, reader and Anthony are idiots, Millie is a sweetheart, reader and Anthony are competitive, the sideburns line was something I learned about, reader is stubborn, Anthony is oddly very emotional in this, reader knows a lot of things, reader doesn’t know how to deal with her emotions, pregnancy scare, the pregnancy scare reminds me of a sitcom
Word Count: 13,647
A/N: Reader’s last name is Starlington and also, super excited to have finally finished this one. 
*1,700 follower celebration post*
Also, Happy Valentine’s day!!
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Sometimes you loved your dear friend Daphne and other times you didn't, right now for example, you don't. 
Honestly you don’t know how this got brought up (again) but you’d wish she would stop; it’s not going to happen even if she wants you to officially join her family. 
You knew her being the first to marry out of the two of you was going to lead to more of her shenanigans, but this was too much for you. 
You sigh, setting your cup down to look her in the eyes, “I have no plans on being in this season.” 
Her shoulder sagged, “I understand that but-” 
“But, nothing. Daphne, I am more than content with my being staying very much untied to a man. If I happen to meet someone worth it, you’ll know.” 
-
Anthony glances over in your direction and his mind goes elsewhere. 
You’re his sister’s best friend who also became Benedict’s best friend soon after you met the rest of his family. 
He isn’t particularly upset at the fact that you’ve managed to befriend his siblings (slightly better than he could) but, there’s something that keeps bringing a certain idea to the front of his mind. 
“Are you going to take your turn or continue staring?” Benedict asks. 
The eldest shrugs off his brother’s comment. 
Anthony uses the dreaded “death mallet” and once again, manages to pass the others. 
-
Daphne heads towards her siblings before they can scream and shout at her for sitting down instead of taking her turn. 
You sigh, shoulders sagging because you know she means no harm; you know that but, you can’t force yourself to love and care for someone you don’t have feelings for. 
You’d never admit it (out loud or to her) but there are nights where you do wonder how it would be if you did get married to someone you loved. 
The concerning part is how her brother sneaks into your mind; not your closest friend, Benedict, or the third oldest, Colin, and of course not, Gregory. 
No, Anthony is the one to invade your mind and corrupt your dreams with his charming smile and smooth movements. 
And you would never dare tell Daphne or your cousin of your thoughts; no matter how hard she tries to convince you he feels something for you. 
You take a deep breath, returning your focus onto the game only to meet a pair of oak brown eyes gazing upon you. 
You tear your gaze away at the sounds of Violet walking down the stairs, carrying a smiling Augie in her arms earning a smile from you as you observe the happy baby. 
You glance towards her and offer a polite smile, giving her a moment to settle down in the free chair before turning to focus on the young babe. “Hello, Augie,” you greet him with a baby tone and shake his chubby fingers. 
“He’s always taken with you,” Violet comments. 
“I am the one who always manages to search for his mother when he cries for her. Sometimes I believe myself to be a dog.” 
She chuckles, “that’s not it.” 
“Why else would he like me?” 
“You have a natural instinct that he senses. Children know these things.” 
“If that’s what you say.” 
Daphne steps away from the others, wanting to see her child. “She is right, you know.” 
“Not you too,” you groan. 
“You will make a fantastic mother.” 
“Someday.” 
“It could happen sooner than one would think.”
“What are you planning?” 
“Nothing.” 
Anthony stares back at you once more, observing the way you interact with his dear nephew. As he searches for someone to call wife, his most secretive thoughts keep coming to mind. The more he searches and the longer you stay, the more he finds himself wondering. 
His mother continues to help him in his search for a wife albeit reluctantly since she finds herself so fond of you. She’d never explicitly tell him to pursue you but, she could always kindly ease him into the right direction, which is when his disbelief comes to the surface, truly believing you to feel nothing for him. 
He knows if he tried to pursue you and it fell through, he will have ruined a lifelong friendship for his family- as he watches Daphne hold her purple mallet for you to take- he realizes he can’t pursue you. 
Not that he’d ever given it any real thought, but he’d never be able to forgive himself if he was the reason, you stopped coming by. 
You shake your head. 
She puts it in your hand, persuading you into taking her place so she can attend to Augie. 
You step down from the seating area with little energy. 
His sister offers encouraging nods. 
“I see you finally came to join us,” comments Anthony. 
You avoid his gaze- you can barely stand beside him. “Not like I wanted to,” you reply. 
“You’re scared to lose?” 
You scoff, turning to look up at him, “that is not what I said.” 
He smirks, leaning closer to you, “you didn’t have to.” 
You narrow your eyes at him, “we’ll see who’s laughing when I win.” You walk away, taking your turn. You’re satisfied until you sense him behind you. 
He follows you, “for someone who didn’t want to play earlier, you’ve certainly found your spirit.” 
“Or was it a trick?” You smirk, glancing at him when the ball rolls through the metal hoop with ease. “You look nice,” you comment, turning around to walk away. 
Anthony’s brows furrow together, his body takes over as he steps closer to you, standing beside you. “What do you mean?” 
You turn, struggling to find the right words without sending the wrong message. “I only meant you look nice. You know, people- people can actually see your face now.” 
He continues to stare at you. 
“Your sideburns were nice but it- they- people may have assumed you grew them to hide what lies in your heart.”
“And what do you think lies there?” The words escape him before he could process his thoughts. 
“I believe the love for your family and future wife is there, along with the care and compassion you hold for them. I do have to admit, I am a bit glad you shaved.” 
He tilts his head, “and why is that?” 
“I was afraid you would have continued growing them and at some point, they would connect,” you use both hands the gesture from your sideburns to your upper lip, “and you would look as though you were wearing a mask of sorts,” you say with one hundred percent seriousness until you think about it and snicker, covering your face with your hand. 
Anthony is also unable to keep himself collected and joins in. He straightens his posture, “what of you?” 
You take a deep breath, fanning yourself. "What of me, for what?” 
“What do you think lies in your heart?” 
“The same as you, I suppose. Love and compassion for my family and the few friends I have.” 
“What about me?” He asks before he can stop himself. 
“What?” You don’t know what to think. 
“I-” He walks past you, placing his mallet back into place before exiting, wandering to the garden. He needs to get as far away from you as he can in order to clear his mind. 
You don’t understand what’s happened and place your mallet beside his before chasing after him. 
-
He stares at you, half listening to you and his attention moves elsewhere. 
“Are you even listening to me?” You stare at him, wanting to understand him. You’re too into your thoughts to hear the faint buzz. 
The noise sends a shiver down his spine, he knows the noise too well; his nightmares (if he can remember any) always start with the faint buzz. 
He doesn’t move as he searches for it. Sadly, for the eldest child, he doesn’t have to search for long as the small, striped animal floats around you. He prays to whoever is listening to hear his silent prayers for it doesn’t sting you; he can’t lose someone else to the blasted creature. 
“Anthony?” You ask, glancing down when you feel something land on you. You realize why he can’t look away. “Hey, it’s alright.” 
He can’t focus on your words, his mind rattled with the memory of his late father. “Don’t move,” his voice is low and shaky.
“I know, it’s a bee but, it won’t hurt me as long as I-” you close your eyes due to the discomfort you get from the sting, and it sends him into a whirlwind. “I’ll be alright,” you say, still trying to reassure him. You open your eyes to see how pale he’s gotten. 
He invades your personal space, grasping onto your arms. “Are- are you-” He glances back and forth between your face and your wound. His voice is low, far too low for you to understand what it is he is trying to say but you swear you hear him mutter something along the lines of, “don’t move'' repeatedly. 
You know you must calm him down before he can do anything. You reach for him, placing a hand on his cheek, forcing him to look at you. “Breathe, Anthony. I need you to breathe.” 
He can’t say anything, almost as if he’s choking on air. Images of his father invade his mind, filling him with worry and dread. 
You can see he is close to tears. Your voice draws him out of his thoughts. “I promise you. I hope you know I wouldn’t lie to you. I’m fine but I will still have a doctor come and look at it so that it may heal properly. I’m right here. I’m here with you.” 
Anthony’s hands grip your biceps, he notices how swollen the sting site has become. 
“It stung me, but I am not hurting. This has happened before. I will be fine.” 
None of your reassurances are having any effect on him. 
The image of his father taking his last breath in his mother’s arm is enough to make lean in to suck the venom out. 
“Anthony?! What are you-” You cut yourself off at the feeling of his shaky hands trying to remove the stinger. “Anthony, you must stop.” 
“Shut up,” he hisses, trying to stay focused on keeping you healthy (and alive) while fighting to keep his father’s death out of his mind. 
You take deep breaths, you try to push him away, but he is insistent and stronger than you. “I am fine, I just need to see a doctor and I-” 
“Would you be quiet,” he finally lifts his head to look up at you. 
You gulp, “I know- I know what tragedy has happened in your family but, today will not be the same for me.” 
He doesn’t listen and continues to squeeze the area. 
You gasp, eyes widening at the feeling of his hands being so close to your breast. This has gone too far; you must stop this before someone sees. “Anthony,” you place your hands on his chest to push him away once more. 
“Stop it,” he shoves your arms off him. “Let me get rid of the venom.” 
“There is a doctor who can do this and-” 
“The doctor is not here. I am.” He stops squeezing when some liquid begins to spill out of the wound. 
You look down, finding the trail of liquid, “see, you did it. Now, I am going inside to-” 
Anthony pulls out a handkerchief, wiping away the trail. “It’s not all of it.” 
You wrap your hand around his wrist, stopping him from patting you dry. “You must stop this, Anthony. If anything were to have happened, it would have happened already.”
“There is still more,” he mutters, staring at the irritated area. 
“You need to stop.” 
“I haven’t gotten all of it,” he turns, staring at you. 
“Whatever it is you’re thinking of doing. Don’t.” 
“I have to get the venom out before it kills you.” 
“It won’t kill me-” you gasp, seeing the determination in him as he leans forward. You place your hand on his shoulder, keeping his head away but fail to remove his hand. 
The click clack of women’s shoes against the rock pathway alerts you, but you feel as though you can’t move. 
A gasp makes you turn to find his mother alongside your cousin, Mildred (Millie for short), staring at the two of you with shocked expressions. 
Your heart rate increases and gain enough strength to fully shove him away from you, knowing how this looks. 
He glances up at you with a confused expression. 
“Anthony?” Violet calls out. 
His brows furrow further, he looks over your shoulder, “mother?” 
“What is going here?” 
“She was stung by a- a bee.” 
“A bee?” 
“Yes, a bee. I’d told him repeatedly I was fine. I’ve dealt with being stung before,” you say, struggling to keep yourself together. 
“You were stung by a bee and the boy found himself attached to you?” Mildred raises a brow. 
“Don’t look at me like that, Millie.” 
“I’m not, I’m wondering how you think this can be kept quiet.” 
“Kept quiet?” You repeat quietly to yourself. 
“Neither of us would repeat a word of what occurred today,” he argues. 
“That doesn’t mean anything for a woman’s reputation,” Mildred says with an attitude. 
“You do realize anyone could walk out here and spot the two of you, don’t you?” 
He doesn’t say anything. 
“Don’t you?” 
He grits his teeth, “I do.” 
“You should consider yourself lucky that it was us who found you and no one else, rake.” 
“That’s enough now, Mildred,” Violet intervenes. “Let’s,” she takes a deep breath, “let’s go inside and talk about this further. Lady Starlington needs to be seen by a doctor.” 
You can’t stand to be there any longer and turn away from him, walking past the two ladies and Anthony; your pace speeds up before you know it, you’re sprinting back to Audrey Hall. 
Mildred sighs, “now what are we to do?”
“We will all walk back and discuss this,” Violet says. 
“Of course, we are but, what am I to tell my parents? They’ll be curious to know why their niece’s name is in a Lady Whistledown column.” 
Anthony grunts, taking a step towards the two. He passes by them and quickly announces, “we will marry before the end of the season.” 
“Did he say what I think he did?” asks Mildred, watching his figure walk away with wide eyes. 
Violet sighs, shaking her head, “I believe he did.” 
“Did I do the right thing?” 
The mother of the family stops, turning to face your cousin, “what do you mean?” 
“I- I basically pushed themselves together into this potentially unhappy marriage. I know I sometimes I can’t keep my comments to myself but, I swear I had good intentions. It's just- when we came around the corner to see that I- I worry about her. I fear I may have ruined my relationship with the two.” 
“I can’t give you an exact answer but, I can say that as long as you have your cousin’s interest and happiness in mind, the most you can do is hope for the best. They are both emotionally driven people, even if neither wishes to admit it. This will be hard for them, and it may be a test.” 
“A test?”
“To see if they will make good of their marriage. You and I, as well as my other children, have come to realize how they connect with one another. They can’t see it for themselves but there is something there and now is the time for them to see it.” 
“I suppose so. What if they can’t make it work?” 
“Then I fear they will be in a miserable marriage.” 
-
No one else disturbed you after the doctor left. 
You sit at the edge of the bed, your vision blurs; you cover your mouth with shaky hands. You don’t want others to hear if they happen to be walking by. You cry, struggling to catch your breath. 
Everything you’ve been feeling with the last few days is slowly escaping you. Your mother is requesting to visit and marriage situation with Anthony; it’s too much. 
You take deep breaths, aiming to calm yourself down. 
Maybe it would be better if you left and went home or maybe somewhere far from here.
A knock disturbs you from your thoughts. 
You wipe your cheeks, hoping whoever it is will go away but fail as another knock comes through. You take a deep breath and open the door, “Viscount Bridgerton?” 
He lifts his gaze off the floor, “what happened to Anthony?” 
Any curiosity falls from your expression, “your making light of the situation?” 
He shakes his head, “I would never.” 
“I think you’ve done enough today. It’s almost time for bed.” 
He takes a step closer to the door, his hand inches away from being crushed, “I,” he sighs, taking a step back, removing his hand from the door. “I have come to ask if you would have dinner with me.” 
“With you?” 
“I think it would be wise if we talked before anything becomes… official.” 
“Now?” 
“Are you going to use full sentences any time soon?” 
“Why should I? Is it bothering you?” 
“Nevermind that. Are you going to join me or not?” 
“Will there be someone else there?” 
He gives you a reluctant nod, “yes, your dearest cousin, Mildred.” 
“I’ll be down in a moment. I will meet you there.”
“I’ll wait here.” 
“Do you have to?”
“No but, I think it might be good practice for us.” 
“Practice,” you mumble and shut the door. You walk over to the vanity, staring at yourself, wondering how you got into this situation. You snatch the extra handkerchief and pat your face, removing any evidence of your despair. 
You take careful steps toward the door and exit, Anthony leaning against the wall across from your room. He holds his arm out for you to hold. 
You shake your head. 
“Don’t you think you’ve touched her enough today?” 
He sighs, “Mildred.” 
“Who else would it be?” She interlocks your arms together, pulling you ahead of the eldest Bridgerton. “Come on.” 
-
“Do either of you know how to use it?” Anthony asks, staring at the stove. 
Mildred shakes her head, “the maids are always around to do it.” 
“Both of you sit down,” you say. 
“Do you know how to work this?” he asks, sounding surprised. 
“I do. It’s too late for us to have a full meal, instead we can have a glass of warm milk.” 
They sit at the table in the corner of the room. 
Anthony watches as you move gracefully around the kitchen.
“If you keep staring, she’ll catch you.” 
He turns to her, “what?” 
“You’re staring.” 
“No, I wasn’t,” he denies. 
“You can lie all you want but I know you care for her. Perhaps, you always have and never wanted to admit it before and the whole bee situation was a ruse so that you could stop being a ninny and marry her instead.” 
His jaw drops, he doesn’t know how to respond. “I did not-” 
She waves him off, “do not lie Anthony, I know you love her and have for some time now, only you must realize it now than later in your marriage. I do not want her… or you to be unhappy. Oddly enough, I seem to care for you but, obviously not the same way she does you.” 
He scoffs through his nose, muttering to himself, “obviously.” 
You place the glass of milk in front of the two, interrupting their conversation. “Don’t tell me you’ve decided to marry my cousin instead.” 
Anthony nearly chokes on the liquid, setting the glass down and snatches the handkerchief you hold out for him.
He wipes his chin, “what makes you think I would want to marry, Mildred.” 
She scoffs, “you’d be lucky to have me, Bridgerton.” 
He narrows his eyes to her. 
“I’ll be just outside this door, leaving the two of you talk and nothing else.”
You furrow your brows, “wait. Mil-” 
She waves to you. 
You take a deep breath, not wanting to face him. 
It was different when he wasn't paying attention to you and rather his own life, but now... you hope he doesn't want to talk. 
"We should- we should talk." 
Everything in your screams to not run away and hide, even though it sounds like it would be the better option right now. 
"How are you?" 
"I would be happier if I was marrying for love and not because of your concern over my virtue," you mumble. 
He overhears and sighs. “Don’t-” 
“No, I understand. Truly I do, just- I need- it’s late. Apologies for keeping you up.” You grab the skirts of your dress and walk out. 
Mildred watches as you run away. She spins around and stands in the doorway. “What did you do?” 
“Me- I-” 
She sighs. “Just shut up.” 
He sighs and slumps in the chair. Mildred storms into the room after you. 
-
“What happened?” 
“Nothing.” You take a deep breath, hunched over your vanity. 
“You know, you two act as a married couple who have known each other for too long and no longer know how to act lovingly around one another.” 
“You are wrong, cousin. He is- he is the scum- the scum that rests at the bottom of my shoe. Why would I ever marry someone like that? Much less that Bridgerton, I mean, Colin would be a better option and I don’t like him as much as I do Benedict.” You keep your head down, “people marry for less.” 
“I wish to marry for love, if it ever decides to come my way but until then I will deal with him marrying the only person, I care about that is close to my age.” 
“So, you care enough about me to marry me off?” 
“Don’t phrase it in such a way that makes me the bad guy,” she throws herself onto your bed. 
“Go to bed. I will be fine, Millie.” 
She props herself up on her elbows. “Are you sure?”
“I am. Please,” you look up and turn around, putting on a brave face. “I promise you. I will be fine.” 
“If you’re sure-” 
“Which I am. Goodnight, Millie.” 
She sighs and steps outside of the room, “night.” 
-
“Good morning.” 
You don’t respond to Mildred. 
“Are you ignoring me?” 
“I am simply showing you the way my soon-to-be husband will treat me.” 
“What do you mean?” 
“It has already begun. I awoke early and decided I wanted to speak to him after thinking about it all. I say hi but he does not.” You shrug, "it doesn't matter now." 
"It does though. Let me," she sighs. "Let me speak with him. I can- I can fix this." 
"No," you say. “I don’t want you to be in the middle any more than you have.” 
“Alright... now onto more pressing matters.” 
“Such as?” 
“Your plans for the wedding?” 
“Oh, right.” You continue to stare out the window. 
“Are you sure you're alright?” 
“I just-” 
Anthony stops himself from knocking on the door and decides to listen. 
“I thought when I was to marry, I would marry for love not because I need my virtue protected or saved." 
"If he didn't agree to this-" 
"I would be a spinster." 
"That is how I will live my life," Mildred grabs your hand and gains your attention. 
Anthony takes his leave, unable to stay there any longer. 
“That is not how I want you to live your life. I want you to be the one to have another you can call upon if there is something the matter because I won’t always be there and I need to know that you are protected before I leave.” 
“You’re leaving?” 
She sighs. “This isn’t how I wanted you to find out but yes. A week after you’ve been married, I plan on traveling the world.” 
“Your childhood dream.” 
“Precisely.” 
"I- what if I'm not good enough to," you wave your hand around. "This."
"This what? I'm not sure I understand." 
"What if- what if I am not fit to be a wife. I mean," you push yourself out of the chair and pace around the room. "I don't want him to be disappointed in the person he is to call wife. I don't want to be in a marriage of..." 
"Regret?" 
"Precisely." 
