ethereal;

teddy laid a hand on his heart, eyes wide with mock horror. “snoring? me?” a loud giggle slipped through his lips before he tried to compose himself again — feigning being truly offended by the accusations, though his eyes were bright with humor. “my darling, i wasn’t sleeping, i was simply in a trance…visualizing our future. you mistook my devotion to wedding planning for slumber.” and with a boyish grin, he reached for georgiana’s hand and pulled it gently to his lips. guilt crept in — how could he fall asleep during such an important moment for him and georgiana? he’d have to find a way to get sleep during the nighttime to prevent this from happening again.

he sat, coming completely undone as her eyes raked over him — as if deciding what to do with her prey. teddy’s eyes were alight with excitement and awe and he knew that georgiana was well aware that he would gladly let her sink her sweet teeth into him if she so desired. he couldn't begin to explain the spell she had him under. as she leaned close to him, his entire body ached for her and he watched her with wanting eyes. a hand ghosted her waist as she kissed him and he kissed her back, just as richly, savoring every moment — memorizing the imprint of her lips — the lips that were the path home that he’d follow the rest of his days. his teeth gently nipped at georgiana’s lower lip as he quieted a groan that was threatening to slip out of his mouth. her kiss set his heart ablaze and he wanted so desperately to wrap her in his arms and kiss her until they were both struggling for air — but he’d have to wait until they were married. “oh, georgiana,” he chuckled breathlessly as she pulled away, need in his eyes, “you torture me in the most beautiful of ways.” shifting beneath her, teddy had to adjust himself — the passion in a single kiss from georgiana sent him so close to the edge. he nudged her knee with his own and added with mock solemnity, “i promise not to doze off again — i’d hate to lose my vote on the cake.” a teasing, dimpled grin pulled on his lips and he lowered his voice, “though, i suppose the choice in flavor will be delicious no matter what if you’ll allow me to taste it off your fingers once we’re alone.”

teddy stretched, eyes tracing the curve of georgiana’s figure with utter affection. the kiss still tingled at the corners of his mouth, as if her presence had branded him — entirely hers. she had the ability to fluster him and steady him in the same breath and gods was he addicted to her. every moment with georgiana was taken straight from a fairytale — how was he going to survive marriage if courtship already felt like such bliss? “yes, mrs. alwyn,” he hummed, scooting over so she could nestle herself beside him. with a satisfied sigh, he pretended to be at ease while his heart thumped like a schoolboy’s. his eyes scanned the parchment as a coy smirk pulled on his lips, “we must get to work. but if you kiss me again, i cannot be held accountable for what I forget.” when she mentioned his parents, his heart swelled with pride — oh, how they were going to adore georgiana. sure, they’d likely try to talk her out of marrying teddy, perhaps even try to set her up with his youngest brother, christopher, who was nearly perfect in every way. his chest grew tight with worry — what if georgiana met the rest of the alwyn family and realized what a disappointment teddy was? but, the anxiety didn’t stand a chance against georgiana’s eyes — and the way she was smiling at him. and her confession — she was nervous, too. “oh, my love,” he whispered, placing his hand on top of hers as he locked eyes with her, “my parents will think you’re an angel sent from the heavens. which, i’m not entirely convinced you’re not. they will love you,” teddy gave her a warm smile, leaning over to ghost his lips against her cheek, “and i love you.” as she leaned her head back, teddy followed suit and looked over at his fiancee with a grin — boyish, dazzled, entirely hers. “i can’t wait to see your dress,” he mused as he basked in the pure ecstasy of the moment. his brows raised playfully, “and there’s no chance i’ll get to see it before you walk down the aisle?”

Had it been left only to her — if the world could, for once, conspire in favour of impatient hearts — she would have chosen something far simpler. Just the two of them, as they had always seemed destined to be, from that very first glance. Georgiana could only truly care about becoming Teddy’s wife. She would have eloped and said her vows the quietest chapel in Scotland, with only him to hear them. She would have married him in a field, under the rain, with her hair undone and her shoes in her hand, if it meant being his forever. But then — how could she not wish to give him the very best this world had to offer? When she looked into his eyes and saw all that goodness, all that courage and love, how could she not want to wrap a ribbon around the most beautiful day and place it on his hands? A magical day, one to stand together before those they loved most and turn it into a memory that would live in their hearts long after. Georgiana had made it her mission to give him precisely that. And when the time came, she could only hope to be the partner he deserved.

