Benedict Bridgerton - Tumblr Posts

Finally

Summary: the one time she accepted

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Sharma Sister! Reader

Word count: 3.6k

Warnings: unedited, angst, arguments, fluff, happy endings.

Series masterlist

sorry for the delay, I got distracted watching the TV 😅😅

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“Miss Y/n, How nice to see you” the Duke of Fairfield said as I entered the drawing room, followed by Edwina, who came to chaperone, he handed me a bouquet of roses

“Your grace” I bowed “Thank you for the flowers”

“What did I say about formalities?” I smiled sheepishly “So, there is a reason I have come here”

I nodded “I figured”

“Have you thought about what I said while I was gone?”

“Uh, I know I said I will give you a chance but…” I trailed off

“I get it, I cannot go away for a few weeks and not expect that nothing has changed” he smiled reassuringly “He proposed, then?”

“I am so sorry, the truth was that honestly, I did not even know if I was going to be able to allow you to court me, and it was wrong for me to agree when I was in love with the Viscount, you deserve a lady that puts her whole heart into your courtship. I could not do that” I explained “He has proposed, but I have not accepted”

“Something that we are very annoyed with, might I add” Edwina interjected making the Duke laugh “He has not stopped coming over everyday bringing flowers, we do not even know where to put them anymore. And I am certain he spends more time here than he does at his own home”

“Oh, do not be dramatic, bon” I scoff amused

“We love it, It shows he is genuine”

“Well, I got the answer I came for, so I must take my leave, I am having Lunch with her majesty, the queen, and she does not like to be kept waiting” Louis said as he went to walk away. I looked at Edwina, who was staring at the Duke and smiled.

“Your grace,” He stopped as I walked closer to him “ It may have not worked with me but… Edwina is a sweet, young lady, it will not hurt to try, will it” I smiled giddily

Louis looked at Edwina, observing her before he smiled and nodded his head, , Anthony walked in as Louis gave me a last smile before he walked out.

“Y/n, Miss Edwina” He greeted as he handed me a bouquet of lilacs

“Lord Bridgerton” Edwina greeted “ We do not have any more free vases, where are we supposed to put this one?” Edwina grumbled as she walked away, leaving us.

“Tell Lady Danbury and Mama, that Anthony and I are going for a ride and will be back soon” I called out to her, I heard her say something in agreement “Are you ready for a ride?” I smiled but his face stayed unreadable

“What is wrong?” I asked

“What was the Duke doing here?” I furrowed my eyebrows at his tone

“He was just passing by, wanting to greet me, a friend”

“Yes, because friends give other friends flowers” he gestured to the roses

“ I did not ask him to buy me flowers, he just brought them to me” I furrowed my eyebrows “he is my friend” I sighed

“You do not even spend time together, how can you be friends?” He remarks, clenching his jaw

“Why are you so mad? We do not have to spend every single moment together to be friends, it was just a friendly gesture, the flowers” I added

“Yes, well if I was the one to call on another young lady, and gifted her flowers, you would have something to say, would you not?” Anthony snapped

“No, because I cannot say anything about who you are friends with, Just like you do not get to choose who I have as friends!” I insisted angrily

“Men do not want to be your friends!” He argued “I know men, I am one myself, I know how they think, and what they want. When they look at you, they do not think of being your friend”

“Why can you not trust me?!” I said

“I do trust you, it is them I do not trust!” We look at each other angrily “Is he why?”

“Why what?” I scoffed

“Why you do not want to accept my proposal-“

“Anthony-“

“No! You keep on rejecting me over and over again, I thought it was just because you wanted me to pursue you, but it has been a week, and you have not given in. But this is just it, is it not? You are just waiting for the duke to make his own proposal, being Viscountess is not enough for you, so what is better than being a duchess? And of course, it certainly helps that he is richer” I looked at him in disbelief

“Do you not know me?” I scoff “You know neither does a title or money matter to me. Why are you even saying this, have you not gotten to know me all this months we have spent together?”

“Yes, well I am not sure if I even know you anymore” Anthony grumbled “Perhaps you never were the person you acted like, and now I got to know your true colors, you are nothing more than the same as the rest of ladies in the ton, all interested in titles and money, and nothing else”

Tears prickled in my eyes “Well I am glad I finally got to know what it is you think about me. You finally found out, what you think I am really like, before It was too late, did it not?”

“And to think I was finally going to agree to be your wife today, thought I made you wait too long, seems like it was the right decision to reject you from the start, after all” I walked away from him, opening the door and going outside

“Wait,” He called out but I ignored him “Y/n, wait”

I ran off towards the stables, and with just my luck, the sky was now cloudy, rain pouring down. I continued down my path, opening up the stables and grabbing a horse.

It did not matter whether it was prepared to be ridden for or not, I wanted to get away from the house, and Anthony, as quickly as possible. I climbed on and nudged the horse to start running.

“Y/n, wait!” Anthony called out opening the door and running after me “It is too dangerous, you can get hurt!”

Rain continued pouring, my body and clothes now wet, and blurring my vision. We trudged through the fields, I making the horse turn to the side, trying to loose Anthony who was now behind me, he had grabbed a horse and rode after me.

“Y/n!” I heard Anthony get closer

I looked around everywhere, trying to decipher where I could go to loose him. I saw a space between some trees, unfortunately, rocks and shrubbery blocked the path. I breathed in, trying to let go of my fear. I urged the horse to go faster, so I could be be able to jump over it.

“No, no!” Anthony yelled frightened “Do not do it!”

The horse stood up on its hind legs, the force of gravity and my fingers slipping off the reigns, made me fall off.

“Y/n!”

I hit my head on a rock, the impact making black spots cloud my eyes before everything darkened.

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ANTHONY‘S POV (3RD PERSON)

Anthony stared at Y/n’s body in shock, his blood went frozen cold, horror racking all over his body as he urged the horse to ride faster towards her. He did not even wait for the horse to stop before he jumped off, running quickly to Y/n.

He kneeled next to her, taking off his coat and covering her with it. “Stay with me. Come on, now” he went to pick her up, his hand touching her head, he stopped himself once he felt something coating his hand. He turned it around and saw blood, his face turned even more pale.

“Stay with me” Anthony pleaded, wrapping her hand around his neck and picking her up

He saw a carriage getting closer to them and walked towards it quickly.

He stumbled through the door of Lady Danbury’s house, Y/n on his arms. “Make room!” he yelled once everyone started to crowd around them

Hearing the commotion, Lady Mary, Lady Danbury, Kate and Edwina Sharma, walked down the stairs quickly, they gasped horrified once they saw Y/n unconscious

“Call the surgeon at once!” Anthony ordered carrying Y/n up stairs

He marched towards her bedchambers, laying her down on her bed, as maids, the surgeon, and her family crowded around the room.

“She has a cut on the back of her head” Anthony informed them “I kept pressure on it, but it need stitching”

“Miss Sharma? Can you hear me?” Anthony stood around the bed as the surgeon tended to Y/n, grabbing anything so he could occupy himself

“She needs more blankets. She is still shivering!” Anthony yelled exasperated

“Allow me to get to work” The surgeon pleaded to him

Anthony stepped back allowing the surgeon his space, his eyes on Y/n’s figure, desperation obvious in his face

“What happened?” Benedict Bridgerton entered the room “My valet saw you carrying Miss Sharma inside, is she alright?”

“I do not know” Anthony answers an unreadable look in his face

“Are you all right?” Benedict asked his brother, looking at him worriedly

Anthony looked away from Y/n’s body, and to the Sharma’s on the other side of the bed, crying and praying for Y/n’s safety and recovery. His eyes filled with tears, a lump forming in his throat as his he felt a weight on his chest.

“It is my fault” his lips trembled “It is all my fault” he felt it harder to breath, his chest heaves up and down quickly, trying to fill his lungs with air.

“Anthony?” Benedict called but Anthony did not hear him and stumbled out of the room, ignoring his brothers calls behind him, his emotions weighing him down, he could even hear his heart beating faster

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“No one cared to inform me that we have lost three staff in the last month?” Anthony Bridgerton said angrily as he walked into the drawing room of the Bridgerton house “These are precisely the things I must know about” his siblings looked up at him startled

“We are not the only ones affected by our ill reputation of late, Anthony” Lady Bridgerton mused

“Colin, would you care to inform me about anything?” Anthony said

“I do not take note of staff changes, brother” Colin answered confused

“What about our accounts?” Anthony raised his eyebrows “Apparently you do not take note of them either since I spent the last two days balancing our books, only to discover that you have taken out a rather large sum, whatever for?” Everyone looked at Colin intrigued

Colin swallowed under their stares “If you must know, I was exploring an investment with Lord Featherington”

“This is just what makes the difficulties in this household. No one gives any thought as to how it must be managed” the Viscount snapped

“He is one and twenty, brother” Benedict defended Colin

“Is no one in this family allowed to make their own decisions?” Eloise added

“You, keep your doodling” Anthony told Benedict “And do not ask me to speak of your activities, I would not know where to begin” he looked at Eloise scowling

Eloise looked at her brother angrily “May I be excused?” She stood up and left without another word

“I must go too” Colin said packing up his things “But do not worry, brother, I shall send you notice of every step I take today”

“Yes, doodling awaits, I suppose”

“I do have too much to breath”

“I have my Latin”

And now, there was only Lady Bridgerton and Anthony left in the drawing room. He sighed and pinched his nose in frustration.

“How is she?” Anthony looked at his mother

“Still not awake from the last I heard four days ago” he answered

“Have you not gone to see her? What if-“

“Have I not made it clear, I’ve been busy?” Anthony snaps at her

Lady Bridgerton sighed and walked closer to her son “I would be lying if I said I was not worries about you, Anthony” She told her son

The Viscount looked at her emotionlessly “I do not have time for this” he murmured

“Well..” Lady Danbury still looked at her son with care, giving him a small smile “ You might wish to make time" She then left

Anthony blinked his tears away, sighing sadly

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(Y/N’S BEDCHAMBERS IN LADY DANBURY’S HOUSEHOLD)

Y/n opened her eyes, the sun’s light hitting her eyes. She looked around the room and saw her sisters sitter on a chair near the bed

“Kate, Edwina?” She called out. Both sisters turned to look at her, happy tears instantly filling their eyes.

“Mama! Lady Danbury! Make haste!” Edwina yelled as they crowded around Y/n

Footsteps could be heard rushing to the room, Lady Mary and Lady Danbury entering the room soon after.

“Dearest?” Lady Mary questioned

“She's awake!” Kate said happily

“Oh!”

“Thank heavens. Send for the doctor!”

“Y/n” Lady Mary grins “Do you remember?”

“I remember the argument, and me riding in the park. And the fall” Y/n looked at her family sadly “I am so sorry”

“You must rest, bon, do not strain yourself” Kate smiled

Y/n smiled at them, before it faded, thoughts consuming her “Did Anthony come to see me?”

They all looked at each other doubtful before Lady Danbury spoke up “He rescued you in the park, gallantly, in fact. He brought you back here several days ago. Would not leave your bedside for a second” She smiled “Although, he stopped coming four days ago” Y/n nodded smiling sadly

“It is alright” She sighed “Well, tell me what I missed” they laughed

“A fall never takes off your love for gossip does it?” Y/n laughed at Kate's words

“Never” They all laughed once again

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(BACK AT THE BRIDGERTON HOME)

Anthony Bridgerton stood in his study, reading over papers that required his attention.

“I will join the family in the drawing room momentarily” He spoke up once he heard footsteps heading his way, one hundred percent sure it was his mother

“Anthony” Lady Bridgerton said, happiness evident in her tone

Anthony looked up from the papers, his heart starting to beat rapidly in his chest. He took one look at his mother and he knew. “She’s awake”

“Mrs. Wilson heard from one of the maids” She smiled

Anthony nodded, relief flooded through his body as he looked back at the papers. His lips trembled, his eyes filling with tears as he covered his face with both hands, crying silently.

His mother frowned sadly as she looked at him, sitting next to him on the davenport. Her own eyes filled with tears as she heard his heavy breathing, and the way he tried to control his cries.

“It is… unthinkable" Violet started “Finding someone like that. Someone you love.” Anthony uncovered his face, wiping away his tears

“I am so sorry” Violet sniffled “ I am so sorry that it was you who was with your father that day. And I am.. sorry for everything that happened in the days that followed. If I could go back and change thing… you have no idea how much I wish I could change everything”

“It is what I think about every night before I close my eyes, and then again every morning before I open them. It will never go away.” She cried

“I do not think that I can see her” Anthony whispered once they calmed down

“Losing Edmund was the most difficult time in my life, and the pain that I felt… beyond description. But there is one thing that has given me at least some modicum of solace. It is knowing that I would still choose the life I lead with him, each and every time.” Tears fell down their faces again “And I would undoubtedly feel the same pain I felt over again if I had to because real, true love, is worth it. No matter what.”

“Now, go be with her” Anthony nodded, composing himself before walking away determinedly, to go win back his woman.

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“ Lord Bridgerton” Y/n said once she saw Anthony walk into her room

“I am glad to see you are awake” Anthony handed her a bouquet of lilacs

“I hear it was you who found me and brought me home safe” Y/n grabbed the flowers

“I suppose I should be grateful for that first race I had with Miss Sharma and you, if it were not for that fateful moment, I do not know what would have happened” Y/n stares at him, the unreadable look on her face making him nervous

“Although, I was also told you have not come to see me since four days ago” She huffed

Anthony sat down on a chair near the bed “Yes, I am sorry for that, I was here the first days, never leaving your side in case you had woken up and you needed me there, but it had been a week and you had not woken up yet and-“ he sighed shakily, rubbing his face before looking back up at her, tears noticeable in his eyes “I was fearful of losing you, it was why I could not visit you anymore, I could not bring myself to after I remembered why it even happen in the first place” he sniffled, she sadly looked into his face as he explained himself.

“ Y/n, I am so sorry” he cried out, tears filling Y/n’s eyes as she saw him break down “ I am so sorry for what I said, I did not mean it, those cruel words I said, I know you are not like that, but I was jealous after I saw the Duke, thought he had taken you away from me, I also know that is no excuse to have acted like that, that is why I am going to spend the rest of my life making up for that, if you allow me”

“I love you” She looked at him shocked “ I’ve loved you from that moment I first saw you in the park, I’ve loved you in every dance, on every walk, every time we have been together and every time we have been apart, you do not have to accept, embrace it or allow it, but you must know it in your heart, and I am certain you feel the same way” tears streamed down both of their faces

“I love everything about you, your kindness, the way you smile and your eyes crinkled in the corner, how when you laugh, you try to hide your beautiful laugh behind your hands because your are insecure about it, but I assure it, it is the most beautiful sound I have ever heard in my life. I love how you bite your lip when you are nervous, or how your eyebrows furrow when you are sad. I love how you tried to help me win over your sister when it was so clearly breaking you inside, that just shows how supportive you are, and how you put everyone’s happiness above your own. Or how when we slept together and I felt your skin next to mine, they way your lips tasted, I felt like everything I have ever dreamed of became true. Because there is no where in this damn world I’d rather be than with you, and you are my heaven” Y/n rested her forehead on top of his

“I forgive you, Anthony” Y/n whispered pulling away, wiping away her tears “You do not even have to prove yourself because I forgave you the moment I left, I was hurt, yes, but I needed time.”

“And… I love you too” She smiled, Anthony smiled back happily

“I want a life that suits us both. I know I am imperfect, but I will humble myself before you because I cannot imagine my life without you, and that is why I wish to marry you, so what do you say? Will you marry me?”

She looked at him “You do know I will find every way I can to annoy you, and I will still boast about how I was right about Nectar and High Flyer, even if it was months ago” Anthony laughed, looking at her adoringly

“And I will not even complain, just to make you happy” He smiled

“Then yes, I will marry you!” Anthony cheered

Y/n laughed as Anthony picked her up from the bed, twirling her around in circles before putting her down and pulling her into a kiss. She laughed into the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him even closer.

They did not even pay attention to her family who was, not so secretly spying from the door, nor to their grumbles and playfully gags they made once Y/n and Anthony kissed. Although they could not deny how happy they were for them and how in loved they are.

They will finally have the happy ending they longed for.

This is it folks, we are done with Tales Of A Heart, but don't worry, there will be an epilogue + a few more bonus chapters.

Another thing, I want to thank all of you for the support and love you have given my story, when I first posted the first part, I didn't think anyone would like it, but one person like it and then more and more. I am grateful for each and everyone of you, I love you all♡♡♡♡

Epilogue

Summary: a happy ending

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Sharma Sister! Reader

Word count: 1k

Warnings: unedited, fluff, Anthony being a simp

Series Masterlist

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“Oh god Anthony” I moaned out loudly I reached my climax, Anthony thrust in and out faster and faster, trying to reach his own peak

“Oh” Anthony groaned as he gave one last thrust

We breathed heavily as we stared at each other, I still on top of him. We laughed as I pulled him into a kiss, he kissed back as he pulled me down onto our bed, getting on top of me.

“mmm” Anthony moaned “Viscountess” I moaned in respond

“Husband” I smile biting my lip

“You seem to have outdone yourself today” I hummed as he kissed down my neck

“Yes, well, my duties are particularly important to me, and of course, I cannot deny my husband what he desires, can I?” I laughed

“Perhaps you would like to go again” he suggested “Seeing as you are so very dutiful” he kissed down my body, to my stomach where he stopped

“I am pretty sure little baby Bridgerton will not mind” He smiled happily looking up at me "and you are looking absolutely beautiful" I laughed

Yes, I am currently with child, four months to be exact, Anthony was delighted when I told him, even cried, which he always denies that he did not but we all know the truth

“I am sure baby Bridgerton will not” I pull him up to kiss him “ But, it would be dutiful to meet your family outside before they realize we are ignoring them”

He groaned kissing me again “They will not mind, we are recently married”

“Yes, of course, recently married only like 5 months ag- oh!” I gasped when he surged forward once again, burying himself to the hilt inside of me “Maybe they can wait a little more” I moved my hips along with his

“That is just what I thought, my love” He laughed into my mouth as I started to moan loudly with each thrust, holding tightly onto his hand.

“Oh!” I gasped once he pulled me on top of him before laughing

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“Yes! Look at you, you’re walking!” is what we heard as we stepped outside 15 minutes later

I gasped excitedly as I saw baby Auggie walking towards his mother and surged forward towards them “Oh baby Auggie!” I said in awe

“Careful, love, you might hurt yourself” I ignored Anthony’s overprotective self and approached Daphne, who already held baby Auggie out towards me.

Yes, it has also become a custom to whenever I see Daphne’s son, I take him away from whoever is holding him, and they do not even complain, knowing how emotional I can be if I do not hold him. The mood changes comes with the pregnancy, I guess.

I hold Auggie in my arms, careful not to put him over my bump, I coo at him as Anthony approaches me and puts his arm over my shoulder

“Finally!” Eloise huffs “Thought you would never come down, do not worry, we only waited like six hours”

“Six is nothing when you are a newlywed” Daphne smiles

“Might we begin playing?” Colin suggests

“Dear, your are positively glowing” Violet remarks happily as I hand Auggie over to her.

“It is the pregnancy” I smile putting a hand over my bump, caressing, Violet nods smiling

“Beautiful, nonetheless” a blush comes onto my cheeks at her words making her chuckle

“Right, we’ve all picked but left the mallet of death” I heard Eloise say behind me

“For me!” Anthony yelled rushing over and grabbing the mallet of death.

I turned around and huffed “Not fair, I was not even paying attention”

“Tough luck, my love, should have paid attention” Anthony shrugged

I pouted at him, as everyone watched with amusement, already knowing what was the outcome of this. Anthony stared at my face as tears filled my eyes, before he huffed.

“Alright, here, please do not cry” Anthony pleaded handing me the mallet, I grinned, tears now gone as I walked away from him

“Thank you, husband dearest” Anthony stared back at me shocked as everyone laughed

“What did jus- you know what, I will not even ask, I have learned not to” Anthony grumbled

“Probably keep to pink, Anthony” Daphne said amused “I rather think it will match the shade of your embarrassment when you use it, now let us begin” We all move towards the field, Anthony coming up behind me, wrapping his arms around me.

“You know, I am not sure I like those little tricks you use” Anthony murmured into my ears

“Well tough luck, my love” I mocked his words making him chuckle “You will always give in”

“Hmm,” he kissed my cheek “I am certain it will not work for long,”

“Of course it will, have you not heard the saying ‘happy wife, happy life’?” I turned my head to look at him

“yes, well, I do not like tears coming down that beautiful face” he pulls me into a kiss "You are beautiful"

“You sap” I tease , he laughs and brings me into a kiss once again, I wrap my hands around his neck as he pulls me closer, careful not to squish me into him

“Now, let us go, I have a husband to defeat” I say smiling mischievously

“Oh really?”

“Yes really”

“Well, game on, wife of mine”

Bonus Chapter 1

Summary: Here comes the bride...

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Sharma Sister! Reader

Word count: 3.3k

Warnings: Smut!! (Do not read if you are not comfortable, although you can skip it as it is only in the second half, divided by this ●●●●●) fluff, unedited, Anthony not being patient and wanting to see his future bride, simp Anthony

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“Come on, y/n, we still have to do your hair and dress you!” Edwina complained as I took a bath to calm my nerves

“Oh leave her be, Edwina, it is completely normal to be nervous before the wedding, take your time, dearest” Mama called our

“Mama, we do not have time! The wedding is in two hours-”

“Edwina” I groaned “You are more demanding than me, and I am the bride” I stood up from the bath tub, a maid holding out a towel for me

I approached them, Edwina gesturing for me to sit down on the nearest chair once I stepped into my chemise “Now sit here, and let them do your hair, Lord knows if we will be able to finish in time, we have to dress you still, and get to the chapel” Edwina gasped horrified “The queen will be there if that is not enough pressure already, the whole ton also. No, there will not be enough-“

“Edwina” Kate cut her off laughing “calm yourself” Edwina huffed before nodding

An hour later, the ladies maid was done with my hair, putting the finishing touches, when we heard a knock on the door. We looked at each other confused before Kate went and slightly opened the door

“What are you doing here?!” Kate exclaimed “You cannot see her before the wedding, it is bad luck”

“Oh come on,” I heard Anthony huff, I stood up and walked closer to the door, still wearing my chemise “What wrong could happen? Just let me see her for a moment”

“No, now go, we still have a lot to do” Kate denied closing the door

“Kate, it is fine” I assured her, waving her off “Let me talk to him” Kate pursued her lips, nodding

“Just do not let him see you”

“Hey” I murmured once i opened the door slightly, enough for me to see his figure

“Hey” I could hear the smile in his voice “How are you feeling?”

