#bridgerton reader insert

"They're here!” Calling out in her excitement. Violet turned her head with shock at her second son. Benedict slapped the book shut he was reading. The same concern in his eyes.

Both of them got up, hurrying up to the window. Removing yourself from behind the piano, you wanted to look for yourself. Jaw dropping seeing Anthony and Kate depart their carriage. 

Benedict stumbled back, loosening his tie in a sweaty expression. Quickly turning away, wanting to make an escape for it. Hyacinth pushed herself away from the window. Rushing out of the door to the hallway. Violet lifted a bit of her dress up, going in a quickened pace after her.

Benedict hasting after, hoping he might be able to avoid his brother just yet. “Who is here?” Sophie whispered to Mrs. Wilson. Mrs. Wilson batted her eyes to the heavens. “The eldest Bridgerton.” She explained. Quietly making your way over to the door, you lingered there a moment. 

Silently joining without making yourself too known. Hyacinth and Anthony ending their joyous hug. “Brother!” Anthony called out, gaze fixated on Benedict. Benedict swallowed nervously. “Yes.” Squeaking out. Anthony neared him, throwing an arm around him.

“I hope you have been managing the affairs well?” Keeping a hand on his brother’s chest. Benedict chuckled nervously. Behind him Violet and Kate were exchanging greetings, showing off the new baby. Fidgeting with your fingers ever so slightly, you curled up barely a smile. 

Eyes slightly widening when your brother’s gaze fell directly on you. Pushing Benedict away from him. “Y/n!” He said coming over. Opening his arms as you accepted a gentle hug from him. “No need to hide yourself sister.” He whispered to you. Leaving a caring kiss by your head.

Anthony caught Benedict trying to make an escape. “Not so fast!” He called out, grabbing him just in time by the shoulder. “We’re going to have a good look at your work in my absence.” Pushing him deeply against his side. Benedict gave Violet a beggingly look. 

Mother unable to do much about her son’s strong headedness. Violet invited Kate and the baby to the parlor. Hyacinth bouncing happily around them. Eager to hold the baby when she could. “Y/n.” Violet said, waiting by the door. Leaning her hand against the frame.

Gaze staring in pity back at you. Ever so lightly shaking your head, you declined her request to follow. Nodding gently, she understood. She entered the parlor as you turned the other way.

Venturing towards the outsides. Taking a few steps to where stone made way for grass. Barely getting forwards as a pair of arms strapped around your waist. A happily groan followed as they took you for a spin.

Unable to control yourself a loud squeal had released itself from within you. Fingers immediately firm on the hands around your body for security. Feet found the ground once more, John coming in view, laughing. Smiling back at him, it slowly dropped.

Nervously fidgeting with your fingers once more. “Something amiss, miss Y/n?” He asked, aware of it immediately. Swallowing softly, you turned your gaze away. Lowering himself a bit, he tried to catch your gaze. Glancing to the side, you lingered on him before turning your head back. 

“My brother has returned.” You told him. “I’ve heard.” John responded. “Does that not please you?” Reaching out to take your hand. Breaking your nervous fidgeting to a stop. You hummed loud, curling the corners of your lips up.

John let his knuckles brush down your cheek. “You don’t sound convincing.” He replied, making you sigh loud. “You know my brother, John…I…I” Finding it hard to get the words over your heart.

“Do I now?” John spoke with a tease. Scrunching your nose, you slapped your hand his way. “Auw.” He chuckled out, shoulder up from the impact. “This is serious!” You called out. 

John moved his hands up, letting them brush down your arms a few times. “Does us concern you?” He asked, seeing the immediate fright in your eyes. “I do not wish to put you in a difficult situation, miss Y/n. Say the word and I’ll step back.” Releasing his hands from you, so he did.

“No!” You blurted out. John quirking his eyebrow up. Grabbing him firmly by his vest. “Don’t you dare step back!” Desperation seeking your words. John brought his hand up in a salute. Sighing soft, you slouched back. “I choose you no matter what…it is just…” 

“He’ll be making it more difficult?” John filled in. Humming loud, you knew he was right. He batted his gaze briefly up to the heavens, guiding his hands to your lower back. “We’ve already been careful. A bit more won’t do us any harm.” Flashing you that cheeky smile you adored.

“Unless my lady isn’t willing?” Moving his hands lower, he scooped you up. Catching you by surprise, making you grab his shoulders quickly. “She is.” You answered, cupping his cheeks. John smiled, gaze flashing down to your lips. Sucking in a breath before he heartfully kissed you. 