There was a flush to her cheeks, not only from the kiss, but from the unexpected boldness of his words. Her mind wandered, even when she tried her best to remain composed. But he made it so impossibly difficult. With just a glance, he made her melt. Georgiana could still feel the goosebumps on her skin as she nestled close beside Teddy, the curve of her smile not faltering for a second. “And tell me — how am I not to kiss you again, sir? When you look at me in such a way… and speak so wickedly over our wedding cake.” She huffed, her gaze shifting to her list before mumbling under her breath. “Though I must say, your plan does sound tempting.” The moments they had stolen for themselves had already been pure, sweet bliss. How would it feel to finally step into intimate solitude — their own little world?

Their lives would be joined, futures intertwined. Teddy’s family would soon become her own. And though Georgiana had always been at ease in society — charming, confident, often the first to speak — she found herself entirely nervous at the thought of meeting the Alwyns. She felt younger, smaller. As if all her usual grace had vanished, the practised poise expected from the daughter of a respectable earl gone, to leave only a suddenly shy girl with an urge to be liked. So when he whispered words of reassurance and rested his hand upon hers, Georgiana breathed a sigh she had not realised she was holding. She still found herself in awe of how easily he could steady her. “I hope they do. I hope they will not think you have chosen poorly.” The confession came barely above a whisper, her eyes returning to his after his lips brushed over her cheek. “And I love you. I want you to be proud when you introduce me to your family. Just as I am proud each and every time you are announced into the room.”

But her thoughts shifted the moment her wedding gown was mentioned. A dreamy grin bloomed, her shoulders lifting with visible excitement. “Absolutely not, darling. It would ruin the surprise!” Georgiana laughed softly, tilting her head to the side as she shifted slightly on the sofa to face him more fully. “But I can say I thought of you when I chose every bit of it.” Her tone was fond, dipping into something hushed and secretive, just for him. “The fabric— oh, Teddy. It is unlike anything I have ever worn. The silk is soft and catches the light beautifully. It wraps around me here…” Her hand floated to her side, fingers brushing just beneath the line of her bust, trailing down where the high waist would sit. The motion was gentle but intentional, her fingertips moving as if to paint the picture for him. A taste of the future. A door to imagination. “It falls from here, and moves so sweetly when I turn.” The last fitting had been but days before, and she remembered twirling about in it — how her heart skipped a beat at the sight she caught in the mirror. “And two ribbons, they tie just at the back. I imagined your fingers there. I suppose that is why I could not resist them when my modiste suggested the sketch.” With a soft hum, Georgiana moved closer, just enough to press a kiss to the corner of her fiancé’s lips. She stayed there, her nose brushing his, whispering close to his skin as anticipation and wonder filled her thoughts. “It is a delicate thing, nothing grand. But so special. I daresay you will love it.”

And when Georgiana pulled back, it was with hesitation, a touch of vulnerability in the way she pressed her lips together, searching for words. “And Teddy…” She began, her eyes locked with his. “Forgive me if I have tired you. I know I have been rather intense these past weeks. With all the planning. I only wanted everything to be perfect.”

theodosia stood quietly off to the side of the ship, her hands resting gently on the railing as she stared down at the water below. the waves lapped rhythmically against the hull, dark and mysterious, whispering secrets only the sea would ever know. the wind tugged softly at the edges of her dress, but she barely noticed. her thoughts were far from the breeze or the creaking boards beneath her feet. they were somewhere deeper—beneath the waves, perhaps. she didn’t mind engagements, not really. it was the performance of it all that wearied her. the careful choreography, the practiced smiles, the way every word was weighed and measured. she couldn’t help but wonder if she was simply not made for such things. maybe she was never meant for knotted fates and gilded compasses inscribed with declarations of love. maybe simplicity had always been meant for her. a quiet cottage. a sun-warmed garden. a life unburdened by expectation or spectacle. she was already twice married now. twice bound by promises that hadn’t she didn't understand. she leaned forward a little, letting her gaze sink into the frothy waves. the sea looked almost inviting in a way that frightened her. not for its danger, but for its promise of escape. the sound of footsteps behind her broke the stillness. she didn’t turn right away. instead, she spoke softly, her voice barely louder than the wind. “pardon… i was only looking at the waves,” she said, her tone calm but distant. “i’ve heard stories of mermaids since i was a girl. tales of them waiting just beneath the surface, curious, watchful. i wondered if i might spot one today.” she finally turned her head, offering a small smile, more wistful than amused. “i think it would be easier to believe in mermaids than in love sometimes.”