“Nervous” I chuckle sheepishly

“Yes, I imagine so” he laughed “I am too, but it goes away when I remember that I will marry the woman I love wholeheartedly” I smile resting my forehead against the door, still hiding behind it

“I actually came to give you something, on behalf of my mother, she said she was going to give you it, and obviously, I could not pass the opportunity to see you, or well, hear you since I am not allowed too” I laughed “Give me your hand”

I put my hand out between the free space of the door towards him, I felt him grab my hand, caressing it gently before putting something on my palm.

“It was my mother’s, she wore it on her wedding with my father, and thought it would look good with your wedding dress. Said it was a tradition to give it to the bride to be of the first born, my grandma gave it to her, and now she is passing it down to you” I brought my hand back inside and saw the most beautiful necklace ever “Not sure why a necklace is so important for the wedding but, oh well, women stuff I guess” he chuckled

“It is beautiful” i said in awe

“And it will be even more beautiful on you. Now I will go, I can feel your family’s annoyance through the door”

“Alright” I hummed still concentrated on the necklace

He stood silent, I was even convinced he was already gone before he spoke up “I love you” I bit my lip smiling

“I love you too” I murmured

“Y/n, come on, we have less than a hour and a half” Kate urged, I sighed and turned around, looking at them annoyed “ Do not look at us like that, you will have plenty of time to see him after you are wed” that brightened me mood once again.

In no time, I was fully ready and just waiting for the time to walk through those doors.

“Now,” mama started “ I am sure you do not need to have the talk about your wedding night, seeing as you already…. Based on what you confessed” a blush formed on my face, she smiled as Kate and Edwina entered first, being my bridesmaids

“You look beautiful” Mama teared up “Who ever thought you would be the first to get married… My daughter will be the best Viscountess there will ever be”

“I doubt it” I denied “I am certain no one can surpass Lady Bridgerton”

She shook her head “ You will try your best, now, Let us go get you married” mama smiled

We walked down the aisle, I held onto mama’s arms tightly, my heart beating rapidly in my chest as everyone stood up watching us, happy smiles on their faces.

I looked at each and everyone before turning to look at the one face that only mattered to me, Anthony’s. He stared at me, a grin on his face as I walked closer and closer to him.

He held out his hand towards me once I approached him, I grabbed it, stepping onto the podium, he dropped my hand as we stared forward at the archbishop.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to join together this man and this woman, in holy matrimony,” The archbishop started “ It is said that, marriage hath in it less of beauty, and more of safety than the single life-“ I breathed out shakily, tuning out the archbishop’s voice, Anthony intertwining his pinky finger with mine

Tears came onto my eyes as I swallowed, thinking back to everything we had to go through to get where we were right now. All the pain I suffered, the heartbreak, all the tears I cried over him, overpowered by all the smiles he gave me, the million times he made me laugh, the way he confides in me in a way he could never with anyone else, the little things about me he always pays attention to, it is the little things that matter. It was all worth it, just to get to be his wife , and I would gladly do it all over again if I was asked to.

Because Anthony is my soul mate, and I cannot think of a world where I lived without him. He is the air that I breathed, everything I could have asked for in a man and so much more.

We faced each other, I smiled tearfully at him, a tear falling down my eye. “You are going to make me cry” He whispered, his own eyes filling with tears, I chuckled sniffling

He took of my glove carefully, putting my wedding band on my ring finger, looking into my eyes.

“In the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, amen. I now pronounce you, man and wife”

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THIRD PERSON POV

And now they were in a carriage, traveling the short distance between Bridgerton House, where the reception had been held, and Anthony’s private residence, which she supposed could no longer be referred to as “bachelor’s lodgings.”

Y/n nibbled on her lip, looking down at her lap, wringing her hands as she thought about what was to come after the honeymoon days were over. Anthony followed the line of her gaze and placed one of his large hands over both of hers. She went still instantly at his comforting touch.

“Are you nervous?” he inquired.

“Did you think I wouldn’t be?” she replied chuckling nervously

He smiled in response. “There is nothing to fear.” He then laughed “Nothing we have not done before”

Y/n burst in laughter “yes, of course” her laughter faded, “but that is not what I am nervous about. It is about what is to come after we leave, I have not the slightest clue on how to be a Viscountess or manage a household, there is much to be nervous about”

His smile broadened. “Touché, my dear wife.” He caressed her hand “But I am sure you will marvelously, and my mother will be there to help you if you desire so”

Y/n swallowed convulsively. It was strange to be someone’s wife, although exciting to be Anthony’s wife “That is a relief” she countered. “Are you nervous? Of the things marriage will bring? Or that you never know how it might turn out”

He leaned in toward her, his dark eyes hot and heavy with the promise of things to come. “Oh, desperately,” he murmured. He closed the rest of the distance between them, his lips finding the sensitive hollow of her ear. “My heart is pounding,” he whispered.

“We should wait” Y/n moaned as Anthony kissed down her neck

He nibbled on her neck. “Wait for what?”

“To get to the lodgings”

The carriage rolled to a halt when a liveried footman rushed forward and attempted to open the door, Anthony yanked it back shut, never once taking his eyes off of her face.

“Or we could stay here, makes things much more exciting, does it not? The prospect that anyone could open the door at any given moment” Anthony suggested

“Open the door ”Y/n chuckled amusedly, he let go of the door handle, and the door swung open, revealing the faces of two footmen who were obviously trying very hard not to look curious. Y/n remained silent as Anthony helped her down and led her into the house.

His household staff was assembled in the small entry hall, and Y/n murmured her greetings as each member was introduced to her by the butler and housekeeper. The staff wasn’t very extensive, as the house was small by ton standards, but the introductions took a good twenty minutes.

He led her upstairs into his bedchambers, he did not even wait until she was fully settled as he closed the door shut and slammed her into the nearest wall, covering her mouth with his.

Y/n kissed back with just as much passion, wrapping her arms around Anthony’s neck, pulling him even closer. Anthony pulls away, gesturing towards the bed.

She goes and kneels upon the king-sized bed with love in her eyes, a passion reflected as he drinks in the sight of her, his lawful wedded wife. He stares in adoration at her eyes filled with joy, at her curls cascading, at her heart-shaped face smiling. Cleavage bared above the white corset. Like every bride on her wedding day, she's beautiful.

“You look so beautiful, I am a lucky man” Anthony remarks, love evident on his face

A warm summer breeze blows through the open window, where outside the sun tips down below the horizon. The movement of the curtains, the noise of the wind through them, is the only thing to break the silence.

Then he goes to her.

Anthony takes her hand, and their ringed fingers entwine as his other arm, he loops around her, drawing her towards him. Their kiss is passionate, yet gentle.

Her husband peels each item off her as if unwrapping a present, even as she unbuckles his belt and draws down his trousers. They kiss one another as they do it, sometimes gentle, sometimes fierce. Soon she is revealed. Her breasts bounce with the deep breaths of her excitement, Anthony can feel her pulse racing as he caresses them.

Sweet moans part the silence as he runs his fingers across her nipples, then slides one into his hungry mouth. Her back arches with pleasure as he smiles around her breast at the taste of her. Now his hands are free to roam, to explore the curve of her behind. Heart-shaped like her face, firm and bouncy, and all of it for him. His fingers sink into her buttocks as he squeezes them making Y/n moan.

“God, Anthony” Her heart pounds as his hungry mouth swaps to the other breast, as his hands roam all over her, her own fingers entwine themselves

She wraps her legs around him, squeezing tight, urging him on. His treatment of her nipples becomes more intense, almost verges on pain, and she loves every second. But there are other places that need his mouth's attention, so she guides his head up and out of her bountiful cleavage towards her face. His kisses run up her breasts and beyond, then their lips meet once again.

Their tongues dance together. They take turns dominating, breathless in their passion. As they go on, he settles her down onto the bed, pressing down atop of her. Their lips part again and they gulp down air, staring into one another's eyes. He is poised above her, every inch of him tense with desire, whilst she lies below invitingly with her soft hair spread out over plump white pillows.

Time seems to hang still.

“You are just so perfect”

It is then that his hand slips down to her inside thigh, and draws the bottoms she wears aside. He slides it over her womanly hips, her firm thighs, her slender legs, and lets it fall to the bed like everything else. Then he leans over her again and kisses her once more, whilst his finger finds her entrance and neatly slips inside.

“Oh!” Y/n gasps into his mouth

She bucks her hips against his hand, only for his lips to claim hers with redoubled intensity. His finger pumps back and forth, the pleasure making her writhe and squeal, but she knows this is only the beginning. She feels giddy just thinking about it.

She can hardly wait.

She slides one of her hands down his body, grabbing onto his manhood, Anthony hisses into her mouth once he feels her hand grab onto him, Y/n giggles at the response. It feels good to make him gasp, to make him feel some of the pleasure he's giving her.

The thought makes her lust spike, puts a needy edge on her kisses, and just as she's getting impatient the man of her dreams changes tack. Withdrawing his now soaking finger, he runs it over her neat little folds, searching for something, seeking out the seat of her desire.

She pushes his head away from her then, breaking their kiss. His finger teases her clitoris as she stares into his eyes, her need blazing behind her gaze.

With her cheeks flushed, breasts heaving, she spreads her legs and says one word, expressing a thousand pages of lust in one whispered syllable

"I need you now, Anthony."

He slams forward into her, buried to the tilt, making her gasp in surprise before it turns into moans as he continues slamming back and forwards. They moan together in ecstasy, both shaking, joined at last after all the teasing.

"I love you." Anthony groans, looking intensely into her eyes

“I love you” Y/n replied pulling him into a passionate kiss

She's the most soft, snug and deliciously tight thing in the universe. He's a huge, throbbing, steely-hard fulfilment with every thrust. The pair of them are in heaven. They hold hands, wedding rings glinting as he begins to move even more harshly inside of her, two bodies becoming one in the night.

The two of them quickly find a rhythm, it's like they were made for one other. His thrusts become steady, meeting her rolling hips with every downward stroke, and soon they're fucking as if they've been doing it all their lives.

Her pleasure is building steadily, excitement quickening as she rises, soars high, trusting in the ultimate fulfilment. “Oh God! Oh God!, Anthony!” She screams out loudly “Yes, just like that, God I love you!” moving her hips even faster.

Anthony grabs onto her hand, holding it tightly while he drives quickly into her, groans and moans filling the previously quiet place. He stands up from the bed, still intertwined with her and slams her into the nearest wall, continuing with his ongoing rhythm from before.

Y/n gasps at the new position, wrapping her legs tightly around his waist, burrowing her face into his neck as she felt the bumps of the wall digging onto her back, scratching onto her skin with every thrust, making her moan loudly. It all making it more euphoric.

“Oh god!” the sound was muffled by Anthony’s neck

The sound of the joy he gives her, the smell of her scent and her warm, sweet skin, the feel of her wrapped around him as he fucks her for the second time, is overwhelming.

But it is the pure pleasure on her face that he is starting to adore seeing. He feels detached from the world and engulfed in her beauty all at once, as if she's put him in a trance.

She's so close. She's almost there. One last act, one more little push will take her higher than the clouds and over the edge into ecstasy. She arches her back and stares needily aat Anthony then guides his hand back to her clit. A few touches. A few more strokes.

“I am so close! Yes, just like that! Anthony!”

And then she's there. She screams, throwing back her head, thrashing and trembling against Anthony’s arms. Her wedding night orgasm is upon her and it is even better than the first time Anthony and her slept together, it puts tears in her eyes from the sheer glorious bliss of it all.

It's almost too much for the Viscount to take but he makes it, stays steadfast, fucks her through her orgasm until the tremors of pleasure subside. It's his duty to make this night the best he possibly can for her.

And when she is done, she grabs him and pulls him into a kiss, wrapping her legs around him as tightly as she can, and whispers her love into his ear. He turns around and walks back to bed, falling down into it, careful not to crush her as he moves above her.

His thrusts become frantic, lose their rhythm, speed up until he's a bucking, thrashing mess of a man, until finally, his voice rings out loud and desperate in the night.

“Y/n, God, so good, so so good” he groans out, with one last throb, he erupts into her, losing every drop he has, pressing her down into the soft mattress and striving frantically to get as far inside her, as close to her as he possibly can. He roars as he reaches his peak, losing a groaning shout as his new wife drains his heavy balls.

When it's done he slumps down, spent, gasping for breath as hard as she is. They lie beside one another, gulping in heavy breaths, and then the reality of it hits them.

They've consummated their marriage.

"I love you." They both whisper at once, laughing as their words crash into one another. There are happy tears in their eyes. The beautiful wife settles into her husband's arms, snuggling up against him.

“To a new life, with you by my side, my beautiful Y/n” Anthony murmurs, kissing her forehead before closing his eyes.

And slowly, happily, they fall asleep.

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This is kind off how I pictured the dress and necklace to be like, but you can picture it however you like

Happy Marriage

Summary: Is marriage really what you thought it is?

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x fem!reader

Word count: 2.8k

Warnings: angst, arguments, unhappy marriage, Anthony is a dick, unedited

A/n: Here is a little one shot to occupy yourself while I finish the next bonus chapter of Tales Of A Heart, enjoy!!

Inspired by The Crown

Masterlist

Marriage was the best thing that could happen to you.

Your husband was very attentive, he paid attention to every little thing about you, brought you flowers everyday, even if you didn’t ask for it. He spent time with you when he was done with his Viscount duties, he was also very funny, and the most important, he loves you.

On weekends, you would spend time together on the gardens, having picnics, looking up at the sky, your hands intertwined. You would speak about the future, about your Viscountess duties, about future children and how you would raise them to be the best person they could be.

And at nights, you would sleep tangled up in your bed, your head on his bare chest, hearing his heart beating while he had his arms wrapped around you tightly, scared that at any given moment, you would disappear and it would all be dream, that he never really got marry you, that he would wake up on the desk of the study he used to spend hours and hours working to death.

He would kiss your head, thanking the gods above that you fell in love with him and accepted his proposal. Anthony would then turn your face up towards him and kiss you. That same kiss starting a long, passionate night like many nights before, leaving you barely being able to function from the tiredness next morning.

Life was wonderful.

Or at least that’s what you thought marriage would be like before you married Anthony Bridgerton.

The image of the perfect marriage engraved in your mind, was shattered the moment after your wedding night, when Anthony wanted nothing to do with you.

After a night of hot sex, he was gone. The perfect gentleman you knew while he was courting you was gone, and instead was replaced by a man who was cold, unfeeling and who would belittle you anytime you talked to him. But what did you expect?

From the start, you knew he was in love with Sienna Rosso, a penniless opera singer without any title. But you had foolishly thought that after a while of getting to know you, he would get over her and finally love you.

At least that is what your mama and Lady Bridgerton assured you when you voiced your worries. And you believed them. After all, who could know better than your mama, who had gone through a similar situation with your father, both who are very in love still to this day. And Lady Bridgerton, Anthony was her son, she knew him better than anyone else.

Lady Bridgerton encouraged Anthony to start courting you, telling him all about how such a nice girl you were, how you were very intelligent and how beautiful you are. You would make the perfect viscountess.

The viscount, sick of her comments and demands, accepted and spent one evening with you, unfortunately for him, that evening turned into several evenings, and suddenly, you were on a chapel getting married.

Anthony was angry, he loved Sienna, he wanted to marry her although he knew it was impossible.

He liked Y/n at the start, thought she was a nice girl, but as time passed on, and with both the Bridgerton’s and Y/l/n’s already planning their wedding, he started to dislike her, maybe even hate her as he knew that she was taking the place which he always thought was Sienna’s.

Again, impossible, but that is what he thought.

Y/n was earning her families affection with every moment she spent with them, the servants at the Bridgerton household adored her, and let's not speak about the ton. She was the perfect viscountess. And he hated it.

He would still speak with Sienna despite courting Y/n, and he would never stop. He would tell Sienna all about Y/n, How pathetic she was, how he could not stand her and how everyone liked her, and how he hated having to pretend to love her in front of everyone.

Sienna would comfort him, telling Anthony how it does not matter, they could still be together even while being married to Y/n. She would then kiss him to distract him from his thoughts and pull him into what she does best, sex, thus starting the secret affair once again.

After Y/n and Anthony got married, it only turned worse. In the day, he always seemed to be busy whenever Y/n wanted to spend time with him, and at nights, he would leave to be with Sienna.

When Y/n found out about his affair with her, arguments started, and it all turned into even more chaos. They slept in separate rooms, even if Anthony still denied the affair at the start.

Who knew that the way she thought marriage would be was far from it. It was a living nightmare.

Being together at balls, pretending to be very in love in front of the ton, and when everyone asked when a new Bridgerton addition was happening, they would laugh and simply say they wanted more time alone.

And at home? Still more arguments.

Thankfully, it was late at night and his family were already in their rooms asleep, when a new argument started in his study.

“Can you stop with your whining?” Anthony exclaimed rubbing his forehead harshly “ God, there is not a moment of peace in this house whenever you are around, not to mention that you cannot be the wife everyone said you would be, you do not even perform your wife duties you should to your husband-“

“Is that why you keep on going back to her?” You cut him off and at his confused look you said, “I am not even going to say her name. You already know who I am talking about, seeing as you always seem to want to go to the opera, Only god knows why”

“What does she have to do with this?” Anthony said looking away

“That is what I keep on asking myself, but obviously she has a lot to do with everything because you cannot seem to leave her alone!” You snapped, angry tears forming in her eyes

“She is a friend, has been for a very long time, long before you were even in the picture." Anthony sighed "She is just that, a friend” Anthony lied

You scoffed “Oh please, you visit her all the time, gift her flowers whenever you do-“

“A friendly gesture-“ Anthony tried to speak

“On our wedding night, you came late at night before we consummated our marriage, you said you had somewhere important to go before you came to me, I can now suspect where you had been.” Anthony sighs walking away and to his bedchambers, You follow after him, still talking.

“I saw you gift her a necklace one evening at the opera, I saw how you looked at her while you put it on her, later on, in your study I found some letters you exchanged with her," You held on to his arm, wanting him to listen to you "Letter after letter, filled with sweet things and words made out of a passion I am not getting” You cried out enraged

They exchanged more cruel words before Y/n left him, heading to her own bedchambers, were she cried the whole night, cursing her luck where she had to be stuck in a loveless marriage.

“I was just helping some kids” You exclaimed as Anthony tugged her into the carriage “What is wrong with that?” you asked

“Everyone was watching! What will the ton think now, they were kids from the streets-“ Anthony said angrily

You looked at him in disbelief “They needed help! Was I supposed to just watch while men scared them?-“

“ The only kids you should be looking out for are your own” Anthony cut you off

“Yeah, kids we do not have” You sighed frustrated “I never thought you would manage but you are really succeeding now!”

“succeeding in what exactly?” Anthony scoffs

“I am really starting to loathe you!” You exclaimed tears brimming in your eyes, tears which you held back

“And what is taking you so long?” He exclaimed, “ I have loathed you since the moment everyone started to like you, I have loathed you since the moment everyone wanted me to marry you, I have loathed you since the moment in which you were taking away the place which was meant to be Sienna’s!”

“She can never be with you! You know why? Because she has no title, she is only just a penniless opera singer, one you can never be with without the ton looking down at you and exiling you from society!” You snarled as the carriage came to a stop, informing them that they were home.

You got down from the carriage angrily, Anthony still stayed inside, fuming from your previous words. You turned around when you saw that Anthony was not following you.

“I am heading to my private lodgings for the night, I cannot manage being in the same place with you any longer” Anthony said looking to the other side

“Of course,” You scoffed “Do not bother lying to me, I know where you really are going. I am sure she will know exactly how to make you happy” You slammed the carriage door shut and marched off inside the house

It had been a few months into the marriage when Lady Bridgerton and your mama saw that your marriage was not as perfect as you both made it out to be.

They were worried, they thought everything had been going alright but one night after you had gone crying to your mama, it made them realize it was quite the opposite

It happened on an evening where a few married lady friends and you, were at the opera. A night where a certain opera singer was going to be performing.

Anthony could not come, he was busy looking over a few papers that required his attention. And even if he could, his mother would not have let him, after all, it was a ladies night.

Sienna was 2 booths over, speaking to a few gentlemen, but you could see she was looking over at you, paying attention to the conversation you were having.

“He is the best husband I could have asked for, he spends quite a lot of time with me, and he is amazing at everything, if you know what I mean” your friends laughed teasingly, making comments at how lucky you were, you could see Sienna feeling unsettled over what you said. “Yes, and the other night he said how happy he was that he married me,”

“How could he not? He has the perfect wife right here, the perfect Viscountess, good thing he did not marry the one he was previously rumored to be with” one of your friends said

“Thank god, he did not. Imagine, a Viscount and an opera singer? The horror” another friend mentioned, all of them started to laugh as they looked at Sienna.

You could see Sienna walking away from embarrassment, you laughed along with your friends, but you could not help and feel horrible about their comments on Sienna. No matter how much Anthony and her have been hurting you, you were not the kind of person to speak incredibly ill about someone, much less in front of her.

Once the opera had finished, you had returned back to the Bridgerton household and walked into your bedchambers. You changed into your bed wear and slept.

The next morning, you awoke and stayed in your bed, grabbing a book from the nightstand next to the bed, and immersing yourself in it.

You spent a few hours on it, it was after all, the only release you had, the only way to shift to a world where you can escape yours.

You were startled when your door slammed open, Anthony entering the room, calm, but you were able to tell he was enraged from the way his jaw and hands were clenched.

“What a surprise” You hummed, reverting back to your book “What brings you to my bedchambers, husband?”

“I was out” He snarled

“I do not seem to remember asking,” You huffed pursuing your lips“Why do you think it is such a good idea to inform me of your whereabouts now?”

“Your exquisite selfishness,” He starts, you look up at him confused “your motives, the calculated, vulgarity of your antics-“

“Pray tell me what you are on about now” You murmured

“It is all over Lady Whistledown, what you and your friends said at the opera last night, all that you said about Sienna, how do you think this makes us look?”

“I did not say anything about her, they were the ones that said those harsh things, not me” You defended yourself

“It is all the same, you said it or not, that scandal is going to harm us anyway, all because of your selfish actions” He argued

“Once again, I did not say anything about her, all I said was how ‘good of a husband’ you were, so they would not suspect anything” You stood up from your bed “I did you a favor honestly, god knows you are anything but a husband, you never show affection in front of anyone, not even a single hug”

“I hug who I want to, I hug who I love” He snapped “Especially when they are affected by the selfish mistakes of others and need cheering up”

“What is this really on about?” You questioned

“Sienna”

You scoffed angrily “Why would I care about her?”