Brushing over your skirt, you made your way to the parlor. Pausing to see a rather worked-up brother of yours. Muttering to himself with a certain fury. His gaze went your way, doing a double-take to put himself to a halt. “Sister.” Anthony called out with a new-found calmness.

Glancing behind him, you knew he had just come from his study with Benedict. “Do you fancy fresh air? I do. Shall we?” Before you could utter a response, he was already offering you his arm. Quietly you accepted it, letting him guide you towards the front door. 

He gestured at one of the footmen that rushed to pull up the carriage. From the side, you saw John hasten himself over. Giving his jacket a slight tug. He quickened up to the carriage, opening the door. “Welcome home, Viscount.” He addressed with a bow.

“My sister and I are going for an evening stroll.” He informed him. “Of course, my lord.” John responded. Anthony hopped in as you were right behind him. Taking John’s hand as he assisted you inside. With a frightened expression, you weren’t ready to be alone with Anthony yet. 

John closed the door, giving you a comforting nod before departing to the back. The carriage got in motion, wheels wobbling over cobble stone. “I should’ve come home sooner.” He sighed out.

“The affairs are a mess. Benedict’s been neglecting it. Not to mention the drawings I found on one of the papers.” His jaw already tensing, thinking back at what had not been in his control.

“Then the matter of Eloise, shipping herself off as spinster.” If he had a fan available, he would’ve waved it vigorously to his face. You could tell he was discontent. 

Your eyes met with him, forming a shy smile his way. That seemed to soften him up. “At least you are perfect.” Touching your chin charmingly. Upholding your smile, you looked away. Knowing deep down it was a lie. If only he knew who held your heart.

The carriage came to a stop by the park. The carriage door being opened as Anthony got off first. Taking John’s hand once more, you tried not to give yourself away by looking at him. Falling in step with your brother, you heard another pair of footsteps. Knowing John was a distance behind. 

“Enlighten me Y/n, How have your balls progressed this far? Has anyone called upon you yet?” Anthony went straight for it. His questions nearly made you choke on your own breath. Coughing gently. Behind you John huffed with a quirky smile.

“Not…not yet brother.” You answered, avoiding his gaze. “They have not?” Anthony responded, baffled. Turning his head at you. “Tell me Y/n are the men of the ton fools for not seeing the kindness of my sister?” He spoke.

“I do not believe the men seek kindness.” Was your reply. “Why not? Kind hearts are rare to find these days.” Moving his hands behind his back, he turned his head forwards once more. “I shall make it my priority.” Saying out loud to himself. 

“Prioritize what, brother?” Saying with a slight panic that he would interfere like he did with Daphne. He took your hand, laying it over his arm. Giving it a soft pat. “Your match.” He finished.

John abruptly coughed loud, making you both turn your heads. His gaze was on you, seeing you make clear with your eyes to not make it clear. He quickly shifted his gaze to your brother.

“Apologies, Viscount. Pollen.” He lied waving his hand. You rolled with your eyes how enormously stupid his answer was. Anthony looked around, giving it little attention. Somehow he bought it. 

Having returned home, you parted with your brother. John following you inside. Glancing left and right, you made sure not a soul was around. Abruptly stopping, grabbing John by the shirt to kiss him.

Contact brief, but long enough to catch him by surprise. With that little tease, you let go of him. Hurrying your way to the parlor. Filling the remaining time of the day with piano playing.

Allowing the music to whisk you away till your brother came announcing his new priority to the family. How he was going to focus on you during this season. Mother turning a worriedly gaze at you. Afraid to look her in the eye, you knew she worried for your heart. 

Sun finally settled as most had gone off to bed. Most, but one. On your tippy toes, you went down the stairs. Looking all ways before sneaking through the door that led to the lower levels. Hurrying down the steps with a quickened pace.

Gasping loud when a second party came rushing upwards. Knocking into you, grabbing you quickly by the elbows before you could tumble down. “John!” You shout-whispered in surprise. “Miss Y/n.” He chuckled out. “It appears we had the same idea.” Referring with a smile. 

Placing your hand in his, he moved a finger to his lips. Telling you to be quiet, leading you back down. Nearing the door, wanting to reach for the doorknob, but pulling away upon hearing a voice. Mrs. Wilson’s voice. Coming to face you, he let you know to stay silent.

