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atlabeth · 15 days

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(not so) simple finale - anthony bridgerton

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summary: coercing lord bridgerton into pretending to court you to avoid the affections of a baron is very simple — that is, until it isn’t.

a/n: so um ignore how long every part of this took to come out. i have no excuse. anyways we are finally here at the end!! almost 10k words of proper regency soap opera type shit and it all ends happily i promise. i hope u enjoy because damn this was supposed to be a short one shot and ended up being over 40k lmao

wc: 9k

warning(s): angst, reader is a lil insecure, slightly steamy make out scene, happy ending<333

You’d never been this restless before.

Your dreams had a part to play in it. They insisted on tormenting you, though not in the usual way.

No, these dreams would have been pleasant had they come any sooner. For Anthony Bridgerton appeared in near every single one, with his charming smile and soft eyes and hair you always desired to run your fingers through.

He would smile at you, offer his arm and walk with you all around the park and the city as you talked for hours. He would compliment you, and you would compliment him, and he would court you as a perfect gentleman would.

He would kiss you, ravenously so. His hands would touch you where no one had touched before, leaving trails of fire in their wake, would unearth feelings you never could have imagined. He would revere you, near worship you, because in this world you never made such ill-advised choices. In this world, you never dragged him into a worthless scheme that ended with a ruined reputation and a broken heart.

In this world, he loved you just as much as you loved him, and you never did a single thing to make him doubt that.

But you were not there.

You were here, in the real world. Where you were in the midst of reaping what you spent a whole season sowing.

You were roused from that less than peaceful attempt at sleep—though thoughts of Anthony took longer to disappear—by the opening of your door, and despite your visitor attempting to be quiet, you found your eyes fluttering open against your will.

“Oh, dearest,” your mother lamented, “I did not mean to wake you. I apologize; I merely wanted to check on you. I will return later—please, rest.”

“No,” you murmured, and you rubbed your eyes as you pushed yourself into a sitting position. Small movements were much easier, which at least meant a step in the right direction. “No, stay. Please.”

“Are you sure?” she asked. When you nodded, she closed the door lightly behind her and sat on your bedside, laying her hand over yours.

She whispered your name, her voice already thick with tears that she was trying to hide. “I am so glad you are alright.”

“You say that every time you come in here,” you said.

“And I will continue to say it.” She shook her head. “You nearly perished. You should consider yourself lucky I am not in here at all hours of the day.”

You managed a smile, and she sighed. “How do you feel?”

“Better,” you said. “I am still sore, but much better.”

“Good,” she said. “All I can ask is that you continue to get better.”

“The rest has certainly been nice,” you said. “Am I still a true lady despite my late wakings?”

“You have always been a true lady,” your mother assured with a slight smile.

“I believe you may be the only one that still thinks so.”

“If you are feeling ready, there is a ball in a fortnight,” she said. “It could be a good way to garner good will again.” You gave her a look, and she held up her hands. “I understand how you feel, but your presence is important. There are… rumors floating about, and we must lay them to rest.”

“Rumors,” you muttered wryly. “That your daughter is an ungrateful wench and will die a spinster?”

She said your name sternly, and you shook your head. “I read what Whistledown wrote about me—she’s likely written a hundred more. I do not care what any of them think of me, Mother. I am only sorry for the pain it has caused you and Father, and the Bridgertons.”

“The Bridgerton name is strong enough to weather scandal,” she said. “We have to work a bit harder. And making an appearance in society again, especially with Lord Cardew by your side, will help.”

You suppressed a scoff at the mere thought of him. You’d been granted such a reprieve from Lord Cardew because of Anthony’s influence, and while you were recovering, no one but family was to see you. But soon—very soon—he would be your entire life.

“That brings up another question,” your mother said wryly, and when you met her eyes she was giving you a very pointed look. “Are you still sure about this?”

No, you wanted to say. You couldn’t be less sure about Jonathan Cardew. But you’d dragged your family into this mess of yours, so it was your duty to fix it.

Plenty of women married much more dreadful men every year. You should have considered yourself lucky that a man of his breeding, of his standing was interested in you at all—especially after the season you’d spent distancing yourself from him and the scandal you’d caused.

“...Yes,” you finally said. “I am sure.”

Your mother sighed and said your name. “You are sure? You have not reached out to Anth—”

“There is nothing left between us,” you interrupted. “I know it is not the best situation, and I know it is my fault, but I am making the best of it. All I ask is that you support me. It is hard enough attempting to make my way through this world—I need my mother to be there for me rather than constantly pushing against it all.”

“...Of course,” she said quietly. “And I am so sorry that I have ever done differently. My dear, all I ask in return is that you understand me, as well as the decisions I make. All I want is the best for you, and I know that marriage is not what you desire, but there are things we must do.”

“Of course,” you said, and your echoing words spurned a small smile from her. “I am sorry that I have always fought you so much. All I could see was my hatred for any kind of union, but all I managed was hurting you and Father, as well as myself, and— and I cannot think of any apology that will be enough.” You shook your head with a mirthless laugh. “I’ve no idea how you put up with me for so long, truly.”

“I’ve never had to put up with you,” she said. “I realize I may not have done the best job at showing it, but— but I love you more than anything in this world. Everything I have ever done has been for you, my darling. You are the future of our name, and I know you will do an excellent job at carrying on our legacy.”

“Truly?” you asked softly.

Your mother nodded as she took your hands and smiled at you. “Truly. Nothing in this world can change my love for you. You are our greatest accomplishment.”

You swallowed the sudden lump in your throat as you smiled as well, and you pulled your mother into a hug. She reciprocated, and tears filled your eyes. You’d missed the comfort of her presence so dearly.

“I love you too,” you whispered.

“Are you alright, my lady?”

Your lady’s maid's words snapped you out of the stupor you’d found yourself in, and it was all you could do to attempt a smile.

“Yes, Julia,” you said. “Quite alright.”

Her brows furrowed as she draped a pendant around your neck, the cold metal turning your exhale slightly shaky. “Pardon my plainness, my lady, but you are not believable in the slightest.”

“You have been around me for far too long,” you said dryly. “I request another maid, one that cannot read me so easily.”

Julia offered a wry smile. “You are stuck with me for now, my lady. What is weighing so heavily on your mind?”

You stared yourself in the mirror as you turned the question over. It was not as easy to answer as it should have been, not when everything was so out of order. Not when you hardly recognized the reflection staring back at you, wrapped in orange silk and adorned in jewels courtesy of Lord Cardew.

You were not yourself—you were to be Baron Jonathan Cardew’s wife, a baroness and status symbol to hang off his arm and smile prettily, and Baroness Cardew was who stared back at you.

Only a few more balls remained until the season came to an end, and though Lord Cardew was doing your family an immense service by giving you a second chance, he did not want to wait much longer to make it official.

It was all planned out. Your relationship would truly enter the public eye tonight with your dances, you would promenade in open parks to have as many eyes on you as possible. He would call on you and your meager staff would be encouraged to spread rumors. Another ball would pass together, enough to hopefully weather some of the scandal you’d created, and then…

Then, he would propose.

You would accept.

And the fate you’d been so intent on avoiding would be sealed.

You swallowed the lump in your throat, blinking back the impending tears.

“I am nervous,” you admitted. “My decision didn’t exactly feel… real. Not until I was standing at the modiste getting fitted for this gown with one of Cardew’s maids. And all this jewelry…” Your fingers trailed across the raised designs on the pendant. “It makes it even more so.”

“I can only imagine,” Julia said. “He has certainly put in effort.”

“And yet it all feels hollow.” You moved away from the mirror and stopped in front of your vanity. The light blue reticule sitting near your jewelry box felt as if it was mocking you.

Julia said your name with a sigh. “You made your choice. You pushed him away.”

“I know,” you murmured, tracing the embroidery with your finger. “But feelings do not disappear so quickly.”

“He wrote letters,” she said. “After you moved from Bridgerton House to recover here, after I refused his calling on you for the hundredth time, he wrote letters and delivered them by hand.”

You picked at a loose strand of white thread on the purse, jaw clenched so tight you thought your teeth might crack.

“He told me he did not care if you didn’t want them,” Julia continued softly. “He just needed you to know how he felt.”

“This is how it has to be,” you finally said, voice shaking.

“And what makes you think that?” Julia challenged. “You believe you have to live a life of misery simply because half the ton does so in the name of reputation and riches?”

“Two things I no longer have any of,” you murmured. “Cardew’s pedigree is enough to get both back for my family. It is my duty, Jules, and I can no longer hide from it.”

Your lady’s maid looked at you with desperation in her eyes when there was a knock on the door followed by your mother calling your name. You nodded your permission and she opened it.

“Lady Worthing,” she said, curtsying just so to your mother. “I’ve finished getting her ready—I’ll give the two of you some time alone.”

“Thank you, Julia,” your mother said with a smile. She turned back to you, her eyes softer than ever as she moved forward and set her hands on your shoulders.

“My darling,” she said, “you look so beautiful. I did not lie when I called you the crown jewel of our family.”

You couldn’t help but smile at her compliment, trying to ignore the tightness in your chest. “Thank you, Mother. I’m glad I can make you proud.”

She murmured your name, turning you so you faced the mirror. You saw yourself more this time, feeling more assured with your mother standing behind you holding all the stars in her eyes.

“I have always been proud of you, darling,” she murmured. “Even if I did not show it in the best way. I love you more than words can express. I meant it when I said you are our greatest achievement.”

You let out a shaky breath, leaning back against her. She allowed you to sink into her and you felt the tears brimming in your eyes.

“...I’m afraid, Mother,” you whispered. “To marry. To be a wife.”

She was silent for a moment, busying herself with adjusting your jewelry before she spoke.

“I was afraid too,” she admitted. “I hardly knew your father outside of a few promenades, and one lovely bouquet of flowers. It was almost fully arranged by our parents. But when he proposed, he vowed to always be my friend, and to always take care of me.”

“Has he?” you asked.

“Yes,” she said. “We did not love each other on our wedding day. But he has always been kind to me, and he has always advocated for me, and we have always been there for each other. We love each other now, in our own way. And,” she smiled, smoothing down the lace on your sleeves, “together, we brought you into the world. I would do it all over again if it meant I would get you in the end.”

You could not imagine considering Lord Cardew a friend, nor the opposite. He saw you as just another pretty jewel to adorn himself with.

Anthony saw you as a friend— as more. He always listened to what you had to say, always entertained your jokes with some of us own, never talked down on you. He saw you as an equal.

“I do not know if any woman is prepared to marry,” she finally said. “Even those that marry for love still have initial doubts. There are so many expectations of our behavior when we are told so little of what we must actually do.”

“How do you do it?” you asked. “You married a man you didn’t know. You raised a child. You held face against a society that shamed you for only having a daughter.”

“All you can do is trust in yourself, and in those around you,” she said. “If you are with the right person, everything will feel as natural as breathing. You will not care what anything thinks of you, because there is only one opinion that matters.”

There was one man you felt natural around, one who you felt you could speak your mind around and not be judged. One man that you’d fallen in love with, that surely hated you in return for what you’d done to him.

Your voice came out as little more than a whisper. “What should I do, Mother?”

“You know what you must do,” she said softly. “All I can do is support you.”

You’d rubbed your palms on your dress at least fifteen times since you’d arrived. A fruitless effort, considering you were wearing gloves, but you could not stand still.

Your conversation with Lord Cardew had taken everything out of you, your dance with him even more so—an especially damning fate seemed ahead of you. But you could tune him out well enough, at least.

It was an entirely different deal when the Bridgertons showed up.

Violet walked in arm and arm with Anthony and Benedict, and Colin had a loose hold on Eloise. And to make matters worse, Daphne Bridgerton, alongside her husband the Duke of Hastings, were making an appearance. What an honor, to have the chance to embarrass yourself in front of such highly ranking nobles.

Eloise branched off immediately after they passed the threshold, much to the protests of her mother, but your mother immediately pulled you in their direction. You could only imagine her thoughts—if she could get the Duke of Hastings touting for the Worthings, that would make things much easier.

Anything for the optics, you supposed. But when you met Anthony’s eyes for the first time, you had to avert your gaze. He just looked so damn sad.

“It is good to see you again, Violet,” your mother said. “And it is an honor, Duke and Duchess Hastings.” The both of you curtsied, and you could see the Duke’s slight smile.

“I consider it my honor to meet the woman who has been the center of such conversation this season,” he said. You felt the heat rise to your cheeks, and thankfully Violet stepped in.

“It is good to see you as well, Cecilia.” Violet smiled as she looked at you. “Especially you, my dear.”

You bowed your head. “Thank you, Lady Bridgerton, Duke Hastings. I am grateful to be here.”

Benedict smiled, the notion warmer than anything you deserved. “You look lovely, Miss Worthing. Especially for someone who escaped death with such recency.”

Anthony’s eyes remained on you the entire time, and more than anything you wished you could read this mind. The man probably hated you, and he had every right to do so. You just wished your feelings for him weren’t so insurmountable.