“Because I care about her!” Anthony yelled “Morning, noon, and night, I care about her, and your stupid words hurt her” your eyes filled with tears

“I did not say any-“ You tried to explain yourself

He shook his head angrily and paced down my bedchambers “ Sienna is who I love, who I desire, and she is my priority , and I will not, I repeat, I will not, let you hurt her, that is where my loyalty lies”

“And not the woman you married!” You yelled, tears stung your eyes

“I did not ask to marry you!” He yelled back “I did not even like you, I was forced into this, so do not ask me to feel anything for you because I will not. I would loathe my life the day I start to”

“Any fairytale you had concerning our marriage, the hope you had that your husband would love and care for you, that you would live a happy life alongside him, I suggest you rethink that, because I am not it. And I would never be” he left the room, slamming the door harshly behind him.

You looked around the room before dressing up yourself and walking down the stairs, hailing a carriage to go to your mama’s home.

You stared numbly at the houses as they passed by, before the carriage stopped at her house, you stepped out, thanking the footman and telling him you would spend the night.

You entered your former home and walked to the drawing room, the one where you knew your mother would be, just as she always was doing her favorite thing, painting.

As you walked the halls of the Y/l/n household, your chest started to sting, remembering everything you passed in this very house, all the happy memories you made alongside your parents and siblings.

How you wished to go back to those times.

You opened the drawing room doors and entered, your mama looked up from her painting and smiled at your figure, it faded once she saw your face.

“Darling? What is wrong?” You stayed silent at her question, walking closer to her “You know you can tell me anything, I will always be here for you” That is all it took before you broke down crying, falling to the floor

Your mom rushed to you, hugging you close to her body, her face contorting in pain as she saw you crying, completely broken.

You could not help it, everything you bottled up since the start of your marriage came crashing down. All the pain you feel whenever Anthony says harsh things, or when you see him coming home late at night from where you knew was Sienna’s house.

The pain from your husband not loving you as you wished for him to do, your perfect marriage not existing, one where you thought you would be happy in, where by now, you would have a child on the way, your husband there for whatever you need.

It hurt.

It hurt to know that you would never feel the love which your parents shared, the one which you knew Violet Bridgerton had with the late Viscount.

It hurt even more entering this house, the one where you experienced love since you were born, where every single corner was filled with laughter and was very homely and cozy.

The opposite of what the Bridgerton household was, of course, the rest of the Bridgertons were there, but they all had things to do. Laughter was not heard all over the place, nor was it filled with happy memories.

Your sobs turned even louder when you remembered the argument with your husband.

Happy marriage, indeed.

A/n:Currently there's only Fem!reader

One shots:

Happy Marriage

Regrets (Happy Marriage part 2)

Affection

Always and forever

Excuses

Love me again, please

Third time's the charm

More coming soon..

Series:

Tales Of A Heart (completed)

Serendipity (on hold)

One shots:

Energetic

Series:

None yet...

One shots:

You're absolutely perfect

Series:

None yet...

Other characters coming soon...

Currently I'm only writing for the Bridgerton men (mostly for Anthony)

So if you there's anything you want to see for any of them, feel free to request.

Bonus Chapter 2

Summary: A new Bridgerton comes into the family

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Sharma Sister! Reader

Word count: 2.8k

Warnings: unedited, pregnancy, child birth, umm probably is not that good since I have obviously zero experience with pregnancy, nor do I really know how childbirth was in those times, everything is based on what i saw from videos, happy ending, most probably is cringy but oh well

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When you found out:

It was 2 months after your wedding, Anthony and you had gotten back from your honeymoon 2 weeks ago.

One sunny afternoon. You had woken up a few hours ago and were currently taking a walk around the garden, accompanied by Edwina and one of your ladies maid.

“How was Paris?” Edwina asked curiously “Was it as beautiful as everyone says it is? Oh how I wish I could go there. I heard the parks are just as beautiful, and all the French men, c’est magnifique, imaginez tous les beaux hommes” you laughed at her

“Might I remind you, you are engaged, I am sure your intended would not appreciate you speaking about other men” You looked at her teasingly “ But to answer your question, yes, the men were very handsome. Do not tell Anthony I said that” They both laughed, shaking their heads.

“Louis will not care, he knows I am interested in him only” She looked up suddenly “Speaking off, I am still shocked he asked me to call him by his given name only 2 weeks into courting, he certainly does not like formality”

You stayed silent and stopped in your tracks when an ill feeling overcame you. You held on to your stomach when nausea hit you.

“deedee?” Edwina questioned when she saw you stopped walking “Are you alright?”

You sighed when the nausea went away “Yes, I just felt a little nauseous , it is gone now, nothing to worry about” You waved her worried look off and continued walking

“Are you sure you are alright? You rarely get sick”

“Yes, Bon, nothing to worry ab-“ You suddenly stopped yourself feeling dizzy, holding on to her arm for support “ Maybe we should head back inside, I am not feeling so well”

“I told you, it must be serious, you do not get sick easily” She gasped “ What if it is a disease?”

She spoke all the way back inside, suggesting several things that could be wrong with you. You denying each and everyone of them.

“Hey, you are back early. I would have thought you would not be back for at least 20 minutes more” Lady Violet Bridgerton mused when you entered the drawing room

“Y/n was feeling sick, perhaps we should call for the doctor, she rarely gets sick” Edwina replies

“I am fine, bon” You shook your head before you covered your mouth with your hand, running to the nearest door to go outside.

You heard your sister and Violet rushing behind you. You knelt down next to the grass and lowered your head, vomiting everything you had for breakfast.

You groaned once you were finished, wiping your mouth. Your sister rubbed your back soothingly, while Violet helped you stand up and ushered you back to the drawing room

“How long has this been happening?” Violet asked, a knowing look in her eye.

“I have been feeling sick ever since Anthony and I came back from our honeymoon. I figured it was just a bug I caught from the journey back home, it would have maybe gone away in the next days but it has been 2 weeks and I am still feeling ill” You replied sitting on a chair

“Perhaps dear, we should call the doctor”

☆☆☆☆☆☆

Edwina, Violet and your mama looked at you expectantly when the doctor retired from the room

“Well?” Lady Mary questioned

“What did he say?” Edwina added.

You grinned happily, looking up them. “I am with child”

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

When Anthony found out:

“Anthony” Y/n spoke up as she entered his study.

Anthony looked up from the papers on his hands and smiled at her “Hello love”

“I need to speak to you” She played with her hands nervously

“I am all ears” He put all his attention on her “What is it?” He smiled comfortingly

“Anthony” Y/n stayed in front of the desk, looking at him seriously, Anthony’s smile faded at her serious face.

He stood up and rounded the desk to get closer to her, he grabbed her hands “Is everything okay?”

“Anthony, I am with child”

He stared at her shocked, unable to form a single sentence “You are with child?” Y/n nodded smiling happily

Anthony turned around, and covered his face. Y/n stared at him confused until she heard a sniffle coming from him, she grinned teasingly “Are you crying?”

He turned around fast “What? who is crying? It is certainly not me” he scoffed trying to play it off

“You are with child, our child. Y/n, we are going to be parents, to our very own little Bridgerton, oh my God”

“You are with child” He laughed happily and hugged her tightly, before he spun her around making her laugh. “ I love you, I love you, I love you, God I love you”

He stopped spinning her and pulled her into a kiss “ Thank you, thank you for making me the happiest man alive, I love you” He laid his forehead on top of hers, caressing her cheeks lovingly “ We are going to be parents!”

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Month 2:

“Anthony, will you stop it!” Y/n exclaimed as she walked down the stairs “ Nothing is going to happen to me, your family is going to be there”

“I still think it is not safe, everyone is going to be in the park, someone could bump into you and make you fall” Anthony argued with his wife “No, I do not think you should go”

“Your family will be there, you will be there” Y/n said “ Besides, everyone knows we are expecting thanks to Lady Whistledown, the ton will be careful not to bump into me”

“The ton could not care less, maybe we should stay home, I mean, we could spend the day in bed, I could bring you your favorite fruits and maybe a book, or we could spend our time doing something more fun” Anthony suggested

“No, we are going to spend the day with your family as we planned, and that is final, now let us go, we should not let them wait for long in the park” Y/n walked out towards the carriage

“But, love-“

“It is final, Anthony, now get inside”

“Alright” Anthony grumbled as he stepped into the carriage

☆☆☆☆☆☆

Month 4: ( a few minutes after the epilogue)

“Perhaps you should not play Pall Mall”

“Anthony”

“No, listen to me, you can get tired very easily while hitting the ball, it is not good for the baby” Anthony tried to defend himself, Y/n looked at him unamused

“But it is fine to do other strenuous activities?” Y/n huffed, the rest of the siblings watched amused at the argument that was sure to start

“Give her a break, brother, she does not need you breathing down her neck with every little thing she does” Benedict said

“You shut up, when you get married and your wife is with child, we will talk” Anthony grumbled

“Love-“

“No”

“But, love it is not-“

“No”

“We should instead-“

“Anthony” Y/n groaned “Let me play peacefully, I implore you”

Anthony stayed quiet, watching unamused while Y/n hit the ball on her turn. They cheered when the ball went perfect between the wicket and walked backwards to the ball of the next person’s turn.

Y/n was walking next to Anthony, he held her hand as they walked. Y/n tripped on a hole, Anthony quickly caught her.

“See, it is not safe, what would have happened if you had fallen?” he scolded her

“But I did not fall”

“But you could have”

“But I did not”

“But you could have”

“Stop being so overprotective all the damn time, Anthony, I am fine, I did not fall”

“But what if-“

Y/n scoffed “ You know what, I am going to sit down, I am tired of hearing Anthony whining and complaining about everything” She then walked to where Lady Bridgerton was seated at “And Anthony, you are sleeping alone tonight”

“What? No, wait- Love, do not be like that, love-“ Anthony walked behind her, trying to change her mind “ Alright, you can play and I will shut up now” Y/n smiled smugly and turned back around, grabbing her mallet once again

Anthony sighed while the rest of the siblings chuckled behind them. Yeah, whatever Y/n wants, she gets and Anthony can never say no, he truly was whipped.

☆☆☆☆☆

Month 7:

It was 3 in the morning.

Y/n was in the nursery room they had prepared for their baby. She stood looking out the window, caressing her bump while she was deep in her thoughts. Anthony was still fast asleep in their bedchambers, without a single clue that his wife was not in the bed.

“Dear? What are you doing here?”

Or at least that is what she thought.

“Hey” Y/n smiled at him slightly

“What is wrong?” He approached her, hugging her from behind, his hands coming to rest on top of hers

Y/n sighed “I realized that with how busy we have been with preparing for our child, and the celebrating. I have not truly stopped and think about it all” She turned around to look after him, her bump making space between them “I am happy, truly, But I cannot help but be scared too”

“Women have died during childbirth, what if I- what if I am one of them” Y/n looked at him sadly while he stayed quiet “ What if I do not make it. my child, our child, will grow without his or her mother, I will not get to see our baby grow, nor give them my love. Anthony, I am very afraid that it will happen” Y/n started crying, Anthony pulled her into his arms, as best as he could.

“I am also very scared” Anthony admits “What will become of me if I loose you? You are the air that I breath, I cannot possibly function without you. And I cannot bare the thought of the pain you will be in when the time comes.” Y/n sniffled

“I saw what my mother went through when she was giving birth to Hyacinth, it was horrible, her screams of pain, i-“ he stopped himself “ We will just pray that everything will turn out alright”

“That is all we can do for now, pray”

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Month 8:

A glass shattering breaks Anthony out of his work. He stands up rapidly and walks out of his study.

“Love?” He calls out in the halfway

“Anthony!”

Anthony breaks out into a run as soon as his wife yelled for him. He runs down the staircase, horrified on what could have happened to her terrorizing his whole body. He enters the drawing room, instantly finding his wife hunched over in pain, he rushes to her instantly.

“Call for the doctor, it is time” Y/n breathes out, pain evident on her face

“Help! Somebody come urgently!” Anthony yells out to the maids or the footmen, anyone.

The rest of the Bridgerton family had gone out to the park for a family day, Anthony and Y/n decides to stay in as she was due any day now, and they did not want to risk anything happening while in the park. Several maids and the butler came rushing into the room, taking in the scene that was their Viscountess, about to give birth to the future Viscount.

“Call the surgeon, immediately”

He carried her upstairs into the bedchambers, laying her on their bed, removing her hair that had fallen on her face while she groaned out in pain. The surgeon entered the room, followed by several maids carrying plenty of blankets and bowls with warm water.

“My lord, If you may please exit the room, you cannot be here while she gives birth” the surgeon said

Anthony stood up angry “You do not expect me to leave my wife while she is in pain” He looked at her agitated when she cried out in pain once again

“Please understand, my lord, It is not costumed for the husband to be with the wife when she has the baby. “

“Anthony, what is happening?” Violet Bridgerton appeared in the doorway, the rest of the family following behind her. Soon followed by Y/n’s own family, except Kate, she was still in India.

The Viscount stepped out to inform them of what was happening. The maids taking advantage of the fact that he had left, closed the door. He turned back to enter once more when he saw that they had closed the door, he went to open it when his mother spoke up.

“Anthony, you cannot be inside” Violet shook her head

“Mother-“ He was cut off by Y/n screams, “ I cannot stay outside while she-“ he huffed out, too worried to form a full sentence

“I know, but you should let the surgeon do what he does best and give him his space” Anthony nodded giving in and started to pace outside the corridor

Inside the room, Y/n was breathing in and out, guided by the maids as the surgeon tried to prepare her as best as he could.

“Breath in, my lady, you are doing wonderfully just breathe in” a maid urged her

Y/n shook her head “ I cannot, It hurts, I just-“ She screamed out as another painful contraction hit her, gritting her teeth tightly.

“My lady, you have to start pushing” the surgeon advices her “ Push”

Y/n breathed out harshly, pain racking in all of her body, she grabbed the bed sheets tightly, and pushed out, screaming out, her back lifted off the bed before she fell back down sobbing.

“I cannot do it, I need, I need Anthony” She sobbed shaking her head, sweat falling off her forehead

“My lady, the Viscount cannot be in here, you have to push, it will all be over when you do” Y/n shook her head

“I need him, I need my husband, get him i-“ She sobbed out when another painful contraction hit her.

Her screams of pain were heard outside. Anthony sat down on the floor, burying his head into his hands to hide his tears while he listened to his wife’s cries of pain. Scared out of his mind that something wrong could happen to her and he would not be there by her side.

“She will be fine ” His mother said soothingly, sitting down beside him “ She is a fighter”

Anthony’s shoulders shook with silent cries “ I cannot loose her, mother”

“And you will not” Violet said “Have faith”

“One last push, my lady, I can see the head, just one more push” the surgeon said

“I cannot.” She sobbed “ I feel like I am going to die”

“No you will not, my lady, just push” a maid reassured her

Y/n grabbed onto the nearest maid for support, she yelled out, putting all her strength into the push.

“Yes, that is it! Push harder ” the surgeon, Y/n gritted her teeth and pushed again one last time, her body lifting from the pain before she fell back down, tired “It is out! The baby is here”

Y/n closed her eyes, her chest heaving up and down harshly, she covered her face in relief, crying into her hands before she uncovered her face, looking at the maid who was holding the baby out to her.

“Congratulations, Viscountess Bridgerton, you have a healthy baby boy”

Y/n smiled, caressing the baby’s cheeks, her eyes observing the baby’s face lovingly.

Outside, Anthony lifted his head from his lap once he heard the yells cease, he stood up, wiping his face and walked towards the door, it opened before he could get close. The surgeon appearing in front of him.

“ It is done, Viscount Bridgerton, they are both safe” the surgeon smiled and let him pass

Anthony entered the room, both of their families following behind him. He sets his eyes on Y/n holding their new baby, he approached her, his eyes on the baby while new tears filled his eyes, Y/n smiled up at him. He sat now next to her and Y/n handed him their baby. Anthony held him carefully although he was scared that maybe he could fall from his arms.

“It is a boy” Y/n’s hoarse voice informed him “Our little Edmund” Y/n looked up at at her mother in law who smiled at them once she heard the name

“You are alright?” Anthony questioned

“I am alright” Y/n assured him, laying her head on his shoulder, looking down at little Edmund, or Eddie for short.

“You look beautiful”

“I am sweaty” Y/n chuckled

“Still beautiful” Anthony looked around the room at their family, happiness radiating on their faces, before he looked back down at Eddie “Our little Edmund”

Regrets

Happy Marriage part 2

Summary: a new start

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x fem!reader

Word count: 4k (longest one yet!)

Warnings: unedited, a little bit of angst, Anthony coming to his senses, Y/n falling Ill,

Masterlist

Their marriage was unrepairable.

Everyone from both families knew it. There was nothing they could do anymore. Anthony hated Y/n, and Y/n was not willing to try anymore.

She finally realized that it was doomed from the start. Anthony was always, and will probably always be, in love with Sienna, and nothing could change that, unless he himself tried to forget her. Which is doubtful considering he keeps on seeing her, each and every night.

So Y/n, came up with another solution. Not to try anymore, Anthony was not worth the pain. They could still stay married, after all divorce was not normal, but she would leave him alone, let him be in peace with Sienna as much as he pleases, and Y/n would just live her life happily as if she was single.

She does not need a man, she had her family and the Bridgertons, both families who loved her wholeheartedly, what else could she ask for?

She would spend the mornings and evenings at her parents house. She would be with her mama in the drawing room reading a book, and playing with her nieces whenever her brother came to visit, anything to distract herself.

Although everyone could tell she was not the same happy y/n from before, and no one blamed her, they were just happy she did not shut them out, at least not completely, and they hoped she would go back to how she was before she gave up.

Whenever she was not doing something, you would find her in her bedchambers, staring out the window thoughtfully, or laying on her bed looking up at the ceiling. She would barely talk when she was spoken to, or eat. She became a shell of herself, seems like Anthony did after break her.

Anthony, on the other hand, was delighted. He would come home and there was no one there to start arguments with him about where he always was. He could go be with Sienna whenever he wants. Y/n would not even bother him in those rare moments he was home, nor urge him to do something with her.

In short words, he was finally happy.

That is not to say everything was going great in the Bridgerton household, oh no, not at all. They would give him the cold shoulder, even Hyacinth and Gregory, who do not really know the full details of what happened, they just know that he hurt Y/n, based on what they heard while eavesdropping on their older siblings.

How could their brother, who they thought was one of the most honest, loyal, caring people, hurt someone that much, someone who was the sweetest person ever, someone who was his wife, who he was supposed to love and care and cherish. That was certainly disheartening.

“Y/n, dear, please eat a little more” Y/n’s mother pleaded watching her daughter play with the food on her plate

“I am full already, mama” Y/n murmured taking a sip from her wine before she stood up “If I may be excused, I must get home before it gets much later, thank you for the dinner, I will see you tomorrow ”

She left without another word and stepped onto the carriage already waiting for her outside. She sighed as the carriage started its journey to the house.

When did she become this person? One who was so affected by a man that she no longer recognized herself. A man who did not even deserve the tears she cried over him. I mean, did she even know him that well after all.

Anthony, over their whole courting period, was so distant, she just never saw it, he always put her in arms length, never really told her anything about him nor made any indication that he wished to marry her.

She was so blinded by this picture perfect marriage she had in mind, she thought that he was the one that she did not see the truth so clearly in front of her.

He was handsome, came from a good family, not to mention his and her family were close friends, he seemed like a caring person and cared deeply for his family. She started to like him, and that only heightened by how he acted while courting her, he was respectful, and he seemed slightly remotely interested by what she said, or that is what she thought.

Now that she thought about it, of course he would be like that, his family was always behind them, how could Anthony act like anything else in front of them? She never thought that he would be the opposite with her behind closed doors.

She stepped out and walked up the stairs once the carriage stopped in front of the house. She closed the door quietly, not wanting to wake anyone up

“What a surprise, you finally show your face” She heard behind her

She turned around sighing “Good evening, Lord Bridgerton” She looked at Anthony who was leaning against the entrance of the drawing room “It is also a surprise that you are here, I would have thought you were out” Y/n then walked past him and up the stairs to go to her bedchambers

“That is it?” Anthony hummed “No arguments this time?”

“You are not worth me wasting my voice” She answered before she stopped and turned back around to face him “ actually, I do have something to say” Anthony raised an eyebrow intrigued

“You hate me because supposedly, I am the cause that you cannot be with Sienna freely, or that I am ‘taking the place that was meant to be hers’…” She sighed tiredly “But have you stopped to think, that maybe it was never actually possible. You are a viscount, you are in the upper class, while she is a opera singer, in the bottom, Sienna is considered a scandalous woman of ill repute based on her profession. She would have never been accepted as your wife” the Viscount stayed silent

“If you married her, your family would have been exiled from society, you would have ruined their reputations. Would you have done that to them? To your sisters? They would not be able to marry because of you. Would you still have married Sienna?” She questioned “And even if you had not married me, you would still have had to marry a noble lady at some point, you are a viscount after all, would you have treated your wife the same as you do to me? Loathed her as you do to me? Well, that is exactly what happened with us, just way earlier than what you would have liked”

“I think you have hated the wrong person the whole time. If you want to hate something, hate society and their rules” Y/n walked up the rest of the stairs, leaving him alone with his thoughts

Anthony stared after her, before he went to his study. He sat down on his chair, resting his chin on his palm as he stared at the fireplace in thought. He shook his head and started looking through his papers.

“Y/n, dear, do you want to join us?” Lady Bridgerton offered as she saw Y/n walk down the stairs

“Uh, I am actually headed to meet my mother” Y/n replied as she looked around the drawing room at everyone, her eyes caught Anthony’s figure seated on a chair, looking at her “ She is waiting for me so I must go, maybe next time, yes?” She left quickly

Violet sighed grabbing a newspaper and heading towards her eldest son, hitting him with it harshly.

“Hey!” Anthony complained looking at his mother in disbelief

“It is all your fault, I thought your father and I raised you better than how you have been acting, but now I am doubting myself” Violet pursed her lips

“Mother-“

“Not a single word, you know I am right. You should be lucky you found someone as wonderful as Y/n, she is everything a perfect viscountess should be and you do not even appreciate it” Anthony sighed, shaking his head, looking up at the door where Y/n exited from

That was only the start of it all.

Anthony really considered what Y/n said to him. Maybe she was right after all, it was not her fault he could not be with Sienna. Sienna and him unfortunately were born into two different social classes.

Society was the one preventing them from being together, not Y/n, but society. He was hating the wrong person all this time, someone who did not even deserve all his harsh words, she was after all only trying to fulfill her role as his wife.

He did not want to tarnish his family’s reputation. He has been trying to maintain their family’s respectable reputation ever since he became viscount. Was Sienna really worth letting down his family? The family he loves and would do anything for? No, she was not.