You nodded barely seeing his features in the dim light. Hiding behind a door. John listened in, hearing Mrs. Wilson shoo the remaining maids to their beds. You had your gaze to the door, trying to quiet down your breathing. Gaze flashing to the side, catching his staring. 

Lips parting breathlessly. Setting a hand on your chest, hoping your heart wouldn’t be hearable. The softest gasp released from within when John leaned forwards. Hand setting on the wall behind you. Your response to let the wall catch you.

Tilting your chin upwards with his touch. Lips parting as he settled them on your lips with a slow close. Lips puckered up to deepen the kiss. Releasing once more, to rejoin in a bliss. His hand lowering from your chin to your waist, pressing gently his thumb inwards. Mind anywhere else but your original idea. 

The closing of a door made you gasp loud, breaking the kiss off. Holding onto his shoulders. John lowering his head with a chuckle. He leaned closer to the door, listening in.

His neck in your vision, made you swallow hard. “I think it’s clear.” John whispered. Reaching for the doorknob. Cautiously opening the door, looking curiously left and right.

You stood on your toes, trying to overlook his shoulder. Taking your hand, he led you into the kitchens. Closing the door behind you. John went to light some candles. Looking around, you rubbed your arms for warmth. 

John gestured for you to sit. So you did. Chuckling when he grabbed a chair, moving it closer to you by the table’s edge. Setting his elbow on the table, hand resting on his chin. “So your brother plans to throw in any suitors.” A silly smile plastered on.

“Are you jealous?” You responded, raising your eyebrow. “Should I be?” He moved his chin a bit teasingly on his knuckles. “I would be worried if you weren’t.” Responding with a snarky comment.

Your answer made him laugh loud. Worriedly, you shushed him. “Is little miss Bridgerton frightened I am not genuine?” He removed his hand from under his chin to boop your nose. 

Before he could do so, you grabbed him by the wrist. John’s eyes widening playfully. Joining his other hand to have his go anyway. Moving your head back, you grabbed in the air for his other wrist.

Fishing for air as he kept maneuvering his hand away. Hardening your jaw, you got more grabby. Feeling him tug on his other hand that you made sure was secured in your grip.

John wrapped his hand around your wrist, having caught you now. Hands secured now, the two of you started to move them around for freedom. Not giving in to the other. Laughing. 

“Oh sorry.” Sophie called out, quickly turning herself around. Her sudden presence had made John and you pull away. Launch back as far away from each other. “So…Sophie.” John stuttered out, jumping up.

“I…I…I swear I didn’t see anything.” She replied, moving her hand back whilst still shielding her eyes. “It is not what it looks like.” John went on, hoping she would believe him even though it might be impossible. Flushed with caught red-handed, you got up as well.

“We simply had a bet who would be the strongest whilst waiting. I couldn’t sleep and John here has been kind enough to set me some tea.” You lied, hoping she wouldn’t think anything else of it. 

Sophie turned around, curtsying at you. “Forgive me, miss Bridgerton.” She spoke. Gaze settling on you, slowly going to the stove. Aware of her attention, you took a step to the side. Hiding the stove behind you.

Hiding the fact that no kettle was on for tea. Her gaze then went to John, seeing him nervously rub the back of his neck. Smiling down, she pressed her lips together. One thing she knew for certain was that eyes don’t lie.

“I…I believe I shall go.” Saying nervously as the awkwardness was rising. Sophie curtsied as John bowed to you. Turning on your heel, you took your leave. Once you were gone, John pretended to yawn out loud. “Long day, I’m calling it too.” Stretching his arms behind him. 

Sophie came at his side with a silly smile. “It’s alright, my lips are sealed.” She spoke. “I don’t know what you are talking about.” John responded, heading for their sleeping quarter.

Grabbing the railing from the spiral stairs, going up. Sophie hurrying after him. “I promise I won’t tell a soul.” She called out after him. John groaned loud, quickening his pace. “There is nothing!” John insisted upon. “I heard laughter, that is why I…John…John…” Suddenly losing track of him.

Making her hasten up the stairs, only to be faced with a door shutting in her face. “I understand…” She whispered out, rubbing her nose to rub the rudeness of his actions off. 

-------------------------------------------------

One by one, your four children clamber out of the carriage. Charles comes first, holding his hand to help his sister Alexandra, then waits for William and lastly, the three help Violet as she was the youngest and also the clumsiest.