You swallowed the lump in your throat and smiled as believably as you could. “Thank you, Mister Bridgerton. You also look well.”

Your mother nudged your shoulder and your gaze met Anthony’s once more. He still hadn’t looked away from you.

You bowed your head once more. “Lord Bridgerton. It… is good to see you.”

No wonder you actually ended up falling in love with Anthony. It was the only way anyone could believe this ruse—you were quite an awful actress.

Anthony lowered his head as well, his poise stiff. “A pleasure, Miss Worthing.”

“We’re glad to see you’re doing well,” Violet said, her smile a bit thin. You could only imagine the conversation that would occur between her and your mother later. “You caused us all quite a scare.”

“Oh, Anthony was so worried,” Daphne said, pressing a hand to her chest. “I’m thankful we have the chance to attend this ball so I could see you in person.”

“I’ve recovered well,” you nodded, and you looked at Violet. “My family and I thank you immensely for your kindness and your doctor’s care. We’ll be in your debt endlessly.”

“There is no need for that,” Violet said. “It is enough that you are still here.”

Your cheeks burned but you tried to smile anyways. You wanted to burrow into a hole and never come out. It seemed the Bridgertons were capable of endless grace in public when they surely had to despise you.

“Eloise has run off somewhere over near the strings,” Benedict provided in the silence. “I’m sure she would appreciate your companionship tonight.”

You glanced at your mother and she nodded, and your smile at Benedict was much more genuine. “Of course. I’ve been meaning to talk with her.”

You mouthed thank you to him when your mother could not see, and he nodded. He’d always been so decent to you.

You could not help but glance at Anthony as you went, and his gaze followed you. He would resent you if he had any sense, but it seemed the opposite—the sadness in his eyes was fatal.

You took a glass of lemonade from the refreshments table when you passed it, needing something to do with your hands. You found your way to Eloise’s side soon enough, and her eyes lit up when she caught sight of you.

“It is so good to see you,” she breathed. “I’ve only just arrived, and I’ve already had to fend off suitors. They just cannot seem to understand I hold such little care for them.”

“I am just as glad to see you,” you admitted. “I do not think I can get through this night alone.”

“I cannot imagine why,” Eloise said sarcastically. “I’ve heard the news. And I must say, it is your poorest decision this season.”

Your laugh was mostly out of surprise, and you nearly dropped the flute of lemonade you were holding. You were on edge far more than you expected—you almost wished your glass was full of champagne.

“At least somebody is speaking plainly,” you murmured, your gaze distant and unfocused. “I think the rest of your family must hate me, but they’re all too kind to say it.”

Eloise frowned. “Why would any of them hate you?”

Your grip tightened on your glass. “Because I caused an immense scandal and then ended things with Anthony?”

She huffed a laugh, her eyebrows now rising. “Our family has weathered many a scandal, and we are still here. Or have you forgotten how Daphne’s dearest husband chose to court her?”

“That is different,” you insisted.

“I think it is worse, actually,” Eloise said plainly. “Simon is a duke, and Anthony nearly killed him before Daphne knocked some sense into him.” She chuckled and shook her head. “Truly, it was a disaster. We Bridgertons have a knack for them.”

“As do I,” you said with a loose laugh. “I was stabbed, Eloise. I nearly died in your brother’s arms.”

“And we nearly died in our drawing room,” she said. “Anthony, most of all. He cares for you immensely.”

“Surely he cannot,” you insisted. “Not after what I’ve done.”

“I am not blind,” Eloise said, “and neither are you. So do not demerit our intelligence and pretend as if you do not see it.”

“I— I know.” You wrapped your arms around your midsection, and you grimaced as the jewelry on your wrists brushed against your skin. You were covered head to toe in finery that didn’t belong to you, and you itched from the inside out. “But I don’t know where to go from here.”

“It’s quite obvious, isn’t it?” Eloise looked across the room, where Lord Cardew stood talking to your mother, and then over at her brother, who couldn’t have been less interested in the lady trying to strike up conversation with him. Then her gaze fell to you. “You’ve got a choice to make.”

“I’ve already ruined things,” you murmured. “I— I can’t just back out of this.”

“I can tell you that you certainly haven’t ruined things with my brother. And Lady Whistledown’s speculation is the only thing binding you to that lecher.” Eloise shrugged. “You’ve already broken off one courtship. What’s another?”

Your eyes met Anthony’s from across the room. Once again, he’d already been looking at you. You averted your gaze quickly, feeling the heat rush to your face, and you tried to steady your breathing. He had no right to still have such an effect on you.

“I need some air,” you murmured. “Will you—”

“Of course,” Eloise said. “You are simply touching things up in the powder room.”

You nodded your thanks and slipped out of the ballroom, finally able to drop the facade you’d been trying to uphold. You truly felt as if you were overheating, and the cool air was hardly of aid once you reached the outdoors.

Everything was all wrong—your dress, this damned tiara, the bracelets and the necklaces and every jewel that Cardew thought he could buy you with.

It all belonged to him. You would not be another prize on his shelf.

You couldn’t help yourself. You began to shed the jewelry as your pace sped up, ripping bangles from your wrists and pendants from your neck—by the time you reached a deserted area of the gardens, you were considerably lighter and considerably close to tears.

You let out a frustrated sob as you slammed your fists against some artistic stone structure. It earned you nothing but pain, but it grounded you in some strange way. You tore off your gloves and threw them to the ground, a shaky breath escaping you as you screwed your eyes shut and pressed your palms to your forehead.

You could not marry traditionally, you could not follow through with your feelings for Anthony, and now you could not follow through with this ill-advised plan.

Were you truly this useless? To bring ruin to two families with your knack for destroying things for it all to amount to nothing? You waxed poetic about the life you thought you deserved to live, about going to university and gaining your independence and never marrying, and yet here you were, near tears in the gardens of the ball you were meant to reenter society at.

“Miss Worthing.”

The whispered words blared through the silence, and you knew who it was without having to turn around. It still sent a shock through you, your breathing faltering for a moment. Your eyes stayed shut.

“Why are you here?” you asked, your voice watery.

“You do not know me if you think there is anywhere else I would be,” he said.

“How did you find me?”

“I followed the trail of jewels. You’ve left an awfully expensive path in your wake.”

“All of it is worthless,” you mumbled, finally letting your hands drop. “It all belongs to Lord Cardew.”

“You’ll have made a magpie very happy.”

“Enough with the jokes,” you said. “Why are you here?”

“Why do you think?” Anthony asked with a slight laugh.

“I do not know,” you responded. “That is why I asked.”

“I am here because I want to talk to you,” he said. “You cannot just avoid me for the rest of the season.”

You turned away. “I can try.”

“I will not let you,” Anthony enunciated. “I will not let you make the biggest mistake of your life because you believe it is your duty.”

“If you are here to change my mind, you are wasting your time,” you said stiffly.

“I don’t believe I have to do anything,” Anthony said. “It looks as if you’ve come to the conclusion yourself.”

“And what makes you think that?”

“You have not even glanced in Cardew’s direction this entire night,” he said. “You’ve been looking at me instead.”

“Because I have felt your eyes on me with every moment.”

Anthony huffed. “Can you blame me? This is the first time I have seen you since that night.”

“Then you should remember my words from that night,” you bit out.

“Why are you so intent on pushing me away?” Anthony begged.

You scoffed. “Why are you so intent on bothering me?”

“Because I cannot stand here and watch you marry another!” he exclaimed.

Your brows furrowed and you turned around. Anthony stood in front of you, his outfit impeccable but not at all looking put together. Desperation colored his eyes, and you saw how truly undone he’d become.

“I— I thought I could, but I cannot.” He shook his head, a muscle working in his jaw as he glanced away. “Every moment you are in the vicinity of that man is a test of my strength. And I do not know how strong I am.”

“I don’t understand,” you said hollowly. “You should hate me.”

“I could never hate you,” Anthony murmured. “I thought I could, when you first told me of your plans, but— but I could hardly even dislike you.” A wistful smile tugged at his lips as he shook his head. “My mother had been bothering me for nearly a decade to find a wife and settle down, but I thought love was a fool’s game. I would have my fun as a bachelor, and then settle down with the most advantageous match. There was no need for further emotional baggage—when you love, you can lose. And I refused to lose again.”

For a moment, your heart stopped in your chest. He lost his father, he nearly lost you, and then you pushed him away like he meant nothing.

“Anthony—” you whispered, but he shook his head.

“Please,” he said. “I have a lot to say.”

You nodded, and he did as well.

“Our deal was perfect for that. You were nothing but my sister’s nuisance of a friend—a bad influence that I could never see as more.” You could not help your soft laugh, and Anthony’s smile turned a bit more genuine.

“But then we spent more time together. I… truly began to know you.” He shook his head with a chuckle. “You shattered every preconception I had of you. I began to look forward to our meetings, to our promenades—I would get home from calling on you and could think only of the next time I would see you.”

“Throughout it all, you made me realize I was worthy of love,” he said. “You— you made me realize that I wanted it. That I wanted you.” His throat bobbed, and you could see his eyes glistening. “That I loved you.”

You could hardly find the strength to speak. You felt as if you could melt into a puddle at his feet just from his words. You were so intent on avoiding Anthony because you couldn’t stand the thought of hurting him anymore— you believed he would be better off without you, without the scandal you’d dragged him into.

But he… he loved you.

He loved you just as you loved him.

“I do not expect you to share any of my notions, and I know you value your freedom more than anything,” Anthony murmured. “So if it is not me you wish to be with, I understand, and I will accept it without complaint. I just beg of you—do not become that wretched man’s wife.”

All you could do was stare at him for a moment more, words beyond your reach before you finally managed to speak through your emotions.

“I tried to tell myself the exact same thing,” you said softly. “That you could not be happy with me. That I could never be happy chained to another—truly, that I could never love. Not when freedom is what I have always desired most. But Anthony…” you moved forward until you were mere centimeters apart, unable to suppress the shiver that ran through you at the proximity, “I have never felt more free than when I am with you.”

“Miss—” Anthony started, but he paused and shook his head before saying your first name instead. His eyes were softer than anything. “Are you truly…?”

“I could never fathom you sharing my feelings,” you said thickly. “That is why I pushed you away. But I love you, Anthony Bridgerton. And I think I have loved you for quite some time.”

You swallowed the sudden lump in your throat, turning away so as to not betray the fullness of your emotions, and though you opened your mouth to provide some excuse, you were not granted the chance.

Anthony’s hand encircled your wrist, pulling you back around, and just as soon did you feel his lips against yours. The tightness in your chest dissolved almost immediately as you all but fell into him, Anthony wrapping his arms around you to support you as your hands found purchase on anything they could.

Your focus became devoted solely to the feeling of him, his soft lips against yours even as they plied for access. Anthony held you as if his only desire were to protect you from the world, and it made you feel a way you’d never even imagined. Only when air became a necessity did he pull away, his labored breaths in contrast to the pure adoration in his eyes.

“Never in a thousand years did I think you would feel the same,” he murmured, his hands cupping your face on either side as he gazed into your eyes. “I thought myself a fool, falling for the one woman I could not have. You’ve no idea the relief it brings to hear you share my feelings.”

“I suppose I am just as foolish as you,” you breathed. Your heart felt as if it could burst.

The corners of his lips quirked up in a smile. “I cannot imagine what my mother would think—that after so long spent searching for a wife, I fell for the one woman who never wanted the title.”

You let out an airy laugh, relishing the feeling of his skin against yours. “Nor did I see myself falling for the one man who resented the chains of marriage as much as I.”

Anthony pressed his lips against yours once more, and your hands traveled up until they tangled in his hair. You kissed until you were nearly breathless, but Anthony still managed to pull a very unladylike sound out of you as he bowed his head, kissing down the line of your jaw, your neck, until his teeth nipped your skin just above your decolletage.

“Anthony,” you gasped, clenching your fingers as they buried themselves further into his dark locks. You had never been this close with a man before, never this intimate — you never thought you would even desire it.

But Anthony lit a fire inside of you that only he could quench, and yet the only thing he seemed to do was stoke it further. It was equally maddening and dizzying, the control he so effortlessly had over you.

“I never knew how much I would delight in hearing you say my name,” he murmured, his lips trailing against your skin. “No more Lord Bridgerton, I beg of you.”

“I should think I’d like to hear you beg—” you breathed, but Anthony cut you off yet again as he pulled you into another searing kiss. You could hardly stand it anymore as your hands fell down to his shoulders, and you pulled away for just a moment as you began desperately undoing his waistcoat, Anthony taking the hint and removing his jacket.

“These buttons were not designed with the needs of a lady in mind,” you huffed in frustration, fumbling fingers failing to make progress, and Anthony chuckled breathlessly.

“Have we finally found something I best you in?” he asked, and you rolled your eyes with a smile.

“Just take it off.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Is that all?”