So he canceled their plans that day, and the day after, and the day after, and slowly, Anthony stopped seeing Sienna. He was finally letting her go.

And now, Y/n, he started to see her in a new light, although do not misunderstand , he still did not like her, far from it, but maybe, just maybe, he did not hate her and was willing to at least get to know her better.

But he knew it was going to be difficult, he did say harsh words and did horrible things, like cheat on her, he completely disregarded what he promised at the altar. He knew he messed up, and possibly shut out the one person he could have grown, to care for, and who may have cared for him.

And it certainly will be very difficult, not only because of that, but because Y/n does not want anything to do with him. She does not want to know about him, how he is, where he is, etc. Nothing.

And again, nobody blames her. Y/n’s family is the same. They could not believe the little boy they’ve known of since he was born, the respectable man they got to know when the Y/l/n family returned from France 2 years ago, was not what they thought. They still spoke to him, that is not to say they were not hostile, and the Bridgertons would only watch. They were sad, of course, they still loved Anthony, but they knew that is the consequences of his actions.

He would pace around his study , thinking of how to approach his wife. Which let me just say was hard as Y/n would always go the other way whenever she got back from her parents house, or in the mornings, she would make sure he was busy in his study before she left. She was never there when he searched for her.

It seems like she does not even live there.

“Y/n, are you sure you are fine” Her mother asks as Y/n coughs “You look very unwell” she looked at her daughter worriedly

“Mama, I am just feeling a little under the weather, I will be fine with just a little rest” Y/n sighed before coughing

“I think it is because you have not eaten well, or slept in so long” Her mother advised “See, I told you to eat and sleep more, and you did not listen to me and now you are ill”

“It is not that mama, I will be fine” Y/n murmured and coughed again before sniffling “ Just a little cold” Lady Y/l/n hummed before laying her hand on Y/n’s forehead

“Dear, you have a fever” Her mother frowned “We should call a doctor”

Y/n shook her head, before she started coughing severely, she covered her mouth with her hand, as her mother rubbed her back soothingly. Y/n uncovered her mouth as the coughing ceased, she paled once she saw blood on her palm.

“This is not normal, we are sending for the doctor” Her mama said pointedly

Her mother sent a maid for the doctor as she escorted Y/n to her bedchambers. She looked at her daughter worriedly as Y/n started coughing up more and more blood each time.

She feared for what is happening to her daughter. She rarely gets sick, even as a child, she never got sick, and when she did, it was something serious, like the scarlet fever when she was young.

She felt relieved when the doctor appeared in the room, she stood up, allowing him to check on Y/n, informing him of what she saw previously.

“Hmm, I see” the doctor said “I am afraid she has the whopping cough”

“The whooping cough?”

“Yes, it is a contagious disease that paralyzes parts of the respiratory cells, leading to inflammation in the respiratory tract, fortunately it is still in the early stages and it helps that she is an adult as her immune system is more developed” He informed “Unfortunately, there is still no known cure, so I am afraid there is no more I can do, although we have been told domestic remedies help. All we can do is pray that it will go away with time. She needs to rest, that is all she can do” The doctor left after packing up all his things.

“I will be fine mama, I just need to rest” Y/n’s hoarse voice muttered, she coughed again and covered her body with the blankets “ I am just going to sleep, I am tired.”

“My lady,” a maid came rushing into the drawing room, where all the Bridgertons were “Lady Y/l/n sent word” they all looked up at the maid intrigued

“Said something happened to Lady Bridgerton ” Anthony looked up from his newspaper as he heard the words coming out of the maid’s mouth

“What happened to her?” Violet Bridgerton questioned

“It seems Lady Bridgerton has the whooping cough and is severely ill”

“Alright, send word back, tell them we will be there in a few” Violet ordered, the maid nodded rushing back out, “Anthony, we will be back soo-“ She turned to her son

“I am coming” Anthony said

“Anthony, I am not sure they-“

“I am coming with” He cut her off

“Anthony” Violet sighed

“Mother, she is my wife” Anthony raised an eyebrow

“Yes, well, you have not really shown that, have you?” Anthony stayed silent “Alright, let us go now”

It has been 2 months and Y/n was still severely Ill, fortunately the coughing had lessened, she felt really weak and exhausted, she rarely slept, and always felt dehydrated. But slowly and slowly, the remedies were helping.

After the Bridgertons had been informed of Y/n’s condition, they had all come to visit her, including Anthony, although they did not stay long as she was still contagious.

They continued visiting, all except Anthony, as Y/n had expressed that she was not comfortable with his presence. Anthony respected her wishes and stopped visiting her, he did not like it but he was trying to get in her good graces , so whatever she desires.

Although that also did not stop Anthony from asking about her well being whenever his family came home from the Y/l/n Manor. The Bridgertons, also respecting Y/n’s wishes, did not tell him anything much to Anthony’s displeasure.

He would go out to the florist when he knew his family was getting ready to go out, he would return with purple hyacinths and give them to his mother to give to Y/n. Violet would reluctantly accept them, looking at her son knowingly.

Everyone could tell Anthony was trying to remedy his mistakes, although they knew he would not get anywhere, they admired the fact that he was willing to try. Maybe Anthony was not so bad after all. Maybe there was hope for him.

Y/n was still ill for one more month before she felt better, and could now walk around the house. She was in their drawing room, finishing some embroidery when Daphne, Benedict and Eloise, entered the room, already informed of her improved state.

“Hey, Y/n” Daphne greeted

Y/n turned to them and smiled “Hey, what are you doing here?”

“We heard you were better and decided to visit you” Benedict answered sitting down “How are you feeling?”

“Like you said, better, I still feel a little exhausted but nothing a little rest cannot fix” Y/n chuckled sitting next to Eloise

“We all miss you at home” Eloise said “You had been so distant before, we rarely saw you, and with your illness and it being contagious, the rare times turned into none”

“Yes, why do you not come back to the manor?” Benedict questioned

Y/n shook her head “I do not think it is such a good idea”

“Well, you cannot live here forever, the ton would soon start to question things. And we will all be there anyway, you do not have to worry about Anthony” Y/n pursed her lips “ Hyacinth and Gregory really wish to see you again” Daphne added

“Alright” You agreed “ I think I have been bothering my parents long enough” the three of them cheered, y/n shook her head in disbelief but chuckled after

And that is how Y/n returned back to the Bridgerton house.

Everyone was absolutely delighted, they missed having her around. Colin could finally have someone to tell about his travels, Benedict someone to paint who does not complain, Daphne someone who related to how she was feeling with her debut season, Eloise could tell someone about what she thought was not fair on women. All in all, they were happy.

Y/n was slowly healing by having wonderful people by her side. She never was truly alone, someone would always be by her side making her laugh, whether it was the youngest siblings or the eldest.

Oh, I forgot about Anthony. He respected her space, he would not intentionally seek her out but he certainly did not complain when he came across her.

He would sit in the drawing room when she was with one of his siblings, or his mother, and pretended to be paying attention to something else. He would watch her laugh and speak animatedly with them. He would pay attention whenever Y/n was discussing something she read or saw.

He liked how happy she got when she saw something wonderful, or the way she paid attention to Eloise when she was complaining about something. Or how she let Benedict paint her and not even move one second, not wanting him to make a mistake, or how interested she was about Colin’s travels.

Or how she helped Francesca with her pianoforte, and reassure Daphne when she was feeling nervous about the balls. How she played with Gregory, and braided Hyacinth’s hair after dinner. He was finally getting to know his wife, even if it was by watching from afar.

He would subconsciously smile when he heard Y/n laugh, or watch her figure walk further away when she left the room. He would turn back around, catching his mother’s eyes. He would furrow his eyebrows as Violet looked at him knowingly, a hint of a smile on her face.

“What?” He asked

“Maybe you do not hate her after all, do you Anthony?” Violet murmured turning back to her embroidery

“What are you talking about mother?” He huffed

“You do not fool me, Anthony, not one second” She shook her head “When she was ill, you would ask about her-“

“Is it a crime to ask about Y/n’s farewell? It is common courtesy”

“You sent her flowers”

“A nice gesture, I am pretty sure more people sent her flowers”

“Anthony” Violet huffed “You always walk into a room where you know she is in, you smile when she laughs, and your eyes follow her when she leaves, you stare at her with those eyes-”

“What eyes, mother? My eyes, well with who else’s eyes would I look?” Anthony answered sarcastically

“Do not try to be funny. I am speaking about the kind of eyes a man looks at a woman he is falling in love with” Violet said making him scoff

“Do not be ridiculous, I am not falling in love, least of all with her” Anthony grumbled and stood up to leave

“Say what you want Anthony, but you and I know the truth, I will just say that you will have to try hard if you want her to forgive you, and even harder if you want her to start to love you again ” Anthony ignored her and walked away

He almost entered his study when he stopped at the door, he huffed and turned around, climbing up the stairs. He stopped in front of her door doubtful before he sighed and knocked.

“Come in” he heard from inside

He entered the room, setting his eyes on Y/n seated at her bed. Y/n looked up before sighing

“I do not want to see you” She hummed

“Yes, yes, I know I am the last person you want to see, but I wanted to speak to you” Anthony said standing still on the entrance. He looked at Y/n who stayed quiet, looking at the opposite side of him

“I am sorry” Anthony murmured “You were right and I am so sorry” Y/n looked at him emotionlessly, Anthony sighed and went to sit down on a chair in front of her

“I cannot defend my actions, I was absolutely horrible to you and you did not deserve any of it and I am sincerely sorry. What you said did make me think everything over. Truth is, I always knew I could never marry Sienna, I just did not want to accept it.” He admitted “ I met her shortly after my father died, she , I guess you can say, comforted me, and I fell in love with her and thought I owed her something after she was there for me all those years, and that something could have been making her my viscountess ”

“And then you appeared, and you were the perfect viscountess, and everyone loved you, and then we married and I started ‘hating’ you because you were taking away the only thing I could have offered her. Which was never going to happen but I thought it could.” He looked down at his hands “I needed a wake up call, I was so blinded by my love for her that I did not really think things through. It was really a matter of time before things between Sienna and I ended, and it just happened earlier than I thought. Things were easy with her, she was someone that I was already used to, she was familiar. And you just appeared suddenly in my life, I was not prepared for it, you were someone new and i did not know what would come next, my perfectly organized life was not so organized. So I hated you instead.”

“Was?” Y/n spoke up, he looked at her confused “You said was, not is” she clarified

“I stopped seeing her months ago” Y/n hummed at his response

“I cannot just forgive you, Anthony, not even after what you just said” Y/n huffed “What you said those months ago, really hurt me. I never asked you to marry me, and neither did Violet or my mama, force you to do it. You asked on your own accord”

“I know, I am truly sorry Y/n, you do not know how truly sorry I am, I know simple words will not make you forgive me but I am willing to prove I am worth your forgiveness. We will after all, be spending the rest of our life’s together, I will spend it all making it up to you, so we can at least be friends, if you let me” He looked up at her hopefully

Anthony nodded, a small smile coming onto his face “However long it takes”

Y/n pursed her lips in thought “It will take a lot of time, I will not just forgive you in a fortnight”

Golden retriever!reader x benedict bridgerton? I've read some steve harrington like that amd I'm simply in love lol I'm sure bemedict would fit just right with someone with high energy.

Oh my God!! 😂😂 why did I think you meant the reader being the actual golden retriever at first, I was so confused lmao 🤣 🤣 But anyway, sure!!! Thank you for your request!!♡♡

Affection

Summary: apparently Anthony doesn't like affection that much, or maybe he actually does

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x reader

Word count: 3.6k

Warnings: unedited, a little angst to fluff, (for some reasong I couldn't think of anything else to make it more angsty) Anthony being a little asshole for a minute, marriage of convenience, I think that is all

Requested: yes

Masterlist

Here it is, I'm very sorry for the delay but there was a few things I needed to do first and I couldn't write it yet.

At the start of the season of 1812, it was known that the Viscount Bridgerton was looking for a wife, thanks to his mother who not so subtly announced it at Lady Danbury’s soiree.

Plenty of debutantes and their mothers, ambushed him, in hopes of their daughters capturing the viscount's attention.

Unfortunately for them, Anthony Bridgerton had a list of requirements he looked for in a wife, most of which none of them fit, so, goodbye to their dreams of their daughter becoming a viscountess. One by one, the viscount discarded them until there was none left. That is until the queen named her diamond,

Y/n Y/l/n.

She caught his eye. Y/n came from a good family, her father was a marques, she was sweet, kind, intelligent. She had a good sense of humor, played several instruments, spoke a few modern languages, and was not afraid to speak her mind, she desired a big family and absolutely loved kids. And it certainly helped that she was beautiful, too. She was perfect. The perfect viscountess in his eyes.

Anthony did not waste time and pursued her after he got to know her. Although Y/n was not stupid, she demanded to know his true intentions and only then would she maybe accept being courted by him.

Anthony was honest, surprisingly, he told her of how he did not plan to marry for love and just wanted a wife that fit perfectly into what a viscountess should be, a partner/ friend. Y/n admired his honesty and agreed.

Her family was, after all, urging her to pick a suitor, wanting her to get married as soon as possible. Why? A good question since they do not need her to get married considering they already have more than enough money. But she was the diamond of the season, it is expected for her to marry that same season.

Y/n frustrated with their demands, decided to give them what they want. The viscount was a suitable gentleman, came from a good family, he was handsome, and from what she has seen, he was a good person.

She knew not anyone was lucky enough to have a love match, so if she could not have a marriage based on love, what would be better than to have one based on friendship. Certainly better than the ones the ton has made without love nor friendship.

Soon enough, their courtship began, both families were delighted, the Bridgertons thought Y/n was a lovely girl, absolutely adored her, and the Y/l/ns liked and admired Anthony for how dedicated he was to his family, among other things.

The courtship then turned into an engagement and soon they were already married by the end of the season. They spent their wedding night in Anthony’s private lodgings, and the day after they decided to skip the honeymoon.

Y/n wanted to stay back in London since her brother’s wife was soon to give birth, and she wanted to be there when the baby was born, Anthony agreed as he had to get everything ready for Daphne’s debut next season, which was slowly coming closer.

Their marriage was great, they gave the other their own space but still saw each other quite often considering they slept in the same bed, had breakfast and dinner with the whole family and would join them when they were out in the gardens.

Anthony thought he made the best decision choosing Y/n as his wife. His family loved her, especially Hyacinth and his mother. Y/n was very caring, she would help everyone in anything they asked, spend time with Violet when all of her kids were busy, and even worry about the servants when they were sick.

She would sometimes spend time with him in his study, sat on a chair nearby reading, or watching him work, trying to see if maybe she can learn how to do it too. Although she also knew when to leave him alone, and he respected that.

But as they say, there is always a thin lone between love and hate, or in this case, love and friendship.

She did not know how it happened, but as she got to know him, how he cared deeply for his family, how he always spent at least 10 minutes with her everyday so she is not bored when everyone is out, his good sense of humor.

That little line blurred and Y/n started to feel more than friendship for him. Which obviously sucked since Anthony made it clear since day one, he did not see love in their marriage.

For the moment, she decided to keep it to herself, although she did start to act a little more obvious and affectionate. Whether it was by bringing him breakfast or dinner when he had too much work and did not want to leave his study, or helping him with work when she got the hang of it, without him asking, or helping him with his clothes when he had some difficulty with his collar or shirt. Or being there for him and listening to his problems when he was stressed.

It goes without saying that Anthony was confused, and I mean a lot, but he appreciated it nonetheless, it felt nice to be taken care of, even if he will not admit it to anyone else.

He was always the one taking care of everyone else, making sure that they did not need something or that something bad happened to them. Fixing their problems when they needed him to. Anything that meant he was needed to do something for them basically.

So when the roles changed, and letting his family tell him their worries changed to him now burdening someone else with his problems, even if it was his wife, he definitely welcomed it with open arms. The perfect person to let his frustrations out.

Now, he enjoyed it ,yes, behind closed doors, but Y/n showing her affection in public, those were the times when he did not.

Anthony has never been someone who shows affection in public, rarely even does so behind closed door, so he did not like it when Y/n did and everyone from the ton was around.

☆☆☆☆☆

The first time Y/n showed affection in public. They were at the gardens having a picnic with the whole family, sat on top of a blanket on the grass while the rest of his family played with a new game they bought. Anthony decided to stay back as he had work to do still and Y/n, well she did not want to leave him alone.

“Anthony, you should eat something, it will do you no good to go on without eating” She looked at him seriously

“I’ll be fine” He hummed “ I need to finish this before the day is over”

Y/n huffed, looking around before snatching the papers out of his hands “Hey!” Anthony exclaimed

“You will not get these back until you eat” She said stubbornly

“Give them back” He tried to grab the papers from her but she stood up

“No, eat first then work” She pointed down at the food “ and I will personally help you finish your work before the day is over”

“Y/n” he groaned

“Anthony” Y/n pursed her lips “If you fall faint or something for not eating, your mama will blame me for not taking care of you properly, and will smother you all day long, every second, you do not want that, do you?”

“Yes, brother” Colin appeared beside them suddenly, startling them “ Listen to your wife, she always knows best” Colin gave Y/n a wink

“Fine” Anthony agreed and picked up a plate

“Good, now, you finish the food and I am going to go talk to your mother” Y/n says, giving him a kiss on the cheek before standing up and leaving, Anthony stared after her confused.

He then looked up at his brother who gave him a teasing look, Anthony’s cheeks became red as he blushed in embarrassment. He shook his head and began eating.

“Are you sure it is not a love match, brother? She certainly does look after you as if she was in love” Colin teased

“Shut up, stop talking nonsense” Anthony grumbled without looking up at him “ I am sure she did not mean to do it, maybe it was just a custom as she does it a lot with her family”

☆☆☆☆☆

Although that was not the only time it happened since then. That was only the start.

Y/n continued to do it in public whether it was holding his hand, that was not as surprising considering they did have to act as if they were in love in public but she did it on her own accord, that was surprising. Or randomly kissing him on the cheek when you were leaving, or hugging him spontaneously.

The ton did not care that much, they thought it was beautiful, two people in love showing their affections in public.

Anthony on the other hand, was embarrassed, the gentlemen he used to talk with would make fun of him. Nothing too grand but joke around that ‘where has the man that supposedly would never marry for love go’ among other teasing comments.

That was when Anthony grew annoyed at Y/n’s displays of affection. He kept quiet, not wanting to hurt her feelings knowing she did not mean anything ill, but that does not mean there was not a time where he did not snap.

Oh and did he snap.

☆☆☆☆☆

It was 1813, Daphne’s first debutante ball.

Half of the Bridgertons were there, those being Lady Violet Bridgerton, Daphne, Colin, Benedict, Anthony and Y/n. The others were back home.

Anthony was a little annoyed, he had a dispute with Daphne a few moments prior. He wanted to marry her off to Lord Berbrooke and when Daphne found out, she was angry.

Understandable because who wants to marry him?.

Anyway, the fought, Daphne marched away and Anthony was left where he was standing angry. Y/n, oh sweet Y/n, did not know of what had transpired and approached Anthony.

“Hey, I was looking for you” Y/n smiled at him, Anthony hummed in acknowledgement, looking all over the room for Daphne “Have you seen Colin? He seems quite taken with Miss Marina Thompson, just look at him” She pointed out to the floor where several couples were dancing, Colin and Marina being one of them.

“She is quite pretty and she seems like a nice girl. They make a good couple, do they not? Maybe we could be friends, we are not that apart in age after all. Daphne, Miss Marina and I could… ” Y/n said, Anthony tuned her out as she continued to ramble on. “ Hey, are you okay?” She asked once she saw Anthony was not paying attention, holding onto his arm

He nodded, looking around the room once again “ Oh, your collar is a bit undone, let me fix that for you” Y/n said as she started to fix it. Anthony caught a few gentleman watching them a few feet away, he clenched his jaw once he saw their teasing smiles and suggestive looks, remembering their comments from before, he started to get annoyed, that annoyance grew even more when Y/n leaned up and kissed his cheek.

“Can you not!” He snapped, she looked at him shocked

“What?” She questioned confused, Anthony huffed before he grabbed her hand and tugged her to a more secluded space, away from prying eyes and ears of the ton.

“Stop with the affection!” He said “ It is embarrassing even more so when you do it in front of everyone.”

“But I just-“

“We are not in love! Stop acting like we are, I told you from the start it was only a marriage of convenience, so if you are starting to have some feelings, I suggest you get rid of them because there will never be love between us” Y/n looked at him hurt as he spoke “ I will never love you!” Anthony huffed disgusted

She swallowed down the hurt before saying “I was just keeping up with appearances”

“Oh really?!” Anthony hummed “ because as I see it, there was no need for it. The only thing you were accomplishing was making me embarrassed and annoyed”

“Yes, really” You huffed angrily “Why would you ever think I am starting to have feelings for you?”

He chuckled humorously “I do not know, maybe it is because you have been acting like it for more than one week, always holding my hand, or kissing my cheek, or hugging me, helping me with my work or my clothes, why would that be?”

“Maybe I was just trying to be nice, not everyone hides their emotions and affection inside, I was just trying to be a good friend but if it bothers you so much I will stop” Y/n then turned around to walk away “ There was no need to be a jerk about it” she walks off.

Anthony groaned, okay maybe he was being a little conceited, maybe Y/n was just being nice after all, that was her personality and he took it the wrong way. Anthony sighed before walking back to the ball.

Let us just hope he did not mess things up much and everything will go back to how it was.

“Marital problems?” a gentleman spoke once he saw Anthony “ I saw your wife storming off, seems like you will not be getting any tonight, will you Bridgerton?” Anthony only glared at him, clenching his jaw and marching away from the gentleman.

☆☆☆☆

Y/n was hurt, very hurt.

She knew she was being a little more affectionate than she should have to, but there was no need for Anthony to be rude about it. But she will respect his wishes, from now on, she will not ‘embarrass him’ in front of the ton with her affection, in fact, she will not even do anything to help him if it shows that she is ‘in love’ with him because she does not.

Love and like are two very different things.

Did she thought that maybe with how she was being, Anthony would come to like her just as she does him? Yes. But will she try to get him to love her now? Definitely not.

“I will never love you” Y/n murmured under her breath mocking Anthony’s words before scoffing “You know what, Viscount Bridgerton, I do not need your love, who would want for you to be in love with her? Certainly not me, at least not anymore”

“Are you alright, dear?” Y/n looked behind her, startled “ Oh no need to be startled, it is just me” Violet said

“ Sorry, you scared me” Y/n chuckled “ Yes, I am fine, thank you for your concern”

“Well come on, lunch is ready, we are just waiting for you” Violet pointed to the direction of the dining room. You nodded before walking along with her, making small talk along the way.