As the children are climbing out, you and Benedict find yourself in conversation about something else entirely and it is only when you hear the words, "Oh, honestly, Violet! You always seem to get yourself into such a muddle!" that you turn your attention to your children.

Your face stretches into a wide smile, "Ben, look."

William and Charles stood facing each other, straightening their collars, "Is that good?" They each nod before they look to Alexandra. Charles smooths down an unruly wisp of hair, tucking it behind her ear, while William smooths down the ruffles on her shoulder. Lastly, they all help their youngest sister, Violet. Charles wipes crumbs from her cheeks, Alexandra readjusts the hairband in her hair and William brushes her dress so it sits nicely.

They turn back to their parents who are... crying?

"Mama," Charles frowns, "are you well?"

You sniff, wiping your eyes with Benedict's handkerchief he handed you, "All is well, my love," you smiled, "It is just so nice to see you all looking out for each other."

"You fight like cat and dog but like your mother said, it is spectacular watching you look out for each other," Benedict smiles, clapping Charles on the shoulder.

The children don't understand the big deal, they glance at one another before Charles shrugs, "It is what we see you and Mama do each and every day. You make sure that you are both presentable and attractive, it is nice to look out for each other, is it not?"

You nod quickly, giving each of your children a kiss on the forehead, "Mama," William groans, "now we all have lipstick on our foreheads!" You laugh and hand Charles Benedict's handkerchief and one by one, they each wipe the lipstick off of each other's foreheads.

"Oh, we did good, did we not?" You ask quietly, melting into your husband's embrace.

Now was no different. 

„Tell me,“ Anthony slurred, turning around with a lazy smile, „is whatever you have been spying on, something I should rather not be telling your wife?“

Benedict stiffened with indignation. „Of course not!!“ His angry glance was burning into Anthony’s until it changed into a pensive one, his eyes looking up towards the ceiling.

„Though it is true that you should rather not tell her… but not for any such reason you might be suggesting!“ 

Anthony hummed again, the little silver spoon clinking in his tea cup. He took a long sip and made an extra loud smacking noise after he finished. Benedict‘s eyes grew narrower and narrower. The tension in the air would have been visible to anyone, like a floating purple cloud. Anthony put his tea cup back down and smiled at his brother. And then he was already dashing to the window. 

„No, Anthony!!!“ 

Benedict cursed, when his brother took a turn about the sofa to confuse him and it actually worked, the younger Bridgerton losing the chase to his former spying position at the window. 

„Well, look at that,“ the elder brother exclaimed teasingly, „our two wives conversing in the shade of the trees.“ 

Then his smirk fell and his brows grew closer together. „Our two wives conversing in the shade of the trees…“ he repeated, now with no remaining trace of amusement. 

Benedict lifted his brows and nodded. He certainly had not expected his brother to look just as disgruntled as he felt. „Again!“ He added to Anthony‘s phrase, extending his hand and stepping to the window as well, ending up shoulder to shoulder with his brother. „What is it they keep talking about? Don‘t they ever grow tired of their conversation?“

Anthony hummed, now in a much more serious manner, his hand moving to his chin to touch it cluelessly. „They spend an awful lot of time together. I wonder if they are talking about us…“

Benedict‘s eyes grew in terror. „What would they be saying?“

„How am I supposed to know?“ Anthony hissed in distress, one hand wandering to his neck tie to loosen it a little. „Is there something you did?“

„Something I did??“ Benedict fired back, his voice uncharacteristically high from a strong feeling of disbelief. „What do you suppose I should have done?? Is there something that you did??“ 

„Of course not!“ Anthony‘s eyes were burning coals, when he turned his head around. They were staring at each other with their uncomfortable, helpless fear of having disgruntled their wives, covering it up with a good portion of self-defending anger. Until Benedict moved up his eyebrows and allowed a small huff of laughter to escape his lips. He dropped his forehead on Anthony‘s shoulder and groaned.

„What are we doing? Why are we fighting? I don‘t even know what‘s going on.“ 

Anthony‘s face relaxed at Benedict‘s words and he as well was shaken by a small sound of amusement considering their behaviour. He patted Benedict‘s head on his shoulder and looked back down at their wives who were currently laughing at something. 