You groaned as you looked at him. “If you insist on teasing me this way, Lord Bridgerton, I shall go back inside and act as if nothing has happened.”

“There is no need for idle threats,” he defended, and you bit back your smile. Anthony made deft work of his waistcoat, and the second he tossed it aside he was back on you.

“Besides,” his voice was a whisper a millimeter from your ear, and warmth blazed in your core, “I believe I told you to call me Anthony.”

“And I believe you should have to try harder than that.” You smiled into his kiss as you trailed your nails down his back, the thin fabric of his dress shirt doing little as you felt his involuntary shiver.

“You’ve no idea the effect you have on me,” he groaned, once again dipping his head as he peppered even more kisses down your neck, sliding down the sleeve of your dress to allow himself better access.

The night air on your newly freed skin did little for you, any coolness of the breeze instantly negated by the heat of Anthony against you. Your nails dug into his back as he moved down, each spot where his lips touched your skin erupting with fire.

You gasped out his name, barely able to handle it—the feeling was so foreign yet familiar, as if you had been waiting all your life for Anthony in this way.

You could hardly believe you nearly lost it of your own accord.

“It appears I do not have to try hard at all,” he said, “the way you cry out for me.”

You laughed breathlessly, though his words were indeed true. You knew, in this moment, that you would do anything for Anthony Bridgerton—and he would do anything for you. “How I fell for a man as irritating as you, I haven’t the slightest.”

You caught the slightest glimpse of his grin before he ducked his head yet again, and he had only just begun pushing both sleeves of your dress down when a woman’s voice could be heard behind you.

“Anthony— oh!”

The unfamiliar voice struck fear into your heart you had never felt the likes of before. Anthony moved away from you quicker than you’d ever seen, you just as hasty as you tugged the sleeves of your dress back to where they belonged and attempted to smooth out everything that Anthony had so easily sullied.

You’d never imagined this was how your reputation would be ruined, with Anthony Bridgerton in the gardens of some ball, but when you finally had the sense to look and see who had caught you in a most uncompromising position, you could hardly stifle your incredulous laugh.

“Sister?” Anthony questioned in disbelief, so many emotions warring on his face you had to turn away to cover up your growing grin.

“Anthony,” Daphne greeted in kind, fighting to conceal her smile as her eyes drifted to you. “Miss Worthing.”

“Your Grace!” Your shaky fingers were hardly of use to you as you pulled your gloves back up to where they belonged and once again ran your hands down the skirt of your dress to smooth out the wrinkles. Your cheeks burned under her gaze and you were innately aware of the fire underneath your skin brought about by Anthony’s touch in contrast to the cool night air. “What brings you here?”

“Mother was quite… nervous about tonight,” she explained. “She indulged in one too many glasses of champagne, so she is taking her leave with Benedict for aid. She requested I find you to alert you of her departure, but it seems she was not the one whose disappearance should have been questioned.”

“I’m sure you know this is quite compromising.” Thinly veiled amusement crossed Daphne’s face as she eyed you pointedly. “I am afraid you must marry him at once Miss Worthing, else I shall have to duel you to protect my brother’s honor.”

You laughed breathlessly as Anthony looked up at the sky, his face turning a deeper shade of red than you had ever seen. “Your Grace, are you suggesting that I have ruined him?”

“Indeed I am,” she confirmed, and you could see how it took every muscle of her being to retain a serious image. “This is not a light matter, miss. I do not understand why you are laughing.”

“Daphne,” Anthony groaned, avoiding her eyes as he occupied himself with his jacket. “Why do you insist on being a nuisance?”

“Anthony,” she inflected his name the same way he did hers, “I cannot have this woman sullying your name! I know it was of no will of your own, but this can not stand as is. But do not worry; I am prepared to defend your honor to my last breath.”

“My sincerest apologies for what I have done, Duchess Hastings,” you responded gravely. “I am prepared for pistols at dawn.”

Anthony huffed as he buttoned his waistcoat back up then went to retrieve his jacket from the bushes. “You exaggerate, the both of you. This cannot be what I was like last season.”

“You were worse, brother. But do not worry,” Daphne said with a grin, “I should think a taste of your own practices is only fair after all you put Simon and me through.”

Anthony sighed with a slight roll of his eyes. “I… suppose… that it is what I deserve.”

“Thank you, brother,” she said. “I only wish we had a witness just so your confession is forever remembered.”

“I wish Mother had not sent you to seek me out,” he responded dryly.

You and Daphne exchanged smiles with each other before your expression sobered slightly. “ I ask quite a bit of you with this, Your Grace, but… may I count on your discretion? I know we jest, but my reputation truly could not handle something like this. I do not know if…” you glanced at Anthony before looking back to her, “if we are yet ready to seal our union.”

“Of course,” Daphne nodded, and a relieved smile tugged at your lips. “I shall not tell a soul.”

“Thank you eternally, Your Grace,” you expressed, but at your short curtsy she shook her head.

“Please, call me Daphne.” She offered a smile of her own, slightly coy. “After what I have just witnessed, I’ve no doubt you will be joining our family soon enough.”

“Sister!” Anthony scolded, and when you glanced at him his entire face was dusted pink, even the tips of his ears. It was enough to make you swoon. “You cannot just say things whenever you see fit.”

Daphne merely shrugged, joyfully indifferent to her brother’s protests. “I outrank you now, dearest brother — I believe I can say whatever I see fit, particularly when it is the truth.”

“You are truly impossible,” Anthony muttered as he shook his head.

Daphne just smiled before she looked back at you. “I believe it best if the two of you leave at separate times, so as to not allow room for any rumors. Miss Worthing, you should go first and return to your mother; you can claim you simply needed fresh air. Anthony and I will stroll around the grounds for a bit before allowing ourselves to be seen — we are simply catching up after such a stretch spent at Clyvedon.”

You nodded, taking a deep breath as you smoothed your mussed hair and wrinkled dress for the last time. Anthony certainly did a number on you, in more ways than one. “Thank you again, Your—” you caught yourself, correcting your error with a small smile, “Daphne.

“You may count on me in the future whenever I am in London,” she reassured. “It is my hope anyway that I shall be able to welcome you to the family officially.”

“Daphne!” Anthony exclaimed yet again, glaring at her. “Might you take your leave so we may have a moment alone?”

“I believe you just had quite a few moments alone,” Daphne said, but a pointed look from her brother had her conceding with a smile. “Alright. I will be by the trees when you need me.”

Anthony turned to you with an odd look in his eyes when Daphne was out of hearing distance, and when he did eventually speak, his voice was far softer than usual.

“Do you truly believe I would not marry you?” he asked, and the underlying hurt in his voice did not go unnoticed. “Even if there were not the risk of a scandal, I would not hesitate. My entire heart lies with you.”

“It is not you, Anthony,” you sighed with a slight shake of your head. “I do not… I do not know if I am even capable of marriage.”

He frowned. “What do you mean?”

“I have spent my entire life running from it,” you said, chuckling softly, “and yet, here I am, the one thing I never thought I would be.”

“In love,” Anthony realized, and you nodded.

“It has always been easy enough to denounce marriage when I’d never experienced anything of the like. The union of my parents was for convenience rather than love, and for as long as I’ve been alive my mother has tried to drill it into my head that my feelings did not matter — so long as the man had the means to provide for me and was not completely awful, he was satisfactory.”

“A future like that— it was so completely absurd to me that denouncing it all was the easiest thing in the world. And then I nearly died and my entire world changed, and I decided that Cardew was the best option to allow myself to completely separate emotion from marriage, but now…” you looked at Anthony, feeling more vulnerable now than ever. “I have found a love in you I’ve never thought possible, and I cannot stop imagining a life with you. And that terrifies me more than anything.”

“But…” you trailed off again and you turned away from him as you wrapped your arms around yourself. “But I do not know how to approach my future, especially one where we are so closely intertwined.”

Silence hung in the air for a noticeable period before Anthony cleared his throat, and it was obvious the care he put into his words.

“You know I never imagined I would marry for love. Truly, I never intended it—I expected to be miserable in marriage. I saw it as nothing more than another duty to take care of. I believed that love was trivial, a ridiculous distraction. You are the one who made me see differently.”

You turned around with slightly wide eyes, your arms wrapped around your midsection doing little to ward off the cool night air that seemed far colder than it was before. Anthony’s gaze never left yours, the softness in his own at odds with the pure, unbridled passion.

“I love you. Though I have only just allowed myself to accept the fact, you are someone that I cannot imagine living the rest of my days without. There was…” his throat bobbed as his voice crackled slightly, “there was a moment when I feared the worst, that you would permanently disappear from my life. And ever since you were all but brought back from the dead, I have known that you are the only woman I wish to be with. It is why as soon as I left you, I asked my mother for this.”

Anthony took a box out of his pocket, and you gasped as he got down on one knee, your hands flying up to cover your mouth.

“This is the ring my father proposed to my mother with, and their love was beyond anything I have seen before. But it is the love that I feel for you, something so strong, so overwhelming— something I never thought I would experience. And yet here I am, madly in love with the one woman who scorned me with every word, and only pursued me because of my brand as a lesser evil.”

A laugh bubbled out of you, the sound slightly muffled through your gloves, and you could not help it as your eyes began to fill with tears.

“I admire you; all of you. The part that loves her family with every part of her being, that looks out for those with less than her when those more fortunate turn a blind eye. The part that fights for the rights of her sex when it is so much easier to just bow one’s head, that puts her happiness on a rightful pedestal— the part that is so terrified to share herself with others and yet deserves a love of the purest form.”

“And I am aware of how the unknown is a fear of yours, as it is one of mine. But I assure you—” Anthony’s voice was filled with such passion, his eyes with such love, that you could hardly stand it, “—I will be there for you every step of the way. We will face our fears as one, and we will shape the future ourselves, not to be bound by anyone or anything.”

“I do not know where my future will lead me, but I know I do not want to face a single second of it without you. If you do not feel the same, I understand, but I will not be able to live with myself if I do not at least try. It is why I ask you,” Anthony said your name with more love than ever before, “will you marry me?”

“Yes,” you sobbed, a smile breaking across your face even as tears of joy streamed down your cheeks. “Yes, yes, I will marry you!”

Anthony let out a sigh of relief as he grinned, and after he slid the ring on your finger he stood up and pulled you into a breathless kiss. Nothing picture perfect like you’d heard about as a young girl, the kind of effortless gentleman’s act— Anthony kissed you with pure passion, love, desire, and it nearly brought you to your knees. You thought it would have, were it not for Anthony’s strong arms wrapped around your waist, pressing you against him and supporting you.

You could hardly believe the same man who treated you as if you were glass after your injury was the one standing before you now, the one who handled you in such a way that could get the both of you exiled were anyone to see—the one that you thought hated you.

And you were more than willing to allow it to continue, to surrender yourself fully to your baser instincts, when you remembered something that made your eyes widen.

“Your sister,” you murmured between kisses until you finally managed to pull away, albeit reluctantly. “Daphne is still waiting.”

Anthony laughed breathlessly as he pulled you back in, and your earlier protest was shown to be completely nonsensical. “Let her wait.”

You grinned as he peppered kisses down your neck, enjoying the sensation until you pushed him away. “Anthony.”

He groaned. “Why must you be a better person than I?”

“Believe when I say it pains me,” you said. “But the last thing we need is yet another scandal by my hand.”

“Let them know,” he said, taking your hands in his. “Let all of London know that I love you, that we will be wed. I do not care what we have to face so long as we face it together.”

“The thought has never been so tempting,” you murmured. “But you should at least alert your sister. It would be improper to make her wait out here all night for nothing.”

His grip tightened on your hands. “So you do wish to leave together?”

“Anthony, I just accepted your proposal,” you said with a laugh. “I wish to spend the rest of our lives together.”

“I believe tonight is a good place to start, then,” he grinned.

Anthony would not let you leave his side, so you went to Daphne together. First she saw your smile, then her gaze drifted down to your hand—she looked knowingly at her brother, though she could not hide her smile either.

“It would appear as if I was right,” she mused. “I am always right when it comes to you though, Anthony, so it is not much of a surprise.”

“Do not mock me,” Anthony said. “I could have left you waiting by the bushes all night.”

“If you had not proposed to her after the conversation we had the other day, I would have questioned your sense,” Daphne said. “Trust me, I would not have been here long.”

Your eyebrows rose. “What conversation?”

“We do not need to start on this,” he said with a pointed look at his sister. “I have already bared my entire soul tonight. I do not need my sister embarrassing me further.”

“Oh, I would never,” Daphne drawled. “After all, there will be plenty of time for us to gossip together when I come to visit you all.”

“Won’t you be busy with your child?” Anthony asked.

She shrugged. “You may be busy with one as well by the time I see you again.”

You looked at Anthony only to find his gaze was already on you. There must have been some shred of doubt in your eyes, because he only took your hand in his.

“I meant what I said,” he murmured. “We will take things as slowly as you desire.”