Georgiana moved with measured steps, not too loud — as if she were afraid to disturb the solemn moment — but just enough to announce herself without startling. She mirrored her sister’s pose, arms resting against the railing beside her and chin tilted toward the horizon, letting the salty breeze lift the loosened locks of blonde hair that had fallen from her hairdo, along with the ribbons of her gown. “Love found me before the mermaids ever did.” She said at last, her voice softened by that constant urge to soothe, to lighten the mood. “Can you imagine? I half expect a wave to rise up and correct me. Send Neptune himself to ask what business I had believing in love before his daughters.” A nudge to the other’s shoulder, and a bright smile offered before she could even finish her sentence. And it was true, after all. She had believed in love before any other tale. “Though I must confess, I am quite partial to fairies. Oh, those I trust. Mischief and shimmer, misplacing objects when no one is watching. Mermaids are too serious, I think. But more poetic, too.” Musings that went on and on, though unsolicited, but there was fondness tugging at her heart. To stand beside Theodosia and ramble on. It had been long since she’d first married, and Georgiana missed her terribly in the simplest of routine moments.

There was silence and then, with a tilt of her head and an arched brow that complemented the smirk curving her lips, she asked: “If the sea did answer you — if one of your mermaids surfaced and said go on, ask — what would you want to know most?”

as amos stood at the edge of the ship, he gripped on to the railing tightly. he wasn't sure if his head was spinning or if it was simply the feeling of the boat rocking. going to the dances and the countless balls of the season was one thing but this? it felt like a step too far. amos had told his step-mother that he didn't want to go. he hadn't told her exactly why, though. it wasn't because he was being petulant about it - though he often acted that way towards aset - no, it was because he couldn't escape. there were too many rowdy people at every turn. even the spot at the very end of the ship wasn't enough for him.

and as he felt the tap on his back, amos felt his whole body tense, his vision went fuzzy. he gripped the railing even tighter, "you better have me a drink." he spoke. it took everything in him to keep his tone steady, "otherwise, what the hell do you want?" he didn't like feeling like this. so uncomfortable, so exposed. but he had searched every inch of the damn ship and there was nowhere for him to hide until they were back home again.

His reaction made her gasp in exaggerated offence, followed by a light swat to his shoulder. Not enough to hurt, never that — just firm and playful enough to echo the countless times she’d done so over the years, especially when he mocked her dramatic ways. “Must you be so rude?” She scolded, slipping beside him and raising a brow. Her eyes softened though, as she caught a better view of his profile. He didn’t look merely annoyed. He looked tense. Like he hadn’t breathed properly in some time, or had forgotten how. “Mo.” Georgiana said gently, tilting her head just slightly in an attempt to catch his gaze. The teasing made room for concern. “What is it?”

"Was it romantic?"

Georgiana has hardly had a moment to sift through the pleasantries that were excepted of you when someone came over to visit, before Thea springs the question on her. The it in question, of course, is the news of the hour. The proposal. The engagement.

Truthfully, Thea has a hard time imagining Teddy on one knee. Has a hard time imagining him doing anything even remotely adult. In her mind's eye, he's as he always were, trousers caked in mud and stained with grass, twigs sticking out of his hair.

"Did he behave? If he did not, you must tell me so I can beat him up."

She set the teapot down with a gentle clink and glanced up, amusement sparking in her eyes. “No need for beatings this time, I assure you. He has been nothing short of wonderful.” After a sip, her smile lingered. “Though I suspect, by your tone, he hasn’t always been so well-behaved.” Leaning forward just slightly, her head tilted in curiosity, her voice touched with fondness. “Do tell — was he much of a handful, growing up? He said you two were always getting into something. Adventure, trouble…” A thoughtful pause, her gaze softening. “It must be such a joy, to share that kind of bond. Having a twin, I mean.”

rain had always driven teddy to drowsiness and coupled with the lack of sleep he’d gotten recently, it was a recipe for disaster. his eyelids grew heavy as he sat at the table with his fiancée and her mother, making wedding plans. but, he was determined to stay awake and be involved in the preparations. why couldn’t the sleepiness had washed over him the night before? and not while he was wedding planning with his beautiful bride to be? but, as soon as the two were left alone — he’d have to thank josephine later — he stretched, grabbed a few cookies, and gained a second wind, now wide awake. teddy gazed upon georgiana with adoration, his face resting in the palm of his hand, smiling as her brow furrowed in thought, lips pursed in concentration as she shaped the sacred moment that they’d become husband and wife. and teddy — quiet for once in his life — watched with breathless wonder as she planned with hope, with care, with a joy that bloomed from her like spring flowers.