She smiled at the Bridgerton siblings before sitting down and starting to eat a long with the others.

“Are you not going to bring Anthony lunch to his study today?” Violet questioned after a few minutes when she saw Y/n was not getting up

“Um,” Y/n sighed “He said he will be very busy, I think i should not disturb him, he will come if he is hungry” Violet furrowed her eyebrows before nodding

Soon after they all finished eating and went their separate ways. Y/n was passing the study to go out to the gardens when she was called.

“Hey, is lunch ready yet?” Anthony asked as he approached the doorway

“It is over, we already ate” Y/n answered

He furrowed his eyebrows “You did not bring me any or come to tell me today”

“Yes well, I am not your maid, am I Anthony? Although I am sure if you are hungry, the cooks can prepare you something. Now if that is all, I must go, I have much other important things to do than speak to you” She walked away, not giving him any chance to speak

Anthony frowned at her retreating back, sighing and going back to his work. Seems like he did mess up a lot.

And that was not the only time she did something like that. She continued being cold to him for another few weeks.

Anthony was kind of ashamed to admit he did miss her affection. He went from getting a lot to none. Now he was eagerly seeking her out, I mean, desperate much, he missed her, a lot, even if they did live in the same house.

They were getting ready for another ball and Anthony was having some difficulty with the top of his shirt. Luckily for him, Y/n was on the other side, looking herself in the mirror as she finished putting on some earrings.

“Y/n, do you think you could help me, I cannot seem to fix this” He decided to ask, he cannot loose anything with asking, can he?

“I cannot, I have to go see if your mother needs help, or your sister. But I will tell the maid to come to help you” She says before leaving without even looking at him

He swallows down a lump in his throat, a little hurt at her coldness. He huffed out looking down.

“Do you need any help, my lord?” He looked up at the maid before nodding

“Uh yes, I cannot seem to put this right”

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

They arrived at the ball, Daphne and Y/n immediately separated from the rest of them. Anthony watched them walk away before looking away when he felt his mother hold on to his arm.

“You have got to apologize” Violet tells him “ For whatever you did. Do not think I have not noticed how distant she has been towards you, and you looking like a lost puppy who has lost his owner when she does not pay you any attention”

“Mother-“ Violet tutted cutting him off

“I know what I am saying, now apologize” She then grabbed onto Benedict who groaned, tugging him along to a young debutante a few steps away

Anthony looked around the room before finally setting his eyes on his wife, who was, fortunately for him, alone, his sister nowhere to be seen and he walked towards her.

Once he approached her, he wrapped an arm around her, holding her closer to him giving her a kiss on her head.

“Can you not? It is embarrassing” Y/n huffed slowly trying to get out of his hold to not make a scene in front of everyone.

Anthony stared at her thoughtfully, then grabbed her hand and brought her to a more secluded space.

It would be a lie to say they did not feel any déjà vu.

“I am sorry, okay” Anthony apologized, Y/n raised an eyebrow

“I should not have been as rude as I was, and if I did not like how much affection you were showing, I should just have told you to tone it down without making a big deal out of it” He sighed “ I am really sorry. I just- well- I am not an affectionate person and it was big step when you were affectionate, especially in public I – the other gentleman were making fun of us and I got embarrassed and let it get into my head and said those rude things – and the truth is I am missing your affection, it was honestly nice”

Y/n stayed silent for a few moments “ What do you want me to say? Because you were a jerk” She spoke up

“I know”

“A real asshole”

“Yes”

“I mean, when did I even say or give you the impressions that I was in love with you? Okay ,maybe nobody does what I was doing without any intentions, but I was honestly just trying to be nice and a good friend” he let her ramble, it was good for her to get everything she wants to say out

“Yes I get that now”

“ ‘I will never love you’ you said, why would I even want you to love me, I do not desire your love”

He gave her a look

"Why would i even fall in love with you?" He furrowed his eyebrows at her comment

“I mean, you are very arrogant, not to mention not very fun and always so serious, do you even know how to have fun? I do not think so.” He stared at her intensely, his eyes sometimes flickering down to her lips “ But I guess you are not that bad, you do care for your family a lot, and very hard working, you are very competitive at Pall Mall but it is good if you want a worthy opponent, but me love you, ha, as if-“

He kissed her to shut her up, Y/n gasped into his mouth in surprise as he pulled her closer a few more moments before pulling away.

“ I really like you, those days without being in your presence and your cold attitude towards me were devastating and made me realize how much I really do like you, and I am so grateful for everything you do without me even asking, and for your affection, I am really sorry” he admitted looking into her eyes

She stared at him before pulling him into another kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck as he reciprocated the kiss, his own hands going down to her back.

“I like you too” Y/n mumbled into the kiss making him smile

“I really do”

Tagged:

@heyyitsreign @enjoymyloves @venomsvl @sillyfreakfanparty

Energetic

Summary: Benedict’s other half

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x reader

Word count: 691

Warnings: unedited, fluff, probably a little cringy

Requested: yes

I think I made it a little different than how it was requested and it turned out as a little blurb because I didn't know what else to put but I hope you like it anyway ♡♡♡

Masterlist

Y/n was a very energetic person.

That was something that Benedict had come to know since he started to court her. She was always very happy, had optimistic thoughts on even the worst incidents, and she seldom said no to try out new things, she just had a lot of energy for everything. And Benedict loved that about her.

Along with being a very energetic person, she was very loving and affectionate. She was not afraid to show how much she liked Benedict in public, always giving him hugs, even if it was not appropriate, or holding on to his hand. Just let me tell you, the ton was not a fan of it as they were not yet married but Benedict simply loved it, considering he was also a very open and playful person, not afraid to show his emotions in public, the opposite to his other brothers ,that is.

It was a bright, sunny day, when Benedict knew.

Y/n and her family were invited along with the Sharma family to the Bridgerton’s ancestral home, Aubrey Hall, a few days before the ton was to join them for Violet’s annual ball, making that be Y/n’s second time at Aubrey Hall.

She played Pall Mall with the siblings, plus the Sharma sisters. Getting really excited whenever she could hit the ball between the wickets, she would jump up and down happily, shaking Benedict’s arm furiously while he only stared at her in adoration, and giving her encouraging words when she could not.

When they finished the game, Y/n and Benedict separated from the rest to take a walk around the fields. Still in their family’s eyesight of course.

“Your home is very beautiful” Y/n remarked as she looked around “ and I know I already said it but your family is wonderful, truly.” Benedict smiled

“Yes well, we do have our moments” He chuckled

“You all are also very competitive while playing Pall Mall, I thought that at some point someone was going to get hurt considering you all tried anything to win the game” She chuckled as she thought back to the game “ But my siblings and I are the same”

“Of course you are” Benedict shook his head making Y/n stop walking and look at him seriously

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“I just- you are too sweet to be competitive” He shrugged his shoulders

Y/n furrowed her eyebrows “I am not sweet all the time, i can be mean if I want to”

Benedict laughed loudly “Love, you can be anything but mean”

She huffed before hitting him on his arm and walking away from him “Y/n” he laughed again “It is a good thing” She ignored him

“Alright, okay, you can be mean if you want to” She stopped and turned to face him “ Now will you forgive me?” He questioned

She hummed thoughtfully before speaking up“ I will, if you can catch me”

She ran away quickly from him, lifting her dress so as not to step on it. Benedict laughed chasing after her, he could catch her quickly if he wanted to, he did have longer legs than her but he decided to entertain her a little and ran slower than he could.

Y/n’s laughs could be heard as she ran all over the field, she looked back, seeing Benedict get closer and closer she tried to run even faster, but she accidently let go of one side of her dress which she stepped on and tripped.

She was about to hit the floor when Benedict quickly grabbed her, turning them over so she fell on top of him instead “Alright, I forgive you” Y/n laughed looking down at him

Benedict only smiled up at her “Marry me” he said brushing a strand of her hair out of her face “I do not have a ring right now, and I need to ask your father for permission, but will you marry me?”

She grinned happily “Yes, yes I will marry you” She nodded giddily, he smiled back in return.

Benedict knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.

Always and Forever

Summary: in which Anthony looses the love of his life

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x reader

Word count: 2.4k

Warnings: unedited, angst, mentions of miscarriages, more angst, angst, death, and just a lot of angst

Masterlist

So I was in the mood to cry, and I wrote this and decided to make you all cry as well

Y/n was Anthony’s love of his life.

She always has been and always will be.

They met when he was 18 after he had just graduated from Oxford. He was taking a walk around the streets of London during the social season of 1802, when a young lady stepped out of a shop he was passing by, colliding with him.

Her name was Y/n, he thought she was the most beautiful girl he had seen so far. Y/n apologized profusely, Anthony just waved her off, reassuring her that no harm had come to him.

They started talking and meeting up, they became great friends, they had lots of things in common which only strengthen their friendship. His family completely adored Y/n, as did Y/n's family feel the same with Anthony. Soon both families became close friends.

But then tragedy hit them.

Edmund Bridgerton died.

The Bridgerton family changed overnight but Y/n still stood by Anthony’s side, not letting him be alone with his grief, she was his rock through those hard times.

Anthony appreciated that. He changed, as he had to because he became the viscount at 18 years old, he had to let go of everything of the past, childishness and laughter changed to seriousness and hard work. He could not be the same careless Anthony from before, he was a viscount now and as a viscount he had to work hard to support his family.

But Y/n was the only constant thing in his life, he could never discarded her away, not after how supportive she has been, not with the feelings he had for her.

He realized he was in love with her, so when she was twenty and he one and twenty, on her debut season, and when his family was more stable, he proposed to her, Y/n was delighted and accepted and soon after, they were married.

They had a grand wedding in front of the whole ton, everyone could tell they were completely remarkably in love with each other.

Their marriage was amazing, there was not a single moment were they were not happy with each other. They spent their honeymoon at Aubrey Hall. The maids would hear laughter around the house but of course, as it was Anthony and we all know how he is, soon that laughter would turn into moans, making the maids turn red when they heard. Bit they understood, they were after all newlyweds, still in their honeymoon phase.

They would have picnics outside in the garden, enjoying a bit of sun, morning rides on their horses, spending time together in the library or in his study before retreating back to their bed chambers, or sometimes they could not even wait and just do it wherever they were.

They were happy.

Until another tragedy struck. Or the first of many more to come that is.

Y/n realized she was pregnant after they came back from their honeymoon, not a surprise really, but for her it was. Anthony and her were delighted, it was a little early, yes, but they have always wanted a family and they were going to have one with each other sooner or later, it just came earlier than expected.

They had prepared everything, made a nice little nursery room, talked about what names they would name the baby when it was born. Edmund for a boy, in honor of Anthony’s father, and Astoria for a girl, Y/n has always loved that name, and it was a bonus that it started with the letter A, they could keep up with the Bridgerton tradition. They were so excited.

It was Y/n’s 4th month when something terrible happened. She had been feeling pains in her stomach for a few days, but she only ignored it, thinking that was only some symptoms of the pregnancy.

Oh how wrong she was.

She was looking out the window when she felt the pains growing stronger, she cried out in pain, holding onto her stomach as a maid quickly entered the room, hearing her.

“My lady, is everything alright” the maid questioned

Y/n held back her tears, her face twisting in pain. She knew what was happening “I am losing my child” She said.

“I am sure that is not- my lady, you are bleeding” the maid pointed at the bottom of her dress “I will go call the surgeon immediately”

A few hours later, everyone could hear the cries all over the Bridgerton home. The cries of a mother who lost her baby.

Anthony sat on the floor outside of their bed chambers, his face buried on his knees as he listened to his wife crying inside, his own tears falling down his face.

“Anthony” His mother called out, sitting down next to him. Violet looked at him sadly, tears brimming in her eyes before she pulled him into a hug. Anthony sobbed out once he felt his mother warm embrace. “Everything will be alright”

“It is not alright, mother, we lost our child," he scoffed "my wife is in there, completely destroyed, crying her eyes out and I have no clue on what to do” Anthony sniffled

“Just be there for her, that is all you can do, offer her your support and be there to comfort her” Violet answered

Anthony lifted his head, wiping his tears while he looked up at ceiling. He stood up and turned to their closed bedchambers, he grabbed the know shakily before opening the door and entering. Tears started filling his eyes again as he saw her huddled up between the blankets.

“Love” He whispered walking closer to her. He laid down next to her and hugged her close to his body. Y/n’s cries started getting louder

“I am so sorry, Anthony” She cried out turning around to face him “ it is all my fault, I am so sorry”

He shook his head “No, no, you do not have anything to apologize for” he cut her off when he saw her open her mouth to speak “It was not your fault, okay, it just was not our time yet, it was not your fault” She continued crying

“If you really want, we will keep on trying until we get the family we desire” he offered “I love you and I will always be here for you, always and forever, love” he kissed her head and brought her once again into his chest, hugging her closer, letting her vent all her sadness, his tears falling down.

Y/n became a shell of herself the next few months, she would barely eat or sleep, she would always be inside her bedchambers, laying down on her bed , staring up at the ceiling, lost on her thoughts. And as Anthony said, he was always there for her.

He would bring her food, staying until she at least ate a bit, and at nights, he would hold her close to his chest, rubbing her back comfortingly. And slowly, Y/n felt better with each day that passed, Anthony being by her side made everything better.

The next year, Y/n was back to how she was before. She was the same cheerful, happy, loving Y/n from before. Anthony and her started trying again for a baby.

And that was when more tragedy struck.

No matter how much they tried, each time Y/n got pregnant, it only would last for 4 months or less before she miscarried. But she still held hope, that the next time will not be the same, and each and every single time, she would be disappointed when it turned out the opposite. But they still kept trying.

Y/n was in their nursery, looking out the window as she held one of the baby’s blankets, deep in thought.

“Love?” Y/n turned around to see Anthony before turning back to look out the window

“Is there something wrong with me?” She mumbled, her bottom lip trembling

“No, of course not” Anthony frowned wrapping his arms around her waist

“Then why is it, that whenever I am with child, I always lose it” She blinked back her tears “ There must be something wrong with me, that is the most logical explanation” She turned around in his arms

“There is nothing more I want, than to give you a child, Anthony” She sniffled “And it destroys me that I cannot seem to do so. I am a failure, a disappointment” She looked down

“Hey, hey, listen to me” he lifted her head towards him “ You are not a failure nor a disappointment, you are everything to me, you are the love of my life, and maybe for some reason, we are just not meant to have children and that is alright”

“I am-“

“I can see how everything is taking a toll on you” He said “We do not even have to try anymore if it is breaking you, I am more than content just by having you” he hugged her tightly

“You are all I need”

But they still kept trying for the next few years, each time a failure, until finally the year 1811, Y/n was with child once again, but this time it seemed like it was the one, she surpassed the four months and was now six months.

Although, Anthony did not know how to feel, he was happy of course, but he could not help but feel worry. The physician told them during a visit when he came to check that everything was alright with the baby, that with the amount of miscarriages she had, he could 99% guarantee that the pregnancy will be complicated, the baby could either be a stillborn, or Y/n could die considering she was already really weak from a lot of miscarriages.

“No, it will be better if you do not go on with it” Anthony said firmly

Y/n gave him a look “Anthony-“

“No, you heard the doctor, you could die from childbirth, Y/n!” He exclaimed “No, I cannot lose you”

“Anthony-“

“You are the love of my life, how on earth will I function without you if you die? I cannot, and will not allow this, you hear me” Anthony shook his head furiously

“Anthony” She caressed his face “I want to go along with it”

“What, no! You will not-“

“Anthony” Y/n huffed “ I desire nothing more than to be a mother, to give you a child”

Anthony blinked away his tears “ I cannot lose you, Y/n, it will destroy me if I lose you” his voice broke as he spoke

“And you will not” She shook her head “But I will go on with this pregnancy, I want – I desire to go on, and you will not even try to change my mind, okay?”

He looked down “Alright”

The pregnancy had gone well, they had no complications and now Y/n was about to give birth to a new Bridgerton on a cold December evening.

Maids were huddled up around her, holding blankets and bowls with warm water, the surgeon was at the end of the bed where she lay, helping her and giving her instructions.

Meanwhile, Anthony was outside, along with both families, pacing around the corridor as he heard his wife’s screams inside the room. He decided to stop pacing as he was only growing more frustrated, and stood next to his mother who grabbed his hand comfortingly.

They were stood like that for the next hour, the younger siblings had gone to Anthony’s private lodgings as they were sure the commotion would not let them sleep, Colin had gone with them, and only Violet, Anthony, Benedict, Daphne and Y/n’s family remained.

Suddenly everything went silent, after a few minutes, Anthony looked up from the floor and to the door, he walked towards the door, a bad feeling blooming in his stomach. He was almost at the door when it opened, revealing the surgeon.

“My lord, the baby has successfully been born, he is very healthy” The surgeon said before he looked at Anthony solemnly. Anthony started to breath heavier as each moment passed, his vision blurring as he already knew what he was going to announce “Sadly, your wife did not make it, she died during childbirth”

Anthony stumbled back his lips trembling, shaking his head furiously, “No, no, no, she cannot, she-“ his voice broke as he fell to the floor “No, no, y/n, no, oh my love” he started sobbing loudly

Everyone watched the scene heart broken, tears falling down their faces foo. Anthony continued crying out “Y/n, no, no, why her, god why are you so cruel”

“Anthony-“ he ignored his mother

He stood up quickly and entered the room, his eyes set on Y/n’s figure laying down, her eyes closed, and she looked peaceful. He sobbed as he sat down next to her and brought her into his lap.

“You are the love of my life, I cannot live without you, Y/n, please wake up!” He looked up at the ceiling before he screamed out in pain, holding her closer to him as he cried onto her body

“Love, come on, wake up” He cried “You cannot do this to me, Y/n, you- you- you said everything will be fine, you cannot leave me” he shook his head, laying his forehead on top of hers, caressing her face

☆☆☆☆☆

It has been 2 years after Y/n’s death.

Anthony was a little better now, he still was not over it but he had to be strong, for little Eddie.

Although it was hard to be strong when every time he looked at Eddie, all he could see was Y/n. Edmund had his mother’s eyes, and her nose and smile, god her beautiful smile, oh how much Anthony loved her smile.

Eddie was his whole world now, and he will do anything to protect their baby boy with his whole life, to make him be the best man he can be when he grows up, just as his mother made his father the best man Anthony could be.

Anthony picked up little Eddie from his cot, he smiled warmly, looking at Eddie’s face smiling up at him, his little finger coming to rest on his face.

“dada” Eddie mumbled laying his head on Anthony’s shoulder

He stopped, his eyes resting lovingly on Y/n's face. He blinked back tears before smiling. “you will always be in my heart. Always and Forever, love”

“Well look who is awake, now come on, your nana Y/m/n has come with papa, granny Violet is already with them, they are just waiting for you, they have come with lots of sweets for you” Anthony hummed as he turned to walk out of his bedchambers, his eyes caught Y/n’s portrait near the door.

Tagged:

@heyyitsreign @enjoymyloves

You're absolutely perfect

Pairing: Colin Bridgerton x reader

Summary: Maybe love is not so bad

Word count: 1.1k

Warnings: unedited, fluff,

Requested by @fanmak hey! Thank you so much for requesting, sorry if it was late but I had some problems as I explained here, but here it is, hopefully I did not stray too much from what you requested and I hope you like it! ♡

Masterlist

Colin was, or actually, used to be a hopeless romantic. He was in love with the idea of finding your one true love, your soul mate, that there was a person out there destined to be with you.

But that that all changed with Marina Thompson.

Now he does not understand why people craved love. Love hurts, destroys and illusions you. And he still thought that, especially after everything that happened with Marina Thompson.

Why would someone want that feeling?

Why was wanting to be hurt so expected?

He never understood why until he saw you again. After he really, really saw you. When he observed your eyes that shone between kindness and illusion. When he saw you smile at the chaos that was his family. When he saw the way you were with little Hyacinth and Gregory.

When your eyes met his, happiness evident in your eyes after spending time with his siblings, he understood: that he would endure everything that may happen just to be by your side.

He believed in soulmates again.

It happened on the winter of 1813, a few months after the social season.

With Daphne off in her new house, married to the Duke of Hastings, they were missing one person which the Bridgerton siblings needed to fully compete in their annual winter games. And your family being close friends with the Bridgertons, as well as you being best friends with Daphne and Eloise, even if you were older than her, they decided to invite you all for the holidays, which your family and you gladly accepted.

“Colin!” You exclaimed happily once you saw him after greeting everyone else “You’re back!” you approached him slowly as the snow sunk your feet slightly

“Y/n” Colin greeted as he stared at you surprised.

After the whole fiasco with Marina and her pregnancy, Colin decided that it would be best to take a break from society and thus, he went to do what he loves the most, traveling.

It has been a while since he saw you. Of course you saw each other after Daphne was presented in front of the queen, when you went to congratulate her when she was named the Diamond of the season. But after that you haven’t seen each other.

You were a year younger than Daphne but you still haven’t made your debut as your mother thought it best to have you fully prepare before you entered society, as you will be this coming season.

Anyway, with you still not being a debutante, you were not present in balls or other events, and with Colin enthralled by Marina, you never saw each other except for small glances when the Bridgerton family invited yours over.

That is why he was surprised when he saw you again, you looked way different than he remembered you to be, not like he really looked at you, but still. You looked more mature, more like a proper lady, more… he daresay, beautiful.

Even if it makes him sound shallow, that was what interested him at first.

“It was a shorter trip this time huh?” You mused as you brushed the snow out of your hair “Colin?” you questioned when he didn’t speak.

That snapped him out of his thoughts “Oh, yeah, I saw everything there was to see in Athens and mother asked me to come back for the holidays, I thought it was the least I could do after the scandal I brought the family last season”

You smiled reassuringly “Surely you must know it was not your fault. You did not know Marina would do something like that, you were the victim. I am positive none of your family blames you for what happened, so neither should you”

He chuckled looking down before looking down at you fondly “ Daphne and Eloise are lucky to have a friend like you” He commented

“They really are, are they not?” You smile teasingly making him laugh

“Y/n!” Eloise exclaimed “What are you even doing speaking to him, he is not important, I have something to show you” She tugs you away before you could speak.

“I love you too, sister” Colin only shakes his head at his sister as he watched her pull you away

The snow falling seized, left in its wake the ground covered, perfect for some friendly war, as the Bridgertons thought.

“Come on, Y/n!” Hyacinth urged you “Before it starts snowing again and mother changes her mind” you laughed grabbing your coat and Hyacinth’s along with some gloves with Gregory putting his own behind you both

You helped Hyacinth put her coat and gloves on before she tugged you out the door gleefully, the rest of the Bridgerton family, and yours, following you behind.

You helped Hyacinth and Gregory build a snowman while the rest of the siblings were getting everything else ready. You were tasked to build a big ball of snow while they build the other two.