She stops you by placing a hand on your wrists, “now is the time for us to plan your wedding. Violet and Anthony have been sitting in the tearoom since I came in here.” 
“She’s- they’re- why didn’t you tell me?” You rush out the door. 
-
You clean yourself up outside the door and nod to your servant, Bernard, to open the doors. You nervously smile at both. 
Violet pops up from the chair closest to the window. “How are you?” 
“Oh- uh- I’m,” you glance to the side and stare at her eldest, who locks eyes with you. 
“I mean from the- well, you know,” she struggles to say. 
You let out a breath of relief, “ah, yes. I do. I am- I am fine. I’m just happy that everyone else is fine.” 
She smiles, “that is kind of you to say, but unnecessary.” 
“I hear you came to talk about our upcoming… event.” 
“Is that what Mildred told you?” 
You furrow your brows, “is that not what you’re here to discuss?” 
Anthony pushes himself off the couch. “Not yet. Mother, if you’d excuse us.” 
“Anthony, I don’t-” 
He gives her a look. 
"We will be right outside this door." 
"What did you want to discuss?" 
"If we are to marry, we should have stipulations." 
"You think I'll be so horrible that we need rules?" 
"Not you. I believe if we have these, we'll have a better understanding of what should come from this marriage." 
"Why don't I just stay by your side and show my face when you need me to so you can look like the perfect husband? Would that make things easier?" 
He sighs. "That is one of the things we need to discuss, which events you'd prefer to come to." 
"Oh, I get to choose those?" 
"Please stop. I am trying to make this as easy as I can." 
You clench your fists. "How am I supposed to be okay with this?" 
“It’s my fault and I am trying to make up for that.” 
You pause, “your fault?” 
He nods, “yes, it was- it was me who... couldn’t.” 
You step forward and place your hand on his, drawing his attention onto you. “It is not your fault when something so devastating comes to mind and you do all you can to prevent another. I do not blame you, but you must understand that I do not want to be one of those ladies.” 
“Who?” The only word he can get out as he studies you. 
Your compassion shifts into something of annoyance, one he knows too well. “You know who, someone who wants to be like Penelope’s mother or maybe even... all of the other ladies,” you chuckle, proud of the joke you made.
"I'm glad you can make jokes at a time like this." 
You roll your eyes, "oh hush, I am still upset about pretending to be a perfect housewife for the one man every woman dreams of being with." 
"Are you included?" 
Your mouth agape as you stare at him. 
"You two haven't maimed each other, perfect." 
"Millie," you pinch the bridge of your nose. 
"Oh, don't act so coy now." 
You roll your eyes and sit down, waiting to hear what Anthony and his mother have to say. You pace along the floor, finding it to be quieter here than in the tearoom with the others, even if they weren’t talking it was still too loud. You know there’s no alternative for what’s transpired between you and your soon to be husband, but it still hurts knowing he will never love you the way- 
“Are you alright?” Daphne’s voice draws you out of your thoughts. 
You give her a small smile and hope she doesn’t poke further. 
“I know this isn’t how it was supposed to happen but there is one good thing about your marriage.” 
You scoff, “and what, pray tell, is that?” 
“I finally can call you sister.” 
You try not to show how happy that makes you, not wanting her to know she was right. “Thank you.” 
She drags you over to the piano. 
“I still don’t understand why you have many so pianos.” 
She shrugs, “for moments like this, maybe?” 
“Are you waiting for me to play?” 
She nods, “of course, I am. You were always much better than I was.” 
“I was not.” 
“Show me then. Show me how awful you play, and I will not ask you again.”
You don’t know how long you had been playing for, but it was something you missed- not having a piano in your own home, you didn’t realize how long it had been. 
You usually prefer to play when no one is watching but having Daphne by your side was nice, she always knew how to help calm you before things could get worse; everyone knew of your father’s temper, and no one wants to face that through his only daughter. 
Anthony raises his hand to knock on the door but pauses as he listens, he doesn’t realize Daphne had learned a new piece. He slowly opens the door and finds you playing instead. 
‘When did you learn how to play?’ He wonders. 
Or maybe it was, you had always known, and he was too into his fantasies that he forgot to pay attention to the true version of you. 
Just when he was hoping to learn something horrible about you; you’re becoming more and more like his... 
“I didn’t know you played.” 
You open your eyes and glance up at him, standing up as quickly as you can. “I don’t.” 
He furrows his brows, “that’s not what I heard.” 
“That- that was nothing.” 
“Why are you lying?” 
“I prefer to keep this information to myself so if you could kindly pretend you didn’t hear anything, that’d be best.” You exit the room, knowing you’ve left 
Anthony in a wave of confusion. “What was that about?” 
“She doesn’t like others to know of her talents because she knows they’ll ask her to perform one of them.”
“Her mother.” He finally understands. 
“And her aunt.” 
Now he truly gets it. "Is this what you two would do while I was out with mother?" 
She shrugs and pushes the seat back. "Perhaps, or maybe you were never around long enough to learn about her even though you're entranced by her." 
He stutters, unsure of where she could have gotten that idea. "What?" 
She quickly hides her amusement before he can see. "Nothing. Goodnight Anthony." 
He tries to stop her, but she ignores him, offering an excuse for needing to put Augie to bed. He wonders what else he doesn’t know. 
You pace back and forth in front of his office door; this isn’t something you can do in person, is it? You sigh and wonder if it’s a wise choice to be doing this at all. 
You slip the letter under his door and take a step back. “That wasn’t so hard.” You turn around and briskly walk down the hallway, hoping he doesn’t see that it was you who was there.
Something moving in the corner of his eye piqued his interest and moved closer to figure out what it was. He picks up the letter and opens the door, seeing someone’s figure turning the corner before losing sight of them. 
He closes the door and opens the letter, wondering what you could have said when you’ve already said plenty. 
Dear Bridgerton, 
I I want to start off by apologizing for my outbursts, you don’t deserve them, and they are not aimed at you, but you happen to be the person I am talking to and... This is not how I expected the season to begin or end and I’m sure you didn’t either but if there is someone I were to marry, I’m happy it’d be you... because I trust you. I will do all that I can to be the perfect wife for you and if not, I apologize in advance. 
Sincerely, Your annoying soon to be wife 
The next day came, and you didn't know how to act. 
You sit between Daphne and Mildred when he enters. 
He sits in front of you and nods, acknowledging you, which you return. 
The girls beside you don't know how to react, each staring at the other with a raised brow. 
You two talked with his mother about the decisions for your wedding. 
"Have you two discussed what you want?" 
Anthony opens his mouth to answer but finds himself without an answer. 
"Everyone will talk, and it will no doubt be in Lady Whistledown's column, but it would be preferred if we had a small ceremony, family only." 
You don’t look up from your plate. Violet nods, listening intently. "I will use the dress my mother made when I was born, it'll save us time on getting a dress. The flowers can be your choice." 
"And after?" 
You turn to her, "it'd be smart to hold a small reception after all though it will increase because everyone will want to see who married the handsome and fortunate viscount."
You push yourself out of the chair. "I apologize but I realized I promised to spend time with the girls before we go out for our shopping trip." 
"What just happened?" 
"Have you two talked about anything regarding your wedding?" Violet asks her son. 
"Every time we discuss something-" 
"No, have you sat down and discussed what you two are to do? Who will be there? Anything that a soon to be husband and wife should discuss?" 
His shoulders sag. "No." 
"I want you to go in my place." 
"What? Why?" 
"It will give you two a moment to talk and prepare for the future hardships you two will face as a couple. Raise her spirits. She got a letter from her mother, saying she will not be able to attend. Perhaps that is why she is so uninterested today." 
"She- how do you know?" 
"I'm your mother, I know more than you would think." 
-
Anthony waiting by the door frightened you. “Are you joining us?” 
“I’m here in place of my mother.” 
It takes you a few seconds to process what he said. “You are?” 
He nods. “Shall we?” 
You close your eyes and take a deep breath. 
The failed whispering voices of the women around you, annoys you to the point where Anthony feels that he needs to do something. “Is there anything that has caught your interest?” 
You shake your head. 
“Let’s go. I know somewhere we can have a better time, away from the whispers of these women.” He leans in, whispering into your ear, “they’re jealous of you.” 
You cover your mouth to hide your amusement, not wanting him to know he’s helping lift your spirits. You two exit the shop and return to the Bridgerton home. “Why are we back here?” 
“We are going to have a drink.” 
“With your family? Couldn’t we do that any day we wanted to?” 
He holds his hand out for you to take, which you do. “Although that may be true, that’s not what I had in mind.” He places his arms behind his back, clenching his fist not wanting you to see the control you have over him. “We’re going to spend time in my office.” 
“Oh? I’m invited in, I feel so special.” 
“You should, very few are allowed in here, especially when I’m working.” 
“Of course. The head of the house needs quiet or else.”
-
“I see going out has helped you.” 
You watch as he fills the glass for you before grabbing it and swallowing it in one gulp. “You could say that.” You scrunch your nose at the sensation, maybe doing that was a bad idea. 
He takes a seat in his chair. 
“Could I ask you something?” 
He nods, staring at you over the glass as he takes a sip. 
“Did your mother inform of the one guest we won’t be seeing at our wedding?” 
He slowly sets the glass down before returning his gaze to you. “She may have mentioned it.” 
“Is that why you came with me today because she told you to and not because you wanted to?” 
“She may have said she thought it was best if I take her place, but it was initially my choice to go.” 
“You’re not lying?” 
“What would I gain from lying to you?” 
You sit up and reach for the bottle, filling your glass. “A relationship built on a lie.” 
He sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Are you trying to make this harder than it needs to be?” 
“I can’t just- you can’t honestly expect me to ignore that we are marrying one another when you never wanted to marry and I hoped that when it happened, it’d be with someone who loved me.” 
He’s out of his chair before you realize he’s now sitting in the chair beside you. “What will it take for you to stop saying that?” 
“What?” 
He leans in closer. “Why do you think I could never love you?” 
“I-” You gulp. “You have spoken before that you never want to marry, what else am I to think?” 
“How do you know I couldn’t change? What if something comes of this relationship?”
Your breath hitches and you continue staring him in his eyes. “I suppose we’ll have to cross that bridge if we get to it.” You set the glass down and rush for the door, “I’ll take my leave now. I’m feeling quite tired after our outing.” 
He grabs your wrist, pulling you back in before you could open the door. “I’m sorry.” 
“No, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have pressured you into answering my questions.” 
“What if I enjoyed them?” 
You turn to face him with a small smile. “Then I am concerned for your being.” 
“Don’t worry about me.” 
“Be honest, did you mother tell you about my mother is not coming?” 
“No,” he shakes his head, but you know the truth. 
“You don’t need to lie on order to preserve myself, it’s okay.” You sigh, “is it sad that a small part of me wishes for her to be there?” 
“Not in the least. It’s natural for you to want your mother there-” 
“It’s not because she’s my family, I just- I need her to stop pushing marriage onto me.” You pace back and forth, “this is my way to prove her wrong but that makes me feel worse because it makes me seem as though I’m being a bad daughter.” 
“You’re not,” he disagrees with you. “That is anything but you being a bad daughter. If anything, she’s- she’s scared to lose her daughter to a new family because they know you will be starting a new life, away from her and that’s why she doesn’t want you to help.” 
“But what if-” 
His hand slides down your arm as if his hand lingering wasn’t enough to drive you mad, he tightens his grip on your hand. 
You force yourself to focus on his words and not the warmth emanating from him. 
“Stop. All the negative thoughts you have are not going to help you. But listen to this, you are a good daughter, and she should be happy to know her daughter will be taken care of. As long as you are a part of this family you will be taken care of and not have to worry about expectations.” 
“I won’t,” you whisper, not meaning to. He shakes his head and gives a small smile. “I promise.” 
He realizes he’s been holding onto you this whole time and his arm falls. “Can I walk you back to your room?” 
You nod, ignoring the warmth flooding your cheeks. “I would like that.”
-
“Will I see you at breakfast tomorrow?” 
“You will, and if I ask you the same question?” 
He smiles, “I will be there.” 
“Good, I think this is a good start to our future marriage.” You step inside the room. 
“I am sorry.” 
“What?” 
“The marriage… and the reason we are to wed.” 
“What do you mean?” 
“I lost myself and-” 
You shake your head, placing a hand on his chest over his heart. “I do not blame you for something as traumatizing as your father’s death. Please know that.” 
“But-” 
“Anthony Bridgerton,” you tell him using a stern tone. “Stop it. It may not have happened under the best of circumstances, but I am happy that I will be wed to you than some other man. I can at least trust you.” You step back into the doorway, slowly closing the door as you bid him goodnight. 
He stands there, touching the spot where your hand was until he drops it, straining his hand as he fights to clench it.
-
Benedict and Colin happen to be there when he turns the corner. 
“Quite a show you put on there,” the second eldest says. 
“Yes, you’re whole “I’ll be the perfect husband” speech was wonderful,” the third eldest chimes in. 
Anthony scoffs, “would you two quiet down?” He grabs them by their collars, dragging them into one of their miscellaneous rooms. “Why aren’t you two out?” 
“How could we be out when you’re here?” Colin asks. 
“Trying to woo the love of your life,” Benedict adds on. 
“I’m not- you two are acting like children.” 
“Us? Acting like children?” Colin starts, glancing at his brother. 
“No,” the artist shakes his head, “I don’t think so.” 
The soon to be married man glares at his brothers, unsure if he wants to listen further or not but if he doesn’t let them continue it’ll be worse in the morning. He pinches the bridge of his nose. “If I let you two continue, will you keep quiet in the morning?” 
“Morning?” Colin turns to partner in crime. “What’s happening in the morning?” 
The artist glances over his older brother and grins, “is the soon to be wed joining his family and future wife for breakfast?” 
“With him being silent, I’m going to say yes.” 
“Finally, you agree with me.” 
“I agree with you,” the third eldest argues. 
“I don’t recall.” 
“Okay, now that you two are done, I’m going to bed.” 
“To dream of your wife.” 
“She looked quite nice today, wouldn’t you say brother?” Benedict asks. 
“I dare say, she looks even more radiant since her recent engagement.” 
“You two are done,” Anthony shoves them out of the room. “You two will not speak of her like that again. She is your friend,” he jabs Benedict’s chest. “And your future sister-in-law,” and does the same to Colin. “You will respect her and not talk like this again, understood?” 
“Yes, sir.” 
-
The next morning as soon as you step out of the door, your future husband paces. “You’re awake.” 
“I am, it’s time for breakfast.” You close the door behind you. “Shall we go downstairs and join the others?” 
“We’ll be the first ones down there.” 
“Either way, I’m going down.” 
He holds his arm out for you to take. “Shall we?” 
You give him a small smile and nod. “After breakfast, what are your plans?” 
“I have a few things I need to look over but after that I’m free. What did you have in mind?” 
“I planned on going for a walk along the back of your family’s estate and perhaps we could talk about things.” 
“Just the two of us.” 
“Mildred could join us?” 
“I’d rather she not.” 
“I don’t blame you; she’s been on a rampage since earlier this week.” 
The doors open and his brothers, Daphne and Mildred, are already sitting at the table. 
“Of course,” he mumbles. 
“Did you say something?” You ask him. 
He turns his head towards you, offering a small smile. “No, it’s nothing.” 
The glances between him and his brothers were interesting, intriguing to you and the girls, who also had no clue what was going on. 
He stands behind your chair, hand resting on your shoulder. “I shall find you after I am done.” 
You nod and watch him go. 
“Well, that was interesting.” 
Daphne shushes your cousin. 
-
You lay across the couch, reading another book and were so into it, not even realizing that he had entered the room. 
He smiles as he steps closer, wondering what’s going on inside your head, finding you to be more interesting as he observes you reading, compared to his sister. He leans against the back of the couch, bending down to catch your attention. 
A shadow moving catches your eye and you turn, screaming soon after. 
You place your hand over your heart, taking deep breaths. “For heaven’s sake! What was that for?” 
“What do you mean?” He smirks, arms on around the sides of your body as he stays behind the couch. “What are you reading?” 
You turn around and cross your arms, “why does that concern you?” 
“Can’t a future husband be curious as to what his future wife is into?” 
You glance at him from the corner of your eye. “Is that all?” 
“It is. But that’s not why I’m here.” He doesn’t say anything else. 
You get impatient and wave your arms around. “Spit it out. Come on.” 
“We are to marry by the end of the week.” 
Your brows raise is surprise, “oh.” 
“Is that alright?” 
You take a deep breath, “I just- I wasn’t expecting it to be so soon but that’s- okay.” You place the book beside you and stand up, brushing the wrinkles out of the skirts of your dress. “I need to go over some things with your mother.” 
The humor falls from his face. “Wait- where are you going?” 
"I just told you." 
He follows after you, "I heard you but-" He reaches for you, pulling you back. "Can we talk?" 
You take a deep breath to calm your beating heart. Why is this happening now? You thought you were over this. Your lips part as you stare at his hand. You shake your head, staring up at him. "I- what do we need to talk about?" 
"Lady... things." He’s quiet for a moment. "I won't push you but know I'm here to talk if you need someone." 
"Thank you." You take off, not noticing the way his hand slowly falls or the way he clenches his hand. 
It's been a long time since he's felt the skin of a woman he was enchanted by, especially one he's to call wife. 
"Did we catch a moment between you and your beloved?" 
Anthony sighs, "don't you have charcoal to break for your fruit drawings?" 
His younger brother puts a hand to his chest, offended by his brother's comment. "I'm hurt, Anthony. Truly, I am but it's not why I'm here." 
He turns to face the artistic Bridgerton, taking notice of the serious look on his face. "What's wrong?" 
"Sister." 
"Which one?" 
"Not one of ours." 
He furrows his brows, mouth agape to ask why but realizes who his brother is referring to. "I thought we had taken care of this situation?" 
"We did but then she decided to cut their trip short and has been calling on you since she arrived today."
"I need you to take care of her. I cannot allow her to ruin my marriage." 
Benedict nods, "you finally figured out you truly care for her, didn't you?" 
Anthony chuckles, "I'm not discussing this with you. Call Colin if you need help." 
"We got it. Go take care of my future sister." 
-
He nods for the doors to be opened. "Good morning, ladies." 
Your cousin shakes her head, your mother fawns over him while Violet takes a sip of her tea. 
Your eyes widen at the sight of him. 
He places a hand on the back of your chair. "I expect you all enjoyed your breakfast before discussing more of the wedding." 
"Oh, certainly. Your family has been nothing but kind to us, Viscount." 
You adjust the napkin on your lap to keep you from rolling your eyes at your mother's fake enthusiast tone. 
Mildred pats your arm, knowing the strained relationship between you and your mother. 
He notices the tension in your shoulders and wishes he could pull you away from all this madness. "Anything I can help with?" 
"Oh, heavens no. You have other more important things to take care of. Leave this to us ladies, isn't that, right?" 
You purse your lips and let out a quiet, "mmhmm." 
Maybe it was better when she said she couldn’t come to the wedding. Yes, you were sad, but it was better than the real thing. 
Violet glances between you and your mother. "Why don't we let the girls go on a walk with Anthony watching over them?" 
"But-" 
"I think this will be good for them. It will give them more time to talk." 
The woman hesitates to say yes, debating if this is truly a wise decision before making a decision. 
-
You didn't realize how tight you were squeezing Mildred's arm until she let out a whine. 
Your eyes widen, "oh, Millie. I'm so sorry." 
"It's fine. I should have known better. I know how crazy she makes you." "This always happens?" You don't look in his direction. Your cousin nods her head, "unfortunately." 
"Why has she made this unexpected visit?" 
"She," Mildred pauses, giving herself time to think of a better answer than truth. 
"She wants to know if I am with child and if the reason, you're marrying me is to save my family's name." 
Anthony nods, he understands why you preferred planning this with his mother and your cousin. "Should we?" 
You two glance over in his direction. "What are you implying?" 