You swallowed the sudden lump in your throat and nodded as you squeezed his hands—you knew what was expected of you as a wife, and you wanted it with Anthony, but you could not lie and say that his reassurances did not bring you relief.

“My best wishes to the new Viscountess Bridgerton,” Daphne said, her voice full of affection as she clasped her hands together. “It is an honor to have you join our family.”

“It is an honor to be accepted,” you said, bowing your head.

Daphne smiled. “I assume you want to reveal this on your own terms.”

You nodded. “I’ve dealt with enough attention from the ton lately.”

“I am afraid to say that will not go away,” she said wryly. “But I will cover for the two of you.”

You pressed a hand to your chest. “Thank you.”

“It is only proper to welcome my sister in such a way,” she said with a wink, and you could not help but smile. “Now run along, you two. Before rumors start.”

Anthony chuckled, and the two of them embraced before you started on your way.

“Viscountess Bridgerton,” Anthony murmured in your ear. “I love the sound of that.”

You hummed in agreement. “As do I.”

You laid your head on Anthony’s shoulder as you walked back with your hands intertwined—not to the ball, but to a carriage for the promise of time alone. You glanced over at Anthony and he smiled, and you pulled him to a stop as you pressed a kiss to his lips. He responded with hunger, the same vigor he displayed when you first stepped into the gardens together, and you could hardly believe he still had it left in him.

Far too many minutes passed as you kissed and kissed and kissed, not a single care in the world of someone catching you. What could they do? You’d already endured enough scandal to weather anything, and there was no way to punish you and Anthony — you were already engaged.

Your lips were sure to be bruised once you finally pulled away, Anthony gazing at you with complete adoration as he brushed a strand of hair behind your ear.

“I cannot believe you are to be my wife,” he murmured.

“I cannot believe you are to be my husband,” you breathed. “When will we reveal it?”

“Tomorrow,” he said, intertwining your hands with his own. “Tomorrow, we will tell everyone, and we will deal with everything that comes along with it. But tonight…”

“It is our secret.”

Anthony nodded. “Tonight, we start the rest of our lives together.”

“The rest of our lives together,” you murmured.

Truly, it sounded like a dream. Months ago you could not even consider the thought of marriage without an air of disgust—now, here with Anthony, you could not stop thinking about the fact that you were to be his wife.

The rest of your life with Anthony would be anything but simple.

And yet, somehow, you could not think of anything more perfect.

taglist, only bc this series has been going on since i still had a taglist lmao. @ifilwtmfc @readers-post @fangirling-galore @funkydinosaurs @baby-i-am-fireproof @mess-is-my-aesthetic @likeballet @mdkfh @brezzybfan @magical-spit @lafy-taffy @miss-celestial-being @mercurysrhapsody @evilsailorsenshi @mainstreambitchlife @aangsupremacy @chloepluto1306 @lostaudfound @panhoeofmanyfandoms @blhemmings @my-acrylic-heart @seninjakitey @vlodi @arianagrandes-things @preciousbabypeter @youraliendaddo @stupidlittlebei @illuminwtesz @eringaitskill @otheliesstuff @users09 @chloepluto1306 @lady-loki-barnes-djarin @m-rae23 @the-horror-and-the-wild-simp @diemdurantia @theyoungestchild0w0 @mschievousx @alwaysreading1019 @ibelieveindragons141 @pretzywetzy

#anthony bridgerton x reader #anthony bridgerton x you #anthony bridgerton fic #bridgerton x reader #bridgerton fic #anthony bridgerton fanfic #x reader #bridgerton imagine #sadie writes

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ireadyabooks · 1 year

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☕Spilling The Tea: Sayantani DasGupta On Sense and Sensibility & Rosewood

For all my fellow First Born Immigrant Daughters

“Look into your own heart because who looks outside, dreams, but who looks inside awakes.” — Austen

“Awake, dear heart, awake. Thou hast slept well; Awake.” — Shakespeare

“Oh, you and your rules.” — Kate Sharma, Bridgerton

Dear Reader,

For many years, my midsummers have been full of magic. There’s nothing more I enjoy than going to an outdoor Shakespeare performance, and being transported into an imaginative world far greater than my own — a world of kings and fairies, lovers and villains. It’s the same transformative feeling I get when I lose myself in the novels of my favorite author, Jane Austen.

I wanted to infuse this romp of a story with all the midsummer joy and giddy firefly romance I feel when I see outdoor theater. I wanted to cast it with the same inclusivity that color-conscious directors are using to transform Regency adaptations on the small screen. Unlike Debating Darcy, which is a fairly faithful reimagining of Pride and Prejudice, this novel is far more loosely based on Sense and Sensibility, with hearty doses of many Shakespearean plays — from The Taming of the Shrew to The Tempest to A Midsummer Night’s Dream — thrown liberally in.

I wrote this story because representation matters. Because no matter our ethnicity, sexuality, background or body, we all deserve to see ourselves as beautiful, magical and desirable. I never did as a little brown skinned immigrant daughter, but I vehemently want a different, self-loving happy ending for my own children, and all those younger people coming up after me. For this world to be a fair and just place, our stories must center us all as protagonists, heroes, and love interests.

I hope that this tale sweeps you into a world of dreams and fancies from which you will awake transformed. Because now, more than ever, books make things fictional so that they can be made real. Stories help us dream new worlds we would imagine into being. Let this new future we are creating together — in story and in practice — be more just, inclusive, loving and true.

Let us together dream such a world into being. Let us awaken from our dreams and fight for it.

For love is always, always enough. Radical love and joy can be revolutionary.

🖤

Sayantani

Click here to pre-order Rosewood, on sale 3/7.

#janeausten #romcom #yabooks #romancebooks #yaromance #readers #bookstagram

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anxious-allie-ren · 3 years

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Hey everyone! I’d like to introduce the new story I am writing! You can find it on both my AO3 and Wattpad. Both of which are linked in my bio. But I’ll also be posting the chapters here for you all. Be easy on me as I haven’t quite figured out how to post chapters on here and create a master list. That is something I will be working on. Alright, now in to the good stuff.

Erota

As the only daughter from a high society family, the pressure is on you to impress the ton and find a suitable match. You hope to find love, but your fate is decided for you. Your marriage is arranged to King Kylo of Chandrila. Pain and tough decisions are soon to follow.

This story is inspired by Bridgerton and regency era.

Hello everyone! I have been dreaming of writing this fic for a bit now and finally gathered the courage to do it! Like I said in the description, this story is heavily influenced by the regency era and the Netflix show Bridgerton. I've done my best to keep it accurate to both the era and the Star Wars world. I hope you enjoy!

The Ton.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The season has finally arrived. You have officially joined the ton and are coming out into society. The debutantes of higher society are to be presented in court. This now includes you and your family.

You were the only child of the Duke of Selonia. A small territory southeast of Drall within the kingdom of Corellia. It's a quaint little area, nothing to brag about. It was cozy and calm. Many of the families had lived in the area for generations. Neighbors all knew each other. But despite its comfort and kindness it was lacking funds.

Since you had been able to remember, life was very simple. You helped in the gardens, the kitchens, and even with the laundry work. Your family took trips to town often, visiting with the people. Your mother loved to stop at the bakery and buy pastries to bring back to the estate. She told you stories from her childhood as bedtime stories. Coming from a common family and marrying into high society. Your parents married for love and not statues. Many scolded your father for marrying "below his station" but he let their words roll off his shoulders. He was attracted to your mother for her beauty, kindness, and capabilities. Your mother was no stranger to hard work, and she assured you weren't as well.

As you matured, you watched as your home aged as well. Bricks began to weather with time and vegetation started to take over. Farmers had less success each year and businesses were closing. The help your father was once so quick to provide had now dwindled into nothing. There was no help to give. The funding was nearly gone. After your mother's death, the strong and reliable man you had once called your father was gone. What replaced him was a shell of a man. He gave up on his duties as a duke and instead threw his time and money into bad habits. Gambling and drinking had become his crutch.

You lost your mother in your adolescence. Still a young girl so in need of a mother and her guidance. Her death left you confused and in desperate need of comfort. You tried to lean on your father. But in his own grief, he seemed to forget about you. Instead, you turned to your community. The maids and butlers became your family. They ensured your schooling would continue. The men even went as far as to teach you math and science. When you entered your teens, you attempted to take on the dukedom in secret. You went over all the documents and finances, trying to find a way to help your people and restore your estate. It was to no avail. Nothing could be done without your fathers signature. So you were left with no choice but to let it go. You focused on your studies and lessons with the maids. They helped bring you to maturity. Now, it was time to join society as an eligible woman.

Marriage has been heavy on your mind for many years now. The idea of meeting a man and marrying just for statues or titles didn't interest you. Neither of those things mattered to you. A marriage had become something with such a negative connotation. But love, now that was very different. You yearned for a true love match. You craved a deep connection unlike any you'd ever experienced. As a child, you'd developed small crushes on some of the neighborhood children. The butterflies and blushed looks were something you understood. But you'd never felt love before. You loved your family of course. You even loved your townspeople. But that was so different from what you hoped to find.

Becoming a debutante was not something you were looking forward to. Joining the ladies of high society was only asking for drama. But as the daughter of a Duke, it was your duty to join the ton and find a suitable husband. This had become increasingly important as your territory lost more and more money to your father's lifestyle. These thoughts scrambled around your mind as you got ready. You would be heading to the first ball of the season, your entrance into society, in moments. You were dressed in your nicest items. A deep red ball gown embroidered with golden florals along the bottom of the skirt and corset. Your hair was pinned back, allowing your face to stand out. Your maid, Jillian, was helping you put on your shoes as you looked at yourself in the mirror. Jillian had been with your family before your mother passed. She had watched you grow from a pained child to a strong young woman. She was with you every step of the way. Jillian became a motherly figure and your most trusted confidant.

Jillian pats your calf as she begins to stand, finished with clasping your heels. Her touch pulls you from your thoughts. You give her a polite smile and thank her, turning back to the mirror. Your anxiety is growing with each tick of the clock and in typical Jillian fashion, she can sense your discomfort. She comes to stand behind you, adjusting the pins in your hair.

"You know you're prepared for this. There's no need to sit and worry."

You meet her gaze in the mirror, her gentle blue eyes giving you a wave of comfort. You let out a sigh and play with your fingers.

"I felt prepared, but now that it's upon me, I'm not so sure. So much is at stake here, Jillian. The people of Selonia are relying on me to find someone who can help. What if I'm not up to standards?"

Jillian only chuckles at your words and places her hands on either of your shoulders.

"Standards? Now you're just being silly. You are a kind, intelligent, and strong young lady. Any suitor would be lucky to have you as his wife."

You turn to look at her, face scrunched in concentration.

"That's exactly the issue! It can't just be any suitor. They need to be able to fix dukedom and be the love I've been waiting for. What if that's unrealistic? How can I ever find someone to do both?"

Jillian places a comforting hand on your cheek, her thumb slowly stroking your cheekbone. She gives you a small smile before she speaks.

"Is that what you're so worried about? Dear, you're placing too much stress on yourself. Don't worry about the dukedom or Selonia. Go and find your love, everything else will fall in place."

You lean into her hand and smile, her words bringing you peace and a newfound sense of confidence. She pulls her hand away and turns towards your bedroom door. She calls back to you, "Now let's get you going! It's time."

————————————————

The carriage stopped in front of the King's summer estate. Many of the guests were already walking up the grand entrance and making their way inside. Your father hurried around and opened the door for you, holding his hand out and helping you down. Tonight he was doing his best to look and act presentable. You place your hand in his bent arm and let him lead you into the ball. Neither of you had spoken more than a few words to each other in years. You were surprised he even accompanied you tonight. His presence only made you nervous again. You weren't sure what his intent was by coming. Was he finally stepping back into his positions as father and Duke? Or was there some ulterior motive?

You found out quickly as he leaned in to speak to you, just as you were arriving at the entrance of the ballroom.

"I am expecting you to perform well tonight. I want to see gentlemen callers of high status calling on you tomorrow."

You look up at him and furrow your brows in confusion. So this is what he came for? To ensure you schmoozed with the highest titles with the most money? If so, he's going to be very disappointed.

"I'm here to find a reasonable suitor for myself, father. Not a suitor for you and Selonia."

He stops walking at your words, his head turning to look down at you. You can see his clenched jaw and anger in his eyes. His distaste for your words is written all over his face.

"Stop with your foolish girly fantasy of a love match. You're here to do as I say, and I'll be damned if you disobey me."

His words sting your heart. Your father had never spoken to you this way. When you were young, he was always so gentle and loving towards you. Now it seems you're just another pawn to be thrown around his chessboard as he pleased. You swallow the lump in your throat and move your gaze back down. Now was not the time to worry about this. You had more pressing matters.

You allowed your father to lead you to the entrance, stopping to allow the announcer to get your names. You took a deep breath as you prepared to face the ton. First impressions were everything, and you did not want to screw this up. The announcer clears his throat and stands at attention. Everyone in the room stops what they're doing to await the next debutante.