You looked down at the ground, piling snow on top of each other and molding it into a ball when you felt snow hitting your face.

“Hey!” you yelped at the cold. You looked over and saw Hyacinth chuckling whole Gregory was pointing at her, you grab some snow on to your hands “Oh it is on” you chucked it at her but she quickly ducked, the snow hitting Gregory in the face instead.

Gregory turned to look at you shocked, you gave him a sheepish smile, looking at him apologetic. He bent down and also grabbed some snow, thus starting a snow ball fight.

You all laughed running all over the field, using others for cover when one of you chucked snow at the other, the other soon joining in to the fight, now some big chaos was happening.

You giggled as this time you ran behind Colin “Hi” you greeted when he turned around to look at you

“That is not very brave of you, hiding behind others” Colin teased, you laughed shrugging your shoulders

“I never said I was brave, did I?” You responded, he chuckled before he bent down, you looked at him wide eyed, gasping dramatically once you saw what he bent down for

“Wait- Colin, Do-“ He chuckled as you backed away from him, before loosing your footing and falling down to the ground, yelping.

You looked at each other before you both burst out laughing, shaking your heads. Colin stopped laughing after a while, now looking at you as you laid flat on the ground, your shoulders shaking as you kept laughing. He smiled with admiration as he kept looking at you.

You're absolutely Perfect.

Yeah, he would not mind having you in his future.

Excuses

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x fem! reader

Summary: Maybe all of his visits aren't exactly to see your brother

Word count: 1.9k

Warnings: unedited, fluff, mentions of unrequited love (or is it) and I think that's all

Masterlist

“The feelings that hurt most, the emotions that sting most, are those that are absurd – The longing for impossible things, precisely because they are impossible; nostalgia for what never was; the desire for what could have been; regret over not being someone else; dissatisfaction with the world’s existence. All these half-tones of the soul’s consciousness create in us a painful landscape, an eternal sunset of what we are.”

You once read that in a book, and could not help but relate to it.

The worst feeling you could ever feel is that, the one of unrequited love. The feeling of loving somebody and knowing that somebody does not feel the same for you.

It is ridiculous, that feeling that you get when you see him, when he takes a moment out of his day to even talk to you and ask you how you have been, leaving you happy that he even talked to you when you know he only did it out of courtesy. But you still lived for those moments.

Birds chirped, the sun hitting your face and the wind breezed your skin while you read one of your favorite romance books, the pages held carefully between your fingers.

You were immersed in the pages, paying zero attention to anything but the love story in front of you.

Pride and Prejudice.

Ever since you were little, you wished to live a love story of your own. You wished for the kind of love Mr. Darcy had for Elizabeth. One where a man loved you so deeply he would do anything for you. One where you were the only woman he could ever think about. It was all you could dream of.

But that was all it was, a dream.

Men in the society were nothing like the ones you read in books. They were arrogant, selfish, pompous bastards who cared nothing but to have a beautiful lady on their arm that made them look good.

You wanted someone kind, who didn’t care whether you were beautiful or not, that loved his family fiercely and protected his loved ones with everything he has, so they would not be hurt.

Someone who was affectionate and paid attention to the things you loved. Who took time out of his day to talk to you and ask you how was your day, and that he was interested in what you had to say.

And the only one you could think of that fit those requirements was your brother’s best friend. But even then, you doubted he had an interest in you.

You were Simon Basset’s younger sister, the Duke of Hastings. Or well, you were his half sister as his father remarried again once Simon was 9 years old in hopes of having a son who was not an ‘idiot’ as Simon’s father used to say but what a shock when instead of the son he desired so turned out to be the exact opposite and that was when he lost hope.

Simon, oh sweet Simon. He was the best brother you could ever ask for, of course he was very overprotective of you and would chase suitors who he thought did not deserve you away, which meant every single one, but you did not know what you would do without him

Even with you being his half sister, he cared very deeply for you and did not hate you for what his father did to him.

“You are still reading that?”

You snapped your head up coming face to face with the viscount. You held back a smile and slightly bowed your head feeling yourself starting to become giddy at his presence.

“Viscount Bridgerton” You greeted before looking back at your book, trying to appear uninterested “Not at all, I have finished it weeks ago but there is no harm in reading it again, is there?”

“Not at all” He shook his head “ but surely you do not enjoy reading the same thing over and over again, do you? I, for one, do not enjoy reading about silly things about love in silly books” you look at him in disbelief

“They are not silly, I think everything I read in these books are incredibly beautiful, and yes, I do enjoy reading these things” you responded “Why did you even decide to come outside to judge the books I read? My brother is inside in his study, go and bother him instead”

He let out a laugh “ Now why would I do that when you are here just waiting for me to bless you with my presence” you glare at him making him laugh once again “okay, I already fulfilled my purpose, now I will leave, I will see you later, princess” he winked at you before starting to walk back to your home

You make sure he is inside the house before you smile widely, shaking your head remembering the encounter.

You could not even count on both of your hands the number of times Anthony has been on your home the past few weeks. It would seem as if he was also living here from the how much he frequents here. Even if Simon was not present, he would still appear to keep you company for a few hours, chaperoned of course. If you did not know better, you would have assumed he appeared constantly at the Hastings House just to see you but of course, you did know better.

But you cannot even complain, you certainly did not mind seeing him around your home. You did not mind one bit.

It had not even been 2 days before the viscount appeared once more in your home. You were not surprised to say the least.

“Back once more?” You said when you saw him walk through the door, walking down the stairs. He turned towards you and smiled “It seems as if this is your home from how frequent you are seen here now a days”

He laughs “Oh come on, it is not as if you do not enjoy my presence around you” he teases

“Quite the opposite, my lord, I consider you a nuisance” You responded amused, holding back your smile “Like a fly constantly buzzing around my ear, very much annoying” you stopped in front of him

“Well ouch” he exclaimed hurt but you knew better, you could see the laughter dancing around in his eyes, you swatted him on the arm playfully.

“My brother is not here, I assumed he would have told you he had some business to attend to in Clyvedown and would not be back until 3 days from now” You informed him after

“Oh really? I was not informed of that” He feigned confusion “Well, now that I am here, I am sure you would not mind me making you company for a few hours, you know, so it does not go to waste the trip I made here” he added once he saw the face you made

You thought for a few moments before you responded “Well alright, I suppose there is no harm in that”

“Wonderful, shall we go to promenade?” Anthony offered

“Now?” You questioned “But I am not even dressed to go promenade and even if there are people in the park, as soon as they see us together they will think we are courting”

“You look beautiful regardless, it does not matter hoe you are dressed” He compliments “Come on, let’s just go, no one will even be in the park”

You just laugh before gesturing at him to go on, shaking your head at his silliness.

“No one will be here, you said” You tease as you walked along the trail

“Well….” He trailed off “I lied. I knew there would be people here, it is a sunday, after all, everyone comes to the park on sundays” he looked away from you

You furrowed your eyebrows confused. Why on earth would he want people to see the two of you together? Does he not know the rumors the ton will create about the two of you? And they would mostly affect him as he is the one that does not want the ton to think he has plans of marrying any time soon. But maybe you should not worry much, you are his best friend’s sister after all, you hope they will only think he is keeping you company as your brother is out of town. On the other hand, if the ton thinks you are courting, your suitors might cease.

“Why would you lie?” you asked “I mean, I have no problem of being seen together, but people might get the wrong idea and any suitors I have might back off. And I plan on marrying this season, at the latest next season if I do not find anyone I even remotely like” you pursued your lips at the thought of not marrying because of a misunderstanding.

Of course, it is not like anything will happen if you do not marry or get engaged soon. But what you meant is that if gentlemen think Anthony is courting you, they will not approach you, or well they will since men always go after a lady when they think someone of importance is courting them, but you do not want a man to pursue you because someone of high social standing is interested in you and they want to see what is it that strung him in, but because they like you for who you are.

You do want your fairytale love story after all, or at least marry for love.

“Maybe I want them to get the wrong idea” Anthony mused, you snapped your head towards him quickly

“Do you want me to become a spinster?” you looked at him incredulously “because I will if no 0one wants to court me in the next 2 seasons”

He laughs at your comment “No, not at all” he shook his head “ what I meant is that, maybe, I want your suitors to back off so… so that I can pursue you better, without anyone trying to come between us” you stare at him shocked, stopping in your tracks

He stops along with you, laughing at your expression. “Are you going to say anything?”

“ I just – what – I do not know – what about Simon?” you stutter, your mind still trying to comprehend what you just heard

“What about him?” Anthony shrugs nonchalantly

“Will be not be mad if you start courting me? I am his little sister, and he is very protective over me” you noted worriedly

“He is the last person who can be mad at me courting his little sister when he himself is courting mine” he answers and you nod, looking around as you noted some stares that were upon you both “So?”

“So, what?” you looked at him curiously

“You never answered to what I said” your face twisted in confusion at his words “ Will you let me court you?” He looked back at you nervously. Ah right. That.

You hummed in realization “Alright” you nodded “Just know I am very hard to please” you teased

“Good thing I have much experience in how to please a woman” He joked and you shot him a glare making his playful expression disappear when you turned your head away from him “ Right. Sorry. If I am going to court you, no speaking about how much I pleased other women” you shot him another glare making him wince

You huff, taking your hand out of his arm and walking away “Hey! Y/n, I am sorry, I am not going to speak anymore” he called out from behind you “Wait for me, will you? I am sorry, just do not be mad or annoyed at me” You let a smile come onto your face at his pleading.

This will be fun.

ꗟ𝓮𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓭𝓲𝓹𝓲𝓽𝔂 one; Who are you?

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Sharma! reader

Words: 1.3k

Summary: your arrival at Aubrey Hall.

Warnings: Anthony is a jerk at first, talks of death (a new mini story!)

Serendipity Masterlist Masterlist

The Manor was silent and cold, without any sign of life, just as it has been since that horrible day 2 years ago. The day Kate Bridgerton, nee Sharma, died along with the heir to be the next viscount during childbirth.

He loved Kate very much, he thought she was the love of his life. After everything they had went through in 1814, all the scandals, he was lucky she decided to marry him at the end, what Anthony had with her was a real love, not a marriage of convenience. That’s why her death hit him hard, taking with her a piece of Anthony Bridgerton when she died. He felt as if a part of him died that fateful night. He completely shut himself off from everyone, he closed down the Manor and set away all but the minimal staff possible, he wasn’t able to look at them, watch them mourn his wife as he did, she was loved by all of them.

He did not spend time with his family anymore, he hid inside the Manor, inside his study all day, never came out except to sleep, eat and go to the bathroom.

Just as he was once again, buried in his study, working endlessly on some papers, a cold cup of tea next to him when banging on the front door brought him out of his work. He ignored it and went back to his work, thinking some of the few staff he still had will open it soon enough. That was not the case as a few minutes later the banging started once again.

“Mrs. Wilson will you get the door!” Anthony yelled to the butler that was somewhere around the house. The banging still continued “Mrs. Wilson! –“ he groaned annoyed, stood up from his chair and headed down to the door.

He opened the door and came face to face with a young lady shivering, wet head to toe from the rain pouring outside furiously. He raised an eyebrow questioningly.

“Lord Bridgerton?” You questioned, when he nodded you spoke once again “I was told you could help me, I came all the way from India and need some place to rest –“

He rolled his eyes “I think you are confused, My house is not some charity that helps the needed” He went to close the door, once again annoyed that his work was interrupted by some girl that was asking for housing.

“ Wait! I am Kate’s cousin!” You spoke desperately before he closed the door. He stopped and took another look at you, now that he looked closely, you looked a lot like Kate “I am Kate’s cousin, Y/n Sharma” ah so this is the famous Y/n Kate always spoke to him about.

He sighed and opened the door again, gesturing for you to enter, he closed the door and led you to the drawing room “Mrs. Wilson!” he called our before he heard feet approaching to the drawing room quickly

“I am so sorry, my lord, I was helping Thomas in the Kitchen and then I went to the scullery to wash some pots and –“ the housekeeper spoke

“Just get the girl a towel, she is dripping water all over the room” he waved her off gesturing to you

“Of course, my lord, in a moment” the lady scurried off somewhere before Anthony turned back to you, looking you up and down before narrowing his eyes

“How did you know where I lived?” Anthony asked you

“Kate sent me a letter before she… she told me if I ever needed any help, to come to this location and she would help me” You answered looking down at the mention of her. She was practically your sister, that is why you were devastated when Aunt Mary sent you a letter informing you of what happened, of Kate’s death. “There were some complications back in India, some things happened and I could not live there any longer. Kate told me if I ever needed any place to live, she would gladly house me here in Aubrey Hall”

“Yes, well, she is not here, is she?” Anthony grumbled, clenching his jaw “I am afraid I cannot help you, you can stay here for the night since it is late, and it is pouring outside, but tomorrow I am afraid you will have to go somewhere else, as I said before, my house is not a charity that helps the needed ”

You furrowed your eyebrows, taken aback by his cold attitude, way different from the way Kate told you Anthony was in her letters “Why are you such an asshole? You are very rude, way different from how she said you were, she would be disappointed to see the way you are acting with a member from her family, with me, her and I were very close” you scoffed, he glared at you angrily, opening his mouth to speak when the housekeeper entered the room once again

“Here it is dear,” Mrs. Wilson said putting the towel around your shoulders

“Mrs. Wilsom, please show our guest to a bed chamber, she will be staying the night” Anthony announced

“Yes, of course” She nodded and led you to a room “Oh, we must make you a warm bath, otherwise you will get ill from the cold rain”

You walked down the stairs, holding the few belongings you came with. You were crossing the dining room when you saw the viscount sitting down, eating his breakfast. You stopped and entered the room making him look up from his plate, raising an eyebrow at you.

“I am leaving now, I thank you for your hospitality and am sorry for any disturbances I may have caused, Farewell viscount Bridgerton” You bowed your head respectfully and walked away.

You were not sure where you would go now, you did not even know where your Aunt Mary resided now since it has been a long time since you have received any letter from the Sharma family, since Kate’s death more precisely.

“Miss Sharma” the viscount called out, you stopped as you heard him approach you behind you “May I know where you are headed now?”

You turned around to look at him “ Well… I… was going to my Aunt’s home, she would be more than happy to have me, I am sure” you nodded

“Oh really?” He raises an eyebrow “I was certain you would have known that Lady Mary was visiting Miss Edwina in Prussia, were you not told?” he stated, you looked at him shocked.

Prussia? What on earth would Edwina be doing in Prussia?

“I…” You looked down at the ground before looking up at him again “ Truth be told, I have not received a letter from them ever since….. Kate’s death…” you saw him clench his jaw at your comment “But worry not, I will find somewhere to reside in, I have been told Lady Danbury is a great friend of my family and they have told me she has offered to also take me in”

“Listen, Lady Danbury is visiting my sister Daphne and her husband at Clyvedown and she will not be back anytime soon, your aunt said she will be back in 2 months” he sighed rubbing his forehead in frustration “I cannot let you out in the streets, you are Kate’s family after all and she would have never forgiven me if I let you leave so…. You can stay while your aunt comes back”

“Really?” You exclaimed “Oh thank you so much!” you squealed when he nodded and brought him into a hug, when you felt him turn rigid you let him go quickly “Sorry, but thank you so much, I promise I will not disturb you”

Anthony nodded pursuing his lips “ I will tell Mrs. Wilson to prepare you a room” and left without another word

Well he certainly was not someone of many words

ꗟ𝓮𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓭𝓲𝓹𝓲𝓽𝔂 2

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x reader

Word count: 900

Summary: a little run in with the viscount

A/n: a little filler chapter, I just came back from a break but I am still currently on a little writers block because I am on a period of exams in school so I am sorry if I still don't update often

Serendipity masterlist Masterlist

It has been 2 months after you first appeared at Aubrey Hall. You had stayed out of Lord Bridgerton’s way during your stay, never once sought him out, the only time you saw him was during dinner, sometimes not even then.

Not that you minded much, there was no reason you even wanted to be in his presence. Sure, he is handsome, but from how little you have spoke to him, he is a cold person and rude mannered besides the fact he was your dearest cousin’s husband, you did not want to he around people like that.

You were rounding up a corner when you bumped into the viscount, you gasped trying to regain your balance “I am sorry, Lord Bridgerton, I did not see where I was walking, please forgive me”

He ran his eyes up and down your figure before giving you a cold stare and walking away. You follow him with your eyes “What an arsehole” you scoffed silently

Or maybe not as silently as you thought because the moment those words came out of your mouth, the viscount stopped in his tracks and turned back to you, raising an eyebrow

“What was that?” He questioned coldly, you feigned an innocent expression staying silent “Okay, now let’s make something clear, maybe you have gotten way too comfortable the last 2 months as I have not been around much but it is time I remedy that.”

“This is my home, I am the owner of this house and as the owner of this house, I can decide who stays here and who will not. I will not have myself be disrespected in my home, if you cannot follow that, I will ask you to leave. You being Kate’s cousin does not grant you any privilege and she is not here to defend you if I wish to throw you out” you stare at him shocked at what he just said “Now, I will ask again, what was it you said?” He asked

You composed yourself, and furrowed your eyebrows in anger. You know he is expecting you to apologize or say nothing but what a shock he will get when you do nothing of that sort “I said, what an arsehole” you spit out “ Yes, this may be your home, but it is no excuse for you to act like an arsehole, you want to be treated with respect, then treat me with respect also” you scoffed turning around and walking away this time

The viscount was left stunned. He huffed out a laugh humorlessly. The nerve of this girl, after he so graciously lets her stay in his home until her aunt comes back, she insults him and makes demands. Whatever. He lets out a sigh, rubbing his temples before walking back to his study.

“This is my home. I can choose who lives here and who does not.” You imitated the viscount as you neared another corner “If you weren’t Kate’s cousin you would not even be living here”

“Well I never begged you to house me here” you scoffed rolling your eyes “ you– you– you pompous coxcomb – oof –“ you once again bumped into another person

“I would be careful to not say those words about the viscount where just about anyone can hear, Miss Sharma” Mrs. Wilson uttered

“Mrs. Wilson” you smiled sheepishly “Who said I was speaking of the viscount? No no. It was not the viscount I was speaking of. It was about this –uh– man I met the other day” Mrs. Wilson hummed humorously

“Yes, this man was so rude, and very entitled, I just feel like – ugh–“ you huffed frustrated before sighing “Okay, maybe I was speaking about the viscount but you were aware of that already”

“I was” She affirmed

“It’s just – he has not uttered a word or even breathed near me ever since I got here, and the only time we have crossed paths, he looked at me like I was beneath him – which I am since he is a viscount and I am a mere lady– but still, it is no reason to be rude” you shook your head “you would think me being Kate’s cousin would make him be a little more polite”

“the viscount is anything but rude, trust me, he just is going through a hard time with the viscountess’ death” Mrs. Wilson stated “Lord Bridgerton loved her deeply and her death destroyed the progress which he worked so hard to achieve, you cannot blame him for being cold nor heartbroken”

You scoffed once again, eyes tearing up at the mention of Kate “That is no reason!” you snapped “Aunt Mary, Edwina and I also lost Kate 2 years ago. We also lost someone we loved so deeply, maybe not in the same way the viscount loved her but you cannot say it doesn’t hurt us. Not to Mary who lost her daughter, or Edwina her sister, or me who lost my cousin, someone dear that was there for me through the hard times and that I cherished. We all lost the same person and you do not see us acting the same way the viscount does, do we?”

“I may not be able to say he is not heartbroken, but apart from that, I can still hold him accountable for his actions” and for what feels like the hundredth time, you walk away once again from someone

𝕾𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖓𝖉𝖎𝖕𝖎𝖙𝖞 3

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x reader

Summary: growing closer is easier than you thought

Word count: 2k

Warnings: talk of a shitty family, mentions of death, unedited, I think that's all

Serendipity masterlist masterlist

You hummed as you entered the library grabbing the first book you saw on the shelf and sitting down on an couch nearby. You flipped through the pages, finding it boring and discarding it away.

You stood up and walked to the shelves, ruffling through the books, a door opened and closed behind you but you ignored it and continued searching for a good book when you heard a throat being cleared behind you.

You turn around with a book on your hands, coming face to face with the viscount “Viscount Bridgerton” you muttered pushing past him to go sit down

You open the book, ignoring his eyes that were fixated upon you “If you have something to say, you should do it now, I do not like people staring at me like you do, and I do not like people who do not speak their minds”

“I heard what you said to Mrs. Wilson” He blurted out, you hummed in response

“If you are expecting an apology, you will not get one, I stand by what I said” You stated

“No, no, I am not asking for one” He shook his head

“Then?”

“I came to – wanted to apologize for how I… I treated you before” he muttered

You raised an eyebrow “Truly.” He said once he saw the disbelief on your face “You were right. We all lost Kate and everyone is hurting the same way that I am. You were also right saying that I shouldn’t act the way I am, Kate’s death is no excuse and you did not deserve to be on the receiving end of my ire”

You pursued your lips before sighing mulling over his words “I accept your apology, if only because you are Kate’s husband”

He smiled slightly “I propose we start over” he offered “put the bad first impression behind us and try to get along… for Kate”

You nodded “For Kate” he nodded and grabbed a book, sitting down on the couch beside you

And just like that, you both started over.

You both would not go entirely out of your way to seek the other but in the case that you did come across each other, you would greet the other politely, making small talk before you went your way.

That was only the first week. By the second, you would go to the library for your nightly reading fest, the viscount would join you half an hour after, where you both would speak about the books you previously read and he would recommend you books he had read and enjoyed.

And soon enough, you went from strangers, to acquaintances to, almost friends?, you were not quite friends but you were not acquaintances either.

“Mr. Bridgerton” you greeted once you entered the library once again one night, he tilted his head in greeting, very immersed in the pages of the book he was reading. You grabbed the book you were previously reading the night before and sat down next to Lord Bridgerton. Uncomfortable silence filling the room.

After a few minutes of you both reading, you felt Lord Bridgerton shift beside you, closed his book and turned to look at you “Can…” he hesitated “Can you tell me about Kate?”