„We are acting like children,“ he concluded, giving Benedict a self-deprecating glance when he moved his head up again. „Did we really get this dependant on our wives since we married? Can we seriously not bear it to see them be content without us?“ 

Benedict winced at his brother‘s words. „It‘s come to this. I am jealous of your wife. Now that is a phrase, I never thought I‘d utter.“ 

Anthony chuckled quietly and bumped his shoulder against his brother’s affectionately. „If it‘s any consolation, I believe I am subject to the same affliction.“ 

Benedict grinned at him and Anthony realized that he hadn‘t been spending an awful lot of time with his younger brother recently. He looked at him with fondness and placed a hand on his shoulder. 

„You know, I don‘t think I‘ve ever truly said this to you. But you‘ve grown into quite the man.“ 

Benedict‘s eyes grew large for a second, his surprise moving his features like a curtain, revealing an unexpected fragility. Then it rushed close again, avoiding the showcase of little boy emotions and replacing them with a teasing smirk - it was the Bridgerton way to deal with emotions and Anthony could not blame him for it. „Sorry,“ Benedict snickered, holding up his left hand with the wedding ring, „I am already taken.“ 

Anthony groaned in a good-natured manner, before grabbing his brother and putting him in a headlock, making him break out into boyish giggles that he certainly hadn‘t heard in a while. 

They stumbled around the room for a while, before Benedict managed to break free, bringing the sofa between them. The jealousy of their respective wives was quite healed as they looked at each other with big grins, both gasping slightly from the effort of their rough-housing. 

„Look at that,“ Anthony laughed, putting his hands on the backrest of the silky piece of furniture between them. „We can still have fun on our own, when it‘s just the two of us.“ 

„You mean,“ Benedict clarified with a grin, „that you can still have fun by means of torturing me!“ 

Anthony clicked his tongue and shook his head at him. „Come now! I didn‘t even tickle you!“ 

Narrowing his eyes to slim slits, Benedict took on a more defensive posture. „Don‘t even think about it. I am not the least bit ticklish anymore.“

Anthony barked out a taunting laugh. „Oh, sure. Care to put that to the test?“

Benedict stood up tall and held up an index finger. „I have a way better idea.“ 

Anthony was curious enough to lend him his ear. 

—————— 

You liked Kate. You liked her very much. And you were over the moon that the two of you had married a Bridgerton and were now practically family. 

She was well-read and funny and liked to make fun of her husband as much as you did of your own. Sometimes, all it took to settle an argument you‘ve been having with your respective other (not forcibly better) halves was a chat with a good friend. And Kate was one of the best.

You‘d been enjoying the afternoon together, chatting about this and that and taking a few breaks within the house to drink a cup of tea and fetch some of the books you wanted to talk about. When, quite rudely, your peaceful conversation was interrupted. 

Wailing sounds were the first you‘d heard of them, before the pair of your husbands came into sight. Benedict was practically hanging from Anthony‘s shoulder, the older brother carrying him around the rose bushes in your direction. Red stains on both of their white shirts added up to the fright their sight installed in you. 

Kate jumped to her feet, when you were still too stunned from the horrible sounds of pain Benedict was producing to move an inch.

„What happened?“ Kate shouted, running closer to them to meet them halfway. Your wobbly legs barely allowed you to get into a standing position. In your mind you were moving through water, as you approached them.

Anthony was sweating slightly from the effort of hoisting your groaning husband through the garden. 

„We were attacked.“ He rasped out, trying to position Benedict in a slightly more comfortable position with his free arm. 

„Attacked?“ Kate asked in disbelief. „By what??“

„A dog.“ „A bear.“ The brothers responded at the same time. Anthony shot his head around to glare at Benedict who was biting his lip through his rather dramatic groaning. Quickly, the elder Bridgerton recovered from the moment of surprise. 

„He‘s hallucinating!“ He quickly shot out in an attempt to explain their differing answers. 

Kate took a step back and eyed them both suspiciously, but the concern was still visible on both your faces. „Where did this happen?“ She asked, as you tried to lift Benedict‘s head with your hands to be able to look at him directly. 

His cheeks were surprisingly cold to the touch and you did not manage to find the wound that had caused the red stains on their clothes. 

„Does it matter?“ Anthony hissed at her. „I am glad I was there to save him. The animal was big enough to resemble a small bear indeed!“ 

„You didn‘t save me,“ Benedict hissed, his stance changing slightly as did his voice. „I chased it away all by myself, you merely found me.“

With narrowed eyes you watched as Benedict sent a quick glance in your direction. Too quick for your taste. Raising a brow in Kate‘s direction you suddenly found it hard not to smirk. Kate who had already crossed her arms in front of her chest and was looking at Anthony with a rather unimpressed expression. 