"Presented by her father, the Duke of Selonia, Miss Y/F/N."

You stare forward as your father leads you into the ballroom and towards the King and Queen of Corellia. You both stopped before them, your father unlinking your arms and bowing. You fall into a curtsy, bowing your head in respect. Your father stands back up and looks to the king. You stay still, awaiting the command to move. The king of Corellia rises from his throne and moves to stand in front of you. Everyone holds their breath, watching closely to see what unfolds. He places a gentle finger under your chin, raising your head to meet his gaze.

"Stand up for me, dear. You can relax."

You do as he says and stand quickly, giving him a polite smile as you return his intense eye contact. His finger never leaves your chin. He smiles back at you and begins to speak again.

"You are a true beauty, my dear. You know, they say the eyes are a window to the soul. I can see the love and strength living within yours. Hold onto that, they will be your biggest asset."

Your eyes widen at his words. You can't help the smile that spreads across your face.

"Thank you, your majesty."

With that, he removes his finger from your chin and climbs back to his throne. He turns his attention back to the room and declares, "Let the festivities continue."

Your father grabs ahold of your arm again and leads you away from the thrones. You can feel the crowd staring at you, but you can't find it in you to care. King Luke of Corellia spoke to you! Not only that, but he complimented you. This was a great honor bestowed on very few. You would take his advice to heart.

It seems your father had a different perspective. He leads you to a table with dance cards placed neatly in rows. You begin to search for your name as he smirks and begins talking.

"Compliments from the king will help greatly in gaining potential suitors. You'll be the most desired lady in the ton. Seems finding you a husband of high title will be easier than I thought."

You finish tying the card to your wrist and turn to look at the room. Your father continues to talk as you observe your surroundings. You look up at the elegant chandelier. It shines beautifully in the light, casting sparkles all over the room. You watch as they dance across the guests, creating an angelic and light atmosphere. A waiter comes by and offers you and your father glasses of champagne. You take a small sip and return your attention to the crowd. Many of the ladies are giving you glares or speaking with the eligible men in attendance. You take notice of their attire. Many have much more elegant gowns and jewels on. Their appearance shows how much they have to offer. Your feelings of inadequacy begin to creep back in. You don't even notice a man approaching.

Your gaze stops on a young man across the room. His dark brown curls and bright smile grabbed your attention. He was speaking to another man, seeming to be in deep conversation. His face was so expressive as he spoke, hands moving about to help prove whatever point he was trying to make. You couldn't help but be captivated by him. If there was anyone you were hoping to get a moment with this evening, it was him.

You snap from your thoughts as your father greets him and motions towards you. This man must have been reaching his thirties. Much older than any of the debutantes here. His bright ginger hair stands out like a sore thumb. He makes eye contact with you as your father talks. An uneasy feeling sweeps over you. For some reason, something about this man doesn't sit right with you.

"Y/N, I'd like you to meet the Earl of Drall, Lord Armitage Hux" your father says as he motions towards the man. Lord Hux takes your hand and raises it to his lips, kissing your knuckles. The contact makes you cringe internally. Your father looks at you expectantly and you quickly pull yourself together.

"Hello Lord Hux, it is so nice to meet you."

Your father smiles at both of you and claps a hand on Lord Hux's shoulder.

"Lord Hux here is a good friend of mine. I was hoping to introduce you both tonight."

The uneasy feeling now makes sense. Any friend of your fathers is likely a crook. Not at all the type of man you want to be speaking to. You nod politely, biting your tongue from speaking your mind freely. The men then turn away from you and begin a discussion of their own, leaving you out. You lift your glass of champagne back to your lips and turn your gaze back to the direction of the man you had spotted before.

Instead of finding the curly haired man again, you met eyes with someone else. Standing with his hands clasped behind his back was a raven haired man. He stood tall and broad, much larger than any other man in the room. His gaze pierced through you, making the hairs on the back of your neck stand. You wanted to approach him, but to do so would make you look indecent.

Your eye contact is cut off by Lord Hux coming in front of you. He holds out his arm to you in invitation.

"Would you do me the honor of a dance, Lady Y/N?"

You wanted nothing more than to say no and go speak to the mystery man. Or even go find the curly haired man from before. But you know you had no choice in the matter. To deny him would make you look bad to the ton. Plus, your father would never stand for it. So you placed your hand in his arm and nod.

"Of course, Lord Hux."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I really hope you enjoyed this! Let me know what you think!

Love,

Allie

#star wars #kyloren #kylo #kylorenthings #fanfic #fanfiction #king Kylo #reader x character #readerxkyloren #reader x Kylo #reader x Kylo ren #poe dameron #armitage hux #Hux #Poe #historical #regency #regency era #bridgerton

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alj4890 · 3 years

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Prompt Request

(Thomas Hunt x OC*Amanda) with the prompt, "Well...that was mean." as requested by @krsnlove in celebration of 500 followers.

(Thomas Hunt x OC*Amanda) as taken from the Choices: Red Carpet Diaries/ Regency AU storyline, None But You

A/N For my BFF who loves Regency romance just as much as I do, I'm going back to the series she encouraged me on (pretty much like she does with all my crazy ideas) for this prompt. I adored how perfect Thomas Hunt seemed in this time period. His proud, abrupt ways were made for the early 1800s. For this one, we will go even further back to Thomas and Amanda's courtship that wasn't quite a courtship 😂

@graceful-popcorn @krsnlove @alleksa16 @hopelessromantic1352 @emceesynonymroll @buzz-bee-buzz @hopefulmoonobject @rainbowsinthestorm @lxaah11 @my-heart-beats-for-ya @everythingmarvelsherlockspn @friedherringclodthing @aworldoffandoms @ab1901 @sophxwithers

Masterlist

Inclinations

Lord and Lady Clifford's Ball, London...

"Oh!" Millie gripped Amanda's arm. With a jut of her chin, she hissed, "Can you believe the gall of Ms. Timmons? Look at her! That is the fifth time within the last few minutes that she has walked past Lord Summers and Lord Hunt."

Amanda covered her mouth with her fan when Millie compared the unfortunate young lady to a peacock strutting about to show off her plumage.

"If she adjusts her curl once more over her shoulder..." Millie glared at the spectacle. "I've never seen a lady more determined to catch a rich husband."

"Have you not?" Amanda managed to say without laughing. "Isn't that the point to coming to London for The Season? Aren't we all attempting to land ourselves a husband who assures us a life of comfort and security?"

"Hmph." Millie flicked open her own fan and began to use it vigorously. "Be that as it may, we at least attempt to attract gentlemen with decorum." A smile formed. "Of course, you don't have to worry about such a thing anymore."

"I do have to worry about it." Amanda argued. "No man has made me any promises or given any declarations."

"My dear friend," Millie linked her free arm with Amanda's, "some gentlemen make declarations without saying a single word." She gestured with her fan towards Thomas. "I've seen him attend more outings and balls since you first arrived than in the past two years that I have taken part in ton’s gatherings."

Amanda shook her head while her heart began to hope that her friend wasn't simply exaggerating the viscount's surprising appearance once more.

He had at past parties and balls admitted to her that he did not enjoy such and preferred the quiet life at Kirkwood Manor, his estate in Norfolk.

She wondered if he was attending these to see her.

Perhaps, then again, perhaps not.

He had not sought her out this evening for a dance nor for conversation. He had locked eyes with her from across the room and then bowed his head in greeting, but other than that he had not so much as glanced her way.

Which as much as Lady Amanda despised herself for her weakness for him, she had still peeked over at him whenever she could.

Could he possibly feel as I do?

She wished with all her heart that he felt the same for her.

"Pardon me, my lady, but may I request a dance?"

Amanda blinked and refocused on a gentleman she had only seen in passing. "Yes of course, my lord." She handed over her dance card.

*****************

"Do stop glaring, Kirkwood." Ryan insisted. "You'll scare all the ladies off if you're not careful."

Thomas merely shrugged while surreptitiously glancing over at the reason he had journeyed once more into yet another matchmaking mothers' den.

Lady Amanda Bridgerton was smiling and laughing at whatever Lady Millicent Rawlings was saying. Thomas felt his own lips curve upwards when she used her fan to try to hide her amusement.

Her happiness brought a warmth to his heart.

"There now." Ryan patted Thomas on the back. "That wasn't so hard was it?"

"What are you blabbering about now?" Thomas bit out.

"And it's gone." Ryan shook his head and heaved a deep sigh. "Why do you persist in staying away from her?"

"From whom?" Thomas nearly bit his tongue for tempting his friend into pointing out once again that he felt something more for the dark haired lady standing on the other side of the ballroom.

"Hunt." Ryan shook his head in resignation. "Why do you insist on tormenting yourself?"

"Tormenting?" Thomas chuckled as he took a sip of his drink. "I see you are finally seeing these balls in the same light as I do."

"That wasn't what I meant. I intended for you to leave my company for the one you prefer." Ryan grinned at the frustrated anger forming on his friend's face. He couldn't resist adding, "You cannot deny that Lady Amanda's is the one you desire above all others."

Thomas turned his attention once more toward the subject that he was having difficulty ignoring.

"Let's see now." Ryan continued. "I believe you have complimented her intelligence. I have overheard you mention how lovely her appearance is. Ah! And let's not forget that a moment with her has you smiling and even chuckling upon occasion."

"Absurd." Thomas huffed. "Once again, Summers, you turn a mere friendly admiration into some frivolous love story that young girls are want to dream about." He hmphed while studying Amanda. "I do worry about your mind at times. It is becoming even sillier than the ladies twittering about during their first season."

"Well...that was mean." Ryan's rich laughter drew attention to the two of them. "I believe I will find someone to soothe my damaged feelings with a dance."

Thomas rolled his eyes as Lord Summers finally took pity on the unfortunate Ms. Timmons and her efforts to try and gain such an offer from one of them.

Then he noticed their hosts' younger son, who just so happens to have a highly suspect reputation, approach Amanda.

Cursing under his breath, he began to make his way over to her side.

****************

"Shall we?" Lord Roderick Clifford held his hand out toward Amanda.

She smiled and began to take it, only for her hand to be captured in an all too familiar grip.

Her eyes widened at Thomas's nerve.

Millie simply beamed at his actions.

"This is my dance." He said, tucking her hand within the bend of his arm. "You'll have to forgive my tardiness, I was caught in an unfortunately long conversation with Summers."

Roderick merely cocked an eyebrow. "Your name was nowhere on her dance card."

"An oversight of my own, I assure you." Thomas brushed past him, pulling a bemused Amanda in his wake.

Once clear of being overheard, she squeezed his arm.

"I don't recall you requesting a dance from me this evening, Lord Hunt."

"Like I said earlier," he took her into his arms and began to waltz, "it was an oversight on my part."

She shook her head while fighting back a delighted smile. "I do not know what to think of you at times."

"Am I that difficult to figure out?" His frown softened. "I think I am a fairly average gentleman."

"Nothing about you is average, my lord." Her smile grew when she noticed the flush upon his cheeks. "You are an intelligent and interesting gentleman to be sure and yet you rarely converse with others here." She tilted her head as if pondering this great mystery. "Why is that?"

His lips parted then closed. His brow furrowed for a moment. "I suppose it is because I do not enjoy striking up conversations with people I do not know well."

"You struck up one with me when we first met." She reminded him. A soft laugh escaped her lips. "And every moment since then with you only proves that anyone would be fortunate to engage in discussions with you."

His lips curved once more as he held her gaze. "I think of the two of us, it is you that anyone would be fortunate to talk to. You have that rare gift of putting one at ease as he tries to speak."

She beamed at him. "That is a lovely compliment. Thank you for that, Lord Thomas."

He had to bite back the many other compliments that came to mind as he looked upon her. "It was merely the truth, nothing more."

"Just the same." She insisted. "Thank you."

He nodded and happened to glance up to see Ryan's smug smile nearby.

Glaring at the reminder that he had only proven his friend correct, he guided Amanda a few steps away from his nosy friend.

"I meant to ask you, is there something about Lord Clifford I should avoid?"

He focused once more upon the lady in his arms. "Yes, he er..."

Thomas wondered how to delicately say that the man was practically living at some of the brothels that some gentlemen amongst the ton preferred to visit. If not for his elder brother and father physically removing him from such a disreputable establishment, he doubted the man would be wooing ladies in a ballroom this evening.

The thought of Lady Amanda stuck with such a man for even a dance had not sat well with him. It was becoming hard enough to see morally respectable men waltz with her, much less one not fit to even touch her hand.

"His activities of late have caused a strain amongst his family and those close to him."

Her eyes narrowed somewhat as she tried to guess what the man had done.

"Is it," she lowered her voice to a whisper, "gambling?"

"No, though he is a prolific gambler." Thomas muttered.

"Is it--"

"It is not a topic for ladies' ears." He blurted out.