You looked at him questioningly “How she was before coming to London” Lord Bridgerton clarified “She told me bits of her life but not everything as we spent our time doing…other things” you smother the chuckle you wanted to let out, and instead shook your head

“Well, I have no idea how her childhood was since my parents never did let me visit Kate’s family, because as you probably know, Kate’s father was not exactly rich, and my mother despite being born poor, after she married my father, she changed and prioritized money over everything” You replied “But after I went to live with her family, well, she spent all of her time taking care of Edwina, and me then, she used to spent all of her time teaching Edwina everything she would need to become a proper lady, never really spending any time doing anything other than that. It was very rare when she took some time for herself”

“But, she was always there for us, she listened to us whenever we had a problem and if we wanted to go somewhere but we couldn’t since it wasn’t proper for us to go out unchaperoned, she would take us” You smiled your mind taking you back to the time when everything was simple “There was this time when Edwina and I desperately wanted to go to a fair they were having on our native country, they had brought some new stuff, like opera concerts, or new jewelry, there was even this thing called fireworks, and since we never saw one, we wanted to see what it did”

“So, we had snuck out at night when everyone was abed, or so we thought, we had gotten to this tall wall and we were trying to climb over it – it had some partitions that were out so we were able to hold onto them – and Edwina was at the top, I was starting to climb the wall when Kate caught us. Instead of reprimanding us for sneaking out, she was mad that we did not bring her along” Lord Bridgerton and you chuckled “ Anyway, Edwina and I were on the other side and Kate had one foot on either side, she was bringing her other foot to the other side when she lost her footing and fell into a puddle of mud that was, coincidentally underneath her and that is not even the funny part–“ you started to laugh remembering her face “ because where we used to live was close to a farm, which had some pigs that got loose a lot. One was in the puddle and when she fell, she accidentally fell onto of the pig. You should have seen her. Her whole body was filled with mud, some even got in her mouth and when tried to get up, she lost her footing once again and fell right back down onto the pig” you shook your head once again, both of your laughter filled the room “That was the happiest day of my life”

When you finished talking, the room was filled with silence once again. But this time, it wasn’t that awkward.

”And how was your life before you lived with Kate’s family?” Anthony wondered

You looked up at the fireplace in front of you both, the flames shinning brightly on your eyes “It was normal, it was not amazing but it was not like I had a bad childhood either” you sighed “We were not exactly rich nor did we have a big mansion like you do, I was always expected to be a proper lady so I could marry someone rich and ‘pay back’ what they wasted on me, my mother and father were not really that loving and never really paid attention to anything I needed”

You turned your head to look at him only to find him already staring at you “Ever since I was young, I was all alone, my father spent all of his time working and working to earn money so when the time came, I could make my debut into society thus he was never around, and even if he was, he never spoke to me unless it was to reprimand me for something. My mother was the same, if not worse. Of course, she did not work, how could a lady work? All they are born for is to marry someone rich, give them their heirs and spend their life forming their daughters into proper ladies. Or so she used to say. At least that is what she molded me into.” You did not even know why you were telling him this, but your mouth didn’t seem to want to stop, wanting to let everything out.

“Point is – “ You said “They were never there for me when I needed, they were never loving towards me despite being their only daughter. But they did everything so I could have a better life than they did and I loved and respected them” Anthony stayed silent, letting me get everything off my chest

“I loved and respected them until they turned their backs on me, that is” You admitted “Ever since that awful night, they disowned me, blamed me for ruining their reputations, as if it was my fault, they were never caring but I would have thought that me being their daughter would have meant something, that they would support me through everything and, Surprise! Surprise! It was the exact opposite.” You scoffed incredulously, you sighed and grabbed the book you previously discarded, thinking the conversation was done when you finished talking.

”I had to grow quicker than all of my siblings” Anthony admitted smiling sadly “I was 18…. when my father… died…. We had gone that day to hunt just the two of us and as we were heading back here, we stopped to pick some of the flowers out front” he pointed out the window

“He was stung by a bee. He had turned out to be allergic and before we could call for the doctor, he was gone” he pursed his lips “Just like that, at 18 years old, I was made the viscount. I had to switch from being a brother to being a father figure to my siblings in a matter of moments. I was entering a new stage in my life as a teenager and I did not even get to fully experience it from having to grow up sooner than I thought” you sighed and hesitated before you put your hand on top of his as a comforting gesture, one he smiled gratefully at. “I spent all of my time in the next 10 years either working or, and I am ashamed to admit it, frolicking around with women.”

“My mother was destroyed when my father died, she was always in her room, never really ate anything, could not even check on little Hyacinth from how heartbroken she was. That was the moment when I decided that I could not, and would not marry for love and have someone suffer the same fate as my mother did, as I could not even bare the thought that I could ever surpass my father in anything, much less surpass him in age” He sighed before his eyes seemed to brighten up “Then I met Kate, and she changed my perception on love, Kate was my soul mate. As you probably know, I had initially proposed to Ms. Edwina, she was the diamond of the season and since I was not planning to marry for love, I thought she was the best option, that she was well suited to be my wife, she did fit all of my requirements. But little did I know that trying to pursue her would be hard as she had a sister who did not like me one bit. Kate and I fought all the time, we could not stand to be in the same place for even a minute. But everything changed when I invited them here, some things happened and everything between Kate and I changed, we fell in love. We went through some hardships but in the end, we overcame it all, we were happy, we were expecting a child, everything was fine until she died” he lowered his head, you looked at him sadly, tears started to sting on your eyes before you blinked them away, composing yourself

“Kate was the best of us” you murmured looking back at the fireplace “ I don’t know how we will live peacefully without her” Lord Bridgerton nodded agreeing with you before he stood up

“If you excuse me, I still have work to do” he left without another word, you looked at the door he just walked through, understanding filling you, the wound still wasn’t healed after all but you were comforted knowing that this was a step closer to getting along.

Love me again, please

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Fem!reader

Word count: 5.6k

Summary: After a few years, you cross paths with the last person you ever wanted to

Warning: I do not know where I was going with this story at the end so I apologize if it is a little over the place but you all get the gist.

A/n: I'm also posting after months of posting nothing. Very sorry about that but well, I lost the motivation to write, with that being said, Serendipity is on hold for the moment. I have the story planned out but I have no idea what else to write so the main scenes may connect in the end. So I'll be taking my time writing that. Also, I have no posting schedule because I know I won't follow through with it so I'll be posting when motivation hits and I have a fic finished. Lots of love to everyone who takes the time to read this xx.

Forgiveness.

An action that is difficult for human beings to execute. We live in a world that in which resentment , anger and revenge win over anything else. We let ourselves be carried away by the teeth of hatred, that we never take into account that action.

Forgiveness brings us peace and it brings happiness because not only are you forgiving the other person, you are forgiving yourself. Forgiveness is the biggest act of love in this world, and we just have made it complicated.

Although as much as you preach for people to forgive, you yourself, haven’t got it in you to forgive that one person that wronged you so many years ago.

Oh, how you hated him.

The one person that made you fall in love with him, that made you question your morals and break your dignity, allowing yourself to be used as if you were a prostitute from one of the brothels downtown.

He promised you his love, whispered sweet noothings in your ear as he made love to you late in the evenings, when everyone was asleep, telling you to give him more time so he could sort out a few things before making you his wife.

Oh, how you hated him.

Like a fool, you believed everything he promised you, hope blooming inside you at his words, that was all you wished for, to become his wife. But for the meantime, you were happy being his mistress.

If the only way to be with him until he sorted everything out was by being his mistress, hiding in the shadows, where no one was watching, you would take it, you would give yourself to him.

Oh, how you hated him.

That is, until one day, he left you without any word.

He came to your room one evening, you were patiently waiting for him, readying yourself for what you thought would be another night of pleasure.

That is until he arrived and broke your heart.

Told you how he could not be with you anymore and that he would not be coming to your room anymore. When you kept on pleading with him not to leave you, that is when he changed to saying cruel, cruel things.

Like how did you ever believe he would actually marry you, and that he was only with you for the pleasure filled nights you provided, that you were just an easy prey, foolishly believing everything he said. Those words succeeding even further on breaking your heart.

Oh, how you hate – loathe him.

Oh, how you loathed him

Oh, how you really really loathed him

Oh………

how you wished you actually loathed or even hated him.

Because that is the truth, no matter how much he hurt you, no matter how the words he carelessly threw at you engraved themselves deeply inside you, how he completely broke you, even then, you still could not find it in yourself to hate him.

“Your grace?” you snapped out of your thoughts, turning your head to the side, looking at the footman questioningly “We are here, your grace”

You thanked him quietly before looking down at the toddler sleeping on your chest, brushing the hair that was covering her face away, caressing her chubby cheeks.

“Love,” you murmured stroking her head lovingly. Little Amelia moved, shaking her head before burying herself further into your chest “It is time to wake up, darling. Were you not excited to see grandmamma and grandpapa? What about your cousins, Charles and Elizabeth? You were delighted that you were going to be able to play with them”

She instantly sat up, rubbing away the sleep from her eyes “Oh! Charlie and Lizzie! Mama!” she squealed, suddenly very energetic “They said they would show me toys their mama and papa brought them” She clapped her hands and hastily exited the carriage once the footman opened the door.

“Careful” you called out after her, grabbing the blankets you previously set out for her to sleep more comfortably

“Amy!” you could hear your mother’s voice exclaim as you put your feet on the floor and looked around “Oh, look how big you’ve gotten sweet girl!”

“And so beautiful too, just as beautiful as her mother” your papa added happily, bringing you into a hug

“mama, papa, it is so nice to see you” You greeted happily returning the hug before pulling back “has Ed and Ellie arrived? Amy cannot wait to play with Charlie and Lizzie” you ask

“Oh! Yes, they are just inside, come on Amy, let us go see your aunt and uncle” your mama urged grabbing on to your daughter’s little hand, your father offered his hand to you which you rejected, shaking your head

“You three go on ahead, I just want to breathe in a little bit of fresh air, those few hours in the carriage made me a little nauseous” you breathed out, they nodded before walking away and leaving you alone. You sighed, turning to look you at the sky, letting the sun soak into your skin.

It is crazy how fast time passes. It seems like it was just yesterday when you got your heart broken. It seems like it was just yesterday when after getting your heart broken, you decided to move on away from him and instead marry a dear friend of yours.

Jacob Thornwell was his name, the duke of Rosehill, you had met him through your brother as they had gone to Eton together and you become close friends, close enough to marry each other. It wasn’t a marriage out of love but you both cared deeply and respected each other. What more could you have asked for?

You married him because you were heartbroken and wanted to move on and not give that person the satisfaction of seeing you broken, and Jacob married you to escape his family’s complaints.

After a week of mourning over your lost love, you went to him and proposed the idea, he accepted and soon after you married. You were happy, or at least the most happy you could be after getting your heart broken, but everything changed when a few months later, you had little Amelia.

Your world changed after that day, after you held your sweet babe in your arms, after she opened her eyes, those eyes she inherited from her father. And when her little lips formed into a small smile, you knew you would do anything for your daughter, she was now the most important person in the whole world and you would protect her against everything.

You let out a deep breath closing your eyes, after a few moments opening them once again, you turned your head to the side, your body filling with dread when you saw a familiar person looking back at you from across the street.

Your heart started to race when he opened his mouth to say something starting to cross the street , you turned on your heel and entered your parent’s home, not letting him even say anything. You close the front door loudly and lean your body against it, holding your hands close to your chest, willing your heart to slow down.

“Y/n?” You hear your mama’s voice speak up, you turn to look at her, mustering up a smile “Are you alright, dear?”

“Yes, yes I am” you breathed out “I just thought I saw a bug, you know how I get when I see one” you let out a fake laugh, giving a shudder as If you were disgusted to make it more believable

Your mama nodded her head, not quite believing you but deciding to let it go “Of course” She then gestured to the drawing room “Come on now, your brother is anxious to see you” you now smile genuinely before following behind her

After greeting your brother, you were seated on a couch, looking at your daughter and her cousins playing happily in the middle of the room, a smile laying on your face, although that smile faded once you remembered your brief interaction, if you could even call it that, with that man across the street.

How dare he? How dare he look at you as if he was shocked you were in front of him, as if you were the one who had broken his heart and cut all contact with him after, how dare he even try to approach you after everything he did..... after everything he said?

What you would have given to know how he had felt in that moment. That moment when your heart was cracking into a million pieces, that moment where you were crying out for him not to go because you needed him. You wondered how he felt. Did it even hurt him as much as it hurt you? Did he feel that painful tug in his chest or the lump in his throat like you did? Did he even love you as much as you loved him?

You curse the day you met Anthony Bridgerton.

That man was your ruin.

You take it back.

You curse the moment you let your mama convince you to go to the ball Lady Bridgerton was hosting.

Not only because you had to leave Amy at home but because there was also a 50 percent chance that you could encounter Anthony Bridgerton at any given moment, and that was the last thing you wanted to do tonight.

“Fancy seeing you tonight” someone spoke up beside you, you look up, coming face to face with the last person you wanted to see.

Oh, just your luck.

“Lord Bridgerton” You uttered looking back at the couples dancing in the middle of the room

“Miss Y/n – oh, my apologies, I forgot you are now the duchess of Rosehill” he muttered unapologetic “Your grace,” he said sarcastically holding back a scoff, you look up at him once again, sending him a glare

After a few moments of silence, he spoke up “Are you not even going to say anything?”

You sighed angrily, the last thing you wanted to do right now was speak to him “There is nothing to speak about, Viscount Bridgerton”

He scoffed rolling his eyes “Surely you cannot be serious” he grabbed your arm and pulled you into an empty corridor after making sure nobody saw you both “Let us start with something simple, how about the fact that you married Jacob Thornwell when you knew damn well I did not like him”

“Excuse me?!” You scoffed angrily“Who I married is none of your concern”

“None of my concern?” He laughed humorlessly “None… of….my….concern?”

“Yes," you reply “None of your concern, you did not have any say in who I married and whether you liked him or not. Well, guess what? I did not care, not.one.bit” You snapped “ You were the one that left me! Might I remind you of that night when you came into my room and told me all kind of horrible things?”

“I-“ he tried to cut in

“No, no, let me speak!” you glare at him “You told me I was just an easy lay, you told me you didn’t ever have any plans of marrying me and were only looking for an innocent, naïve, foolish little girl who you could fool into sleeping with you. You told me I was a fool for believing everything you ever told me”

“Y/n-“

“Let me speak!” you breathed out harshly, Anthony went silent “Do you have any idea how horrible I felt? How broken I felt? You were the first man I was ever with, the first man who paid even just a little bit of attention to me. The first man I ever loved…. I really loved you, Anthony… I loved you so much that it consumed me entirely. And you left me” you chuckle emotionlessly “But do not worry, I feel nothing for you anymore”

“You seduced me, ruined me, and then left me. I gave you what I should have only given my husband, I was really lucky that Jacob was understanding because if not, I never would have been able to marry, god knows no one would want damaged goods” you shake your head “But I am also grateful, because you showed me how cruel men could be. You showed me how foolish I was for thinking you actually cared about me and you made me realize that I never should have loved someone as heartless as you” you scoffed and turn around, walking away from him, back to the ball

“Y/n, wait!” Anthony called out “Let me explain- y/n- let-“ you ignored him, whatever he was saying now drowned out by the music playing.

“Mama! Look!”

You turn to look at your daughter, she was pointing to a butterfly that was standing on top of a flower. You smiled at Amy, “Yes, it is very beautiful, sweetheart”

Amy smiled and ran to another part of the park “Careful,” you called out to her “And stay where I can see you”

You take a look around the park, looking for any signs of your parents but they seemed to be nowhere. You sighed and sit on a bench nearby where Amy was running around. You groan when you felt your favorite necklace become loose once again, falling down your neck.

“I should really get this fixed” you mumbled trying fasten it around your neck once again, all while you kept your eyes on Amy, making sure nothing happened to her before you felt a presence next to you.

You turn your head, finding Lady Bridgerton next to you with a smile on her face “Your grace” she greets “ It is so nice to see you after all these years”

“Lady Bridgerton” you greet her with a smile “It is so nice to see you as well”

“How have you been? How is your family?”

You smile “ They are fine, thank you for ask-“

“Mama!” You turn your head and stand up quickly when you heard Amy cry out for you. Your daughter runs to you and hugged your legs tightly “What is wrong, darling?” you ask worriedly, before pulling her away, making her look at you

“Look” She shows you her arm which was scraped, tears filling her beautiful blue eyes “I hit a rock and now there is blood” She sniffled

“Oh, now now, do not cry” you coo caressing her cheek. You look up at Lady Bridgerton, who was staring at Amelia with wide eyes, her face turning pale. Dread fills your entire body.

“I- Is that- She looks- what- A-“ She stuttered

“Lady Bridgerton” you cut her off “If you may excuse me, I must find my parents, it was nice seeing you again” you give her one last smile and walked away, holding onto Amy’s hand

You groan as you ruffled throughout your bedchambers. You looked through your clothes, under your bed, on your dresser, anywhere you could think of but you still could not find it.

You exit your bedchambers and head down the stairs to the drawing room. “Mama” you called out entering the room “Have you seen my necklace? I cannot seem to find it anywhere”

Your mama looked up from her embroidery “Have you looked in your chambers?”

“I have” you looked at her worried “but it is not there” you grumble sitting down next to her “I need to find it mama, that is the last thing I have of Jacob, it is really special”

She raises an eyebrow “Well, I seem to think the last thing you have of Jacob is Amy, is she not?”

You stayed still “I – yes, of course, but I mean the last materialistic think left of him” I reply

She hums “Well, now that I remember, I recall Lady Bridgerton saying she has your necklace and you could go over today if you desire”

Your face lights up “Perfect! I will go then” you walk away before stopping and turning back to her “Will you look after Amy for me, please, I will not be long” you smile when she nods and walk out of the house

You open the front door slowly, looking around before walking further in. “Lady Bridgerton?” you called out and enter the drawing room

You huff when you don’t see her inside “She is not even here, why did she say to come here today then? And why didn’t she just send me my necklace with a maid” you roll your eyes before turning around, stopping when you come face to face with Anthony

“Looking for this?” He holds out your necklace, you look down at the necklace before looking back up at him

“Why do you have it? Give me it” you held out your hand, gesturing towards your necklace

He shrugs “If this was so important for you, why did you lose it? Mother found your necklace lying on the ground in the park,” he chuckled “How careless of you. And I, like the good son i am, told her that I would give it to you, how sweet of me, right?” He smirked

“Give it to me” you demand, glaring at him

“Tell me the truth first” He shakes his head

You furrowed your eyebrows “What are you talking about? Give me my necklace, now”

“Tell me you have not forgotten me” He mutters “That you still feel something for me”

You swallow, your eyes flickering between both of his eyes before looking down at your necklace and then back at him “Give me my necklace” you decide to ignore his words, evading his eyes so he does not see how much he is affecting you

“Y/n,” he sighs “I love you” he blurts out, you start to feel a light sting on your eyes.

“What are you even saying?” you needed to get out of there, you cannot stand to be there any longer “You are speaking nonsense!” You step around him to walk away but he stops you before you could make another step

“Come on, Y/n” He pleads holding onto your arms

“Let me go” you demand trying to jerk out of his hold

“If you tell me the truth, I will let you go” He said softly, you ignore his words once more, looking down at your necklace in his hands

“Give me back my necklace or dont, either way I will leave” you stated angrily

“Tell me the truth” Anthony repeated “Tell me you have not forgotten about what we had, tell me you have not forgotten me, tell me that you still love me”

You narrow your eyes at him, chuckling humorlessly “ I do not have to tell you anything”

“Do not do this, Y/n” he sighs exasperated

“Do what?” you glare at him

“Do not do this”

“What should I not do?!” you exclaimed

“I am in love with you, Y/n” Anthony admits looking at you softly

You snort before chuckling and looking around “Love?” you turn to look back at him, he nods in response “ After all these years, you speak to me about love?” You shake your head incredulously

“What did you think? After all these years, you will come to tell me that you are in love with me and I will jump straight on to your arms, right?” You throw your hands in the air in disbelief “In all that time I spent with you, I'm sure you did not know what place I occupy in your life! You treated me like an object, was I your mistress? Your lover? Did you even plan on courting me or did you only want me to be someone you could tumble around in the sheets with? Oh! wait a moment, you did say you were only looking for a easy lay. And now you speak to me about love!” You scoff

He looks down in shame “I had so many things going around, Y/n, I was confused. I did not know what to do and how to do it. And- and I did not want to drag you down with me” you look at him in disbelief “But I have always been in love with you”

You clench your jaw and scoffed “I do not even know why I am talking to you about this” you uttered and walked around him “Let me go” you exclaimed when he pulled you back towards your spot once again

You look at his chest, not wanting to see him in the face as your eyes stung with tears. Anthony looked down at you and nodded “Then tell me you have forgotten me, tell me you do not love me anymore ”

You opened your mouth and then closed it before opening it once more to speak this time “I forgot you” you looked at him in the eye “ Is that all? I forgot you! I do not love you anymore” you affirmed once more

You step away from his hold “What did you think?! That I would wait for you all these years?! That I would act as if I was just waiting for you to decide you wanted me again, to jump back into your arms?! That I would revolve everything around you?! Do you still think everything revolves around you?! –“

He pulls you into a kiss, cutting off your words. You tense, not expecting what he just did. He kisses you for a few more moments before pulling back. You remained emotionlessly, your lips tingling from the kiss you just shared a few seconds ago.

“I’m sorry” you snapped back out off your trance to look at him “I have crossed the line, I am sorry, if you want we can talk” he sighs ashamed at himself

”I may not know much about love, and that is mostly my fault for not letting myself love, but I know a lot about you” Anthony voiced “ I know you like to look at the rain, sometimes you even let the drops grace your hand. I also know you adore looking at the stars, those little lights that make your eyes shine in wonder. And you like to get lost in your thoughts, in that mind so disastrous but philosophical at the same time. You are a riddle that at first sight is complex but when you get to know it, you discover that it is a wonder of the world”

You ponder over his words, looking up at his face before looking back down, wringing your fingers before looking back up at him once again.

You smile sadly “ I cannot forgive you, Anthony, every sweet word you say cannot take away all of the pain you caused me, and I am sincerely sorry if you thought that this encounter would turn out another way, one in which everything is forgiven and you and I could be the perfect picture family but I am sorry to disappoint you. I cannot forgive you, and honestly," you sighed “ I do not want to”

With that, you turned away,

“Y/n…” he mumbled, you stop once again “ Love me again, please” you let out a shaky breath shaking your head and walking away and this time, he willingly lets you.

You wipe your tears away furiously entering your home once again “ Y/n?” your mama comes out of the drawing room, she looks at your tear stained cheeks before looking into your eyes worriedly “What happened?”

Your lips trembled before you hug her, letting the tears fall silently “Oh, what is wrong my dear?” you shook your head hugging her more tightly

After a few moments you pull away, wiping under your eyes carefully, all while your mama is still looking at you.