as she moved to the floor, teddy took a seat on the couch behind her, gently running his fingers through her blonde locks until the pattering rain got the better of him — soon, he was laying, in a rather ungentlemanly manner, on the couch catching up on the sleep he’d missed the last few nights. it was as if being in georgiana’s presence calmed him — he didn’t have to worry about her slipping through his fingers for she was next to him. in his dreams he could hear her voice — a symphony that awoke passion in his chest.

soon, he was stirred from his slumber, trying his hardest to keep his eyes shut and to hold back the giggles that were threatening to slip through his mouth. she was adorable — and he loved jesting with her, encouraging a more dramatic performance from his soon-to-be wife. a gentle poke to his side nearly caused him to erupt in laughter. with his eyelids pressed firmly closed and all his focus on keeping them that way, he could no longer control his lips and they betrayed him — how dare they? — cracking a smile he knew she’d see. and as her lips brushed his cheek, his smile grew, the feeling of her kiss was as soft as a rose petal yet igniting a fire within his body and he craved more. as she pulled away, he quickly opened his eyes and leaned up, chasing her lips and brushing his own against hers — chaste so they didn’t get caught. “an olive branch?” he whispered, a coy grin before he fell backwards against the couch again. “you’ve wounded me, gia,” he laughed, voice low with sleep, “accusing an innocent man of such cruel neglect.” he rubbed at his chest lazily as his eyes found hers — time stopping around them. it was as if the universe knew teddy and georgiana’s moments were to be immortalized. “i would love to see all you’ve accomplished, my dear. will you accept my sincerest apologies?” he pouted playfully, batting his eyes at his beloved.

“Oh, the audacity!” She gasped, still flushed from the stolen graze of his lips against hers — one brow arching. “You are wounded?” Her tone dripped with mock disbelief, her hand pressed dramatically to her chest. “You fell asleep, Theodore. In the middle of wedding planning — our wedding planning. And I was pouring my very soul into it, I’ll have you know. All while you were snoring.” Georgiana rolled her eyes, a useless act — for they softened the moment they settled on him. She watched his hand smooth over his chest, the flutter of his lashes as he pouted at her, knowing full well how easily charmed she was by his dimples and those mischievous blue eyes. Her gaze narrowed with amusement. How could she resist, when she simply adored him? How was she meant to focus on flower arrangements and napkin shades, when the way he looked at her felt like the very heart of her dream wedding already?

With the calm confidence of someone who had already peeked for unexpected company — and the grace of a woman entirely aware of her effect on the man before her — Georgiana shifted toward him at the edge of the sofa. One hand braced on the backrest for balance, she let her knee sink into the cushion before leaning over him, slow and purposeful. Her free hand slid along his jaw, her smirk a promise of trouble — her head tilting to the side, as if deliberating. She kissed him. Not a hasty kiss, but one rich and meaningful. Dizzying. Her mouth moved with utter tenderness, lips parting just enough to invite — to quiet her thoughts, to make her heart skip a beat. Just enough, perhaps, to keep him very much awake. Her fingers slid into his hair — and for a moment, she lost all sense of anything but him: the taste of his lips, the bloom of passion in her chest. And then, with the same teasing ease, she pulled away. “Mhmm, apologies accepted. But don’t doze off again — I might have to revoke your wishes on the cake next time.”

A contented little hum escaped her as she rose to her feet, smoothing down her skirts and stretching like a cat in a patch of sunlight — as though she had been the one napping. She wandered to fetch the parchment from the floor, letting her fingers skim over the scribbled list of tasks before she turned back. “Now, sir—” A grin, and then a sweet command. “Make room for your future wife. We have plenty to do.” She nudged his hip and settled beside him, legs folding as she peered at her endless notes once more. “Where was I? Ah, yes — are your parents attending? We were waiting on a letter from your mother, I believe.” Her tone was perfectly even, but her cheeks still burned, and the echo of the kiss fluttered in her stomach as she worked to collect her thoughts. “I must prepare myself if they are — I do wish to make a good impression, you see.” Not appearing like the sort of lady who secretly enjoyed passionately kissing their son in her own family’s drawing room would be a good start. She let her head tip back, coming to rest against the sofa’s curve, steadying herself. The days were rushing past — and soon, they would be saying I do. And she would make it perfect. For the life they were building, for the love she had never dared to hope would be hers.