Her eyes widened. There was only one topic that young ladies without a husband were forbidden to discuss.

Her cheeks burned as she lowered her eyes. "I see."

Thomas relaxed somewhat once he saw she was not going to bring Lord Roderick up anymore.

"That's why you insisted on dancing with me." Amanda mumbled.

He blinked at the disappointment he heard in her voice.

Could she have actually wanted to dance with such a libertine?

Amanda sighed over the fact that Thomas was merely acting the gentleman once more. There was no true interest in his lying about this being his dance other than his chivalrous nature needing to protect an innocent lady.

She began to wish that he didn't see her as some damsel in distress in need of a knight to charge in and save her from unsavory men at every single turn.

She wished...it was foolish to wish for something that wasn't there nor would ever be. There was no jealousy or need to be by her side.

He simply was a true gentleman.

"I had planned on asking you to dance earlier." Thomas said, wondering at her despondent expression. "And in all honesty, I was looking forward to continuing our discussion on Persuasion."

She nodded. Of course. The book he insisted she read without spoiling the ending was his true interest.

She forced a smile. "Captain Wentworth, in my opinion, is a character who is determined to make himself miserable."

Thomas nearly missed a step as they made another turn about the ballroom. "What makes you think that?"

"His attempts to keep away from Ann, yet keeps finding himself drawn closer whenever he sees her or hears her voice." She raised her eyes back to his. "Why would he do such a thing, hurting them both in the process, when it is obvious she would welcome his affection?"

Thomas swallowed. "Perhaps...perhaps Captain Wentworth doubts that he could truly hold her heart. He needs to protect himself, even to the point of heartache knowing that Ann is the only one who could truly wound him."

"But he is missing out on a chance for true happiness." Amanda slowed her steps as the music began to die down.

Thomas kept her hand in his as he led her off the floor. "He is a fool." He turned back toward her. "It seems a man's inclination to be foolish when presented with the very object he yearns for most in the world. He at first doubts it's existence then fights against the very notion that it is all he truly needs. Then once the realization strikes, he is at a loss at taking the first step to secure his happiness."

Amanda took a step closer to him, inexplicably drawn by the emotion in his dark eyes. "Do you think that you would ever behave in such a manner when shown what your heart wants most?"

His grip on her hand tightened as he raised it to his lips. "I might be the most foolish of them all." He bowed his head to her. "Thank you for the dance, my lady. I hope that you will find it in your heart to save me another one when next we meet."

Thomas reluctantly released her hand and quickly left the ball.

#thomas hunt x oc #none but you #Thomas Hunt #rcd thomas hunt #thomas hunt x amanda #500 followers celebration #choices red carpet diaries #rcd regency au

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cait-blooms · 3 years

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Bridgerton TV Series Review

After binging all 8 episodes of Netflix’s series Bridgerton based on Julia Quinn’s novels, I find myself thoroughly entertained and hungry for more episodes. Already the show was renewed for a 2nd season, so you can guarantee I will watch upon release.

When I first saw the trailer for the show a few months ago, I was intrigued by the idea of such a ethnically diverse cast for a show that is based in the Regency era. However I was never really pulled into watching the show until recently, when I decided to take a gander in at least watching the first episode. Then by the next day, I had already binged the entire first season.

I won’t go over any plot turning moments in the show to prevent leaking any spoilers to anyone who reads this and hasn’t watched Bridgerton yet (Hint: You should definitely watch it!).

Overall I find that all the details put into the show very interesting the more I watched it, especially regarding the diversity of the cast. After some research I read on the Bridgerton TV show Wikipedia page that the creator of the show Chris Van Dusen made this move after being inspired by the historical debate over Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz's possible African ancestry. This creative decision made by Dusen though made me somewhat skeptical of watching the show at first, I now can say I am very and more so pleased with the show because of it’s diverse cast.

Usually the entertainment industry portrays period pieces to staying true to history, but the use of a diverse cast modernizes the show to reflect the present day and age. Where the color of one’s skin nor their ethnicity defaults a person’s position in society. It’s the hard work that person puts into it that establishes their position in society.

Because this show was set in the Regency era, often times I worried about how the creators/producers/writers balanced that ideal with such a diverse cast when in history, it wasn’t like that at all. It’s not explained immediately on the show about how such diversity on Bridgerton became acceptable in society until halfway through the season. Apparently at one point in “Bridgerton’s” history, there used to be such discrimination based on the color of someone’s skin until after the debate of Queen Charlotte’s ancestry. Which after finding that out, I felt more informed and assured on the setting of the show. That helped make the story of Bridgerton feel more grounded to me. Other than it’s diverse cast, the storyline and character development for all the characters in the show was amazing.

The show utilized very modern situations that makes me praise this show even more because that makes Bridgerton even more relatable for me to watch as a young woman. Though because the show is set during the Regency era, you can often see most of the female characters in the show are trying to make things work out in society while trying to stick to their beliefs more so. Aside from the female characters, we are also given scenes related to the main male characters that appear on the show. Although I wasn’t as interested in the character development of the main male characters on Bridgerton, I am very pleased with the development with all of them and I won’t say much to prevent from leaking spoilers.

Bridgerton is very interesting because a lot of the character development of each character ties in together with all of the other characters even if they don’t get much interaction with all the characters on the show. Mind you this is a show that is telling the story of the Bridgerton family siblings and how they fall in love with their own love interest. I’m guessing that’s going to be the same intention for the TV show but from my brief overview Quinn’s novels, it’s very likely that going forward with the show it’ll follow the other siblings love stories. But time will only tell if that stays true for the future episodes of Bridgerton.

Another topic of the show I want to point out is Julie Andrews. I love Julie Andrews, from watching her on Mary Poppins to watching her on the Princess Diaries. Her narration throughout the show almost gives me a Gossip Girl vibe, which I love Gossip Girl as well. Although there isn’t as much of a scandal burn like Gossip Girl when it comes to Andrews narration, I find her narration fitting for Bridgerton as her narration fits for the Regency era setting. So when Andrews narrates a scandal that has occurred on Bridgerton, her elegant voice makes the narration create a different kind of burn feeling - I guess we can call it - “Regency Style”. (Note: if there’s a different word for it, please correct me down below in the comments). I also have to praise the writers for the narration as Andrews narration plays a part in setting the tone for each episode.

What also has set the tone for Bridgerton is music. I don’t know how many viewers noticed, but I noticed that very often for the background music for most episodes (aside from the opera singing scenes), there are several classical renditions of modern day music. Some notable ones are Ariana Grande’s “thank you, next”, Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy”, and Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams”. I was very surprised to notice this and I got so hyped up each time I noticed a very familiar playing song with no vocals. But if you guys are able to recognize all the music alone, I praise your efficiency to figuring out all the modern day classically rendered songs.

Those are my thoughts so far about Bridgerton the Netflix TV show. Please comment and follow me on Tumblr as well as on all my other social media platforms that can be found here, if you’d like continue reading my reviews on other TV shows and movies that I’ve watched recently. If you have any suggestions of any TV shows or movies you’d like me to review, you can comment on this post. Chat with you guys soon!

#brigerton #bridgerton tv #netflix #diversity #feminismisequality #classical covers #regency era

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alj4890 · 5 years

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None But You

(Thomas x Amanda) set in a Regency Era time period as requested by @pixieferry

(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) a Choices Red Carpet Diaries Fan Ficition

A/N Well, here we are. Our hero is finally acting the way we want. Lord Thomas Hunt, the Viscount of Kirkwood has declared himself as Lady Amanda's suitor. One would think it would be smooth sailing from here, right? Then again, Lady Amanda is not necessarily the easiest to convince. I love it when that happens, don't you? Let's pick up directly at the end of the previous chapter and watch the sparks fly.

Summary: After his declaration, Lord Thomas and Lady Amanda begin their courtship. Is the lady though, pleased by such? And will the gentleman not only be honest but also able to win her heart?

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Masterlist

Chapter 7

"I beg your pardon," Amanda began. "Did you say you are going to be my suitor?"

"I did and I am." Thomas stated once more. "I am done fighting against my feelings."

Amanda checked to make certain the world was still right side up. Lord Thomas Hunt was now a suitor? Her suitor? Her elation at hearing what had been a secretly held dream began to lessen when she focused on his last sentence. Her brow furrowed as she looked up at him.

"You are done fighting your feelings?" She was unable to hide how much his words hurt her. "What is it about me that you must wrestle with yourself over?" She knew what she looked like, and goodness knows after being sick she certainly did not look attractive. Yet, she wasn't causing small children and animals to run in terror with her face and figure.

Thomas realized his error as he thought back to how the Duke and Lord Comery had spoken to her. "It was not you I fought, more my own ideas that marriage was not for me. Not for a long time at the very least. I had not expected to meet a lady that I would want for a wife."

"Well, I am sorry that your plans have been disrupted." She mumbled. "Perhaps your luck will change and you will see you had it right at the beginning."

Thomas narrowed his eyes at her. "I am not a man who changes easily, as you well know."

Amanda sighed. Now I've insulted his pride. "I did not mean it in that fashion. I know you are steadfast in nature, which makes you a desirable friend to have." She looked up into his eyes. "But if you were so set against marriage and me being who I am...then I would understand you deciding against making me your vicountess."

"What the devil do you mean by me being who I am?" He nearly yelled. Thomas caught himself in time and harshly whispered. "If you dare insult your appearance after I have more than said how desireable you are, then I will not be held accountable for what I do next." He stepped closer to her and made certain that it looked like he was causally leaning against the same tree she was. Being so close to her was affecting them both.

Amanda swallowed nervously and looked away. "It does not make it any less true. My coloring and figure do not match what is considered attractive by the ton. You know that even the Earl said--"

"Do not quote that buffoon to me!" He bit out. He grabbed her hand and pulled her with him, further into the grove.

"My lord! Slow down, I can barely keep up." She ran into him when he stopped behind some hedges. She couldn't see anyone and immediately became quite nervous. "Why did you bring me here?"

"I warned you." He reminded her in a dangerously low tone. "Yet, you persisted with that idiotic notion."

She opened her mouth then closed it. She wasn't certain if she wanted to argue or not over this. It was her appearance after all.

He nodded in approval. "I see you finally agree." Thomas pulled his gloves off and cupped her face. Her eyes grew large as she stood frozen in place. His fingers gently smoothed her cheeks and he ran his thumb slowly over her plump bottom lip.

Her breath hitched with the sensation combined with his heated gaze. "Thomas?" She didn't know what she was asking though something deep within her believed he was the only one who knew how to answer.

His attention lifted from her lips to her eyes. "Do you accept me as a suitor?"

Her eyes stared into his. "I...I think perhaps you should reconsider this--" Her lips parted and her eyelashes fluttered closed when he tenderly kissed her cheek.

A hint of a smile was on his lips as he stepped closer. He lowered his head to kiss her--

"Lord Hunt? Lady Amanda? Are you in there?"

Amanda's eyes flew open. Thomas dropped his hands and cleared his throat. "We are here Matthew."

The Conde poked his head through the brush and smiled at them. "Forgive my interruption but Lady Bridgerton is anxious to return home."

"Thank you, my lord." Amanda smiled at him. "I shall come directly."

He bowed and left them alone. Thomas took her hand and pressed a kiss to it before setting it on his arm.

"I am your suitor." Thomas stated firmly as they left the privacy of the hedges. "We will not continue to argue over it."

Amanda's lips firmed in a frown. Nothing prodded her temper quite like being told that there was going to be no more discussion on an important matter. It was her life that would be affected. He thought his kiss could be used to make her fall in with his plans. Well, he was certainly in for a rude awakening. And as much as she wished it was not so, his touch did cause her to lose all rational thought. She refused to succumb to him through such methods.

He led her back to the carriage and bid them both a good day. "With your permission, may I call tomorrow?"

Lucy ignored the slight shake of Amanda's head. She was determined to see her niece with Thomas. After the servants informed her how the Viscount had devotedly cared for the young lady while she was ill, she was ready to send the couple to Gretna Green this very evening. "We look forward to it, my lord."

______________

Lucy finished her lists of items to be purchased and chores to be completed before they were to leave for a week in the country for Lady Millie’s house party. She glanced over at her niece who was trying to not stare at the door while working on her embroidery

"Dearest, he will most likely arrive within the hour. No need to worry." Lucy didn't bother to hide her delighted smile. Of all the possible suitors, Lord Hunt was one she had most hoped for Amanda.

"Aunt Lucy?" Amanda struggled to keep her temper in check. Her aunt had waived off her desire to refuse Thomas's suit. It was time to find another avenue to convince her that she should not accept him. "Do you not find it strange that he has changed his mind so suddenly? Can his heart be that fickle?"

"My dear, most men have the notion that they possess all the time in the world when it comes to finding a wife. Many believe that one woman is as good as another. Though I hate to admit to such about our own sex, I do believe the ton has created a great number of the same type of lady. There are too many empty headed creatures that are lovely to look a, yet are unable to string two complete thoughts together. Their lack of substance causes an intelligent gentleman to wait until he is at death's door before marrying and producing a needed heir." Lucy shrugged when Amanda appeared surprised. "I'm afraid that is our fate in life."