He shrugs, "I merely suggest we pretend as if there is something going on, give your mother something to worry about." 
"You want her to pretend as if she is with child?" 
He nods, confirming Mildred's nightmare. 
"Please tell me you're not thinking of going through with this. It’s absurd and- oh, no. Now I like it." 
You glance between the two. "Is this something you two finally agree on?" 
They stumble for a minute, waiting for the other to argue and tell you no but come to realize you are, in fact, correct. 
Daphne stumbles upon the three of you and smiles, neither Mildred nor her brother are arguing, and you don't look uncomfortable. 
"Daphne!" Your cousin waves. "Come, come. We need your knowledge on a subject." 
She nods, smiling. "May I ask what you need my help with exactly?" 
"How does one pretend to be with child?" 
She owlishly blinks, tilting her head staring at the woman as if she's lost her mind. "I'm sorry?" 
"We are feeding into my aunt's absurd idea of her precious daughter being with child." 
Anthony purses his lips, finding himself to be offended more than he had been by Mildred's comments. "I'm not the worst option for a father." 
"Moving on," she waves him off before returning her attention to his sister. "We need information." 
"And you want to do this?" She turns to face you. 
Your eyes widen slightly, not realizing she was going to ask. "I think it would be... nice to show mother how well her child is without her watchful eye." 
"And you're sure this is the way to do it?" 
You shrug, "it's not so much if I think this is okay, it's more like she needs to realize I am my own person and can live a life without her dictating everything for me." 
Daphen nods, "okay. I will help." 
Mildred smiles and interlocks her arm with the Bridgerton girl's. "Come, we have much to discuss." 
You turn to your future husband and raise a brow. 
He stares at the two, wondering what advice his sister could have to offer before holding his arm out for you to hold onto as you all return to the hall for dinner. 
"Are you sure about this?" 
You hum, not having listened to a word he said. 
"I asked if you're sure about this. Mildred and I were joking, we don't expect you to play along with this idea." 
"Your kind, but this is something I need to do. She won't listen to reason if I tell her I don't need her help, she'll involve herself, no matter what." 
"And this is how you'll get her to stop?" 
You sigh, "we'll see." 
The dinner was entertaining for most, you felt bad for embarrassing Violet and the Bridgerton name all to get your mother off your back, but you felt there was no other way to stop her from inserting her wants and needs before yours. 
That was the first night you had a stern talking to from your future mother-in-law and- even though you could have thought of a better way to handle the situation, it felt nice to be taken care of the way a child should, compared to the way your mother raised you. 
You didn’t talk to your cousin or future husband after and went to bed with too much on your mind. 
-
Then came the wedding, it was as lovely as could be even if it was short notice and only family was invited. 
It came as a surprise to everyone, mainly yourself, when your mother decided it was time to stop and act like a caring parent. 
She smiled and fixed a piece of hair that was out of place. “I know this isn’t the wedding you dreamed about-” 
“I didn’t dream of a wedding often.” 
She sighs, realizing she’s been putting words in your mouth rather than stopping to listen to you. “I never dreamed of marrying someone I didn’t love. If I were to ever get married, I’d rather it be with someone I could have a future with than someone who would rather be with another.” 
"I know." 
"And you know what else- you know?" 
She nods, "I've been trying to relive my life through you, and it isn't fair. I'm here to watch you marry the man who will provide, take care of you," she cups your cheeks. "And love you the way you deserve." 
You shake your head, fighting to keep your composure, not wanting anyone to know of your breakdown. "He doesn't love me." 
She nods, "he does, you just can't see it." 
"How-" 
Your mother shushes you, "it's time." 
The reality of the situation didn't hit you until it was time to walk down the aisle but with the help of Mildred and Daphne, you were able to overcome it. 
That was also the only time you've felt the lips of your husband. 
-
Since the wedding it feels as though all the progress you two made was wasted, even Mildred was tired of your constant complaints before and after she left. 
You sit in the library, biting your nail until it hurts and turn the page; a new habit of yours, one Eloise would be proud of. 
You started hiding away to read when everyone went off to live their lives now that the beginning of yours has ended started. You’ve been reading more since your cousins’ departure; it was a tearful morning but you're happy to know she’s out living her life the way she wants. 
Then Daphne and Simon left the hall so they could return to their lives in their own home with little Augie. 
You've tried to go out with Violet and Lady Danbury, but they preferred to ask when you two would expand your family; safe to say you also hide in here for another reason. 
The youngest Bridgerton’s are swept away for their studies as they continue to grow. Francesca and Eloise are nowhere to be found half the time (hence where you got the idea). 
You don't know if you'd be able to handle talking to the other two brothers since marrying the eldest. The comments they make at breakfast are enough, going on a walk with them would be too much. 
Not that you mind the quiet even if it does get lonely at times. 
You push yourself off the ground, placing the book back in its place only now realizing how dark it had gotten and your candle has died, providing little light to guide you; its barely the size of your thumb and the wick is dying the longer you stay here. 
You open the door, carefully closing it and wince as the hinges creaking echoes down the hallway. You pause at the sound of footsteps only to hear a familiar girls whisper. "Hyacinth?" 
She smiles, "what are you doing here?" 
"I was reading." 
"In the dark?" 
You two glance down at your source of light that died as soon as she mentioned it. "The candles died." 
“Can you take me back to my room?” 
You smile and nod, “of course I can.” You grab her hand and try to find your way back to the hallway where her room is. 
-
“Finally, we found it.” You glance down at her, “I told you, we would.” 
She smiles up at you with a sleepy expression. “I knew you would.” 
You open the door and get her settled into bed before exiting. 
You wonder what it would be like to have your own child and stop. Are you really thinking about what it would be like to have a child when you haven’t seen your husband since your wedding day? 
You shake your head and continue down the hallway before turning around, realizing you made a wrong turn; you sigh, leaning against the railing, staring at the ballroom floor. 
You remember the first time you arrived at the hall and saw him. You didn’t know why your heartbeat was so fast until your cousin explained it to you. 
You wonder if he knows how you feel and if that’s the reason, he’s been avoiding you. 
“What are you doing awake at this hour?” 
You spin around and find- “Ben!” You cross your arms to cover you. 
He smiles, “what are you doing out of bed and away from your husband?” 
You take the jacket he offers you, “I’d rather be reading but my candle died- oh no.” 
“What?” 
“I left it in your sister’s room.” 
“Ah, so you’ve seen the whole family other than the one man you should be seeing.” 
“Quiet now, Benedict. Unless you want others to know you’ve seen your brother’s wife in her night dress.” 
“It wouldn’t be the biggest scandal our family has dealt with.” 
You lower your head, rubbing your forehead at his words. “You’re an idiot. I’m going to bed.” 
Anthony had a rough night and going to bed was something he desperately needed, maybe seeing your figure laying in our shared bed would make him feel better; he always seems to calm down when his eyes land on you. 
That was something he always enjoyed about you whenever you were around. 
He stops removing his coat when the door opens, and his brother is behind you while you stay in the doorway with his coat around your shoulders. 
His brother takes the item from you and takes his leave before Anthony starts asking questions (not before Benedict gives him a suggestive look). 
He doesn’t want to ask- he shouldn’t ask, it’s not his place. “Something I should know about?” He hopes this doesn��t lead to a fight. 
“What do you mean?” 
“We’re going to pretend as if my brother walking you, my wife, wouldn’t be a scandal if we were elsewhere.” 
“Why? Don’t you trust me?” You ask, tired of all the games; him avoiding you and now having an interest in you. 
“Do you know how much it affects me?” 
An annoyed sigh escapes him, revealing to you how he feels (about the situation and not yourself). “What affects you, sweetheart?” 
You ball your fists, “stop calling me that.” 
He can’t call you such an endearing name when he hasn’t been acting like your husband. “That is what a husband is supposed to call his wife, is it not? A charming word of endearment for a handsome lady, such as yourself.” 
“Stop talking…” 
“What else am I to call you? I cannot call you by your name, it would prove-” 
“How little we care for each other.” 
“What are you talking about?” 
“You. I’m talking about you.” 
“Me?” 
“You are a pest.” 
“A pest,” he whispers, finding himself offended. 
“You have never once thought of myself in the manner of being one’s wife but yet you act like this.” 
“Like what?” 
“Like you’re my husband.” 
“Am I not?” 
You study him. “You want to make a big deal out of this when you’ve been avoiding me since the wedding? Therefore, you are a pest.” 
“I- I haven’t- when was I avoiding you?” 
“You’re a terrible liar.” 
He struggles to remove his coat and you make your way towards him, helping him. 
“Your brother found after I helped Hyacinth get back to bed after she found me exiting the library. He didn’t want anyone else to see me in such a… intimidate manner.” 
You stare at him through your lashes. “Anything else you want to add? Maybe,” you place his jacket on the back of the chair before taking a seat at the vanity. You start removing the pins and ribbons keeping your hair up, your tiredness hitting you as you prepare for bed. 
He sighs, untying his collar. “I wasn’t avoiding, I’ve been… busy.” 
“Busy? You’ve been busy?” You undo the sheets, settling onto your side. “I’m going to sleep until you can come up with another excuse on why you’ve been avoiding me.” 
“I- believe me when I say I wasn’t avoiding you because I- this isn’t easy.” 
You spring up, glaring at him. “And you think this is easy for me?” 
“I’m not saying anything about our marriage. I have been,” he pauses, thinking of the right word. “Dealing with personal matters, things you shouldn’t have to worry about because of a mistake I made in the past. I am trying to protect this because I care about you.” 
You gulp, “I’m sorry.” 
“What was that?” 
You roll your eyes, crossing your arms as you stare at the ceiling. “I’m sorry for thinking you were avoiding me but to be fair,” you spring forward, pointing to him. “I- I-“ You struggle to speak as you catch the sight of his bare chest. 
He knows what he’s doing to you and his chest warms at the thought of only you being the one to see him in such an intimate way. 
You turn away, fiddling with the sheets. “Like I said, I’m sorry for assuming the worst but considering-“ You close your eyes, following the way his lips moved against yours. You push him away, the warmth of his chest lighting a fire within you. “Just because we are married, does not mean you can use your body to change the subject or get me to stop talking about something you don’t want to.” 
The corner of his smile twitches before he allows himself to smirk. 
You’ve only ever seen him use this expression with his family, never once was it directed at you. 
You’re happy tonight ended the way it has, you’re feeling closer to him, learning more of what makes Anthony Bridgerton tick. 
-
He closes his eyes, chest heaving with every breath he takes. “I’m here.” He pulls away from you. 
Your hand falls at your side. 
His figure fades away, leaving you confused. 
You burst up, confused as to what your dream means and glance beside you, finding him still asleep. You push yourself out of bed, needing the get away for a moment, sitting in the bench underneath the window. 
You stare at the stars, wondering if there was some way, they’d be able to respond to your questions. It’s only been several days since your marriage became official; you still feel as though you’re not and none of is real. 
You think back to your first kiss you two shared at the altar and the one you shared before going to bed. Your fingertips brush against your lips, relishing the sensation you felt then as it fills you with something you never thought you’d be able to enjoy. 
‘Is this what love is?’ You think, staring at the bright moon, knowing it won’t answer you. 
You glance back at him and wonder if he’ll ever love you the way-. You wipe away the stray tear, knowing how much it’d break you if he decided to cheat or leave you entirely. 
Your greatest fear was thinking you’d end up alone. 
Now you fear he’d be the one to leave you without looking back. 
He squints, the moonlight disturbing his slumber. “What are you doing up?” 
Your head snaps in his direction. “Hmm?” 
He repeats his question, sitting up in bed, his night shirt wrinkled and slipping off his chest. 
“I couldn’t sleep,” you tell him, not believing your own words. You crawl back into bed when you notice he won’t fully fall asleep until you’re near. 
As soon as you settle onto your side, his breathing evens out. 
You lay your head on the pillow, fighting the thoughts you know will keep you awake, feeling you’ll need more sleep than anything. 
-
"We need to try for a child." 
He glances up from his work. "I didn't realize your mother was in town." 
You narrow your eyes to him, something he is truly fond of even if you are upset with him. "I'm going to pretend as if you didn't say that." 
You close the door and pace around the floor in front of his desk. 
“If you find yourself calm enough to talk, could you repeat what you said when you busted into my office.” 
He knows what you said, there's no denying what he's heard but what's got you riled up to bring up such a topic. 
The wedding was only three weeks prior, he knows of the idle gossip some of the other women enjoy talking amongst each and he's curious as to who said something. 
He's also been trying to keep himself busier than usual to keep him from staying up too late and thinking of performing such acts upon you. He sets his pen down, giving you his full attention. “Why are you asking now?” 
“I’m not asking,” you argue. 
Is it such a wise idea to try and push for this? Most likely not but you're too upset over the gossip to think logically. 
He studies you for a moment, wanting to understand what happened to make you think such a thing. 
“What happened? I mean, you and Daphne went out for a walk, right?” 
You pause, trying to understand where he’s getting at before nodding. 
“Who said something to you?” He raises his brow. 
“No one… exactly,” you huff, crossing your arms. 
“I know they’re expecting me to be with child by now or at least, in the works of trying for a baby and I don’t want there to be another Whistledown column with either of our names in it. It’s not just my reputation that could be ruined, it could be yours or your family’s this time.” 
He can’t help but smile at your kind thoughts. “I appreciate the concern and I’m sure my family would as well, but everything is going to be fine. We don’t need to worry about this.” 
You continue having your pity party. “I’m glad you seem to think so.” You furrow your brows, thinking about how he’s avoiding the topic. “Why are you putting this off?” 
“Putting what off?” 
“You know what I’m talking about, don’t act as coy as your brothers do when asked about their courtships.” 
He doesn’t have a way out, does he? A knock on the door alerts him. “I have other business to attend to, I’ll see you at dinner?” 
You scoff, “you pretend as if you want me and need me when we are in our shared room but now that we are out in the open you want nothing to do with me? Tell me, are you just using me for your own gain?” 
He sighs, “please, can we,” he glances at the door to find his brother. “Talk about this another time?” 
You nod, offering a fake smile, “of course, husband.” 
His attention turns to you once more, “I thought we weren’t going to have the normal marriage?” 
“It seems we were both wrong.” You shrug. “Goodnight, husband.” You yank the door open, rushing past Benedict and the guest without looking back. 
Kate smiles watching as you put yourself further away from the one person she wants. “It seems you and your bride are having minor troubles, may I?” 
Anthony grits his teeth. “What’s brought you here, to my family’s hall, today?” 
Her mischievous smile turns into an evil smirk, “I’ve come to visit an old friend, after all, didn’t you say I was always welcome?” 
“That was before you tried to take my family’s fortune and run off.” 
She plays with the cuff of his coat sleeve. “If it makes you feel better, I have a husband.” 
“Then you should be with him.” He removes her hand from him. 
If this had happened a year ago, he would be crawling back into her embrace but now that he has you, the only person that can keep him sane; he’s not going to make that mistake. 
He sits down at his desk, rereading the page he was working on when you came in. He knows he’d be stupid if he fell for her tricks once more and ruined your marriage (and family name). 
She pouts, not liking the fact that he doesn’t want her anymore. 
“Perhaps you should go back to your home. We must clean up for dinner,” Benedict chimes in. 
She spins to face the second eldest, “dinner? I’d love to.”
Anthony pushes himself out of the chair. “That’s not an invitation.” 
“Why? Are you scared I’m going to ruin your precious marriage? You truly think I’d be harsh to do such a thing?” 
“We don’t need to think it if we know.” 
She smirks in trump, feeling as though she’s won. 
-
You glance at the two with a sinking feeling in your stomach. 
Is this the way your marriage is going to end? It took a while before you could remember where you knew her from and as soon as it clicked, you were fidgeting in your seat. Why did he allow her to sit so close to him? 
She knows he's a married man and doesn't care. Maybe she thinks the marriage is fake and- you aren't worthy enough to be his wife. 
You push the food around on your plate, your appetite forgotten. You remember the rumors about their relationship but could never be proven since she went back to India with her mother but now that she's back, you don't know what to think. 
He notices and wishes that she didn't invite herself to join his family tonight. 
You ask him about expanding the family line and him avoiding the topic entirely because he doesn't want you to feel as though this is a duty the two of you have to do. 
He remembers when you two were first engaged and how you wanted to marry someone who truly loved you rather than someone marrying you out of a convenience. 
His heartbeat when you told you should try for a child, he nearly passed out on the spot at the thought of you baring one of his children. 
He knows you'd make fantastic mother; he doesn't doubt that in the least but since the wedding day he's realized something he should have a long time ago- something Kate is seeing for herself; he truly loves you. 
Nowhere is it near what she thought they had but she's happy that he has someone who cares for him in more ways than she could. 
-
She bids her farewells before pulling you to the side. "I apologize for intruding on your family dinner, but I think you should know you have nothing to worry about." 
You furrow your brows. "I'm sorry, what-" 
She shakes her head. "He loves you in more ways than he ever could care about me. I saw it tonight." She smiles, "all I ask is that you take care of him better than I could. I know you're good for him." 
You stare at the door as it closes, unsure if anything that’s just happened is real or if this is a fever dream. 
“Are you alright?” 
You turn to face your husband and gulp. “Perfectly fine, why do you ask?” 
“Did- She didn’t say anything, did she?” 
The blank expression from your face falls and is replaced by one of annoyance. “What if she told me something she shouldn’t have? Is there something you wanted her to hide from me?” 
He shakes his head, “is it too late to say no?” 
You scoff, “you’re an idiot.” You close the door, not caring if it slams shut or not. 
He stops it before it closes in his face, “I’m sorry I- it’s not true.” 
“Then what is? Why do you care whether she’s told me about yours and her relationship or not? I know about you two. I’ve read the columns and-” 
“That’s what I was worried about. I don’t want you to think something that isn’t true happened.” He stands behind the chair in front of your vanity. “I don’t want you think I’m a rake when I’m not, us marrying has changed things-” 
“Us getting married is the only reason you’ve changed?” 
“No,” he stumbles over his words, something he does more when he’s around you than anyone else he’s ever spoken to. “I-” 
You push yourself out of the chair and walk towards the bed. “I don’t want to talk about this anymore. I keep pushing and I’m sorry but right now, I just want to go to sleep.” 
“After you listen to what I have to say.” 
“I have not felt the way I do for anyone else. I- no words can come close to what I feel for you.” 
His grip tightens on the back of the chair. “I cannot- cannot breathe when you are near.” He catches your gaze, “you drive me insane when you try and argue with me. I don’t understand how you have vexed me and stolen my every thought. When you are here all I can think of is you, when you go out with my sister, you are the one thing on my mind. I- you, you are the bane of my existence, but I can’t seem to keep myself from you.” 
You turn around, catching his gaze in the mirror. “Why are you telling me this?” 
He spins around, “so you understand why I have changed. It’s not because I don’t care for you. I care too much about you. I have for a long time which is why I was scared when that bee was near you.” He squeezes his eyes shut. “I was terrified I was going to lose you and I didn’t understand why until our marriage.” 
“But- that was days ago.” 
“Exactly,” he takes a step closer. “I’ve been losing my mind trying not to push you into something you’re not ready for. And then, earlier when you came to me, telling me we should try for a child. I didn’t know what to think.” 
“What about Kate?”
He owlishly blinks, trying to understand where you’re coming from. “What about her?” 
“You’ve been with women before me and I’ve accepted that, but Kate was here, having dinner with your family. She’s- she’s been around town from what I’ve heard being whispered behind my back. She was here and you didn’t tell me. You- you say that you love me, but I don’t know what to believe when the woman you were in love with, who later broke your heart, returned into your life and you didn’t so much as think to tell me. Benedict was more involved than I was!” 
You don’t know why you’re getting so upset over this, it shouldn’t bother you this much since you don’t- 
“I didn’t want her to spout lies about me to you and make you think I am not going to be a good husband.” He grabs your hands, “believe me when I say she is not relevant. You are my future.” 