Georgiana had a light about her, so natural and radiant made more evident by the joy of her engagement and the ring on her finger to show off to the world. There’s a bashful smile on his face at her mentioning of his own news. It shows his excitement but in a boyish way. “Who’d have thought when we re-met all that time ago and I was looking for an escape that we’d be the first to find husbands?” he laughs thinking how baffled their past selves would be at how things turned out. Practically giddy, he looks at her ring and gives it a wide smile. “Your man did very well, its almost as beautiful as you.” After a few more looks of admiration at her ring until he gives her his left hand, happy to show off his own band. “We skipped the engagement part, but I still love the ring. His is the exact same.” A thought that fills him with warmth.

“Of course! I have no idea how these things work. I saw you here and just assumed but if you were to have a fitting, I’m sure I would see your mother and all your siblings with you to share the moment.” The picture that painted was a nice one. “It will be special! Josephine and your mother will stand for nothing less, I’m certain of it! For me, I don’t actually know. The moment struck me to get a gift for my new husband but I’ve no idea where to even start. I thought inspiration would strike me if I came here but it has evaded me.”

“Oh, I catch myself staring at it all day.” She admitted, stealing yet another fond glance at her ring. Her gaze then shifted to his, and she gasped softly as her fingers brushed over his hand to admire the new wedding band. “Oh, Tobias! It’s lovely — very fitting for you. And an elopement is just so romantic.” Her hand moved to give his arm a brief, warm squeeze. “Congratulations, truly. I’m so glad to see you happy.” Her smile deepened. “Tell me — have you known him long? Is he terribly handsome?” She teased, arching a brow.

“Had it been a fitting, I assure you, you’d have known. Three sisters and a mother all squealing over lace? The commotion would have been heard halfway down the street.” Her tone was light and sunlit with her own joy. Georgiana could hardly wait for the moment when the gown became real — stitched and shaped all for her. “A devoted husband, I see.” She went on, eyes bright with amusement. “Well, today may just be your lucky day, for I have an excellent eye for gifts — and I daresay I need a rest from so much ivory and cream. I can barely distinguish embroidery patterns anymore! Should you wish for help, I’d be delighted.” A pause, as she rubbed her palms together with mock seriousness. “A new cravat, perhaps? With a pin to match? Something tasteful. Something that might remind him of you during special occasions.”

The Mayfair shops. It had been ever so long since Juliet had come along the shops with her maids in tow, dashing in and out of every modiste shop there was, purchasing fancy dress after elegant accessory. It had felt so long ago and yet so close. It was funny how now she was, in a plain, still pretty dress, curls down and natural, her pregnancy four month belly beginning to delightfully show - and how empty all of the pretty accessories now seemed to her. She had rested her hand on her belly, getting a few looks here and there, but Juliet only smiled, warmly, at the idea of her little baby and her going on walks like this - to show them the beauty of Mayfair even now.

When she felt someone bump into her, uttering an insult at her under their breath, she lit up like a lioness, hand on her small tummy in protection. "Excuse me - what ever did you say? If you needn't mind, I would rather you walk away now before you see what a true lioness does when their baby is threatened. Walk away now." She promised, her doe eyes fierce as she bravely, proudly, scared them away. Caressing her belly again, she sighed, a smile on her lips as she looked down, as if speaking to her unborn child.

But, like most stories, the quiet chapter was interrupted by a brute. Her posture shifted at the sight, eyes narrowing. She hadn’t caught his words, but the expression was clear. And so Georgiana waited. When the man passed her next, she turned just enough to catch his eye. A half scoff escaped her — and half laughter, truly — and she brought her fingers to her mouth, as though struggling to contain her disbelief. “A woman — and with child, no less — and that’s your instinct? To shove and insult?” Her voice was cool and measured. “Goodness. You must be your mother’s pride and joy.” She didn’t pause in her sarcasm, only continued walking, her tone lilting just enough to be heard — the words trailing behind her like perfume. “You heard the lady. Shoo. Before you embarrass yourself further.”

Her gaze softened as soon as it met Juliet’s — truly softened, the kind of shift one rarely saw outside familiar affection. “I apologise. I couldn’t quite hold my tongue.” The look she gave her belly held no false politeness, no empty curiosity — only quiet awe for what it represented. “I don’t suppose you remember me — Georgiana Hermance. We were introduced, once — I believe, with a great deal of noise around us.” Her smile brightened, head tilting to the side just slightly. “You look quite well, Miss Juliet. Please accept my belated congratulations.” She folded her gloves in her hands, pausing for a moment. “If I’m not mistaken, I heard you mention tea. There’s a parlour not far from here. Wonderfully quiet. Excellent raspberry tart. I’d be delighted to steal a bit of your company, if you’ll let me.” And then, lightly — almost teasing. “Unless, of course, you prefer to walk your lioness path alone this afternoon. Which would be entirely understandable.”