„Whatever you say, Benedict,“ Anthony huffed, looking at both of you as if to say that his brother had lost a marble or two. „I‘d think it best we bring you to your room to allow you to recover.“ 

„Not before you get the story straight!“ Benedict insisted, the hand that had been holding on to Anthony‘s shoulder grabbing him by his nape now. Anthony hissed in pain and loosened his grip on his brother sufficiently to make him slide down Anthony‘s side. Benedict cursed and wrapped both arms around his brother‘s neck to keep from slipping. 

You and Kate were watching the spectacle with growing interest and lessening worry. Whatever was going on, you could not say. But you did know that your beloved husbands were acting out an embarrassing scene in front of you, one, they had apparently memorized so badly that they forgot to act altogether. 

„You are clearly not in your right mind right now,“ Anthony grumbled, wrapping his arms around his brother‘s waist to hoist him up again. „You‘re bleeding and… and the blood loss is making you foolish.“

„Foolish??“ Benedict gasped, his feet searching for solid ground in his outrage. „Who is foolish?“

„Both of you quite clearly are.“ You testified lazily, bumping your shoulder against Kate‘s. „I did not expect to ever see them ridicule themselves to such extents.“

„Neither did I, to be honest,“ she mumbled, looking on with a growing interest. „It is rather entertaining.“

„I agree,“ you responded, when Benedict‘s stained arm flung in Anthony‘s face and left a big red mark on his nose. „What do you think they used for the blood? Marmalade?“

„Oh yes, it appears so.“

„You ruined it all,“ Anthony rasped furiously, trying to free himself from Benedict‘s grip and simultaneously wiping at his face. 

„I did??“ Benedict growled, keeping Anthony in half a headlock himself by this point. „You had to go off about being the hero of the day! You made me look weak!“

„Ohh, you want to look weak??“

You raised your brows in amusement, when Anthony‘s fingers started digging into your husband‘s ribs, making the younger Bridgerton gasp, before he practically started howling with laughter. 

„NO DON‘T!!“ 

Retrieving his arms from around Anthony‘s neck, he tried to brush the other‘s hands off his middle, but was twitching and cackling too hard to manage any coordinated movement. 

„ANTHONY NO!!“ He wheezed with laughter, as his brother managed to force him to the ground, the unfortunate position leaving him exposed to Anthony’s mercy. 

„I thought you said you weren‘t ticklish anymore!“ The elder Bridgerton teased with a mischievous smirk, dwelling in the raucous laughter of his younger brother. 

„That is clearly not the case.“ You chuckled, raising your shoulders cluelessly when Kate sent you a look that basically asked what on earth was happening. 

„I suppose these two needed some time alone.“ You concluded, warmth filling your chest at the thought of the brothers spending some quality time together - without their wives. 

„(Y/N)!!!“ Benedict got out between breathless giggles, „HELP ME!!! PLEASE!!“ 

You chuckled, all anger at the shock the brothers had installed within you wiped away in a single blow. 

„Am I to save you from the bear now?“

Kate laughed at your words and waggled her brows. „I think I can be of bigger support in this situation.“

Anthony shot his head around at his wife’s words and suddenly jumped off his brother like a cat that got in contact with water, when Kate stalked towards them.

„NO!“ He simply yelled, before taking off, practically running away from his wife, who - never one to shy away from a challenge - chased right after him. 

Benedict remained gasping on the ground, his cheeks reddened from laughter and his eyes reflecting the glow that came with the tears mirth could bring about.

You bit down on your lip to keep from smiling and quickly walked over to drop down on top of him, chuckling when he held up his arms defensively. „No more, please!! No more!“

Grinning from ear to ear, you took his hands to interlock your fingers. „I think you‘ve suffered quite enough revenge for your little prank.“ 

Sheepishly your husband groaned at your words, closing his eyes and tilting back his head. „It sounded like the perfect plan to get your attention, back when we came up with it.“

„That‘s because you turn into a ninnyhead, when you and your brother are together.“

With a grin you took in your husband‘s indignation.