Your chest heaves with every breath you take. “How-” Your nose twitches as you purse your lips, collecting your thoughts before you completely explode. 
“How what?” He switches between looking into one eye and then the other. 
“How could I be blind?” 
“To what?” 
“I have loved you since I could understand what the word meant and now you- you-” You gesture to your back, “help me with my corset. I cannot breathe.” 
He nearly rips your dress off you as he pulls the strings keeping the oxygen from getting into your lungs. 
You hang your head, trying to keep your emotions at bay. 
“Sweetheart…” 
You turn around, pointing at him with wet cheeks. “You have ruined me. You have ruined me for any other man since before my first debutant and have had my heart for just as long and I didn’t know it yet.” 
He holds his hand out for you, allowing you to take a step closer to him. 
You accept and stand with a few inches between you two. “You have bewitched me from the beginning, if you can accept my foolishness and accept me now, I would happily give myself to you only if you can return the feelings.” 
“I wouldn’t be able to survive if I declined your love.” 
For the first time since the wedding, the two of you share a genuine kiss and not one where he tries to use his body to distract you. It’s one that makes it feel like the world’s stopped spinning and you two are the only ones in the world. 
-
A knock on the door alerts the two of you. 
You wince, covering your eyes with your hand before reaching over for him. “Anthony, wake up.” 
“I’m coming in and I hope you two are decent.” She groans, “God, you two are naked. Gross.” Mildred complains loudly to whoever stands outside the door with her. “I thought they’d at least have the decency to be awake by now.” 
You can hear Benedict’s voice, but it comes out all muffled because you’re not fully awake. 
He opens his eyes and turns his head to find your beautiful face lying beside him, hair in disarray on the pillow. His thumb brushes across your cheekbone. “Good morning, Viscountess Bridgerton.” 
You find it hard to resist the urge to smile and open your eyes, staring at him with nothing but love and happiness. You hum, brushing back his hair so it doesn’t look as messy, wanting to see more of his handsome face. 
“Good morning, Viscount Bridgerton.” You remove your hand from his hair, pulling his hand away from your cheek to peck his palm. “What do you have planned for today?” 
“Spending time with my wife, although I do have to say, I don’t think she’d appreciate me lying in bed with someone as breathtaking as yourself.” 
You can’t help but smile. “I think if you paid her the same comments you do to me, she’d understand.” 
He sucks in air through his teeth, “I don’t know. I think you’d have to meet her to find out the kind of woman she is.” 
“I think I know.” You lean against your elbow, meeting him halfway for a morning kiss. 
“Would you two hurry up? We have plans. I did not come here on a boat to see you two to stay in bed when I have plans with my cousin. Do you hear me, Bridgerton?” 
He sighs, flopping back onto his back. “How could I not?” 
You smack his chest before pushing yourself out of bed. “I’ll be ready soon. Go downstairs and wait for me, Millie.” 
“If you’re not down here before sunset. I’m leaving.” 
You chuckle to yourself. “Okay.” 
He pulls you closer to him, hands resting against your waist, slowly wrapping around you. He kisses the exposed parts of your back before pulling you down, kissing along your shoulders. 
-
“This cannot be safe.” 
“Just because it’s a new corset, doesn’t mean it’s not safe.” 
“For the baby.” He ties the strings through the loops. “When can we tell them?” 
“When they won’t freak out.” 
“Never, okay.” 
You chuckle and spin around, placing your hands on his shoulders. “They will know soon. It’ll be fine.” 
He stares into your eyes. “You’re lucky I love you.” 
“I think that’s my line.” 
“Not today.” 
You peck his lips before ordering him to tie the corset. “I’ll see you after our walk.” 
“Don’t overexert yourself.” 
“I won’t. Goodbye, ‘Thony.” 
His eyes never left yours as you’re dragged away by your cousin. 
Benedict steps inside. “Someone’s happy.” 
He shakes his head, ignoring his brother; so happy go feed into the comments.
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iliveiloveiwrite · 9 months
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By My Side // A.B.
Request: Could I have something fluffy? I’m think maybe the reader is from a lower class and is married to Anthony and she’s worried about not being a good enough viscountess. They’re getting ready for their engagement ball and Anthony gives her a pep talk? You’re the best!! - @whovianwholikesgirls
A/N: I’m sorry it’s taken so long to get to it, my love! But here it is, I’m sorry it isn’t longer - I hope you like it!!
Warnings: feelings of insecurity, worries, anxieties, lots of fluff and comfort, kissing, established relationship,
Word Count: less than 1k
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Your hands couldn’t stop shaking. The nerves that had risen steadily all day were finally making themselves known in the tremor affecting your hands.
Exhaling shakily, you do your best to fasten the clasp of your necklace. A gorgeous piece, given to you by Anthony’s mother. The emeralds are only further accentuated by the champagne of your gown.
A further sigh of frustration leaves you as you fail once more in fastening the necklace.
“Let me,” A gentle voice cuts in, taking the necklace from your hands before you launch it across the room in despair. You meet the kind and caring gaze of your soon to be mother in law; her smile is comforting as she fiddles with the piece of jewellery.
“I thought I could do it,” You murmur, “But I can’t get my hands to stop shaking.”
“Nerves,” Violet says, smiling wider as she clasps the necklace and smooths her hands over your shoulders.
“I think it’s more than that,” You whisper, feeling the familiar burn of tears clog your throat. “I don’t think I can go out there and face all those people, whispering about Anthony’s choice in bride.”
Violet frowns. “My dear, whatever has brought this on?”
You blink against the rush of tears. “The closer we get to the wedding, the more it becomes clear just how lacking I am in class politics, gossip and graces. I don’t want Anthony to regret his choice in bride.”
Violet nods, taking the words to heart. “My dear, I shall not be a moment. Stay here and try to calm yourself whilst I make it all better.”
A watery but grateful smile crosses your face as you watch the beloved matriarch leave the room, the door clicking gently shut behind her. You stare at your reflection in the mirror, doing your best to calm yourself by trying not to think of the gathering crowd in the ballroom downstairs. Each one of them waiting to catch a glimpse of you - to make their judgement; to be judge, jury and executioner all in one.
You aren’t alone with your thoughts for long. The door opens once more, however it isn’t Violet that walks through the door.
It’s Anthony.
“Darling,” He greets, his voice concerned as he crosses the room to you.
“Anthony.”
“Mother told me. Darling, how could you think those things?”
Tears cling to your lashes as you face your beloved fiancé. Anthony kneels before you; his hands gripping your knees, his face the perfect picture of worry.
You sniffle. “It’s all I’ve heard since we announced our engagement. In the modiste, in the tearooms, when we promenade… It is so tiring. I love you beyond all reason, but I cannot help but worry whether this is a decision you’ll come to regret.”
The words leave you in a torrent; rushing out of you so quickly you barely have time to take a breath. The words get stuck in your throaty as you catch the devastation that passes over Anthony’s face.
“My love,” He whispers, “Had I known the full extent, I never would have organised tonight.”
“No,” You argue. “I’m glad you have, I love any moment I get to spend with your family but I worry for the impact on you.”
Anthony’s hands leave your knees to grasp your face. His eyes fix onto yours. “I don’t give a damn about the impact on me.” He all but spits. “That out there? It’s all pomp and fake, but what we have… the love we share and the adoration, that’s what’s matters.”
“I love you.”
“I know you do,” Anthony breathes. “I love you too… endlessly. You are who I want; I want my future to be utterly entwined with yours. I want the mornings and the evenings and the nights. Your class status means nothing to me. You will be a perfect wife and an incredible viscountess. I don’t care about the ton, I only care about you and how you feel and what you think.”
The man you love so entirely pulls you into his arms, holding you tightly. His lips seek out yours, kissing you thoroughly, pouring all of his emotions into the kiss. There was no denying his love and adoration for you now; there was no denying how well you fit, how perfect you moulded to the other. There would be no-one else for him as there would be no-one else for you.
Anthony pulls away, leaving you breathless as he places kiss after kiss to your cheek.
“Thank you,” You whisper, “Thank you for loving me.”
“Thank you for loving me,” He responds in earnest. Anthony kisses you again; a short, sweet kiss that has a smile crossing your face. His thumb brushes your cheek, relieved to see a genuine smile on your face.
“Do you feel ready to face the crowd waiting downstairs?” He asks quietly; lips brushing your hair.
“With you by my side, I can face anything.”
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frost-queen · 1 year
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To lose yourself (Reader x Anthony Bridgerton)
Requested by: anon, Forever tag:@missmelodramatic, @merlin-dahlia, @alex--awesome--22 @elllie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers, @merlieve, @queen-of-books, @glimmering-darling-dolly@denkisclown, @wildieflower, @meyocoko, @bubblybrianna, @justanothercoco@subjecta13-thefangirl, @m-rae23, @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr, @swampthing07, @melsunshine, @freyathehuntress
Summary: You and Anthony have an intense moment in the library at Lady Danbury's ball. It leads to full on kissing till his sister Daphne enters shockingly. Teasingly she starts telling you to duel her just like Anthony once did with Simon.
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The music swept up as your feet moved swiftly. Your dance partner almost unable to keep up. Spinning round, you were panting loud. Wanting to have your eyes on him. Not far from you stood Anthony Bridgerton. Holding his hand up as a girl in a pink dress twirled underneath it. His eyes fixated on you whilst yours were on him. Your partner held you once more, hand moving to your lower back. You took a piece of your dress, waltzing round in a wide circle to follow the moving dancers round the center piece in the middle.
Looking over his shoulder, you wanted to see Anthony. When your gaze met up, they shone with a hunger and craving you had never seen. Something feral hiding inside them. His expression tensed. Clearly it bothered him you were dancing with another. The feeling was mutual as you wanted to push that girl gladly to the side. You came to a stop, turning as your back was pressed to his chest.
Your partner’s hand sliding down your arm. Your breath shivered, imagining it was Anthony touching you. Anthony went wild, nearly pushing his partner off to go and collect you for him. Seeing how the lord was touching you made him jealous. Angry like a hound ready to claim it’s feast. You spun back round, hand slowly moving down. The music fading out.
Your hand dropped to the side, out of breath. Your partner clapped as you suddenly felt stared at with such intensity it could burn holes inside of you. Turning around you saw Anthony’s gaze pierce through your body. Your body automatically moving forwards to reach him. Wanting him near. The yearning in your heart increasing with each beat. You hated your partner for taking away your focus by speaking to you.
You were still at the dancefloor as he wondered if you wanted to dance once more. Shaking your head, you looked back where you last found him. No one there making you desperately look around in search for him. Every fiber in your body wanted to be near him. Drawn like magnets to his, your body itched with a craving so deep you could not name it. How was it that such a man had a hold over you.
What happened to the girl who used to claim no man could get her weak in her knees. Here you were now, so weak in your knees for the Viscount. The eldest Bridgerton. There was no denying the Bridgerton brother’s were pleasing to look upon. You found Benedict to be very humorous. Colin could whisk you away with his million stories off other worldly places.
You moved away letting new dancers get into place. Gaze forever searching for the Viscount. Where could he be? Standing lost, you circled round, looking in every direction. You crossed eyes with Lady Danbury who quirked her eyebrow thoughtfully up. Was she perhaps seeing through your desperate matters of finding him? Could she see through your heart and find it held the Viscount’s name? Her curious glance made you hurry to the side, disappearing into the crowd.
Heat flushing up, it made you quicken your breath. A man came in sight, finger in the ready to address you. It made you clutch onto the dance card dangling below your wrist. Not at this moment you thought. You couldn’t take another dance, not while yearning for Lord Bridgerton. It was him, you wished to dance with, yet despite it all he hadn’t come forwards yet to claim each and every line on your dance card. Filling it up with his name. He had not.
Shaking your head, you made clear to the man you were not interested in dancing. He humbly bowed his head, letting you pass. Getting on the tips of your toes, you were still searching. Wherever could he be? Would he be hiding from you? Cool down in the cold outside’s blanket or simply avoid you to maintain his manners. It was slowly killing you, not knowing or finding him.
There! You spotted Benedict Bridgerton amongst the crowd. He was in the company of a few other men. For a second you hesitated into making your way over and simply ask about the whereabouts of his brother. Then seeing the other men around him, made you stop your foolish idea. Exhaling deep, you weren’t sure what to do about yourself. You were getting so worked up on yourself, you could barely function. It was if the Viscount wouldn’t appear this instant, you might explode. Burst into a thousand stars. Illuminating twinkles that flutter up to the sky to be one with the heavens.
Then a warm hand pressed on your lower back, made you gasp for air. The touch made your body shudder. Whoever had such an effect over you? Before you could turn around and confront the uncivil man, he came in sight. Moving around your shoulder to look down at your face. – “Miss Y/n.” – Anthony breathed out close to your cheek. You closed your eyes, taking in a shuddered breath. Almost losing yourself to temptation. – “My lord.” – you breathed out feeling his hand slide further across your lower back to your waist. He came standing in front of you, breathing heavily upon you.
His chest rising and falling with deep breaths. Your body stumbled forwards falling into the nothingness. Lord Bridgerton had pulled away. Fluttering with your eyelashes, you looked disoriented around. Over your shoulder, you saw the piercing gaze of Lady Danbury. Was she perhaps the reason for his departure? Perhaps she saw just how close the two of you were getting in public. Her gaze made you question a million things.
Looking back forwards, you saw the last of Lord Bridgerton disappear through the crowd, towards the doors. Swallowing nervously, you went in pursuit. If Lady Danbury already had an opinion off the two of you, it wouldn’t change much now. What difference did it make if you simply accepted it. Pushing through people, you made your to the corridors. Seeing Anthony loosen up his collar and making an escape for it. You went after him, wanting to be close to him. You didn’t want him to avoid you.
You quickened your pace, seeing him enter a room. You rushed inside, shutting the door behind you. – “Miss Y/n?” – Anthony’s eyes widened. He stood hovered over a small table in the library of Lady Danbury. His posture straightened at the sight of you. – “You should not have come here.” – he spoke, creating a distance between you and him. You let go of the doorknob, walking closer to him. – “If you want me to leave, tell me.” – you spoke, getting closer. Anthony kept going back, battling with his inner demons.
The temptations of touching you weighing heavier than ever. He avoided eye contact knowing what one look of yours would do to him. He bumped against the bookshelves, having no where else to go. You got close, too close for him to function. He grabbed your upper arms out of defense. Breathing loudly near you. – “Tell me to leave if that is what you want.” – you breathed out, staring at his bare chest peeking out from his opened shirt. The first few buttons opened in a desperate matter.
You felt his grip tighten around your arms, pushing you closer to him. You looked up, seeing how close his lips were in reach. – “Y/n…” – he breathed out against your cheek. His heart pulsating through his veins. All this time he had been avoiding your gaze. Now he dared to look down, into your sweet eyes. One look of yours struck him. Tension rose in your body as your heart thumped loudly against your chest. Anthony knew if he didn’t stop himself now, he wouldn’t be able to control himself later.
You placed your hand on his chest to let him know this is what you wanted. The moment your hand touched his chest, he grabbed your face. Smacking his lips onto yours. His hands moved desperately over your body, craving your touch. The kiss was on edge. It made you grab him too, lips smacking desperately onto another, quick breaths in between. Anthony bumped against the bookshelves making some books fall down. A few hit him in the back, not caring one bit for it.
He moved his hands around your waist, leading you away from the bookcase. Your back hit the table, making you grab for it with one hand. Taking a quick breath, lips brushed against each other. Seemingly never satisfied. You were panting against his lips in between touches. Tongues mixing itself in between. Anthony pressed you firmer against the table, pressing himself deeper onto you. He let his hand glide down your arm, reaching your hand. He took it, pressing it firmly onto the table with his hand on top.
He removed his lips from yours, kissing your neck. It made you gasp loud, feeling the intense tingling inside of you. Tilting his chin up with your finger, you guided him towards your lips once more. Anthony smiling. Your back arched, leaning back over the table as he kept kissing you. You were so caught up in the kiss, you didn’t hear the door open. A shocked Daphne entering. Her loud gasp made you widen your eyes. – “Anthony!” – she shouted, making him push himself off you.
Out of breath, he moved his hand to his hip. – “Daphne… what… what… are you.” – he cleared his throat unable to find the right words to cover this up. – “Brother!” – she said shockingly, gaping at you. – “This is…” – Anthony breathed out, looking over at you. Daphne changed her expression. She came standing before her brother towards you. – “You will marry my brother!” – she exclaimed. – “What?” – Anthony called out confused. Your eyes widened, not sure what to answer. She moved her finger up, pointing to you then.
“I’ll duel you!” – she made clear. – “Are you mad?” – Anthony called out, grabbing his sister by the shoulder. Daphne brushed his grip off, snickering. – “Is it not what you said to Simon when it was me in this position?” – she had turned around, quirking her eyebrow up to her brother. She then turned around to you. – “A duel at dawn! For the hand of my brother.” – you weren’t sure at first if she meant it, till you saw her crack a smile.
She started laughing loud. It made you laugh too, tension slowly fading out of your system. Anthony looked sternly at his sister. Daphne turned to you once more, approaching closer. – “I know you love him.” – she whispered to you out of Anthony’s reach. It made you look over her shoulder to him. – “Consider this your engagement proposal. The ton can’t know of what I witnessed now. You are now bound to my brother to be wed after the social season.” – she made clear.
You nodded in agreement. There wasn’t much to say against it. Daphne stepped away, locking her arm around her brother. – “Now we must return civil.” – she patted her brother on the chest. – “Congratulations, you are now a taken man.” – she laughed, pulling him with her.
-------------------------------------------------
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Anthony drinking some of Colin’s tea, and then confessing to his brothers that he doesn’t actually hate you, he thinks you’re adorable and would make an amazing wife. They would sit there listening, not bothering to tell him that you’d just walked in and were standing right behind him.
A/n: this is so cute!!! I just love the idea of Anthony being high and clueless to everything.
Remember kids don’t do hard drugs { pot is cool though }
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It wasn’t really Colin’s fault, it’s not like he meant for Anthony to take his tea, truly it’s not like Colin wanted his up tight brother to relax. He did not even think that the tea would even work on Anthony.
For one thing his brother looked relaxed, a rare sight when it came to Anthony. His brother practically slouching in the chair he resided in. He would often try to grab his cup to drink more only to miss though when he finally managed to grab the thing Colon couldn’t help but wince when he drank more of the tea.
A short laugh escaping Anthony’s lips, his hand lazily running through his dark locks. “This tea is atrocious but I find myself unable to stop myself from drinking it.”
Benedict bit back a snort, this was just to entertaining. Though clearing out his throat he was a little shocked when Anthony brought your name into the conversation.
“Y/n.” Anthony rested his chin on the palm of his hand. “She’s quite beautiful.” He let out a sigh, a smile forming on his lips. “I do not hate her you know…it is just an act to hide how I really feel.” His head lolled forward, Colin had to push his head back against his chair so he wouldn’t hit it on the table.
Closing his eyes another laugh, another sigh slipped passed his lips. The man seeming to imagine what being married to you would be like. “She would be such an exquisite bride, a wonderful wife. Our children would have her eyes.” He added reaching to take a sip of the tea though Colin had to snatch it away before Anthony could drink the rest, Benedict snicker seeing you standing behind Anthony. You looked flushed so the man knew you must have heard everything he had said.
Colin bit his lip to hide his own laughter, though his eyes quickly went wide when he heard something loud hitting the table. All eyes turning to see Anthony slumped against the table, you quickly rushing to his side.
“Is he going to be okay?” You panicked, the man’s eyes opening for a moment as he pawed at you.
“Y/n! You’re here!” Though his eyes slid closed again.
Benedict let out a laugh as he wrapped his arms around his brothers waist heaving him up. “He’ll wake with a nasty bump, possibly a headache but nothing more, oh and welcome to the family sister. I can not wait for the wending.” He winked as Colin let out his own snort.