Not sure if he and his new husband would be celebrating their news with a grand event, Tobias still wanted to do something special to commemorate and headed to the modiste for any idea of a gift. Something that would be both of them in some way. He was looking at some blue and green fabrics when he spotted Georgiana and gave a polite smile before heading over.

Good news was fast spreading throughout the streets with news of multiple nuptials, impending and some already happened. He, of course, was the unexpected latter but the news of Georgiana and Teddy had made its way around some whispers. For once it wasn’t one of snide comments and a cutting word, but people seemed so happy for the two. His own was not as widely known, he thought.

“I hear congratulations are in order,” he beams gesturing to her ring. “May I see your ring? I hear you can tell a lot about someone by it but I’m not sure if that’s true. Whatever it is, I’m sure yours carries the memories of the proposal. Are you here for your gown fitting?”

Tobias’ familiar voice drew her attention from the samples of lace and silk, and an easy smile found her lips as soon as she turned to face him. Of course the news had reached her ears — he was her sister’s dearest friend, after all. “Oh, thank you, Tobias! You are kind. But I daresay I am not the only one to be congratulated.” She said, laughing softly as she tugged at her glove to free her left hand. “I shall show you my ring if you show me yours!” She was truly happy for him. Georgiana loved love, and to know Tobias had found it warmed her heart — the joy that sparked beneath his eye and his cheerful tone was unmistakable.

She extended her hand for him to see, beaming as the ring caught the light. “No fitting just yet.” She added, leaning in slightly to murmur — her tone playful. “I am giving it very careful thought before I settle on a sketch. It must be most special.” And it was nearly time to make a choice. Unfortunately, a gown could not be brought to life quite so quickly as her heart could envision it. “And what of you? What brings you here today?”

“my darling,” maude mused, twirling a finger through one of georgiana’s curls before the hug separated, “we have much to discuss!” as she listened to georgiana, the grin on her lips widened and she couldn’t help but squeal, swooning playfully, “you two are truly a fairytale.” deep down, maude wondered — hoped — she and hunter could be a fairytale. as she took georgiana in, the way she carried herself was always graceful but this was something elevated, as if she were floating. and the look in her eyes was something poets tried to capture with their words — but no sonnet could compare. maude delicately took georgiana’s hand in hers as she looked at the ring, a wide grin on her lips, “it suits you perfectly, georgiana. and the first engagement of the season? you two are a dream to us all!”

“Much to discuss, indeed!” She said with a laugh, squeezing her friend’s hand. “My wedding gown, Maude! My sisters are sweet, but I fear they would declare me radiant in any fabric or colour — and that simply won’t do. I shall need your opinion.” Her lips curved into a playful smile as she leaned in to whisper, as though sharing a secret. “I wish to look so beautiful that I hear Theodore Alwyn gasp from the other end of the aisle.”

Her gaze dropped to her hand, where the ring caught the light — delicate and lovely. “It’s perfect.” She said, her cheeks flushing with quiet pride. Her smile deepened. “Thank you for your kind words, my dear. You are always so good to me.” She shook her head fondly, brushing a loose strand of hair from her face, and let her eyes return to Maude’s with warm affection. “But enough about me! You shall hear plenty over the coming weeks, I assure you. Tell me how you’ve been — it’s been too long, and I am certain you have exciting news of your own.”

Being around Georgiana was easy. She didn't feel like she ever had to second guess herself. Gia simply knew her. She was probably the person that was closest to her in the entirety of the Ton. "I have been...good." She nodded. She wasn't sure what else to say. "I've been trying to give me attention to this whole match making thing." It had been a welcome distraction, she thought. "Yes, I think he is." Beatrice nodded. She was all too aware that he was but she hadn't spoke to him since he had broken her heart. She didn't think that she would any time soon.

So, instead of dwelling on it, she changed the subject, "But that isn't what we should be talking about. What we should be talking about, is the first engagement of the season!" She squealed, "Gia, I am truly so happy for you. Congratulations!" Georgiana was the first of her friends to get married and Beatrice could not wait to see it.

“Oh my, the first engagement of the season?” The blonde echoed in playful surprise, gasping softly as her hand flew to her chest. A A low chuckle followed — and she genuinely laughed at herself. No matter how many times it was mentioned, no matter how often she received well wishes, the subject never failed to bring the brightest smile to her face. “Thank you, my sweet Bea!” She hummed, throwing her arms around her in a joyful embrace, squeezing gently. Georgiana had never been shy with affection — and when excitement overflowed in her heart, she could hardly contain it. “I have never been happier. I fear my smiles and squeals are so constant they might frighten my poor betrothed away.”