Her niece set her sampler down and went to the window. "Yes, but why has he decided now to pursue me? He has had ample opportunity to realize his feelings."

Lucy joined her by the window and wrapped a comforting arm around her waist. "It is more than likely that he has felt a great deal of affection for you. I believe that he has a rather definite stubborn streak."

Amanda snorted softly. "Mulish come to mind."

Lucy bit back her smile at the pot calling the kettle black. "Be that as it may, a man of his temperament is quite shocked to find themselves falling for a slip of a girl."

Her niece continued to look at her skeptically. The countess placed her hands on her hips. "Your uncle was the same way."

Amanda's lips parted in surprise. "What? Uncle Nicholas? But, he told me about your courtship. He said--"

"Oh I know exactly what he said." Lucy interrupted. "The dances, stealing me away out in the moonlight, the flowers and poetry...rubbish."

"Aunt Lucy!"

"Now darling, I know this comes as a shock, but your uncle was very set on the plans he had made before he met me. He was going to travel and study the world. He wanted no responsibilities and thought himself above needing a wife and permanent home." Lucy grinned to herself as she thought of the grand speeches he would make about his future.

"Well, he clearly changed his mind." Amanda muttered.

"Yes he did." Lucy dabbed at her eyes when she remembered the night he confessed he loved her. "I do not wish to see you make my mistakes. I gave your uncle a difficult time in the beginning over my foolish vanity not being stroked right. I wanted him to have known he adored me from our first meeting. He swore he did, he simply refused to accept or admit it to himself."

Amanda thought that she knew that type of gentleman a little too well. Should she cut her nose off to spite her face? Or, should she see where his courtship took her? She softly sighed as she contemplated her future.

Hudson entered the drawing room. "My lady? Lord Hunt is here to see you.

"Do send him in. Lucy replied.

Amanda turned around and felt her heart stutter. Why must he be one of the handsomest men at court, she wondered.

He bowed to Lucy and kissed her hand. He then turned to Amanda. A hint of a smile appeared on his lips. “Ladies, I hope you are doing well this afternoon.”

“We are. Thank you.” Amanda muttered.

“Lady Bridgerton?” Thomas kept his eyes on the young lady as he spoke to her aunt. “Just so there is no confusion in the matter, I am asking your permission to court Lady Amanda. Do I have your approval?”

Lucy was ready to give her blessing and permission for them acquire a special license walk to the church at this very moment. “Yes, of course.”

He bowed his head in thanks. Amanda’s brow creasing in worry was not lost on him. He knew she was still fighting against his change of mind. If she would only accept that it wasn’t a change of his heart, then she would see how right he was for her.

Lucy asked Hudson to bring in a tea tray for the couple while she explained that she was taking tea in the study. “I must finish going over these lists before we leave for the Rawlings’s country home. Are you attending the house party?”

“I am.” He said with a slight smile. “I would be more than happy to escort you both in my carriage.” His eyes remained on Amanda. “I am offering for purely selfish reasons. I would very much like your company for the trip.”

Her lips parted in surprise at his words. He seemed so different now that he had declared himself as her suitor. Lucy beamed at him and said how they would very much like his escort. Plans were discussed between the two as Amanda quietly observed him.

Lucy gathered her notes and smiled at them as she swept out of the room. Thomas moved to a chair closer to where Amanda chose to sit. He reached over and took her hand, raising it to his lips. “Now do you accept me?”

She grimaced and focused on her hand in his. “It seems I am given little choice in the decision.”

His lips touched the inside of her wrist. Color flared over her cheeks at the tingling sensation. “Of course you have a say.” He decided to force her to admit to herself that she cared for him. Plus he wouldn’t mind hearing her feelings for himself. “Do you find me so loathsome as a suitor?”

Her eyes widened at the uncertainty in his voice. “I do not find you loathsome at all.”

He gently caressed the top of her hand he still held with his other. “Is it my looks? I know some ladies prefer men that have--”

“Don’t be ridiculous! Of course it is not your looks. You know very well that ladies prefer to look upon you than many of the other gentlemen of the ton.” Amanda pulled her hand from his. She pushed off the settee and walked over to the window.

He smiled at her back and stood. He silently walked up behind her. She jumped when his deep voice was right at her ear.

“What of my personality? I do not have the pleasant, easy temperament that some have like Lord Matthew and Sir Chris. Is that why you do not wish me to court you?”

She dropped her head forward for a moment, tempting him with her graceful neck. “Your temperament...I have preferred it even when we quarreled.”

His hands gently grasped her arms, pulling her back against his chest. His lips brushed her ear while he told her how he hoped she would find him agreeable. “Your opinion is the most important to me.” He softly whispered. She turned her head and looked up at him. Her heart began to pick up speed when he lowered his lips to hers.

Hudson came in, speaking a bit louder than usual. “Your tea, my lady.”

She moved quickly away from Thomas. “Thank you, Hudson.” Amanda resumed her seat and prepared his tea the way he preferred. A smile appeared on her lips when she realized he liked his the same way she did.

He sat down near her once more and relaxed somewhat as he turned the conversation toward other subjects. Thomas felt his impression of her improve with each topic they discussed.

By the time his visit was coming to an end, he had her laughing at a story of a well known tonnish gentleman and lady and their unfortunate dip in the Thames. He smiled proudly at having made her laugh so often during his visit. They both looked at the clock on the mantle when it chimed the early evening hour.

"As much as I loathe to do so, I must take my leave." Thomas stood up and took her hand. "I would force my company on you longer, but I have a dinner engagement with Lord Ryan and Sir Chris this evening."

"Oh." Amanda couldn't quite hide the disappointment in her voice. "Will you be attending Lord and Lady Willmington's ball afterwards?"

"Will you be there?" He asked.

She shook her head. "Even though he says I am improving each day, Sir Vincent wishes me to avoid balls and such until the ones that will happen at Lady Millie's house party."

"Then I will not attend any until then." Thomas declared. When her face revealed her confusion, he gently caressed her cheek. "The only reason I have attended such events was to be near you. Hold you in my arms. Talk to you." He took a step closer to her. "You are the very object that draws me to the gatherings that I have avoided over the years."

Her lips parted in surprise at him admitting to such. "I..." She licked her dry lips and lifted her eyes to his. "I do not know what to think of you when you say such things."

"I hope you think fondly of me." He admitted. "I do not say such to simply flatter you, even though it is a compliment. It is that I want you to know the truth about me. I have tried to distance myself from tonnish activities over the years, save for the very few that would insult those that I consider true friends if I did not at least make an appearnce."

Amanda's cheeks tinted a shade darker. "Then I thank you for the compliment." Her eyes lifted to his. "I hope you enjoy your evening with Lord Ryan and Sir Chris."

"Thank you." He pressed a kiss to her hand. He stared at her mouth for a heated moment. "May I come visit tomorrow?"

She looked into his dark eyes and nodded. "I would like that." Her lips trembled with suppressed laughter. "Though I fear that I will not have anything exciting to share."

Thomas smiled and moved another step closer. "Nonsense. Your mind fascinates me."

"I...thank you." She stuttered when his close prescence and unexpected compliments took her by surprise. "You need not flatter me so."

"I disagree." He pressed his lips against her wrist. "I have weeks to make up for my foolish decision to not court you sooner. I will not waste another moment when it concerns you."

"Thomas." She whisperwd when he lowered his head to hers. "I--"

"Oh good gracious! Catch him!"

Amanda and Thomas jerked apart when they heard Lady Lucy's outburst out in the hallway. They rushed to the doorway and peeked out. A goose went flapping by them, honking in anger.

Amanda took a step back and bumped into Thomas. He wrapped his arms around her to steady her. Mirth at the ridiculousness of it all caused her to laugh. Thomas shook his head in laughter when he heard Hudson and the footmen threaten bodily harm to the unfortunate fowl that had snuck in the house.

Thomas stared down at her joyful face lit in the soft candlelight and felt his heart fall for her even more. Before another interruption could occur he gently captured her lips in a tender kiss. She stilled in his arms. Right when his mind thought she might not like his kiss from her lack of response, her lips softened and she slipped her arms around his neck.

Amanda sighed softly when he ended the kiss. He pressed his lips to her forehead and closed his eyes. Having her in his arms and the feel of her lips still making his own tingle, it had been more than he hoped. How could he ever have thought of her being with Matthew or any other man for that matter?

He opened his eyes and looked down into hers. "I must leave." He whispered. Thomas didn't move away from her.

She smiled at him. "I look forward to your visit tomorrow."

He pressed another kiss to her lips.

"You can come out dears!" Lucy yelled. "The goose is back outside and I daresay he will be gracing our table before the week is out."

Thomas and Amanda laughed in the midst of their kiss. He took her hand again in his. He led her out into the hallway and said his goodbyes to her and Lucy. The latter was thrilled that he was planning on returning the next day.

"You must dine with us one evening you are free." Lucy replied. "With Amanda recovering, I know she would prefer to have a change in company."

Thomas bowed his head in thanks. "I shall allow you ladies to decide the date. After tonight's dinner, I will have free evenings until we depart for Lady Millie's."

He kissed Amanda's hand on his way out the door. He held his lips against her skin for an extra moment and focused on her lips. Thomas lifted his eyes to hers to see if she understood.

Her sudden blush was his answer. He smiled and wished her a good night.

#playchoices #choices rcd #choices thomas hunt #rcd regency au #thomas hunt rcd #thomas hunt x oc #thomas hunt x amanda

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alj4890 · 5 years

Text

None But You

Chapter 4

A/N Well, we are sadly nowhere near the end. I honestly am having too much fun with this. I am incredibly weak and have very little self control when it comes to regency romances. Shall we continue?

Summary: The gentlemen take the ladies to see Elgin's Marbles and on to Gunter's for some sweet treats. Another member of the ton causes a surprising reaction from Lord Thomas. What will the gossips think after seeing this?

Masterlist

@graceful-popcorn @krsnlove @alleksa16 @hopelessromantic1352 @pixieferry @emceesynonymroll @buzz-bee-buzz @hopefulmoonobject @cora-nova @rainbowsinthestorm @lxaah11 @dr-nancy-house

Chapter 4

Lord Thomas eyed the cloudy sky that was growing more ominous with each passing moment. It was surprising how the weather so perfectly matched his mood.

"Why did I allow Summers to convince me to do this?" He muttered, slapping his gloves against his own leg.

He knew deep down he could blame his friend only so far. He had for the first time in his life been moved to comfort a lady in tears. Seeing Lady Amanda so hurt by that pompous earl's words at Lady Westford's ball had caused something foreign within him to rise up and make him long to be the man to make her smile once more.

He had never minded either being the cause of a smile or not. The viscount had been suspected to have the occasional affair. There had even been rumors he had a mistress stashed away in a snug little town house somewhere in London. It was all a complete fabrication, yet if he had learned anything of his years with the ton, scandal was the most titillating tale of them all.

He was numb to the whispers about himself now. His frowns and selective company only fueled the fire of gossip about him being a veritable mystery of the ton. The only ones he cared for knew his true nature and the rather quiet life he led away from society's curious eye. It is for this very reason that he knew his sudden, surprising, appearance at events he normally avoided had gained the entire interest of all he knew.

When the carriage rocked to a stop, he stepped out and walked up to the town home that he had visited more times within the last week than any other lady's residence. Thomas had stopped by often in between the ball and this venture Lord Ryan, Lady Millie, and Sir Peter had planned. He told himself that the reasons for his visit were to see for himself that the lady he was considering as a friend had not taken to heart the insults that idiot had uttered. She was far too lovely to ever believe a man could look upon her figure and find fault.

He cleared his throat and mentally shook himself from allowing the image of her to take hold of his thoughts. He rang the bell and waited for Hudson allow him entrance. He was surprised to see Lady Amanda open it and step out, shutting the door behind her.

"Good morning, my lord." She said with a smile. "Isn't it a perfect day to spend deep within the recesses of The British Museum?"

His lips curved at her cheerful demeanor. "Yes, it is." He glanced at her door and offered his arm. "Where is Hudson?"

"It is his morning off. Aunt Lucy has gone to the shops along Bond Street with Lady Westford and I saw no reason to make you come inside for the very purpose of keeping you waiting like all the matrons stress." Her smile grew when he chuckled and turned his dark eyes on her.

"You seem especially cheeky this morning. Am I to expect this behavior the rest of the day?" He placed his other hand at her waist to help her into his carriage.

"I'm afraid Lord Hunt, that this is more how I truly am on a daily basis than what I show at the balls and dinners." She sat down and was grateful to no longer be tempted to lean against him. His arms around her had been something she had dreamed of the other night. He was much too handsome and she needed to become immune to his touch. And voice. And eyes. And mind. I am hopeless, she thought.