You catching Anthony’s voice ringing out from the halls. “She said yes?!”
Still feeling rather warm you turned to Colin narrowing your eyes. The man quickly rasing his hands in a defense. “I was only trying to make him relax, but at least you know that he wants to marry you.”
“Hmp.”
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pixiemunsons · 2 years
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hi! i have a request!
i was wondering if you could do an addition to your just friends fic? maybe it is their wedding night and reader finally finds out what that hard thing was?
a/n; here it is! i loved this request so i had to. also this is 2.6k words and 1.6 is smut lmao what is wrong w me
also a reminder that requests are open and i’m about to start an anthony x housemaid!reader requested by @gxlden-honey 🤍
first time, benedict is very much in love, masturbation, ben is a little shit but reader is even worse
just lovers (b.b)
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you've finally married your best friend. now just for the wedding night.
a smirk on his face, he grasped your left, and kissed right over your ring finger.
‘i shall see you tomorrow morning, then, my lady?’
you scoffed internally. just friends? what a fucking idiot.
───✱*.。:。✱*.:。✧*.。✰*.:。✧*.。:。*.。✱ ───
benedict admitting his feelings was, arguably, the best thing that had ever happened to you. within days of your mutual admission, the two of you were courting, and after a month he had already asked you to marry him. many in the ton whispered about your rushed wedding; you had gone from eligible to betrothed in weeks, and women everywhere were desperate to know exactly what had gone on between the two of you. 
little did they know that what happened between the two of you was all you thought about.
in the lead up to your wedding day, benedict was all that was on your mind. you were looking forward to all of it; the domesticity of life as a married woman, waking up to the man you love every morning, having beautiful children. all you wanted was the bliss you saw on daphne’s face every time she looked at her husband, the love you knew that violet still felt for her deceased husband, and the playful romance that you had watched brew between anthony and kate at benedict’s side. 
most of all, however, what you fantasied about was what could have happened had you and benedict been left alone that night. when your best friend had explained to you how a woman comes to be with child, he had explained that it started with kissing and progressed until the man… entered the woman. you knew nothing more other than that your mama would explain it to you the night before, and by god did you itch to know what you and benedict were to do. if you had known all those years before that it would be him with which you would do the act, you might have told him you were a visual learner.
───
smoothing your nightgown over your thighs, you waited in anticipation for your mother to begin speaking. you hadn’t slept correctly in days, and right now, less than twelve hours before you were to be married, you felt almost sick with excitement and nerves. taking your hand in her own, your mother finally spoke.
‘as you are to marry, it is my duty to explain to you what will happen. you will lie in bed together at the end of the night, and he will touch you between your legs. then, he will enter you with himself, and it will hurt, but eventually you may enjoy it and come to bear children.’ you looked at your mother in shock. yes, you had an idea of what was to come, and certainly more of one than most girls your age, but you had no idea it was to hurt, or that you might enjoy it. for a long time after your mama kissed you goodnight, you led facing the ceiling, wishing you could skip all of this and finally be benedict’s wife.
───
finally, finally the guests had left, left you and your husband alone. husband. you rolled the word around in your mouth, and as you followed benedict up to what was once his bedroom but had now become yours, it was all you could think to say to him.
‘husband, benedict. you’re my husband. we’re married.’ he stopped in front of the doors to his chambers, gazing down at you with an almost wistful expression, stroking your cheek ever so gently before leaning down to press a kiss to your lips.
‘and you are my wife, now and always.’
he pushed the doors open and you were in his room, alone. it wasn’t the first time, but this time there was no anthony coming to dismiss you for taking too long, no propped open door as you conversed and maybe, looking back on it now, flirted with one another. you’d been in this room a million times; you had helped him paint the walls, embroidered with your feet tucked underneath you on his bed, even slept in here once when benedict had insisted on taking the guest room when your carriage had broken down overnight. he told you many years later that he hadn’t changed the pillow you slept on for weeks, until the scent of your shampoo had all but vanished and he could no longer pretend you were sleeping next to him. but for now, you were mr and mrs benedict bridgerton, newlywed and glowing, and you had each other and that was enough.
he leant down to kiss you once more, cradling your jaw in his large hand but this time he tasted different, tasted of heat and desperation and lust, just like he had that night on the terrace. but this time there were no interfering mamas, no colin on watch, and you could do whatever you wanted to him. so you did. you started with his chest, one that you caught yourself looking at more often than you’d even admit to yourself. you undid the buttons one by one, admiring each new exposed inch of toned flesh and the look of innocent wonder on your face had benedict pulling himself back together before he let you take him apart. you pressed soft lips to his sternum and he shrugged his shirt off, strong arms now open to your gaze and it was almost too much. you kissed from his left bicep down to his elbow, nosing into his scent as your lips trailed down down down to his hand, where you kissed over the ring that now adorned it, smirking up at him much like he had not a month ago. he laughed down at you with his favourite lopsided smile, like he always had, and suddenly it hit you. it had never been any different; the two of you had always been destined to be here, right now in this moment, and the intensity of it left you drunk. you had read a play once, and he called it… what was it… star-crossed. and if any two people had been forged from the same star, it was the two of you. 
you led benedict to the bed, sitting down with your hands on your lap as he stood above you shirtless.
‘you know, darling, as gorgeous as you look in that dress, it’s not quite fair that i’m half naked and you’re still trussed up.’ you pulled a silly face at your husband’s joking, and soon resolved that you’d show him. you might have… forgotten to wear undergarments on your top half, and when you stood up and dropped your dress, benedict’s jaw also seemed to have had some assistance from gravity.
‘cat got your to- oh!’
your humorous chastising of his staring turned into a noise you’d never heard as he sat on the bed and slotted a thigh between your legs and, placing his hands on your hips, ground you down onto it. bare chests pushed together, benedict supported all of your weight as he pressed you against him, humming triumphantly at the gasps that left your soft lips. even through your hazed pleasure, you could tell that benedict thought he had the upper hand. and that would not do.
‘f-feels good, benedict. feels like when-when i-i touch myselff,’ you moaned, writhing against him as his movements against you stuttered against you and then stopped, looking down at you with an expression like you’d told him you had two heads.
‘what did you just say?’ he demanded, a steely look in his eye as his jaw clenched. you could feel the same hard thing from that night only two months ago, and you resolved to ask him what it was once you had finished concentrating on bucking your hips, desperate for friction.
‘that night, the night we k-kissed,’ you murmured, looking into his eyes. ‘i felt… funny, between my l-legs, and i remember how you said that’s how we have babies, y’know?’ you looked up at him again, almost as if repenting and excusing your actions. ‘so i wanted to know what it was. so i t-touched it.’
benedict felt like he might start to cry. his innocent little wife, corrupted before he’d even had the chance to show her all the ways in which a woman can be pleased, and by his own hand. he could have cum right on the spot. instead, he resolved to find out further. gripping your chin, he forced you to make eye contact again, and your furtive gaze made him want to kiss you all over.
‘did it feel good?’
you were desperate by now, rubbing yourself about him, and you reached for his hip. instead, you found something long and hard, and benedict found himself making noises much like the ones you were currently emitting.
‘it did. does this?’ you enquired, toying with him from outside his pants, leaving him a squirming mess. ‘my lord, may i ask? i felt this that night, pressing against me, between my legs. what…’ you trailed off, which benedict took as his cue to continue.
‘my love, it is how i enter you. to have sex.’
sex. it was a new word, and your hips stilled as you contemplated the implications.
‘and is sex how you have babies?’ he let out a breathy chuckle and you hit his arm gently, frowning.
‘my darling, it can be a great many things.’ benedict trailed a hand down from your shoulder to your nipple, tweaking it and smirking at your cry of surprise. ‘it can be fun. it can be done on your own, like you did to yourself, you dirty girl.’ you blushed at his words. ‘it doesn’t have to make a baby. that only happens when i cum. do you know what that means, my love? did you make yourself cum?’
you shook your head. ‘i don’t think so. i did it until i started to feel weird, and then i stopped.’
‘it can be wonderful, my love. do you want me to show you?’
you nodded, and that was all he needed.
rising from the bed, benedict picked you up and then laid you down atop his bed, covering your frame with his own. placing a kiss to your sternum much like you had done to him, he kissed his way down until he was at the last piece of clothing you had on, a pair of blue underwear. daphne had handed it to you that morning, whispering something about tradition, and you had gracefully accepted. when you looked down to see benedict dragging them down with his teeth, you made a mental note to send daphne flowers. expensive ones. before you could process being naked in front of him, benedict’s tongue was in a place that your own hands had only briefly explored, and your hands shot to his messy hair as you writhed against his tongue. strong arms came up to pin your hips to the bed, and you could feel him making shapes against you with his mouth. you concentrated hard, and stars exploded behind your eyes as you worked it out; benedict bridgerton, branded by his very own tongue against his very own wife. despite his arms covering your waist, you bucked up against the intensity of his touch, and once he slid a finger inside you you were done for. you babbled cries of his name as your stomach exploded, toes curling and knees pressing either side of benedict’s head as he licked and sucked all the way through your orgasm, his hands clutching your knees as you shivered.
he worked his way up your body, pressing kisses to the inside of your knee, the dip of your hip and the peak of your ribcage before finally your sweaty forehead, looking at you with such love in your eyes it would have scared you if anyone else looked at you that way. not your benedict, however. you felt nothing but wanted.
‘did that feel good?’ you rolled your eyes once more, before rubbing a hand down his front to his pants, where you could feel him, achingly hard in your palm.
‘i want to make you feel that good, my love, please.’ 
it was an offer he could hardly say no to.
he was soon stripped naked much as yourself, and nothing could have prepared you for what he looked like under his clothes. his cock, as he told you it was called, was throbbing between his legs, long and hard and pointing upright, begging to be touched. when you reached for it, however, benedict brushed your hand aside, making you pout up at him. all you wanted was to explore every inch of your body much like he had yours.
‘there’s plenty of time for that, my dove. years. but right now, i might explode if i can’t get within you right this second.’ you would have been worried about it fitting in you - it was quite large, and you knew you were quite small down there. you knew, however, that benedict would never harm you intentionally, and so you led back, your husband quickly following and covering your body with his own. benedict grasped your left hand, using his other to guide himself to you.
‘i love you so much, mrs bridgerton.’
‘i love you too, ben.’
and with that he pushed into you. the sting was overwhelming for a moment, and you had to grit your teeth to stop the cry that threatened to push its way from your mouth. benedict mouthed over your face, kissing away tears that you didn’t know had fallen, and apologised over and over for hurting you. it was taking every muscle in his body to restrain himself from pushing into you and fucking you silly. it was, after all, all he’d thought about since he was a teenager, and even despite all of his experience with other women, he felt like a nervous virgin all over again, eager to please. 
‘i’m okay ben, truly. you can move,’ you smiled up at him after a moment, and he brushed a lock of hair behind your ear before sealing your lips in a loving kiss and pulling his hips back before pushing them forwards once more. the burn, whilst not completely gone, had dissolved from something uncomfortable into something more welcome, and a moan erupted from your mouth as you gripped his shoulders. 
‘so this is why mothers don’t tell their daughters about it,’ you gasped to your husband, who looked down at you quizzically. ‘if my mother told me it would be this good, i would have been having sex with you for a very long time.’
benedict groaned and dropped his head into your chest, biting gently at your breasts as is thrusts got harder and harder.
‘my love, i’m not going to last very long. i-i can’t stop myself.’
you stroked his back lovingly, kissing his shoulder and the top of his head as he looked down into the place where your bodies joined, speaking sweetly.
‘it’s alright, my lord, let go, finish inside me.’
and with that, benedict was done. he’d imagined for years how you might say those words, the inflection of your voice, the way your voice would go high-pitched and breathy and here you were, beneath him and begging him to cum inside you and he was finished, pushing deep into you and letting go with a grunt of your name before withdrawing and lying beside you.
you looked down at your hands, which were still intertwined, and led basking in your newfound marital bliss. it was benedict who ruined the silence for you, turning on his side with a cheeky grin plastered on his face once more.
‘so, tell me again about how you touch yourself when you think of me?’
tagging moots; @joline12829 @chasingthepoguelife @gxlden-honey
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The most important day.
Anon request:
Dad Anthony Bridgerton please??
With like a lil girl named Ophelia and a boy named Edmund??
Wordcount: 2.6K+
A/N: Had way too much fun writing this. Anthony as a father is something I need more of in my life.
Warning: Fluffy, unedited.
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“Now where have my little darlings?” Anthony said in wonder as he playfully looked around the parlor. Tiny giggles could be heard from behind the piano followed by louder shushing.
“Quiet, or they will hear us,” Ophelia said loudly. She had yet to grasp the concept of whispering perfectly. She thought she was, but if it wasn’t already apparent where they were, her high-pitched 5-year-old voice would have given them away.
“Oh oh, no laughing, sorry,” Edmund apologized to his big sister, though she was only a little over a year older than the toddler, she was full of wisdom and Eddie was eager to learn from her. He followed behind her as if she was mama duck beside his parents she was his favorite person.
Anthony slyly moved closer to the piano. “I guess my little ones are truly gone. Oh, mother, whatever will I do?” He said dramatically sitting down on the stool. Violet smiled fondly from across the room where she was working on needlework.
“That is truly awful, dear. My sweet grandbabies missing. Whatever shall we do,” she played along and added a fake sniffle to really sell it. More giggling was heard, this time for both of the little Bridgertons.
“And I just saw Y/n setting the table. Looks like she made some plum cakes for breakfast with sweet chocolate. I guess I will have to eat them all by myself,” Anthony said sighing, getting up and making his way towards the door.
“Did papa say plum cakes?” Eddie asked, but not giving his sister time to answer as he got to his feet running to hug his father’s legs. “Papa, no no. Here I am. I am not missing. Ready for breakfast,” he said clinging to his father.
Laughing, Anthony, picked up his son, swinging him around in his arm before placing him on his hip. “My boy! There you are, I was so worried. I thought I would never see you again,” he said, kissing all over your little boy’s face, causing Edmund to explode into giggles.
“Enough, papa, enough,” he begged.
Anthony chuckled, pressing another kiss to his forehead before ruffling his hair. “But wait, there is someone missing, where is my darling daughter? Do you know where your sister is?” Anthony pondered.
Ophelia stood from her hiding place. Her hair was fuzzy and all over her head, no longer in the nice ribbon that Anthony had tied. She pushed her hair out of her face, huffing at her brother. “Eddie, papa only said plum cakes to trick you,” she asked to the younger of the two.
He gasped looking at his father. “Is that true, papa?”
“Of course not, I would never lie about plum cakes,” Anthony assured his son. 
“You promise,” she asked with wide brown eyes that matched Anthony’s.
“I promise, darling, papa did not lie about plum cakes, they are too important,” Anthony said, before crouching low, placing his son on one knee, grinning at his daughter.
Ophelia broke out into a big toothy grin as she ran into her father’s arm wrapping her arms around his neck. “I messed up my hair, papa,” she mumbled into his neck as he stood up with both his darlings in his arms.
“I know, darling. Don’t worry, I’m sure mama will be happy to help you fix it, now let’s go eat breakfast,” he said, kissing both their heads.
Violet smiled as she walked her son walk out of the parlor with his children. She had never seen Anthony so happy. She always feared he would not enjoy children after having to be a father to his siblings so young. She worried she had robbed him of the joys of fatherhood and he would be cold towards them, but she was wrong. From the moment you married her son, she could see the change in him. He was lighter, happier, and already eager to start your family.
She was lucky that he found you, and that you two created such a beautiful family together. She looked down at her needlework, she couldn’t wait to hear how he would react to this gift. Getting up she joined her family in the dining room.
“Papa I want lots and lots of plum cakes,” Ophelia asked, patting her eyes at her father. You couldn’t help but laugh from your place next to Edmund. Ophelia believed she was a lot older than she was, she was a lot like her auntie Eloise, outspoken and not afraid of anything and she had her father wrapped around her fingers.
“Of course, darling, but make sure to eat something else as well, don’t want to give yourself a tummy ache,” he said as he fixed her plate. While your home had servants, you preferred to give them the morning off and tend to the house by yourself, making and serving the breakfast yourself. Anthony often applauds you for how much you did, you were a true marvel to him and he often liked to help you in the kitchen, making breakfast as a family.
“Mama, can I have a bit more chocolate,” Edmund asked as he held up his cup, he already had chocolate all over his face, causing you to laugh, quickly cleaning his face. 
“Why not have some tea, we can have some more chocolate this afternoon?” You suggested instead.  Eddie pouted, glancing at his father for support, but Anthony raised an eyebrow at the toddler.
Dramatically sighing, Eddie nodded, “Yes, mama.” And then he perked up. “Today papa doesn’t work, right?” He asked.
“Doesn’t work. Now, why would I not work?” Anthony teased as he picked up the paper, pretending to read.
“Papa, we are going to the flowers today, remember?” Ophelia said, with a mouth full of cake.
“Sugar plum, don’t talk with food in your mouth, it’s impolite,” you reminded her.
She nodded, swallowing and wiping her mouth. She grabbed her cup of chocolate taking a long sip before turning to her father. “Remember, papa, flowers,” She repeated.
Anthony tried to hide his smile at his little girl, but it was too hard and he broke, dropping the paper on the table. “Of course, I remember. How could I forget my favorite day of the week.”
Since Anthony and you had such busy schedules most of the time, once a week, mostly Wednesday, Anthony and you took the children out of the house for a family day, each time it is something different, but their favorite place was the flower field growing near Aubrey Hall. They loved running around the flowers as Anthony and you chased them and then having a nice lunch on a blanket.
“That’s not funny, papa,” Eddie pouted from his place, but Anthony getting him a bit more chocolate had him grinning and forgiving his father. 
“Anthony, you are spoiling him,” you scowled your husband lovingly.
“I am unable to deny my children and my wife anything. I can’t help it,” he shrugged getting up from the table. “I do have a bit of work to finish up, it won’t take more than a few minutes. I promise,” Anthony said as he made his way across the table, kissing you sweetly.
Smiling, you cupped his chin, pressing your lips harder to his. You got lost in your husband for a moment until an eww is sounded, causing you both to pull away from each other, chuckling.
Violet chuckled, shushing her grandbabies and getting up as well. “Okay, you two, why don’t you come with me to get cleaned up and ready to go.” Ophelia and Edmund quickly jumped out of their chairs to attach themselves to their grandmother, giggling as she ushered them out of the room.
“Now where were we,” Anthony teased, leaning down to reconnect your lips.
Half an hour later, you held a picnic basket in one hand and Anthony’s in the other as Lia and Eddie ran ahead, holding hands and giggling to each other. It was a warm and sunny Autumn day and you couldn’t ask for better water, the Autumn flowers were in full bloom and the leaves were just falling. Anthony’s hands slipped from yours, wrapping around your waist pulling you closer, pressing a kiss to your head.  
“Papa, mama, come chase us,” Lia laughed, turning around to grin at you both. 
“In just a minuted darlings, let’s set up the blanket first, why don’t get come help us, and then we can all play together,” You called out once you stopped at a tree that looked shady and perfect to have lunch.
They happily skipped over to you both, Eddie taking the basket from your hands and nearly tipping over, with Lia quickly coming to help him. Anthony grabbed the basket from his tiny darlings, pulling at the blanket. Each of you took a corner of the blanket.
“Okay ready, one, two, three,” You counted as you all raised the blanket up, dropping it onto the ground. Anthony placed the basket down before rolling up his sleeves. “Now did someone ask to be chased?” He teased as he slowly started toward his children.
Ophelia’s eyes widened and she grabbed her little brother’s hand before screaming and running away. Anthony grinned cracking his knuckles as he took off after the children, running slower than usual so they could get away. 