„Did you just call me a ninnyhead?“

„The loveliest ninnyhead of all!“

Benedict squinted his eyes at you and tried to come up with a retort. Quickly he realized that he had none and instead broke out into soft chuckles. He removed his hands from your grasp and brought them to your hips to pull you even closer to him, your fingers moving to his face to caress his cheeks. „Is it a crime that I was dying to get your attention?“

„Not at all. It was simply ridiculous. Especially the part with the marmalade!“ 

Benedict shook his head at himself and even blushed a little. „I suppose love makes you do silly things.“

You smiled at him, bending down to join your lips together. „Love does. Your love for me surely. But apparently brotherly love is not to be excluded.“

It was Hyacinth who turned a bit away from the front to touch your arm. A couple of people turned around to see who would speak so “loudly”. You stayed quiet for a few moments, waiting for people to lose interest in you and Hyacinth. You only smiled at her, and oftentimes, that was enough for her, just knowing she had your attention. When you thought enough moments had passed, you leaned a bit closer, as did she, giggling quietly, before softly whispering to her.

“Did you find something interesting, Hyacinth?”

“Only everything!”

You smiled, having turned slightly bigger, only wanting to encourage her more. You told her, “The debutantes should be coming out soon. Tell me the best styles that you think would fit my debut.” Her eyes turned wide with a bigger smile, if that was possible, not that it mattered to you. And with a few nods, she turned back, looking straight at the door with intensity. Not wanting to miss any of the dresses. 

You’re always glad to have Hyacinth; she could always grab your focus, bring some cheer while distracting you from your worries. You only wonder where she got her energy, not thinking it is something that will only last in her childhood. Either way, you were glad for the distraction and for making your sister happy. Gregory definitely couldn’t. At the moment, he was too focused on trying not to doze off; the excitement at being at a castle seemed to wear off quickly for him. Before you could gently nudge him awake, the voice of the announcer set his back straight and eyes wide open before drooping at the noise of his siblings laughing at him.

“PRESENTING Miss Prudence Featherington,” That grabbed the family’s attention, “Miss Philipa Featherington,” because it would mean one thing.

“And... Miss Penelope Featherington.” 

The announcer did not look happy announcing so many names at once, “ All presented by their mother. The Right Honourable, Lady Featherington.” 

The door opened, and you could see Penelope. She looked beautiful, but squished when she and her sisters tried passing through the door. Still, you were happy for her and wished her all the luck and support, as all your siblings were too. Even if it was quite strange as to why Lady Featherington decided to debut all three daughters at once. How on earth will she be able to put that much effort into three matches? Let alone the troubles if a younger daughter matched before the eldest. It was too bad Penelope wouldn’t debut with Eloise next season; she would have thought it more bearable. As the family walked down, you saw Penelope look around at the grand room before her mother lightly hit her arm to focus. Subtle, there's only more reason why you didn’t like Lady Featherington. They bowed; at least two of them did; Prudence wasn’t doing a very good job. It was a bold move even for them, perhaps a small sign of defiance against the queen? Then you saw their mother go towards Prudence, trying to push her down more, but the queen did not care for them and waved them off. Right, thought too much of it. Still, while you didn’t like the Featheringtons, Penelope excluded, it was still quite rude for the queen to write off their effort. Before you knew it, there was a THUMP and gasps coming from all around you.  

The eldest had fainted.

You would have to make sure to give Eloise treats, or a book, perhaps both, would be better in this case, the next time she visits Penelope to help raise her spirits from this disaster. As Prudence was helped up. You tried to help the family by whispering to your siblings, “Look away, for their dignity.” Most of them still looked “For Penelope.” Everyone looked away and started talking amongst each other, which grabbed the attention of those next to them. Always wanting a Bridgerton’s opinion. Luckily, your eldest brothers didn’t look against talking with them; instead, they directed them, or in Benedict’s case, charming them, into a new focus. Thank goodness.

Minutes after that, unfortunate disaster, you heard Daphne and Mother’s name. “PRESENTING MISS DAPHNE BRIDGERTON,” The doors opened you saw Daphne with that feeling of pride once again. Smiling for her in case she needed to see a friendly face. “PRESENTED BY LADY DOWAGER VIOLET BRIDGERTON.” She walked slowly, looking straight on with confidence and an elegant smile. You linger at the edge, watching as your sister Daphne takes her place in front of the queen, bowing as the picture of elegance and poise before her. You grew nervous and even a bit angry at the queen. The way she dismissed the Featheringtons was cold; did they, do we, truly matter so little to her? It made you uncomfortable knowing there was nothing that you could do to help Daphne. She was on her own. 