He sat down next to her and smiled. "Perhaps, though I suspect you still have a kind heart under all that wit."

Her kind heart was certainly picking up speed with being alone with him. "Are we stopping by for Lady Millie or Lord Ryan?"

"No. Summers insisted we meet at the museum." Thomas explained. "He hinted that Lady Millicient may be the kind of young lady who would not hesitate in being late, so we should begin our tour."

Amanda laughed. "I believe the marquis is very astute."

His smile made her catch her breath. "Now you understand my surprise in finding you not only ready to depart, but also choosing to not make me summon patience to wait on you."

Her smile softened. "I do hate waiting on people. I try to follow the golden rule, "dress quickly so that others will do so for you".

Thomas let out another laugh and gently squeezed her hand. "You, my lady, are going to spoil me for company. How can any of my companions compare against you?"

She laughed and patted his hand over hers. "Have no fear sir. If the unthinkable occurs and you are forced with only my companionship, I shall endeavor to continue to not keep you waiting nor force you into frivolous conversations."

Thomas could not take his eyes off her features animated in humor. His rare smile softened. "I do not believe I would ever see it as unthinkable nor as a forced companionship if you were all I had."

Her laughing smile stilled. "I...thank you."

He made himself look away from her face. "No need to thank me. It was merely the truth."

"Thank--" she bit down on her lip. How did one respond to such a comment? "I'm afraid I do not know what to say."

He shrugged and turned his attention to the passing homes, hoping she would drop the matter. As if she heard his silent wish, she began to question him about the museum. He found his humor returning when she asked for a basic layout of the building and exhibits.

"Lady Amanda, we will be there shortly. Are you incapable of finding it out as you go along?"

She lowered her eyes. "I believe after catching me reading the final chapters of books, it should be obvious that I do not care for surprises."

His eyebrow lifted. "I imagine the London season has been unsettling for you."

She slowly nodded, a pensive expression dimming her excited joy from earlier. "In more ways than one, sir."

The carriage came to a stop and she scrambled out before he could question her further. He followed and took her hand, placing it on his arm. Her hand gently squeezed his forearm in her excitment at finally being at the museum. "I can not begin to tell you how I have looked forward to this moment."

His lips curved once again. "You mean it wasn't the parties and balls that brought you to London? It was seeing antiquities?"

Her eyes twinkled. "You will keep my secret?"

He placed his hand over his heart. "On my honor as the Viscount of Kirkwood."

"Thank you." Her smile glowed when they stepped inside. "Oh Thomas! We are here!" She stepped through the first room and began exploring.

Thomas wondered if she was aware she had used his first name in her excitment. "My lady, do you not wish to wait on Summers and Lady Millie?"

She paused and looked longingly at the statues further down the room. "You are right. As much as it pains me, we should wait."

He waved over to a bench and they sat down together. Her eyes flickered from one thing to another. At one point she leaned against him in the attempt to see into the next room better. He looked down at her when she looked up at him. His eyes settled on her lips, so near to him. "Forgive me." She whispered and quickly sat upright with red cheeks.

He pulled his watch out and wondered where Lord Ryan and Lady Millie were. He did not wish to make frivolous small talk with the lady next to him. He glanced up and stilled. Viktor Montmarte, Duke of Strathearn, had entered. His dark, penetrating gaze passed over Thomas to only settle on Amanda.

The Viscount knew what the Duke saw and his frown darkened. He acted with little thought. "Amanda, come." He stood and grasped her hand, pulling her in his wake on into the museum.

Thomas was grateful that she was not a female to question everything. He would have a difficult time explaining to an innocent why she would need to remain far away from that diabolical deceiver. If even a quarter of what he had heard about the Duke's proclivities concerning innocents new to London were true, then the man deserved to be placed within the bowels of the Tower.

Amanda stumbled and bumped into him. "Forgive me." She said a bit breathlessly.

Thomas slowed his steps taking the hand he had gripped tightly and placed it within the crook of his arm. He nodded toward a statue "Let start here."

As much as she tried to focus on the detailed sculpture in front of her, her attention remained on the gentleman beside her. His sudden action and use of her name had been surprising. She waited patiently on an explanation, believing him not to be a man that acted without reason. Instead of receiving one from him, she was introduced to the Duke of Strathearn.

"Kirkwood!" Viktor drawled. "I was hoping to see you before the next meeting of the House of Lords. But forgive my manners. Who is this charming creature you have the sheer luck of escorting?"

Thomas frowned and made the introductions. Amanda dipped into a proper curtsy. "Your grace."

Viktor kissed her hand, a smile forming. "Lady Bridgerton...I should have recognized you immediately. Your father and uncle served on many committees with me."

Amanda listened to him while keeping an eye on Thomas. He seemed barely able to hide his utter hatred of the Duke.

"How are you enjoying the Season and it's diversions?" He asked.

"I am very much, thank you. Lord Hunt has been kind to escort me to a few of what London has to offer." Amanda said, smiling at Thomas.

He ignored her and kept his eyes on Viktor. The Duke's eyes briefly flared with jealous temper. He wasn't used to a lady of the ton not giving him her complete attention.

"And do you enjoy art, Lady Bridgerton?" The Duke took a step near her other side and walked with them.

"Very much, your grace. I think there would be few who could not enjoy such beauty."

He chuckled. "As one overflowing with the attribute, I will take your word for it."

Lord Ryan entered with a quarrelsome Lady Millie and an inspired by more than the normal number of muses Sir Peter. Millie's mouth shut when she saw who was talking to her friend.

"Lord Ryan, we must intervene." She whispered. The marquis nodded, placed her hand on his arm, and hurried over to their friends.

"Your grace!" Ryan exclaimed in a rare serious tone. "You are just the man I needed to meet with. Forgive me Lady Amanda, but I must speak of Parliamentary matters." He grasped the Duke's arm and talked of an import tax one of the Lords planned on proposing as the others walked away.

Lady Millie took Sir Peter's arm and followed behind the angry Viscount and the confused lady on his arm. As they stopped to admire what was believed to be a sulpture of Dionysus, Amanda squeezed Thomas's arm. "My lord, what is--"

"Lady Bridgerton? I am afraid I must leave your enjoyable presence. Lord Summers was kind to remind me of a matter that must be dealt with at once." He glanced at the sculpture of the nude man and his lips curved slyly. "Perhaps I can get your artistic opinion at the ball I will be hosting in a week's time." He took her hand and placed his lips on her knuckles. "If you enjoy this type of art, I have some etchings I have collected during my travels that I would love to share with you."

"I look forward to--" Her words were cut off by Thomas yanking her out the room. He muttered something to Ryan as he pulled her outside. Millie had her hand over her mouth with eyes wide at the spectacle they were making in front of some notorious gossips.

Thomas nearly ripped the carriage door off its hinges before lifting her into the conveyance. He barked orders to his coachman and climbed in after her. Once they were on their way, he discovered that Lady Amanda's patience had a breaking point.

"Lord Hunt! Have you taken leave of your senses?! What the devil do you think you are doing, pulling me around like an errant child with little to no explanation?" Her hazel eyes narrowed when his frown darkened even more. "Answer me!"

His temper snapped at her demand. "I have NOT taken leave of my senses as you so elegantly phrased it. I was protecting you from that vile libertine!"

"Vile libertine? The Duke did nothing but try and be pleasant. He--"

"He is a lecherous old man that you will stay away from!" Thomas yelled. "I refuse to have you in his company."

"You refuse? You refuse! How dare you! Who has given you the right to refuse me anything?!" She screeched.

"The moment you began to agree to seeing his etchings, I knew I had the right as a gentleman to stop you." Thomas shouted.

"Etchings? You believe etchings give you the right?" Her eyes snapped. "You're mad!"

"I have complete use of all my mental faculties." He gripped the seat to keep from reaching across the carriage and shaking cautious sense into her.

"Clearly." She mocked. "How etchings could cause such anger is beyond me."

Thomas opened his mouth and paused.

"Please." Amanda said bitterly with a flourish of her hand. "You already embarrassed me horribly at the museum. Denied me a chance to see and explore each room. No need to be shy on my account now."

Thomas tried to restrain his temper. "You, Lady Amanda, have no idea what you nearly agreed to. Do you truly believe that just because a man holds a title that he behaves as a gentleman? I can point to many who use that title as a belief that they possess the right to prey on whomever they wish and leave nothing but desolation in their wake."

Amanda's brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"

"The duke is not to be trusted. Not with you." Thomas answered, his voice had reduced in volume yet there was no denying how furious he still was.

Her head tilted in question, one that he did not wish to elaborate. Yet she continued to poke and prod with her question until the words burst out. "Amanda! When a man of his disposition offers to show you his etchings it is actually renderings of men and women in the midst of amorous congress!"

Her cheeks flared with color. "What?" She averted her eyes and bit down on her lip. Tears burned her eyes. What is it about me that gentleman think they can say anything to me, she wondered, tears forming from embarrassment. "You must think I am such a ninny."

His anger softened when he noticed how upset she was becoming. He moved across the carriage to sit next to her and offered his handkerchief when she sniffed. She took it and pressed it to her nose before a sob broke.

"I think nothing of the sort." He said gently taking her hand.

"Yes, you do! You think I am some foolish creature that can not make her way through the ton without a...protective...knight having to step in every few moments."

Thomas took the handkerchief and wiped her tears that were falling steadily. "You must know that those thoughts never crossed my mind." He frowned at her stubborn scoffing at his words. "I knew when we first met that you were highly intelligent. Even with your keen wit, I would not expect any innocent lady to understand the duke's intentions."

She closed her eyes and lowered her head into her hands. "I will be forced to see him again at events."

Thomas placed his hand on her shoulder. "Yes, but I will escort you."

Amanda shook her head. "You can not do that. People will assume we have formed an attachment if you escort me everywhere."

"Very well, I will simply meet you at some events and escort you to others. I will call upon Lord Ryan and Sir Christopher's assistance. They would be more than happy to escort you and Lady Bridgerton during the ones that you decide I should not." He stated in a tone that she knew meant it was no longer up for debate.

"I can not ask that of you." She said softly.

The back of his fingers brushed her cheek before taking her hand. "I will always be at the ready to assist you in whatever capacity you need of me."

The carriage stopped and he tilted her face to wipe away the remaining evidence of her tears. "I promise to make up for ruining your visit to the museum."

"There is no need. I understand and appreciate what you did." She said a bit breathlessly at his hand remaining on her cheek.

His dark eyes met hers and he seemed to be drawing closer. A thump on the door snapped him out of whatever trance he had been under. Sir Peter apologized for startling them as he helped Lady Millie down. Lord Ryan followed glaring at the man's clumsiness.

Thomas forced a pleasant expression and squeezed her hand. "I believe after a morning like this we are in need of ices." He opened the door and helped Amanda descend the carriage steps. They joined the trio inside of Gunter's. Each ordered a different flavor, while Ryan and Millie kept the conversation light. No one brought up what occurred at the museum much to Thomas and Amanda's relief.

"I think we should go riding in Hyde Park in the morning. You haven't had a chance to do so yet." Millie insisted when talk turned to Lord Filmore's latest horse.

Amanda nodded. "I did bring Chestnut along for the purpose of riding along Rotten Row."

Ryan grinned as more plans formed in his mind. "Hunt and I usually ride in the mornings with Winters. We would be more than happy to escort you both." He glanced at Sir Peter and reluctantly asked. "Care to join us?"

The poetic gentleman shook his head. "I find the morning comes too soon after an evening filled with composition."

"Quite so." Ryan replied in relief. He didn't think he could take another round of poetry in the early morning hours. "Well, my ladies? We shall call upon you around eight on the morrow." He promised before Thomas could form an argument.

The group parted and Thomas remained quiet for most of the ride back to Amanda's residence. The lady herself was also deep in thought over what the day had wrought. She could not help but wish to know what he was thinking or thought about her. He seemed to believe she was attractive and he claimed to think she was intelligent. Was it enough though to gain his attentions? His heart?

He helped her down and walked her to her door. With a bow and brief brush of lips to her hand, he took his leave with barely a word about the next morning's ride. Amanda felt a spurt of disappointment watching him walk away and allowed Hudson to shut the door once the viscount climbed into his carriage.

Thomas thought of what today had revealed and wondered if it was wise to continue to be around the lady as often as he had been. His unexpected loss of temper over her had shocked him. He knew his actions and demands were of one who had a claim on Lady Amanda's affections, yet the thought of her becoming ensnared in whatever web the Duke had planned for her was not to be borne. When it came to her, he would be unable to sit idly by and see her with the wrong sort of man.

He would need to find a decent one for her. That would be the only way he could be rid of this position of protector he found himself in. He knew a few gentlemen that were good men in need of a wife. He ignored the roar of denial within him at the thought of seeing her married to another and began to plan.

#choices red carpet diaries #rcd regency au #choices thomas hunt #thomas hunt rcd #thomas hunt x oc #thomas hunt x amanda

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