You watched as he chased them around, the closer he got to them the louder they scream before he snatched up Eddie causing him to erupt in laughter, as Anthony tickled him. 
“Lia, safe yourself, run to mama,” He got out between giggles. Standing up you dramatically ran towards your daughter as she ran towards you with Anthony hot on her tail with your son recruited to his side.
“Mama help, papa and Eddie are going to get me,” she screamed as she ran into your open arms. Quickly you picked her up and ran in the opposite direction as your husband chased you both.
“Darling, I am right on your tail,” Anthony teased.
“We are going to get you, mama,” Eddie added.
“NEVER” shouted Lia as you ran faster.
Anthony and Eddie chased you two around and around when suddenly Anthony wrapped his arm around your waist pulling your body flush against his, only he pulled you too quickly and lost your balance making the whole family tumble to the ground. Anthony quickly flipped you all over so he would take the worse of the fall. You landed on his chest with the children in between the two of you. You laughed looking down at your husband. While Anthony groaned from the fall, he was laughing along with the rest of you.
His head was thrown back and his eyes were closed as he laughed, his smile wide and it seemed like the sun was shining in his smile. You’ve been married to Anthony was years and it was rare to see him this happy.
Moving to lie next to Anthony you looked up at the sky. Eddie moved to cuddle into your arms, and Lia moved into her father’s hold. As the laughter died down, you all just stayed on your backs watching the cloud.
“That one looks like a rabbit, don’t you agree, Ophelia?” Anthony whispered to her, pointing at the cloud
She nodded against his chest, pointing at another one. “That one looks like your carriage papa,” She said excitedly. 
Edmund sat up, furrowing his little eyebrows confused. “I don’t see it,” he whined.
Smiling, you ran your hands through his hair sitting up, pulling him closer into your lap. “It’s okay my darling, following my hand. Do you see it?” You asked as he pointed at the carriage liking cloud.
“Oh, that. That does look like papa’s carriage,” He grinned, then he turned to look at you. “Can we go pick flowers, now?” He asked.
Anthony smiled, standing and putting his daughter on his hip. “You know, Eddie, it is the perfect time to pick flowers. How did you know?” He said smiling down at him, holding out his hand for his son.
Climbing out of your lap, Eddie took his father’s hand before reaching back for you. Smiling, you got to your feet, Grabbing your son’s other hand. “Let’s get a lot of flowers and then we can put them all around the house, won’t that be lovely?” You asked as you and Anthony started walking towards a ground of purple flowers.
“Down, please papa,” Lia said, kissing her father’s cheek as he put her on her feet. She took his hand instead and reached out grabbing some flowers, and showing them off to both of you.
“Very pretty, Lia, just like you,” Anthony said, taking a flower and putting it behind her ear.
She smiled widely at him before letting go of his hand to run off and get more flowers. Eddie grinned up at both of you for a moment before running after her. Anthony holds out his hand, bowing slightly. “Viscountess Bridgerton, would you like to go for a walk and pick flowers with me,” He asked.
Your heart fluttered. Even after all these years of marriage, he still had this effect on you. The spark and passion never died down with the two of you. Inclining your head slightly, he took his hand. “I would be honored, Viscount Bridgerton.”
You two walked around with the children running around the field, sometimes grabbing one of you to pulling behind them and then see something distracting and you were abandoned again.
Slowly you made your way to the blanket. Anthony spread out next to you, lounging comfortable.  “Are you relaxed, my love?” you asked, reaching out to trace the side of his face with the pads of your thumb.
Anthony smiled warmly at you. “There is nothing more relaxing then being out here with you all. My life is better for moments like this with you,” He said grabbing your hand kissing it sweetly.
“And what would you say if our little family grew bigger?” You said curiously.
Anthony was silent for a moment staring between your face and your stomach. He sat up quickly moving close to you, grabbing your hands. “Are you telling me, what I think you are telling me?” He asked quietly, a smile already spreading across his face.
A matching smile graced your own face, leaning closer to him. “You are going to be a father of three, Lord Bridgerton,” you said.
Cupping your jaw, Anthony pulled you closer as he kissed you, deeply. “Truly nothing in the world could make me happier than knowing we are going to have another child. Another life made by our love is the best news,” he said sincerely.
You chuckled feelings tears roll down your cheeks. “You have gotten me emotional, Anthony,” you chastise  as he wiped your tears, kissing each of your cheeks.
“Not my intention, but I do love you. More than anything in the world and I love our family,” he said kissing you again.
“Mama are you doing kissing papa, I am hungry,” Lia asked. Pulling away, you saw she was standing only a few feet away from you both. Eddie was already sitting on the blanket and staring at the basket.
“Yes, I am done. I’m sorry Ophelia, how dare I get between you and food,” you jested, but of course, she didn’t understand and spoke anyways. “You are forgiven.” You laughed just seeing how much of Anthony was in her.
Grabbing the basket, Anthony pulled his daughter and son between his legs. “Now what yummy things did mama pack for us,” he smiled as they all opened the basket.
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rubysunnday · 2 years
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aching soul
requested by @musicallisto : hi lottie, congrats on 4k - that's INCREDIBLE! You deserve each and every one of those followers, your work is astounding. could I request an anthony bridgerton one-shot with prompt 1 + young and beautiful by lana del rey? I've been missing a little bit of romance lately. thank you sm if you do it! 💜
requested by anon: can i request an anthony bridgerton x reader fic where he thought he absolutely despises her without any clear reasons but it was actually him denying his feelings for the reader?
a/n: she's a long one, folks
summary: There is a difference between Viscount Bridgerton and Anthony Bridgerton. One is a Rake. The other is a man, broken by his father's death, who has never really been able to be just Anthony. Y/N knows the feeling all too well
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"We pick in alphabetical order!"
"Which means I'm always going to be last!" Eloise whined, stamping her foot. "Why don't we do youngest to oldest?"
"Because then I'll be last!"
"Enough!" Daphne exclaimed, silencing Anthony. "Since we cannot agree, why don't we let our guest choose first? Miss Elliot?"
Y/N looked at Daphne expectantly. "I am slightly afraid that no matter what I choose I will be starting a war."
"No one will dare complain since you are our most esteemed guest," Daphne said, giving Eloise a pointed gaze. "Please, go ahead."
When the Bridgerton's had, collectively, mentioned a game of pall mall - whatever that was - Y/N was dubious. But at the evil glint in the eye of Lord Bridgerton at his younger brother, Y/N simply had to join in.
Anything to antagonise the viscount.
Y/N hardly knew the man but in the short time she had known him, he'd driven her mad. Perhaps some of Y/N's hatred towards the viscount was because of the assumptions she'd made of the man over the years.
A Capital R rake was never to be trusted. Besides, as she reached her fourth year out in society, Y/N was running out of time to find a husband. She didn't have time to run around flirting and playing with men who weren't ready to commit.
Or men who weren't looking for a love match. Lord Bridgerton.
Y/N stepped forward, looking at the mallets. They were all worn and looked tired after years of use and, presumably, abuse. Her eyes went directly to the black mallet - the only dark colour in the otherwise pastel set. She glanced at Lord Bridgerton and noticed how his gaze was fixed on the mallet.
So, she walked up and pulled it out of the box.
The shocked gasps from the rest of the family and the glare he gave her told Y/N she had, in fact, chosen well.
"Well, would you look at that, brother," Benedict said, grinning at Anthony.
Anthony's jaw was tense. "Shut up."
"Can the rest of us choose now?" Eloise asked, looking around.
No one moved. Then, Eloise darted forward and snatched up the yellow mallet, ignoring Colin's complaints. Benedict snatched the dark blue one whilst Daphne grabbed the purple one. Colin reluctantly took the orange one and, after glaring at it, Anthony took the pink one.
"To the field of combat!" Daphne exclaimed, holding her mallet up high as if it was a sword.
Y/N laughed and followed after them, keen to see the Bridgerton's in action. "I dare say, Your Grace," Y/N said, catching up with Daphne, "I am not entirely sure how to play this game."
"Well, firstly, please call me Daphne. Secondly, if you want my advice," Daphne said, walking alongside Y/N, down to the start of the course, "I'd focus on Eloise. She is so focused on trying to beat her brothers that she will forget we're here. Benedict's aim isn't the best, but he is good at hitting far. Colin is a cheeky player - he will sacrifice his own go to hit someone else's ball."
"And Lord Bridgerton?" Y/N asked, glancing over at Anthony.
"He is a fierce player who does not like to lose. This makes him the perfect target - all it takes is one whack of your ball against his and he will be off his game the rest of the match. He likes revenge."
"I gathered that," Y/N murmured, remembering how much Anthony wanted to murder Colin at the ball a few weeks back.
"I myself will not reveal any secrets," Daphne continued. "But I will say this - Bridgerton pall mall is more about sabotaging your opponent than it is getting the ball through the wickets."
Y/N nodded, smiling. "Understood."
The game started fairly calmly. It wasn't until they got to the sixth wicket did the chaos start. Colin aimed his ball at Eloise's and whacked it, knocking Eloise's ball wide and almost down the hill. Eloise gaped at her brother and nearly swung her mallet at him. Anthony stepped in, a hand on his sister's arm, as she was mid-swing.
Y/N didn't try anything too cheeky until two wickets later. Anthony's ball rolled into her path and Y/N seized her opportunity. She glanced over at Anthony, smirking slightly, as she readied her shot.
Anthony seemed to realise and gasped, turning to her. "Miss Elliot, don't you dare -"
Y/N whacked her ball at Anthony's, sending it flying down the hill and to the lake's edge. She laughed, swinging her mallet around in delight as Colin and Benedict chuckled evilly at their brother's misfortune.
"Excellent shot, Miss Elliot!" Benedict said, beaming. He patted Anthony on the back. "Well, I guess we shall see you later, brother. Daff, your turn."
Daphne strolled over to her ball. She crouched down, eyeing the ground and the wickets. As she stood up, Y/N caught the glint in her eye and knew, instantly, what she was about to do.
"No, Daphne, don't -"
Daphne smacked her ball into Y/N's, knocking it down the hill in the same direction Anthony's ball had gone moments before.
Anthony looked as if he wanted to hit his sister. Or strangle her, one of the two.
"Right, well then, we'll see you two in a bit then," Daphne said, turning around, holding her mallet in both hands, smiling happily.
Anthony clenched his jaw tightly. He gestured for Y/N to move first, barely making eye contact with her. Y/N held her head high and marched past him, heading down the hill.
She could see the lake at the bottom of the hill and had a sudden, sinking feeling that she was about to get wet.
"My brother and sister do love to antagonise me," Anthony muttered, walking down the hill at a brisk pace. "We lost the red ball to this lake a few years back."
"Who's fault was that?" Y/N asked, glancing at him.
Anthony turned and smirked slightly. "Mine."
They'd both stopped on the edge of the lake, searching for any sign of the pink and black balls.
"Oh, dash it," Anthony said, staring straight ahead.
"What?"
He leant closer to Y/N and pointed to the shallows of the lake where two balls sat, stuck in the wet sand.
"We could just move them," Y/N suggested. "No one will know."
"But I will," Anthony replied, raising his eyebrows.
Y/N scoffed, watching as Anthony walked down onto the bank of the lake, his boots instantly being covered in sand. After a moment, Y/N followed after him, skidding slightly on the wet sand. She reached out for the closest thing to her - which just happened to be Anthony's arm.
"Apologies, my Lord," Y/N said, quickly letting go of his arm.
"It's fine."
The two of them stood there and stared at the balls, debating how best to get to the balls.
"Right then," Y/N said, throwing her mallet up in the air slightly and then catching it again.
She took a step forward into the water, feeling it begin to seep through the soles of her satin shoes. Y/N tilted her mallet back and then swung forward, whacking her ball out of the lake and onto the grass bank.
Y/N smiled smugly at Anthony, gesturing for him to take his turn. Anthony stomped down to the river, his boots sinking into the sand, and stood next to her. He swung his mallet back and hit his ball, sending it onto the grass, next to the black ball.
Anthony turned to look at her and shook his head cockily - reminding Y/N slightly of a peacock.
Y/N went to take a step forward but found her feet were stuck in the sand, sinking each time she tried to move.
"I am stuck," she announced, looking at Anthony.
"Pardon?" Anthony asked, turning around to face her.
Y/N gestured to the floor. "My feet are stuck."
"Are you serious?"
"Believe me, Lord Bridgerton, if I didn't require your assistance I would not be asking for it."
Anthony sighed heavily and dropped his mallet onto the floor, marching back down onto the edge of the lake and taking Y/N's arm, standing behind her.
He pulled her as she managed to free her right foot. Y/N then went to put her right foot down on a slightly firmer piece of sand but it got tangled up in the long hem of her dress. With her left foot stuck in the sand still, Y/N flailed about, losing her balance entirely. She squeaked as she fell backwards, pulling Anthony with her.
Y/N landed on top of Anthony, flinching as the water began to seep through her clothes and onto her skin. For a moment, they both awkwardly laid there in the lake, Y/N on top of Anthony, Anthony with his arm still around Y/N's waist.
Anthony grunted in disgust, flicking his hand free of sand. He pushed Y/N upright and he sat up, looking around him. Anthony glanced at Y/N, who was struggling not to laugh, and glared.
"It is not funny!" He snapped.
"I am not laughing," Y/N said - although she clearly wanted to.
Y/N turned her head, looking at Anthony. He met her gaze and a smile instantly appeared as he giggled. Y/N found herself letting out a breathy laugh, ducking her head to avoid looking at Anthony.
"Well, at least we did not lose the balls to the lake this year," Anthony said, standing up. "Miss Elliot, I take it your feet are now free?"
Y/N chuckled. "Yes, Lord Bridgerton, they are."
Anthony held out a hand to her. Y/N reached up and gripped it, the water making it harder to grip. Anthony pulled her to her feet and Y/N quickly hopped onto the firmer sand.
A cheer errupted from somewhere up the hill and Anthony sighed wistfully.
"I bet you that Daff has won - again," Anthony muttered. He turned to Y/N. "Miss Elliot, I do apologise for our trip into the lake."
"It is fine, Lord Bridgerton," Y/N replied, holding the wet hem of her dress up as she climbed onto the grass bank.
Anthony followed her up. "I do hope this adventure has helped break the ice between us - I fear we got off on the wrong foot."
Y/N paused. "Part of that is my fault, I suspect," she admitted, bending down and picking up her ball. "I may have made some assumptions about you."
"Everyone does. Lady Whistledown does not help."
Y/N looked at him. "Are the rumours she writes not true, then?"
Anthony exhaled slowly. "No. No, some of them are true."
"Such as the one about you being a Rake with a capital R who is now conveniently looking for a wife?"
"You appear to have heard a lot of things," Anthony said, leaning on his mallet.
Y/N shrugged. "I have been out in society for four years, my Lord... I do know some things."
"Ah, so you are one of the young chits who fell for me when they made their debuts?"
"Young chits?" Y/N repeated, staring at him in disbelief. "It is hardly my fault I was forced to talk to you by my mama."
"Well, perhaps if you, along with the other young ladies in the ton, were more interesting and could hold a conversation, we would have gotten along better -"
"Do you realise how rude you sound?" Y/N snapped. "You just assume you know what I am like based on a conversation we had three years ago when I was a debutante who knew nothing better than what had been installed in her by society?"
Anthony faltered, clearly realising he'd overstepped. "Miss Elliot -"
"No, Lord Bridgerton, you have made your thoughts very clear. I thank you for your assistance - I am going to retire to my room now."
Anthony watched Y/N walk up the hill and back to the house, leaving him alone. He sighed, swearing quietly at his stupidity. Anthony bent down and picked up her mallet and ball, wishing he could go back a few minutes.
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No matter how hard she tried, Y/N could not sleep the following night. There was no reason, sleep simply just wouldn't come. After rolling over for the fifth time, she flung back the covers and sat up in the bed, sighing softly.
It was raining gently outside, the sound of thunder gradually getting closer as the rain hardened. It was a hot summer night in the middle of July and the rain was a welcome thing.
Y/N grabbed her shawl and a candle and headed out of her room. She had yet to explore Aubery Hall properly. Whilst she didn't want to trespass into the Bridgerton's private rooms, she wanted to see more of the house Anthony so clearly adored.
Her exploration took her down the stairs and into a very impressive library, full of leather-bound books. She set the candle down on the table in the centre of the room, letting it illuminate the room gently.
Y/N walked over to the walls of shelves, running a hand along the spines. She'd never seen such an extensive, beautiful collection of books before. Whoever was responsible for the library had a stunning collection of Shakespeare as well as every Jane Austen novel. Y/N pulled out a copy of Emma, carefully opening it and scanning the first page.
The door to the library creaked, the light coming in from the corridor growing. Y/N's head shot up and she saw Anthony, half-hiding behind the door. He was wearing his dress shirt and trousers, the top three buttons undone. His suspenders hung down by his sides and he had no shoes on. There was a bizarre sense of vulnerability, seeing him so undressed and calm.
"My apologies, Miss Elliot," Anthony said softly, ducking his head. "I saw a light and I was checking I did not leave a candle on."
"It's only me," Y/N replied, stepping away from the ladder. "I can go -"
"No, please... stay."
Anthony hesitated, hovering in the doorway, one hand on the edge of the door. After a moment, he walked in to the library, gently walking up to Y/N.
"Do you mind?" He asked, holding out a hand for the book.
"Not at all."
Y/N handed him the book, her bare fingers brushing his for a moment. She pulled her shawl up and over her chest, the fringe edging tickling her skin as it trickled down.
"My youngest sisters insisted I buy these," Anthony said, running a hand over the cover of the book, his signet ring glinting in the candlelight. "They wanted me to continue our father's library."
"This was your father's library?" Y/N asked softly.
"It was. He always made sure to include things we all enjoyed. There are books on painting for Benedict, travel guides for Colin - embroidery for Daphne and Francesca." Anthony looked up at the room. "There is something for everyone in my family in here."
"You continued the tradition?"
"I try. It's difficult since we spend more time in London than here. Eloise and Hyacinth insisted on Jane Austen being added to the collection."
"Have you ever read them?"
Anthony chuckled. "Sadly, I do not have enough time to read anymore. I wish I did, however."
Y/N looked at him intently. "If you do not mind me asking... how did your father die?"
Anthony sighed heavily. He smiled sadly. "He was stung by a bee. I had just returned from school when I heard Eloise screaming in the gardens. It was quite something to see a man as great as my father felled by such a small creature."
"How old were you?"
"I was just eighteen. I knew nothing about being a viscount or running estates... my father died before he could teach me everything."
"How did you cope?"
"I didn't," Anthony said, chuckling softly. "You've read the stories and the rumours. It was only last year that I realised that, out of duty to my family, I need to settle down and sort things out."
"Find a wife, you mean," Y/N said.
"Yes." He sighed, closing his eyes. "It's not as simple as simply finding a wife."
"Then explain it to me," Y/N told him softly. She reached out and put a tentative hand on his.
"After my father died... my mother was barely there. She does not remember any of it, not truly. I, however, remember every single moment. I could never..." Anthony trailed off, his voice catching. "I could never be the cause of such pain. No matter how cold-hearted and cruel everyone else may find me to be."
Y/N looked at him, her eyes full of understanding. She inhaled and exhaled slowly. "Has anyone ever loved you as Anthony Bridgerton and not Viscount Bridgerton?"
"I do not believe they are two separate entities. They are one and the same."
"I don't agree." Anthony looked at her sharply. "Anthony Bridgerton is standing in front of me right now. He was in front of me this afternoon in the gardens and in the lake. Viscount Bridgerton was at the balls and the parties. Anthony is you, right now. Maybe you should try and find a way to separate the two."
Y/N give him a small smile. She held her hand out for the book and Anthony handed it back to her, his fingers lingering over hers for a moment.
"Good night, my lord," Y/N said softly.
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Y/N exhaled, puffing out her cheeks. She unconsciously pushed her hair pins back into her hair as she looked around the room, watching intently.