It was a jest — of course it was. And yet, at times, a faint shadow clung at the edges. That old, heavy weight of the past still knew how to creep in when her mind quieted — just before sleep, in the hush of the night. She pushed the thought away before it could take root, and pulled back to look at Bea, her smile still lingering like sunlight after a passing cloud. “I cannot wait — and I wish to see you twirling about at my wedding in the prettiest gown. You won’t miss it, will you?” She paused, the flicker of concern returning and softening her gaze. Her voice dropped just slightly, tender. “Are you sure you are quite well, Bea?”

he was certain he’d never seen daylight until he’d first gazed upon georgiana. she illuminated his world, brought life to it, and he wanted to bask in her glow for an eternity. the way every slight touch, every brush of skin, every look into her eyes made his stomach flip — he knew there was no love as pure or as rare as love with georgiana and he had to thank the sun, moon, and stars for pulling — crashing — them together. the beautiful blush on her cheek reflected the one the whisper of crimson that danced on his cheekbones, it was his body’s silent confession, a bloom of truth when he couldn’t find the words to describe his feelings. He so desired for his lips to linger on her soft hand for days — but he knew he had something very important to ask her and perhaps, hopefully, if she said yes they would have a lifetime of sweet kisses upon on another’s body. The phrase ‘I love you’ fell like poetry from his lips and he knew that those words would be laced through laced through every moment with her.

when he knelt — he was more afraid than he’d ever been in a battle, so afraid that he could lose her if she didn’t want to marry him. at the same time, he’d never been more excited in his life — looking up at her beautiful features that were dappled in moonlight, hoping she looked happy.

teddy was aware that it was best to speak in the moment, from his heart. despite practicing his speech over and over again. but he could no longer remember the words he’d repeated every night leading up to this moment. he was overwhelmed with emotion — a sheer happiness raining down on him as if he’d been a desert begging for water. a rare super bloom sprouting in the desert sand. he trembled as he tried to read her demeanor, her body language and she seemed to be as happy as he was and he prayed that she would say yes. georgiana was responsible for every beat of teddy’s heart — she had full control over him and he didn’t want it any other way.

the ring was far more than gold and a diamond, it was a symbol — the promise of shared tomorrows, the trust of intertwined lives, and the soft echo of forever. as she began to cry, he let his tears fall more freely — they were happy, in total and complete love. His eyes fluttered closed as she brushed her hand against his cheek, catching each joyful tear in her gentle hand, as if to hold onto them forever. batting his damp eyelashes, he looked up at her with the widest, most dimpled grin he’d ever hand and shook his head in disbelief, “gods, georgiana, you are my everything.”

with her forehead rested against his, teddy’s eyes fluttered closed — he could already picture it, their future together. “georgie,” he hummed, a blush lighting up his cheeks, “i fell in love with you the moment i saw you. you are my one true love — my soulmate, my other half. i dedicate my heart and soul to you alone.” he held onto her hands as she pulled back — praying to the heavens she wasn’t about to let him down gently, tell him she didn’t want to be married to him, didn’t want to be married yet. but then, his stomach twisted in the most beautiful way and he could’ve sworn time stopped. the stars blinked above them and teddy had knelt among a hush of roses, each petal holding their breath — the stars, the flowers — and josephine and georgiana’s mother — as their witnesses. and when she said yes, he was filled with elation and a happy sob filled the air between them.

standing up, still holding the ring tightly in his hand — he picked georgiana up, holding her waist as he twirled her around, letting a boisterous cheer fill the gardens. his lips met hers — the first kiss they’d share as an engaged couple, but a promise of a lifetime of kisses. after savoring the taste of her lips and basking in their happiness, he set her back on solid ground — though the ground didn’t feel solid, it felt like jelly — it felt like he couldn’t stand without trembling. “and i shall be the happiest groom to ever life,” he replied, a joyful chuckle falling from his lips.

“may i?” he asked, taking her hand in his as he held the ring up — desperate for her to wear the ring, desperate for their future.

One moment she was blinking through tears, giving the yes she had been longing to say, and the next she was soaring — lifted straight from the ground and spun into the moonlit sky. She gasped his name in surprise, hands flying instinctively to his shoulders — anchoring herself, though she felt anything but safe or steady. Laughter spilled from her, her head tilting back in unrestrained delight. The rest of the world had long faded. All she could feel was him — the warmth of his hands at her waist, the strength of his arms around her, and the lingering taste of his kiss upon her lips. And more than anything, the certainty that she was precisely where she was meant to be — with the one she loved, her heart’s desire.