A harsh reality for you. Before you went deeper into your mind, you were reminded to focus on your sister as the queen stood up and gently grabbed Daphne’s chin to look at her. Finally, a small smile appeared on her face. “Flawless, my dear.” ending with a kiss on her head. Thank goodness, you knew she would excel, but you could feel your body relax knowing of a very positive outcome; you think even Anthony must have relaxed a little. As Daphne and Mother walked away, you saw Daphne make a quick comment to Mother. You continued to watch her until you could no longer see her, before you looked at the rest of the court. Everyone looked impressed while talking amongst each other, but you could hear no snide comments, even though you knew there was always someone. You looked back towards your family, Colin, and Benedict, noticing you. Both give you different expressions. Benedict raised his eyebrows with an expression of exaggerated wow, and Colin with a bit of a cheeky smirk. It seemed few of your family members were troubled over Daphne. You wished you were as relaxed as they were.

You turned back around, happy and giggling. You thought everything went well, but furrowed your brows a bit when you saw the Queen's expression turning to boredom again, only less so than before. The slumping of your shoulders and a soft, weary sigh were left to comfort you.     

'Perfect.'

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

…And that same friend was nowhere to be seen, already having disappeared within the first twenty minutes of you arriving. Fantastic. You turn to search for her white-painted face in the crowd, only to see her making out with a guy dressed as Robin. You sigh, taking another sip of your drink and mentally listing all the excuses you’d give her tomorrow when she realizes you escaped instead of “having fun tonight.” 

Option number one: “My head hurt and I needed to lie down.” Believable and true, but too weak of an excuse. She’d be upset that you’d even bother to tell her about that. Option number two: “I forgot to feed my neighbor’s cat.” Odd and definitely a lie but still believable. You would have an obligation to another person that you couldn’t ignore, which meant she'd have to let you off the hook.

Yeah, that should be good enough. With that, you headed straight for the door lest she managed to spot you, unlikely as it was. The evening breeze cooled your skin, providing some relief from the humidity inside. The white nightgown you wore was pretty light, thankfully.

You made it all of a few steps out the door when a voice called out to you, distinctly English and immediately standing out from the rest of the sweaty, drunk, and possibly high Americans partying it up inside the club.

“Wonderful costume!”

 You find a man leaning against the brick wall, cigarette between two fingers. Smoke puffed out into the evening air with every word he spoke. He wore an all-black suit, skin painted a dull green with stitches drawn all over his face, neck, and hands. Some of it was already smudged. A thin headband sat on top of his head, each end decorated with big, silver bolts meant to look as if they were protruding from his temples. He seemed quite handsome, with a smile that was nothing short of dazzling. 

“Uh, thanks,” you acknowledged him with a nod and a small smile of your own. “Yours is pretty nice, too. We’re matching.” 

“I noticed,” he grinned even wider, taking another drag from his cigarette. “Leaving so soon? The night is still young.”

“Ah, well. My friend ditched me to make out with Robin, and I got an early shift tomorrow so…” you shrugged. He seemed so relaxed, somehow making the drab body paint look good. It was kind of impressive, honestly.

“A responsible decision,” he nodded in agreement. “I’m not sure I'm the best person to endorse what’s responsible, though.” He stuck out his hand, putting out the cigarette on the wall behind him, “I’m Benedict, by the way.”

“Nice to meet you, Benedict.”

“And might I have the pleasure of learning the name of my bride?”

The question made you pause, brain not immediately registering that he was talking about your costume. A few seconds must have passed before he spoke again.

“Sorry, sorry,” he broke the awkward tension with a lighthearted laugh. “I was referring to your…”—he gestured to, well, all of you—”perhaps that wasn’t the best opener.”

You shook your head, accepting his handshake and noticing how soft his grip was. You told him your name.

“It’s nice to meet you,” he bowed, bringing your hand up to his face to press a kiss on your knuckles. The way your name rolled off his tongue made it sound more elegant than it had any right to be. 

“Do you go around doing this to every girl you meet?”

“Only the pretty ones.”

“Even the ones with cheap wigs?”

“Especially the ones with cheap wigs,” he smiled so genuinely that he left you no choice but to believe him. "So, will you be responsible tonight?"

-

author's note: hope you all enjoyed that little preview! aiming to pump up the romance and build their lovely friendship before shit hits the fan hahaha! anyway, what did you all think of season 4 pt 1?! i'd be lying if i said it wasn't the reason i came back to this fic lmaooo