Her time as a young woman, desperate for dancing had long gone and now she preferred to stand on the edges of the dance floor amongst the chaperones and mothers.
No one looked at her twice and it was just how she liked it. Y/N had long accepted that she wasn't going to find love from the most eligible suitors in the ton. Instead, she had turned to the older gentleman - the military men, the business owners with enough money to buy most of London.
She wasn't looking for a true love match. But rather someone she could love and could be friends with as time went on. She just wanted someone to look at her as a human being instead of potential wife material.
The people around her started muttering, all eyes turning away from the dance. Y/N followed them and stood to attention as Anthony walked over to her, his eyes set firmly on her and her alone.
"Miss Elliot," Anthony said, bowing.
"Lord Bridgerton."
"I trust you are enjoying your evening?" Anthony asked, his hands still clasped behind his back.
"I am, indeed, thank you for asking. Your mother is an incredible host."
"She prides herself on being able to host a good ball," Anthony said, moving closer to Y/N. "Forgive me if I am being impertinent but I do not believe I have seen you on the dance floor, Miss Elliot."
"Because I have not been asked for a dance, Lord Bridgerton - which is just how I like it," she added quickly.
"Would you make an exception for a viscount?" Anthony asked softly, lowering his voice so just she could hear him.
Y/N looked at him. "I would make an exception for Mr Bridgerton."
Anthony gave her a genuine smile, holding out his hand to her. "Miss Elliot, will you accept Mr Bridgerton's offer to dance?"
Y/N placed her hand into his, gripping his fingers. "I will, Mr Bridgerton."
As the other dancers began walking to the centre of the dance floor, Anthony led Y/N to the back corner of the floor. It was away from the main eyes of the ton yet still allowed them to dance together.
The strings began to play and Anthony gently guided Y/N into the dance, both of them swaying backwards and forwards. He spun her, Y/N's gloved fingers still gripping his hand, high above their heads.
Their arms lowered and Anthony put his hands on her waist as she placed hers on his arm. One step backwards and they were waltzing with everyone else, all dancing in synch.
"I want to apologise for the other day," Anthony said quietly, his lips near Y/N's ear so she could hear him over the music.
"I was out of line, Lord Bridgerton," Y/N replied, letting him release her and then turn her around.
"No, you were not. You were correct with everything you said. My own arrogance and bad experiences resulted in my prejudice. Not every young lady is uneducated and simply a pretty face."
"I think you will find that a lot of young women enjoy reading and writing," Y/N said softly. "They are just seen by society as the outcasts."
"Indeed - much like my sister, Eloise."
Y/N spun to face him, stepping backwards. "What is it?"
"I also wanted to thank you," Anthony replied. "For too long I have lived in my father's shadow. The viscount took over me and I forgot what I, myself wanted. Being able to acknowledge that they are two different things helped. So, thank you."
"You are very welcome, my lord."
"You are also the first person who has ever seen me as just Anthony. As much as I adore my family, they see only an older brother who is the head of the family. It is rare that I can just be myself. The first time we met, you threw my off my guard, wanting to see anyone else other than the viscount."
"Oh, is that why you were so rude to me?"
"Again, I apologise. I have never been good at communicating emotions. I tend to hide them until they boil over. But, you, Miss Elliot, tore down every wall I have ever built."
Y/N ducked under his arm and then turned around. "I do hope that is a good thing."
"It is. But it is also why it has taken me until now, until this very moment, in fact, to realise that I am completely and utterly in love with you.”
Y/N stopped. She stared at Anthony, her eyes wide, her heart pounding. "Pardon me?"
"I apologise if it is too sudden or if I have overstepped," Anthony said quickly, "but when I am with you, I do not have to hide behind my titles. I am simply Anthony. And that is something I did not know I wanted or needed. Not until you made it so clear to me."
The music ended, the last few notes playing out into the crowded room. Y/N belatedly remembered to curtsey to Anthony as the dancers filed off the floor.
"I need some air," Y/N said, turning on her heel.
She weaved through the crowds and walked out onto the patio, relishing the cool air on her skin.
"Miss Elliot, if I have overstepped, I apologise -"
"No, it is not that," Y/N told him, turning to face Anthony. "I just... the reason I see you as just Anthony and nothing else is because... that is all I have ever wanted. Every suitor that comes to my door, no matter how kind and caring they are, never cares to see Y/N. They just want to know if I would be a good wife and mother. No one ever makes the time to get to know me."
"If I have ever made you feel that way -"
"That is the thing, though... you haven't. Never once have I felt that you only cared about me fitting your requirements. Whilst I'm sure other women did... I did not. I felt... feel, as if I can be Y/N. I do not have to pretend to be something I am clearly not."
Anthony was looking at her with such intrigue and kindness it almost made her cry. Never, not once, had a suitor listened to her as much as he had. Never once had they even bothered to care about her as a person.
And now, there was someone who did. Someone who did care - even if they were a reformed Rake.
"Miss Elliot, I am aware that this may be too sudden but... I would very much like to get to know you better."
Y/N smiled gently. "You're not just going to propose to me here and now?"
"I could. But I want to get to know Y/N Elliot first. I want to know what makes her smile and what makes her cry."
He was inches away from her now. Anthony reached out his hand, his fingers brushing against hers. Y/N inhaled sharply at the contact, her skin quickly being covered in goosebumps.
"Well then, Lord Bridgerton," Y/N said softly, her little finger wrapping around his. "You best get on with it."
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💎A Diamond's Destiny💎
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⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。 ⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。 ⋆˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。 ⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。 ⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。 ⋆
𐙚 Anthony Bridgerton x female reader
𐙚 Here's PART 1 - make sure to read it before continuing!
𐙚 Summary: In this captivating story, Lady Bridgerton's plan to win the Queen's favor involves you in unexpected intrigue. Your lessons with the charming Lord Julian Ashford take a complicated turn when Anthony Bridgerton shows subtle jealousy. Anthony's request to escort you to the ball hints at deeper feelings, but the plot thickens when you receive a surprise invitation for a private audience with the Queen. This development promises a night full of potential changes and revelations.
𐙚 Word Count: 394 (words), 2,380 (characters)
𐙚 Warning: Like the last chapter, this one ends with a cliffhanger. Stay tuned for more hehehe.
⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆ ˚。 ⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚。⋆
The following day brought a promise of intrigue and revelation. After a morning filled with the chatter and clatter of the Bridgerton household, Lady Bridgerton summoned you to the drawing room where a surprise awaited—an elegant harp veiled under a cloth. She revealed it with a flourish, announcing that it was the key to capturing the Queen’s favor at the upcoming ball.
"Your surprise, my dear. Nothing charms quite like music," she declared, winking.
"I suppose it’s time I learn then," you responded with a skeptical lift of your eyebrow, secretly hoping your musical talents were less dreadful than you remembered.
As it turned out, your music tutor was not the stern, old master you had envisioned, but a young and rather attractive Lord Julian Ashford, known for his musical prowess and charming demeanor. The lesson was filled with laughter and playful banter, although your ability to coax melody from the harp remained questionable.
During a particularly humorous moment, Anthony Bridgerton walked in, his eyes narrowing slightly upon seeing Lord Ashford's guiding hand close to yours. His arrival brought a subtle chill to the warm room.
"Am I interrupting?" Anthony asked, a hint of steel in his tone.
"Not at all, Mr. Bridgerton. Lady Y/N was just mastering the crescendo," Lord Ashford replied smoothly, stepping away with a knowing smile.
Anthony offered his arm, which you accepted, feeling the firm warmth of his grip. "You play beautifully," he said, though you sensed a measure of restraint.
"I only hope to avoid complete disgrace," you quipped, earning a reluctant smile from him.
Before lunch, Anthony formally asked to escort you to the ball, to which you playfully agreed, provided he spared your toes during the dance. His laughter in response lightened the air between you.
However, as you were about to discuss further, a footman delivered a letter from the Queen, requesting a private audience with you that very afternoon. The surprise caught everyone off guard, including yourself.
"The Queen wishes to see me alone?" you murmured, sharing a puzzled look with Anthony.
What could the Queen want with you? And how would this change the events of the coming ball? As you headed to the royal palace, your heart raced with anticipation, leaving Anthony watching, his expression a mix of concern and hope. The stage was set for a night that could change everything.
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crazyk-imagine · 10 months
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I Mean It
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Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Fem!reader Characters: Fem!reader, Daphne Bridgerton, Anthony Bridgerton, Benedict Bridgerton, Colin Bridgerton, Simon Basset Warnings: Fluff, cringey content, this has been in my drafts for a while, it’s more modern than our classic Bridgerton time, I manage to write the most heartfelt sentences a man could say like five minutes before I have to go to work, no regrets for this bad boy, anthony and the reader denying their feelings, anthony breaks so he can have the reader, daphne and benedict are very proud of their plan, vague backstory for readers ex, the reader being the smartest when it comes to bridgerton sibling fights, I hope you all can find it in you to enjoy this  Word Count: 2,662
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“Another line left in yet another book for you, I see,” Daphne teases you. 
You roll your eyes. “Would it hurt you to quiet down.” 
“Yes, truthfully. It would.” 
“You exaggerate.” 
“I do but only because you don’t want to try and figure out who it is? Or even suspect that maybe it could be-” 
“It’s not him, stop trying to bring it up every time we’re here.” 
She opens the door, gesturing for you to go inside. “Chickens first.” 
You narrow your eyes at her, “rude.” 
“I am not rude. I merely, tell the truth.” 
“Like I believe that.” 
“Believe whatever you want but when your secret admirer comes to light. and it is A-” 
“Good morning, ladies,” her older brother greets with a smile, having some idea that he was interrupting but not seeming to care (or so he lets you believe). 
“Good morning to you too, Anthony,” she returns with the same upbeat he had in his tone, only stressing his name as she turns back to you. 
You ignore her and smile, nodding your head to greet him. 
“Daphne, you have five minutes before your shift.” 
Her head snaps in his direction. “What? Why? I have more than five minutes before I start.” 
“That was until you started showing up late and not staying to lock when I needed you to.” 
“But I had plans before coming in and you know that.” 
“I do, which is why your lucky mother doesn’t know about what’s going on right now. I ask that you start your shift now because I need you to take over, okay? I need to be able to focus and give my full attention to the next wave of customers to come in.” 
“Kind as ever, Anthony.” 
They give each sarcastic smiles before she runs off toward the back of their family’s shop. 
You’ve always loved coming here, not just because of the company but because it has each family member’s touch. 
You have Anthony as the head of everything, making sure everything runs smoothly. 
Benedict creating news pieces to put up for display or customers to buy. 
Colin... he’s not as much involved as a few of the older siblings, but he does help out when it comes to calming down a particularly angry customer. Now that you think about it, he’s more of a diffuser than anything. 
Daphne is basically a manager assistant but doesn’t work like it, she likes working in the book section of the store (not just because it gives her an excuse to have girl talk with Eloise and vice versa). 
None of the other siblings have yet to step into the role of working here, nor have they talked about it. None of the older siblings seem to mind, if they decided they don’t want to (maybe Eloise, but even then, she’s just teasing them). 
You realize you’ve been too lost in your thoughts. 
Daphne shakes her head, knowing that you have, in fact, gotten lost in your thoughts and Anthony could care less. 
With her other friends, he’d be grumpy and force them away from the door slash the edge of the register-counter combo but with you, it’s an entirely different story and she doesn’t know how you don’t see it. 
No matter how hard she tries to persuade you into knowing that he does, in fact, feel the same. It just means she has to try harder and open your eyes. 
Anthony moves you away from the doors, not wanting anyone to bump into you. He lightly shakes your shoulders, wanting you to stop looking dazed. 
You owlishly blink, “what?” 
He narrows his eyes, furrowing his brows in confusion. “You were thinking about something.” 
“Was I?” 
“Definitely.” 
“Sorry, I’ll just- I'm going to get out of your hair.” 
He opens his mouth to argue but you halfway away from him before he could. 
-
“How was your morning interaction with Anthony?” 
You shrug, “fine.” 
“He’s still staring.” 
“No, he’s not.” 
“He is.” 
“I don’t believe you.” 
She chuckles, restocking the bookshelf. “Then look for yourself.” 
You pout, furrowing your brows in annoyance. “I will.” 
Anthony turns away as fast as he can, immediately helping the next customer to walk through the door. 
“He wasn’t.” 
“He was.” 
You’ve never been one to give into her ideas, she thinks it’s because you don’t see it, but the truth is, you don’t want to give in and get hurt. 
Your previous boyfriend was a bit of a, what’s the right phrase... ah, right, a dick. 
He was nice in the beginning, treated you like you were a princess which included saying and doing all the right things. 
But things slowly took a turn, and he wasn’t as nice, he never laid a hand on you, but he ruined the mental image yourself and it took a while before you told Daphne about what happened... or even went over to the Bridgerton household after you two parted. 
None of her brothers know, you were barely brave enough to tell Violet what happened. 
Another reason Daphne feels you and Anthony would be good together, she knows he won’t treat you wrong; he’d take care of you and won’t let you down. 
“Do you want to have dinner tonight?” 
“What are you thinking?” You ask her. 
“Something filling but not too expensive.” 
“That could be anything,” you giggle. 
“I know.” 
-
Benedict nudges Anthony, as the latter’s lips curve upward as he watches you look happy. “Ask her out.” 
“I can’t.” 
“Chicken.” 
“Get back here you lit- hi, welcome to the B-Ton Store.” 
-
Daphne texts you that she can’t make it and sent you something better. 
A knock on the door pulls you away from the TV, you’re still unable to decide what you want to watch tonight. 
You look through the peephole and are surprised to see another Bridgerton at your door. “Anthony?” 
“Sorry, I just- Daphne told me you’d be here alone and I- mother told me to come over.” No, she didn’t. 
“Oh, okay. Come on, come on in.” 
“Or I could- I could leave?” 
“No, this is better than what I had planned.” 
“Not going out tonight?”
“Exactly.” 
“I see you have some bags with you,” you comment. 
“Observant, aren’t we?” 
“Don’t be mean, Anthony. I am starving and you interrupted me.” 
“Were you cooking?” 
“Not exactly.” 
“So, I didn’t interrupt.” 
“That’s rude of you to say.” 
“I brought your favorites.” 
“My favorites?” 
“Yes.” 
“And how would you know my favorites?” 
“Please, you’ve been to our family home so many times, I think it would be a crime if I didn’t know what you liked.” 
You resist the urge to smile. “Let’s go set these down in the kitchen.” You try to grab a bag from him, but he pulls away. 
“I know where it is and I am a gentleman, I won’t let you carry any of these.” 
“Anthony-” 
“No.” 
You sigh and follow him. 
“Go sit in the living room and find a movie or something I can tolerate because I know you were watching one of those romance movies, I can’t watch any tonight.” 
“Why not?” 
“Francesca and Hyacinth forced me to watch one too many this weekend.” 
“Oh, okay. So, I’m going to go and find all of mine.” 
He lets out a fake chuckle, secretly watching as you walk out of the kitchen. He shakes his head and starts setting up the plates. 
You click off the movie you were watching before and search for a comfort movie of yours. 
He enters, handing you your plate and setting his beside you while he runs into the kitchen to grab drinks before setting down beside you. 
“I told you; you don’t need to serve me here. You’re the guest.” 
“It’s okay. I got it.” He sits down beside you. “What are we watching?” 
“Something.” 
“Oh, I see. I feed you and you don’t tell me what we’re going to watch.” 
“Exactly.” You don’t think you’ve ever been alone with him before and it’s nice, usually you two are civil towards one another but this, this just feels different. 
You glance to the side when you hear his voice mumbling along to the words. “Do you-" You hesitate in the middle of the question, unsure how he'd react if you do. 
He doesn't move and before you know it, you're asking him. 
"Do you know the lyrics to this?” He pauses, not wanting to answer you but he knows you and you aren’t the kind to stop asking until you get an answer. “A few lines," he answers vaguely. 
“More like all of them.” 
You bounce in your seat. “When did you learn them?” 
He shrugs, pushing himself off the couch, taking your plates into the kitchen. The corner of his lips twitch at your excitement, suddenly his sister’s pestering doesn't seem like it was as torturous as he thought. 
You don’t care to pause the TV as you follow him. “You can’t just avoid the question. You know more than Daphne does and she’s seen this more times than I could count.” 
“I- I don’t know. I heard… you listen to it and it sort of... got stuck in my head.” 
“So, you played it until you somehow knew all the words, didn’t you?”
“I’m not going to answer you.” 
“Why not?” You whine. 
He shakes his head. 
You take a step closer, leaning against the counter. 
"You should go back and watch the rest of your movie." 
"But I want to know when you learned all the words." 
"Just," he sighs. "Go back into the living room and maybe we'll talk." 
"Anthony." 
He sets the plate in the dish drain before wiping his hands on the dish towel you keep beside the sink. "I will not ask you again." 
You don't know where this change in behavior came from, but you don't... not hate it. 
"Fine, you really want to know?" 
You nod even though he's not facing you. 
He spins around, setting the dish towel back in its place. "I learned because my sister's longest and closest friend always sounds so- there aren't enough words for me to use to even begin describing how lovely you sound while singing along." 
He takes a step forward. "You also have no idea how much you're in my head. It drives me insane almost because I wake up and think of you. I go to bed, and I think of you. Before I realized what I feel for you, I hated you." 
You furrow your brows and thin your lips as if you're in pain. 
"But when I talked to my mother about it." He leans against the counter with one hand close to you. "She told me it's not hate, it's love. She also told me to stop acting like a fool but here I am." 
Your brows shoot up in surprise, you turn to give him your undivided attention. "Anthony?" 
"I learned all the words to that musical that's still playing because I wanted us to have more in common. I wanted you to know that I can and will learn all that I can so that I may be closer to you because this- this relationship you have with my family is worth too much to lose." 
The warmth on your cheek isn't just from his confession, he cradles your cheek as if you'll break. "I don't want to scare you with how deep my feelings for you are, so I'll start with saying I like you more than a friend or family friend. I want to-" 
"To what?" 
"I told you I don't want to scare you." 
"What if," you gulp. "What if it won't? I mean, what if I actually like it and you just think I won't." 
"Is that what you truly feel?" 
"I-" 
"Because I think you're acting tough, and you don't mean it. I think you're pretending to want to know just so you can have an excuse to turn me down." 
"What do you take me for?" 
He leans in, "someone who denies themselves the right to be happy." 
"I- No. You're wrong. I am plenty happy." 
"But you can have more." 
"Why are you pushing this so much?" 
"So, you can stop being sad." 
That certainly surprised you. "You deserve nice things too. Even as much as finding the one you'd be able to spend the rest of your life with." He pulls away and you crumble. 
"What if I did find him and it took me a while to realize it?" 
"Do you think you'd be happy with me?" 
You nod. "I know I would." 
He stands in front of you, blocking you, evidently trapping you in between his arms as he leans in and smiles; not moving any further, not wanting to pressure you. 
You know that too which is why you're equally as shocked when you pull him in for a (long awaited) kiss. 
One of his hands slides away from the counter to hold onto your waist, keeping his other on the counter. He smiles at you. "Do you want to go back into the living room and finish your movie?" 
The corners of your lips twitch. "Maybe." 
"Come on," he mumbles, guiding you with one hand resting on your low back. 
You don't know why you're feeling so shy all of a sudden. 
You two sit back down and rewind to where you were before his confession, only this time, you’re not as far from the other. 
You curl into his side, mouthing along to the words as his voice travels through your ears. 
-
Daphne knocks on the door, arriving earlier than you expected, curious as to what happened between the two of you but also because you have plans for lunch before going to her family home. 
She groans and hangs up the phone again, her patience is wearing thin. She knocks on your door harder than before. “It’s me, open up before your neighbors think I’m a burglar.” 
The door swings open, her jaw drops at the sight of Anthony with you curled into his side. 