When he set her down, it felt like her knees might give out — but there was a new strength holding her up. Perhaps it was the sight of him. That smile, the one that had undone her from the beginning. Those dimples. The warmth in his eyes. Her chest swelled, heart still leaping. He was hers. He wanted to be hers — and heavens above, she was already his in every possible way.

As he held up the ring, tears welled once more and her breath caught in her throat. She had no words. At his gentle ‘May I?’ she could only nod, eager. She watched as it slipped onto her finger — glinting, flawless, a perfect fit. A promise, a vow made tangible. She would have cherished anything he gave her. But the delicate shape and shimmer of it were so unmistakably her that she could only wonder how he always seemed to know. How could he glimpse so clearly into her heart, sense her wishes, and shape dreams into reality? “Oh…” Her free hand rose to cradle the one he had adorned, admiring it. “It’s perfect. Absolutely perfect.” A trembling breath followed, her heart so full it ached. “Thank you.”

Without a second thought, Georgiana stepped forward, melting against his chest, arms wrapping around his back, cheek nestled close as she breathed him in. He was taller, broader — and yet she fit into his embrace exquisitely. It felt as though that space had always belonged to her. And then, as her hands traced the fabric of his coat, it struck — a ghost of sorrow, sudden and sharp. A quiet shadow, a memory of joy once stolen from her. What if it happened again? For fleeting seconds, fear grazed the edges of happiness. Fear that he might vanish. That life might yet twist cruelly and take him from her. That fate might deem her undeserving of her luck, of all this vast love.

So she clung tighter, squeezing. Her fingers sought hold, gripped, reached — eyes squeezed shut at the threat of tears born not of joy, but of ache. A silent plea hid within that embrace — Please stay. Please, let this last forever. “How can someone love this much…” She whispered, her voice muffled, cracked by the weight of all she felt and could barely contain. But she did. She wouldn’t ruin it. This was a moment for love, and love alone.

And when at last she dared to lift her gaze, the eyes that met hers were enough to summon back her smile — cheeks still flushed, heart still racing. “I cannot wait to be your wife.” She murmured, pulling back, one hand rising to rest above his heart. “Georgiana Alwyn…” She let the name roll softly from her lips, as though testing a familiar melody — a teasing smirk tugging at the corners of her mouth as she looked up at him. The extraordinary man who had swept her off her feet, and who had never once asked her to be anything less than wholly, wonderfully herself. How could she be so fortunate? “It does sound perfect, does it not?”

"I am quite proud," He taunted her back. "I've raised him right when he was just a young buck, swearing he saw angels anytime he caught sight of a skirt during the war. I've always held you in high regard, Lady Hermance. I'm more than pleased, almost grateful, he can see not just your worth the ton boasts of but who you are. He is more than in love, if there ever were such a thing."

And he knows there has to be. A love that doesn't consume, but simply is. Any word that escapes between the kiss to describe the sentiment is never wrong but can never simplify it. It lends one to be better, at the very heart of its flutter, and Thayer often feels he's failed it even if his fingertips has grazed over it. Though, it is not envy that entraps him now as he expected to feel. Georgiana, in her grace and blush, bring him hope that someone else won't so easily deny it.

"It is far more precious on your hand than in its box, that is certain," He nods, taking her hand gently just on the tips of his fingers to admire it. Every murmur Teddy had for it melts into a quiet understanding. These gilded vows were suppose to be their own, not always an heirloom. "It will be a beautiful legacy of your love."

Her smile was full of love and pride as he took a closer look at the ring — not the pride of flaunting jewellery as wealth or status, but a pride born of the quiet amazement at having chosen and been chosen for a lifetime. “Truly — I cannot stop staring at it.”

Georgiana’s gaze lifted from the ring back to him, a soft chuckle escaping her. “Oh, I fear my mother would have come right behind to fetch us, had we even attempted to elope.” She shook her head at the thought, an amused glint in her eye. “Not just yet. But it is to be decided soon — I do have a most determined group at home, planning all with great care.” Her tone turned playful and fond. Her sisters had been delighted with the news. Even little Andrew had insisted on giving his own opinions.

“And did he tell you about it? The proposal?” She asked, curiosity sparking as her cheeks flushed and her grin lingered. “I imagine he wished to ask for your blessing, too. Was he very excited when he spoke of it? A touch nervous, perhaps?”