“Well, well. Now I know why you haven’t answered your phone.” She lets herself inside, leaving her brother to close the door. “We have plans, say goodbye to your girlfriend so we can get ready and then go out to lunch.” 
“Is it where I made your reservation for?” 
“Of course.” 
“I’m coming too.” 
She whines, “no you’re not.” 
“I’m hungry too and it’s under my name. You would have forced me to come sooner or later.” 
“But that was before last night.” 
He raises his brows. 
“You two are a couple now and I won’t have enough time to spend with my friend because you’ll be dragging her around with you.” 
“I won’t be dragging her-” 
“Fine, coupley things.” 
“You can do coupley things with Simon.” 
“It’s not the same.” 
“What if,” you interrupt the two. “What if we go out together?” 
They both are ready to object when you quickly add, “you, me, Anthony, and Simon? We’re going to your family’s home anyway, why not all four of us hangout?” 
Neither of them object, seemingly going along with your idea. “Good. Daphne and I will get ready while you go back to yours then we’ll meet at the restaurant?” 
He nods, pulling back into his grasp. “I’ll leave on one condition.” 
“What’s that?” You ask with a smile. 
“A simple kiss.” 
You peck his lips. 
“That’s not what I meant.” 
Daphne lets out a fake gag as the two of you make out. 
“Go away, Anthony. You’ll see her again soon.” 
Once he’s left, she drags you into your room. “Tell me everything.” 
“Daph!” You chuckle. 
“Spill.” 
“No.” 
“Come on,” she whines as you walk into the bathroom. 
“I don’t kiss and tell.” 
“Oh!” She chuckles, “fine. I’m just happy he stopped leaving you those notes.” 
“He what?” 
“Nothing. Nothing. Finish getting ready.” 
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iliveiloveiwrite · 1 year
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I JUST HAVE TO REQUEST SOMETHING ONCE YOUR REQUESTS ARE OPEN!! Congratulations!! Can I request Anthony Bridgerton with the fluff prompt “i love your voice, it’s soothing” and “move your blanket, i wanna lay down on your lap.”?
Busy Days, Peaceful Nights // Anthony Bridgerton
A/n: I haven’t posted anything in what feels like forever. I just haven’t had the motivation but I wanted to post something short today so I hope it’s okay!
Warnings: established relationship, married couple, banter, anniversary, long days, cute, fluff.
Word count: 100+
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The sun had finally set on an eventful day at Bridgerton House; the curtains having been drawn some time ago, and the oil lamps and sconces lit one by one through the grand house. Not only had family visited throughout the day, but dear friends and loved ones continued dropping in, wishing their happiness for the two of you on your fifth wedding anniversary. There hadn’t truly been a single moment for you to catch your breath; feeling much like you did on your wedding day as you smiled and smiled, and thanked and thanked.
It had been a very long day.
You simply couldn’t help the sigh of relief that left you as the final visitor left for the evening; leaving you alone to ready yourself for bed, removing the tight clothing you had sat in for the last hours of dinner. A shiver of relief rushes through you as you slip into your night robe; the fabric soft against your skin as you reach for the book that had been sitting on your nightstand for close to a week, left unopened and lonely. With a tired breath, you sit down on the couch in your bedroom, tucking your legs beneath you as you pull a blanket across your lap and open your book.
“Have they gone?” Anthony asks, poking his head around the door in a sheepish manner.
You raise a single, unimpressed eyebrow as you pause your reading. “Tell me, my love, did you manage to get all of your work done as I entertained?”
Anthony coughs; a shy look upon his face as he comes further in your shared bedroom. “Oh yes” He nods, “It has been a productive day, indeed.”
“I’m glad to hear it,” You answer, turning your attention back to your book and leaving your husband to brood as he gets ready for bed.
It doesn’t take Anthony long to miss your attention. Numerous Tim see a minute, Anthony glances over to where you sit on the couch, your book open in your lap as your eyes pour over the pages. For a single moment, Anthony feels rather jealous of the paper binding the book - he would rather have your attention on him than on the book. Feeling rather foolish, Anthony finishes his night routine before joining you.
“Move your blanket,” Anthony commands softly, beginning the process himself as he kneels on the couch. “I want to lay down on your lap.”
You obey your husband wordlessly, removing your blanket with an amused look on your face as Anthony smiles victoriously. In an instant, he’s shifted, laying down with his head in your lap. “Are you comfortable?” You ask, entertained by your beloved’s antics.
“Very,” he responds smartly, winking up at you. His satisfied expression turns to one of glee when a laugh falls from your lips at Anthony’s attempt to wink.
“Then I’ll continue reading.”
For what feels like an age to Anthony, the only sound in the room is the ticking of the clock above the fireplace. The very noise mocks him as he tries to relax, tries to let the tension of the day leech from his bones.
It doesn’t work.
“Read aloud?” Anthony asks from his place in your lap, wanting nothing than to hear your voice and be soothed by it.
Unable to deny Anthony anything, you begin to recite the written word aloud. Anthony watches your face for a while; he sees how the words bring you to life, how the characters fall from your lips as you breathe life into another person’s work. His eyes slip closed; your voice washing over him. “I love your voice,” he murmurs, eyes closed and a peaceful expression on his face. “It’s soothing after such a day.”
“Ah yes,” You nod, feeling rather sympathetic for your poor husband. “You have had such a busy day, my love.”
“Is that sarcasm I detect, darling?”
“Why would you think such a thing?” You gasp, feigning hurt at Anthony’s words. “I’m simply agreeing with you, my dear. You have had an incredibly busy day, hiding in your office as I dealt with your family, my family, and our friends, and our neighbours.”
“You knew all along, didn’t you?” Anthony surmises; his eyes narrowing in as he takes in the triumphant look of glee written across your face.
“I knew from the moment Lady Featherington was announced at our door.”
Anthony snorts; his gaze amused before it turns serious. “Can you forgive me, my darling?”
You sigh, glancing down at the man you promised to love for an eternity. The words still ring true; you would love Anthony until your very last breath, your love for him being an integral part of your very being. As such, it was far too easy for Anthony to spot when he was let off the hook. A smile slowly begins to spread across his face; his eyes softening with his own love for you alongside residual mirth from your conversation. Anthony knew he was forgiven the moment you met his gaze.
Another sigh leaves you. “I suppose I could…” You begin, “For a price.”
“Name it,” Anthony states without hesitation, safe in the knowledge that he would go to the ends of the earth for you.
“A kiss.” You state happily.
Anthony obliges without haste.
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frost-queen · 10 months
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Outmatched //Part 9 (Reader!Holmes x Anthony Bridgerton)
Forever tag: @missmelodramatic, @merlin-dahlia, @alex--awesome--22, @elllie-does-the-posts, @floatlosers, @merlieve, 
@queen-of-books, @glimmering-darling-dolly, @denkisclown, @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr,    @meyocoko, @bubblybrianna, @october-leaves, @m-rae23,@kazbekkarluvbot, @freyathehuntress,
@kneelforloki, @mamaj-right, @queensgirl718, @abaker74, @thescooby-gang, @readers-posts, @randomstory56, @aureolinb, @fictional-hooman, 
@nyenye,  @loliakeoghan23, @heyheyheyggg, @aizawash0e, @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy, @novas-dreamworld, @preciousbabypeter, @magical-spit, @heyheyheyggg, studioreader, @wonderlandfandomkingdom
Summary: When old habits resurface has it doomed everything? Perhaps one is never meant to touch love? Appearing as none can handle the task on their own, a set of schemes have come into place. Read part 1  & part 2 & part 3 & part 4 & part 5 & part 6 & part 7 & part 8 & part 10
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Your hands pulled instantly away from him, stumbling a bit back. Slightly shaking your head you saw how Lord Hill’s face stood with confusion. – “Miss Y/n.” – Lord Hill started while you bumped with your back to someone else. You slightly turned, holding your hand up as an apology. Lord Hill kept coming closer, offering you his hand again. No more. Fully turning around you took a run for it. Pushing a way through the crowd. Sherlock grabbed Mycroft by the suit, pulling him along. – “Go that way round!” – he ordered pushing his brother in a direction.
“Wha… Sherlock?” – Mycroft said bumping against a man. Sherlock pointed firm in the direction he needed to go. – “Mycroft!” – Sherlock rose his voice, pointing even firmer. Mycroft nodded shakily, pushing his way through. – “Out of the way!” – he ordered separating a couple to get through. Sherlock went his way, squeezing through the crowd to get to you before you’d head out. You were making your escape to the outdoors.
A flash of lighting making you freeze for a second. Looking over your shoulder, you caught a glimpse of Lord Hill. Shaking your head, you didn’t want to be tangled up in this. You pushed through, making your way across. If it rained it didn’t matter. If lightning struck you, it might end your agony and you’d be blissful about it. This was the very reason you detested the social season.
If you could’ve gone back in time, you would’ve prevented your younger self from agreeing on behalf of your brother. No matter how much you loved him, you should’ve remained headstrong. If only Mycroft wasn’t so cold hearted. If only he dared himself to be vulnerable, he might find happiness or love. If only Sherlock wasn’t so sophisticated. If only he found pleasure in engaging more with others. If only he wasn’t so complicated talented. He’d might find someone too that could keep him company.
Someone equally matched with his wits and brains. Someone who would understand that he needs time of his own. Finding comfort in it. Security. If only your brothers were better, it wouldn’t have to fall all upon your shoulders. Squeezing yourself through a couple, you were haunted by it all. Tears captive in the corner of your eyes. Vision turning glossy, making you blink rapidly to see clearer. You reached the large, windowed doors leading to the gardens.
Grabbing the handle you opened them. Panting loud as the smell of rain whiffed through the open crack. A firm hand pressed itself onto the glass, shutting the windowed door shut before you could fully open it. Startling you. – “Sherlock let me open this door.” – you called out, fussing at the handle. The hand kept the door from moving.
“I cannot.” – a response came, only it didn’t sound as your brother. Blinking surprised you slowly turned your head to the side. Eyes widening at Lord Anthony Bridgerton. His breathing loud, staring rather serious at you. – “My lord…” – you said breathless, caught in his gaze. He took a step closer to you, lowering his hand onto the handle. His intense gaze taking a hold of you. – “Do not do this…” – he whispered, gaze lowering onto you, resting briefly on your lips.
You lifted your chin up, taking a stance of stubborn proudness. – “Why not? What concern am I to you?” – you asked him. His gaze flashing up to your eyes once more. He stared bewildered at you, flung back to his nightmares. The nightmares he had after he had found you in the rain all alone. Sprained ankle. Broken perhaps he thought at the point. The smell of rain so distinct in his mind. The terror swirling around him as he feared the worst. His hand trembled gripped on the handle.
He opened his mouth wanting to rant out words, not the kindest when his pride held him back. He sucked in a breath, turning his head, fighting every urge to scold you. Scold you for being so reckless and taunting his heart. For it can only take so much. – “Am I to expect an answer or do you lack the capacity to be honest with yourself?” – you responded with a little bit of disrespect. Anthony tensed his jaw, opening the door. The cold breeze and sound of rain welcoming.
“Do proceed then!” – he answered loudly, gesturing at the outdoors. – “Forget I was ever caring.” – he outed. – “If you might overlook your own pride, you might have noticed it.” – he ended with a sarcastic smile. – “Caring?” – you said in disbelieve. – “Forgive me my lord but am I to mistake insults for care?” – you replied full of wit back. – “If I am not mistaken you were the first to insult me!” – he reminded you off. – “Only because you were conceited.” – You spoke back, shutting the windowed door to keep the cold out.
Anthony puffed loud. – “Conceited!” – he replied at the brink of losing his mind. – “Take a look in the mirror Miss Y/n.” – he said coldly moving his head up and down on you. You were shocked. – “Thank you for explaining so fully!” – you said back. Anthony and you turned away from each other. Facing away from him, you looked to the side, peeking over your shoulder. A sadness falling over you.
How you didn’t mean all that, but your pride was one to stand in the way. Anthony looked up, slowly lowering his head, gaze casted down. Pride what a vicious thing. If only you could see how much he truly cared. If only he was brave enough to say it. He took in a deep breath, almost thinking about apologizing. Shaking his head, he ignored the matter of his own feelings. He took off, leaving you alone.
Moving your arms over each other, you sulked in pity. – “Y/n!” – lifting your head a bit up, you saw your brothers come near. Sherlock wrapped his arms tight around you. – “You are alright.” – he said out of breath. – “For a moment we thought you were going to do something foolish.” – Mycroft pitched in. – “Perhaps I already did.” – you answered looking pitiful at the ground. – “Sister?” – Sherlock said tilting your chin up for you to look at him. He wanted to look at you. To understand what you meant.
He could always read so much in your eyes; they were like an open book to him. You casted your head aside, not wanting to look at him. – “I messed up…” – you said, lip quivering. A loud sob emerged from inside you as your face fell into your hands. Quietly crying at your own demise. Sherlock wrapped an arm around you, soothing you. Mycroft looked uneasy around. Seeing how you caught some attention of unwanted see-ers. Mycroft snapped his finger at Sherlock for attention.
“We leave for home.” – he made clear, stroking his moustache. Sherlock agreed, escorting you out of the ballroom. The carriage ride home was silent. Not one daring to start the conversation. At your return home, father was rather perplex as to why you had returned so early. Mycroft shook his head, letting him know to drop the matter.
You took the stairs up without a word. Both your brothers giving each other a concerning look. In your nightwear you sat by the window, silk shawl around your arms for comfort. Your mothers silk shawl. There was a gentle knock on the door. – “Go away.” – you said softly not in the mood for any company, yet the door opened anyways. – “You know how stubborn I am.” – Mycroft said popping his head in. – “A simple go away doesn’t do the matter.” – he added with a chuckle, closing the door behind him. You were a bit surprised to find Mycroft entering your room.
It was out of character. If you expected anyone to enter it would be father…or Sherlock, but never Mycroft. He took in a deep breath, watching your room from afar. Moving a bit up, you made room for your brother to come and sit down. He walked over, sitting down by your side. He stared out of the window for a moment. Setting his words right as everything was always calculated with him. Each and every word with precision.
When he looked at you, the words lingering on his tongue vanished into thin air at the sight of mother’s shawl. He smiled saddened, reaching out to feel the fabric on his fingers. – “Mother’s shawl.” – he said brought back to so many sweet memories with her. Despite being a difficult child to show affection, he did very much love her. You smiled faintly back at him. Mycroft exhaled deep, looking up to the ceiling. Whatever pre-calculated words he had in his mind were gone.
“What happened?” – he asked thinking of how mother would approach this. You looked with tears in your eyes at him, trying to keep smiling. He noticed how close you were to breaking apart. – “Let us say I am my worst own enemy.” – you told him doing your very best not to cry. Mycroft took a deep breath, moving his arm around you. Pulling you closer so that you could lay your head on his shoulder.
“That indeed we are.” – he responded, rubbing his jaw against your hair. The door opened slightly revealing a saddened Sherlock. Mycroft sighed loud, waving him over. Sherlock shut the door behind him, coming over. He sat down on the other side of Mycroft. Sherlock moved his arms around Mycroft and so on around you as well.
“We are a broken family… aren’t we?” – you asked staring in front of you. Mycroft looked up, laying his other arm over Sherlock. All too afraid to answer the question, but knowing deep down it might be true. Outside the rain clattered against the window, washing away any stains.
The next morning you were playing chess with Sherlock. – “It is your turn.” – you said looking up to your brother standing with his back to you. Thinking. He hummed confused, turning his posture. He barely glanced at the board as he made his move, taking a pawn of you. He then returned to his brooding. You observed the board closely, thinking of every possible way. If you did this, he might do that. Biting your lip, you weren’t sure what next move you should use. – “Try your horse.” – Sherlock said without looking. – “I can think for myself.” – you answered bothered.
Yet you took the horse, setting it down. – “What are you even thinking off? Your turn.” – you said. Sherlock approached the board once more moving his tower side-ways. – “Your turn.” – he answered smirking. You sighed loud when he stepped away once more. You were observing the board once more, thinking off what to do next. – “You might want to keep an eye on your king.” – you heard him say, annoying you. You leaned back in your chair, crossing your arms. – “Then simply play chess with yourself!” – you announced.
It was after all kind of what he was doing already. Sherlock sighed once, pulling his chair back to sit down. – “You think too little.” – he told you, moving your pawn in your turn. – “You too much.” – you responded as he moved his queen across the board. – “Check.” – he called out pleasantly. You got up, scraping your chair back over the floor. – “Good the game is finished then!” – you responded. – “Far from sister, you can still…” – Sherlock answered but you wouldn’t have ears for it.
Anthony sighed deep sitting rather lowly in his armchair. Sulking in his own misery. Violet was watching him while drinking her tea. Anthony sighed again as she couldn’t take it anymore. She set her cup of tea down, getting up. She gave a kick against his legs for him to sit up straighter. Anthony obeyed, sitting up straighter with confusion. – “I think you’ve wallowed in self-pity enough now Anthony!” – she called out. – “I have not!” – he answered rather childish. – “That is enough!” – Violet shouted, losing her temper. – “I am going to be very clear with you Anthony and I want you to listen!” – Violet spoke loudly making Benedict press his lips together in delight.
Eloise tapped him on the shoulder, coming to sit near him. – “Mother is about to scold Anthony.” – Benedict whispered to her. – “Now that is a sight I would love to see.” – she responded in a hushed tone. – “If you do not start acting up right now, you will lose all your chances at happiness.” – her firm gaze staring back at him. Her expression softened upon seeing him turn inwards. – “You deserve to be happy… do not deny yourself from it. Please for your dear mama…” – Violet came sitting on the edge of the armchair, wrapping an arm around him.
“You are good enough… but you must fight for it Anthony… nothing comes when you stand and wait. You must find the courage to speak up and fight for what you love, for that is true bravery.” – Anthony looked up to her with tears in his eyes, nodding. They hugged as Benedict and Eloise were rather unsatisfied. – “Dissapointing.” – Eloise puffed out.
The wind rippled over the water in the pond. Leaves gently dancing with the flow of the breeze. You stood by the pond admiring the waterlilies. A frog hopped on a leaf making you smile. Hearing some rumor behind you, you turned to look. By the trees stood Anthony Bridgerton. He noticed you as well, making you both look ashamed away. – “Go on then.” – Sherlock whispered to himself from afar. – “Go to him sister.” – he muttered out, gesturing with a little push. – “Anthony… do so…” – Violet said standing not far from Sherlock.
He hadn’t noticed her yet, too focused on you. – “Yes… yes… good sister.” – he mumbled to himself seeing you take slight advantages into approaching him. – “Good Anthony… now go.” – Violet spoke urging her son from afar to do so. Sherlock and Violet watched how both of you attempted to come near yet given up. Shaking your heads, you both turned away, dismissing the matter. Sherlock groaned loud in frustration.
Violet sighing deep. It was then that they acknowledged each other. Slowly turning to each other. Violet came nearer as did Sherlock. – “It appears Lord Holmes… we’ll have to assist a bit in the matter.” – she told him. – “It appears so Lady Bridgerton.” – Sherlock responded. Violet sighed. – “It won’t be easy… my son…” – she sighed again. – “My sister too…” – he answered with a sigh of his own.
Both looked at each other and laughed. Sherlock offered her his arm as she took it. – “Say Lady Bridgerton, what schemes do you have in mind?” – he asked. Violet smiled delighted. – “I have plenty of idea’s to force the opportunity on those two.” – she told him. – “Good.” – Sherlock responded. – “For I am counting on this union formed by love.” – Sherlock continued.
“It is so obvious.” – Violet said as Sherlock accompanied her on a stroll. – “It appears the only two unable to see the love for one another are themselves.” – Sherlock nodded agreeing firmly. – “Shall we begin planning?” – Sherlock proposed as it appears the only way to bring you closer is by the hand of a gentle assistance.
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