She sighed before sitting down next to you “I will give you some advice and I hope you listen to it” your mama uttered, her eyes flicking over to the drawing room before she spoke “Cry what you have to cry and suffer what you have to suffer. Because everything is ephemeral in this life, everything gives way at some point and pain is not the exception. And if you have to scream, then do so, if you have to break down, then break down. Do what you have to do to start again, to be able to heal, to be able to be happy and to be able to live”

“Why are you telling me this?” you wonder confused as she stood up, grabbing your hand before she led you out to the garden, where you saw your daughter running around happily

She chuckles softly “Dear, do you really think I did not know about your affair with the viscount?” you stare at her wide eyed, speechless “Do you think I had no idea that you snuck him in every night on your first season? Of course I did know, you are my only daughter and I would be damned if I let you be hurt by anything.”

You went to make up something but she cut you off “ And do not make some excuse that it was actually you who snuck out because you went for morning rides on your horse because it is not even believable” your mama rolls her eyes “ I care for you and your brother, and now little Amelia, more than anyone in this world, even more than your father. I love my children and grandchildren, that is the reason why I never said anything to you or to anyone. I saw how happy he made you, I thought you hid your courtship because you did not desire the society's attention on you both and that you would soon inform us that you were together, maybe even engaged”

“Mama…” you whisper looking down

“But then that light I saw in your eyes faded, you would spend your days locked in your bedchamber's , and imagine my surprise when you announced a month after, that you were getting married to Jacob Thornwell” your mama let out a shaky breath “You do not know how heartbroken I felt to see you like that. So low spirited, that the girl that used to be so happy, laughed so much and had so much love to give, was gone in a matter of a day”

“And I do not know what happened between the viscount and you but I trust you and your decisions. That is why I still supported you when you decided to marry the duke even when you were not in love with him. It was not a marriage of love but at least it was one of friendship, one in which you had a beautiful daughter” she remarked

You smiled lightly “She really is beautiful” you looked at Amelia who went to sit on the swing, looking at a butterfly that was flying by

Your mama hummed “She really did get the best of you and the viscount’s features” once again, you were left speechless, your smile fading as she laughed once she saw your expression “Oh please, I did not for one second believe that you gave birth 2 months early because of some complications you supposedly had, and Amy looks a lot like the viscount, Lady Bridgerton can surely attest to that” she then walked away after dropping that bomb on you.

“Your grace”

You looked to your side “Oh, it is you again” you pursue your lips “You surely do not understand that I do not want you near me, do you?”

“Oh come on, do not be like that” you roll your eyes at his words

“ I am not being like anything” You grumble “ I am simply annoyed that you cannot seem to take a hint and leave me alone”

“Of course I can take a hint” Anthony huffs “I just simply choose not to accede to your desires” You scoff

“Such a nice person you are” you grumble looking away

“I never said I was nice" he tilted his head to look at you better

“I can see that” you said

“Mama!” Amy slammed on to your legs “Grandmamma said i can eat some of the sweets on the table if you allow me” You look down at your daughter “Can I please eat some?” Amy gave you a pout making you laugh

“Of course” you laugh before you turned at your side when you remembered who was next too you. Anthony was looking at Amy wide eyed

“She is – is she your daughter?” He asked you, you nodded, your heart starting to pound faster.

He knelt down to her height and extended a hand, smiling at her slightly “Hello” he greeted her when she turned to him “ I am Viscount Bridgerton but you can call me Anthony”

Amy smiled happily, shaking his hand “I am Amelia but my family calls me Amy” Anthony looked at you for a moment before turning back to Amy

“How old are you, Amy?”

“Amelia, sweetheart,” you cut in “Why do you not go back to grandmamma and eat those sweets you were telling me about?”

“How old are you, Amy?” Anthony asked again

“Amy-“

“5” Amy answered him happily, showing him five fingers. Anthony snapped his eyes towards you quickly when she answered

“Amy” you stressed out, Amy looked at you then “Will you please go to grandmamma now?”

She shrugged and skipped happily towards your mama who was already looking at you three, your mama gave you a look when her eyes met yours flickering her eyes to Anthony and back to you before smiling at Amy who was now next to her.

You sighed looking at Anthony, who was now turning pale “She – why did you – Y/n, I do not understand – is she my daugh –“you cut him off, grabbing his hand and pulling him to an empty room after making sure no one saw you.

“Do not say those things where anyone can hear you, Lord Bridgerton” you snapped

He chuckled humorlessly, his eyebrows furrowing as he clenched his jaw“She is my daughter” He stated

“ No, she is not” you denied “She is Jacob’s daughter” he narrowed his eyes at you

“Do not try to lie to me because I do not believe you”

“Well you must because that is the truth” you rolled your eyes at him

“She is five” he snapped angrily “She has my mother’s eyes, Daphne’s eyes." He looked around before leaning in closer “And you and I both know Jacob liked everything but women.” Anthony stepped back, clearing his throat “You can try to deny it all you want but the proof was right there in front of me” You stayed quiet “Why did you not tell me? Did you not think I deserved to know my daughter?”

“She is not your daughter!” You exclaim “ She is mine and she is Jacob’s, not yours” Anthony looked at you hurt

You both stared at each other silently, your chests rising quickly, heavy breaths escaping both of your lips. Anthony sighed walking closer to you, you swallowed, taking one step back with every step he took towards you.

“Why did you marry Jacob Thornwell?” He asked “Did you love him?”

You shook your head, deciding to answer with the truth “It was not love. I did not marry him for love, but for friendship” he looked at you confused

“You told me you would not marry unless it was for love-“

“Yes, well, things change do they not?” you muttered, he went silent.

“I am sorry,” He admitted quietly after a few minutes “I know whatever I say is not enough, and it will also not take away any of the pain I caused you, but I am truly sorry, please believe me, Y/n” he held onto your hands, you look down at your intertwined hands

He raised your chin with his hand, making you look back up at him. “I cannot defend myself because there is no excuse that can fix what I did to you, I, myself, do not know why I did that” he swallowed “ The only thing I can say is that i loved you then, and I love you now, and if you allow me, I can continue to love you for the rest of my life ”

“There is no one else I would rather have next to me, no one else I would rather love for eternity than the one person I have really loved my entire life. No one else than the mother of my beautiful daughter.” He caressed your cheeks “Say yes, Y/n. Let us have that life that I so stupidly threw away. Let me prove that I can truly make you happy. Let me love you”

You stayed silent before speaking up “I moved on with my life, pretending that nothing had happened between us.” You admitted quietly “But there were times when you crossed my mind, especially when I looked at Amelia” you then added “you caused my heart to explode by the simple memory of something that was. It is strange, to know that even with everything that happened, that love I held for you, the same one I still have for you, never faded” his face started to light up with his words. A small smile appearing in his face.

“Does that mean you will…..”

“I do not know if I will regret this, but I have not stopped loving you. I- Anthony- I promise you, do not make me regret this or else I will really murder you” You grumble

Anthony laughs happily before pulling you into a kiss, his lips moved against yours softly, testing the waters, as if to make sure you won’t pull away before he started to kiss you more passionately. His hands pulling you close by your waist as you wrapped your hands around his neck, kissing him back just as passionately.

“I won’t” he mumbled onto your lips “If so I give you permission to murder me willingly”

You hummed before pulling away“Just let me love you before that happens” you smile.

Third time's the charm

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x Fem! Reader

Word count: 826

Warnings: unedited, fluff I think

A/n: A short little fic but I hope you enjoy it!

It has been said that every person experiences 3 types of love in their lifetime.

Of course, that same person may fall in love numerous times throughout the years but there’s only 3 that stand out from the rest, 3 different experiences that impact you and form you into who you are today.

That was the case for Anthony Bridgerton.

The first one is, obviously, the first love. The young, puppy love. For Anthony, that was Sienna Rosso.

When Anthony saw the opera singer for the first time, he was immediately enchanted and thus started their love affair.

Unfortunately, it didn’t go anywhere seeing as Sienna was from the low class and Anthony, as the Viscount, has responsibilities he needed to uphold.

After Sienna, Anthony wasn’t planning on falling in love again. It was a new season, he was planning to marry not out of love but out of duty.

Then came the second love, the hard love. Kate Sharma.

Originally, he was planning on marrying her sister, Edwina, but along the way both Anthony and Kate fell in love. It was a bittersweet love. It was beautiful, Anthony had never felt like that before, they were happy…..until they weren’t.

They started to clash. Their personalities were too similar, they were both headstrong, stubborn. It was amusing at first and something Anthony enjoyed, at least that way he would never have a boring day in his life but when it came to serious matters, they could never agree on anything.

So little by little, the love they had for each other faded. It wasn’t anybody’s fault especially not Kate’s, of course not, Kate was an amazing woman. Sadly, it didn’t work.

After that, Anthony lost hope, he was 31 and not yet married. With Sienna it wasn’t possible, with Kate it didn’t work out and he wasn’t interested by any of the ladies of the ton, so what was he supposed to do now? How will he continue the Bridgerton bloodline?

“Hey there old man”

Anthony was snapped out of his thoughts, his eyebrows furrowed as he turned his head to see your smiling face.

“What? Are you thinking of your failed love life?” You teased as you sat down beside him

Anthony rolled his eyes “I am not old” he scoffed “What are you doing here you little demon?”

“I beg to differ” you chuckle “I’m not a little demon, it seems you have forgotten but I’m a lady, old man”

He raised an eyebrow “Are you now? It’s hard to see with how much you act like a man”

You gasp offended “As if. Now I see why you’re alone, who on earth is able to stand you? I pity the woman that ends up marrying you in the future” you say

Anthony couldn’t help but chuckle as he looked at you with a fond look in his eyes “Oh no” he tuts “You may want to take back your words, you never know, maybe you will be the woman that ends up marrying me” he teased

You hit his shoulder again “Lord no, don’t even joke about that” you shudder

“Hey!” he exclaimed “There’s nothing wrong with me”

You hummed unconvinced “Sure there isn’t, that’s why you’re so lucky in the love department, Mr. Viscount Bridgerton” You taunt before you laughed

“Mother” Anthony calls out making your eyes widen “Y/n is making fun of my love life-“

“Shut up you!” you exclaim as you cover his mouth with your hand

Anthony looks down at your hand covering his mouth before he looks back up at you, letting out a laugh.

The third love, the unexpected love. Anthony wasn’t looking to fall in love again but it crept up on him little by little. He never expected it to be you, the girl he’s known practically his entire life, the woman he saw grow up, his best friend.

And yet, he couldn’t help the warm feeling on his chest whenever he saw you. How his heart fluttered when he saw you smiling because of him.

It's you. It has probably always been you. You were the one that has always been there for him, through his father’s death, through the fights with his siblings or his mother, through his affair with Sienna and his failed relationship with Kate and yet, you always stayed by his side even if you were 5 years younger than him, it didn’t matter.

He was thankful for his failed relationships in the past. Because they helped him grow into the person he was today. It helped him learn what to do and what not to. It helped him to know how to love you.

The first and second love definitely helped him, no matter how painful they ended up being, they ended up preparing him to find his way to you.

“Marry me” Anthony said as he looked up at you

He loved you, he was sure of it.

Hope

Happy marriage part 3

Pairing: Anthony Bridgerton x fem!reader

Word count: 4k

Summary: new hope blossoms and new starts commence

A/n: long time no see people! 😅😅😅 Sorry I went MIA but I got this done and decided to post it. Now I won't give an exact time on when I'll post because now I see I'm a little liar and I don't go through with my word 😶😶

I'm very sorry to leave you all hanging. But here's the last part of happy marriage and I hope you like it!

MASTERLIST Part 1. Part 2

“When I said I will give you a chance to make it up to me, I did not mean you had to follow me and be glued to my side everywhere I go.” You spoke annoyed, lifting up your eyes from the romance book you were currently reading. You had felt Anthony’s gaze centered on you for a few minutes now, you tried to ignore it but it felt so intense it was impossible to.

It was annoying, really, well maybe just a bit endearing, although you’ll fiercely deny it if anybody mentions it. Anthony really seemed to be trying to earn your forgiveness, he was more attentive than before, more understanding, a little bit more romantic as he now gifts you a bouquet of flowers every single day (something that annoys Lady Bridgerton as the maids cannot seem to find any more empty vases). But it was annoying that he seemed to follow you wherever you went.

A walk around the garden? Antony was walking behind you. You sit down in the drawing room to read a book? Anthony was seated next to you before you could even blink. A ball? He would always pull you into dances, something you couldn’t deny him of. Annoying, very annoying (You secretly love it, don’t lie to yourself).

“I know,” Anthony responded, meeting your eyes without any shame, “I do not mind following you around, it is quite…..fascinating, to be in your presence that is.”

You held back the blush wanting to come on to your cheeks at his words “Surprised you are just now figuring that out” You said, flickering your eyes back down to your book, pretending his words did not affect you in any way when the truth was that they did. “You know, it is not too late to give up now. You will not have my forgiveness from one day to the next.”

It was hard not to forgive him in an instant whenever he spoke sweet words, no matter how much you wanted to deny it, you still loved him, deeply. But the reminder of how much he hurt you and how much you cried over him washed away any sudden desire to forgive him. He had to work hard to earn your forgiveness, it’s not something you’ll give away easily towards him, not this time.

Anthony wasn’t deterred by your words, “There is something us Bridgertons are, and that is that we are stubborn, so i will not rest until I have fully earn your forgiveness, you have my word.” He said as he stood up, determination filling his words “Gather much patience and indifference as you can, darling, because I am going to be by your side until I succeed and I can see you are not as unaffected as you try to appear to be” He then turned around to walk out of the drawing room

“There is another thing I am bargaining for,” He stopped before he exited the room “and that is to earn back your love….no matter how long it takes” he said shamelessly before finally walking out

You swallowed harshly, your heart beating fast in your chest as you fully took in his words and the promise in them. You exhaled shakily, feelings you did not want to feel ever again trying to resurface. It is both horrible and amazing how much he affects you, whether he said cruel or sweet words, your traitorous heart always seems to beat faster to no one but him.

He felt so idiotic. For the first time in his entire life, Anthony felt like the dumbest person in the whole wide world. He could see it, he could see how much he actually hurt you. You were distant towards him, cold even, your eyes didn’t have that sparkle in them whenever you saw him, nor did you bend over trying to fulfill his every wish, not that he wanted you to, but there was this pain in your eyes, this hurt when your eyes met his which made him feel so guilty and dumb.

There is this saying that goes, you never know what you have until you lost it. Anthony felt like that. You was an amazing person and he felt like the dumbest person alive to not have realized that sooner. His mother was right from the start, you really are the perfect viscountess , the perfect woman….the only woman for him.

His only relief is that the pain that he previously saw in your eyes decreases with the time he spends with you. It gave him hope and he will not rest until that pain disappears completely and your eyes once again reflect love in them when you see him.

“Y/n” His face lights up, eyes flickering up when he heard your name, standing up from his seat as he saw you enter the dining room with a plate full of cookies, his reaction not unnoticed by his mother who hid her smile pretending to take a sip out of her glass of wine.

“Y/n,” Anthony said taking a step towards you before stopping and instead pulling out your unofficial assigned chair (which is coincidentally besides him, wink wink), one you haven’t sat on since your marriage crumbled.

You sit down on the chair, silently thanking him with a nod of your head “I made some cookies, they’re recently baked so they might be hot” You smiled, putting the plate in the middle of the table “I-“

“You didn’t have to.” Anthony said breathlessly, the thought that you accepted his gesture and was so close to him making his heart beat quickly, it felt as if it would snap right out of his chest. You were not completely ignoring him…

“I know, I wanted to” You say with a nod

“They look delicious.” Anthony said, not knowing what else to say to you, suddenly feeling as if he couldn’t muster up any idea on what to say to keep the conversation going.

“I hope that they are” You answer

“I am sure anything you make is amazing,” He said with a smile

You blink, now you were the one speechless “Thanks….I guess?” you say awkwardly. You heard Benedict chuckle from beside you, you turned to face him, giving him a glare.

“Ah no, do not mind me” Benedict uttered, taking a sip from his cup of wine “Pretend I’m not here, I just remembered something funny and it made me laugh”

You scoffed before standing up from your seat “I have to go get ready for the opera” you said “do not follow me” you uttered once you saw Anthony moving to stand up as well

“but I- I can-“ he groaned when he saw you leaving without another glance

“Anthony, go call Y/n and Hyacinth , the carriage is almost here” Violet Bridgerton told her son as she looked out the window

“No need” You spoke as you walked down the stairs, Hyacinth not far behind you

You let out a breath as you reached the ground floor, Anthony’s gaze immediately found yours as you descended the stairs. His eyes lit up, as though seeing you for the first time that evening, his breath catching slightly at the sight of you. You wore a gown of deep sapphire, its elegant lines flattering your figure without drawing too much attention, and yet, to Anthony, you might as well have been the only person in the room.

“Y/n…” He murmured, his tone soft, almost reverent. The man you had once known to be brash and commanding now seemed utterly captivated by your every movement. It would have been endearing if it wasn’t so infuriatingly persistent.

“You look beautiful,” he added, his voice lower now, as if it was meant only for you.

You offered him a polite smile, resisting the urge to roll your eyes. “Thank you, Anthony.”

Hyacinth grinned mischievously from behind you, clearly picking up on the tension between you two. “Anthony’s been quite eager about the opera all week,” she teased as she passed by, giving her brother a sly look.

Anthony’s expression shifted into something more sheepish, a rare sight indeed. “Only because I knew you’d be there,” he muttered, just loud enough for you to hear.

You sighed inwardly. This was all part of his effort to win you back, but he couldn’t just charm his way through everything. Not after the pain he had caused. There was a deep well of hurt beneath your composed exterior, and no amount of flowery words or pretty compliments could erase it. You had promised yourself that if he truly wanted your forgiveness, he would have to work for it. He would have to see the depths of the damage he had inflicted.

“Let’s just get going,” you said softly, already moving toward the door where the carriage waited.

The opera house was a grand affair, as always. Chandeliers glittered overhead, the rich burgundy of the velvet curtains creating an opulent backdrop for the night’s performance. People dressed in their finest milled about, awaiting the start of the show, their chatter filling the air like a soft hum.

You took your seat next to Anthony, and despite the large crowd, it felt like you two were the only ones in the room. As the lights dimmed and the first notes of the opera began to play, Anthony leaned slightly toward you.

“I’ve never quite appreciated music as I do now,” he whispered, his voice barely audible over the soft overture. His eyes, however, were not on the stage but on you.

You didn’t respond, focusing your attention on the performance. Sienna Rosso, the opera singer he had an affair with, had a voice that could command any room, but tonight, it seemed Anthony was deaf to it. His gaze never left you, even as the area swelled with emotion, which completely surprised you.

Throughout the performance, he remained close, his presence a constant reminder of the promises he had made. When Sienna reached a particularly moving part of her song, you noticed Anthony’s hand briefly brush against yours where it rested on the armrest. You quickly pulled your hand away, not wanting to give him any more satisfaction than necessary. The corner of his mouth twitched in what you could only describe as amusement, but he didn’t push further.

After the opera ended, and the crowd began to file out, you overheard murmurs from others in the audience. Most were compliments on the performance, but a few curious glances and whispers were directed toward you and Anthony.

“It seems Viscount Bridgerton is quite taken with his wife these days,” one woman said to her companion, not too far from where you stood. “He didn’t take his eyes off her once.”

You pretended not to hear them, but the words echoed in your mind as you followed Anthony outside. His devotion was clear, and while part of you appreciated his efforts, another part still held back.

The days that followed were filled with Anthony’s persistent attempts to be near you. He insisted on accompanying you during your walks in the gardens, even if you would rather enjoy the peace and quiet alone. You often found him sitting in the drawing room whenever you tried to read, as if his presence had become a permanent fixture in your life.

One morning, you entered the drawing room with your favorite book, intent on having a quiet moment to yourself. To no surprise, Anthony was already seated by the window, reading through some documents. His head lifted the moment you walked in.

“You don’t always have to be here, you know,” you said, trying to sound indifferent as you sat down with your book. You felt a sense of déjà vu as you remembered you said almost the exact thing days ago.

“I know,” Anthony replied, not looking up from his papers. “But I want to be.”

You shook your head slightly, unsure whether to be frustrated or touched by his relentless presence.

As time passed, Anthony’s efforts didn’t wane. Instead, they became more thoughtful, more personal. He began to ask about the things you can loved—books, music, even the small hobbies you indulged in. One day, he found you at the piano, quietly playing a familiar melody.

“I didn’t know you played,” he said softly, standing by the doorway as he watched you.

“There’s a lot you don’t know about me,” you replied, not looking up from the keys.

Anthony stepped closer, his expression unreadable. “Then let me learn.”

For a moment, you stopped playing and turned to him. His gaze was sincere, and for the first time, you saw just how much he truly wanted to understand you, not just win back your favor. There was a quiet desperation in his eyes—a longing to connect in a way that went beyond mere apologies.

“I’m not the same person I was before, Anthony,” you said softly. “And neither are you.”

He knelt beside the piano bench, his hand resting lightly on the edge. “I know. But that doesn’t change how much I want to be the man who deserves you.”

Anthony’s devotion became even more apparent during the next ball. You had agreed to attend, mostly to maintain appearances, but you had no intention of dancing with him. Yet, as the evening wore on, you found yourself in his arms once again, moving to the rhythm of the music.

The anticipation of the evening bubbling inside you. You’d worn your best gown—an elegant shade of deep emerald green that complemented your complexion beautifully, with delicate lace detailing that caught the light as you moved.

As you stepped into the grand hall, the chandeliers glimmered above, and the soft murmur of conversations created a symphony of excitement. You could already see a few familiar faces, including Anthony’s, who was talking animatedly with Benedict. As your eyes caught his, a smile crept onto his face, and it sent an unexpected flutter through your chest.

“You look stunning,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper as you approached him. There was a sincerity in his tone that made your heart race.

“Thank you,” you replied, trying to keep your composure. “You don’t look too shabby yourself, Viscount Bridgerton.”

“You’ve really been making an effort, haven’t you?” you remarked, genuinely curious.

“I have,” he replied earnestly. “I realized how much I took for granted, and I want to change that. I want to understand you better, to show you how much you mean to me.”

His words stirred something deep within you. It was a mixture of hope and caution, the remnants of your heart still wary. “It’s going to take time,” you reminded him gently.

“I’m willing to wait,” he said, his voice firm yet tender.

The rest of the evening passed in a haze of laughter and shared stories, a tentative but genuine connection beginning to weave itself between you. Over the following weeks, Anthony continued his pursuit, each small gesture a reminder of his commitment. He would bring you books he thought you’d enjoy, spend afternoons listening to you play the piano, and even sought you out during family gatherings, always ensuring you were included.

During one particularly memorable evening at a ball, Anthony once again swept you into a dance. The music flowed around you, and with each turn, he whispered sweet nothings, his breath warm against your ear. “You look breathtaking tonight,” he murmured, pulling you closer.

“Flattery again?” you teased, but the warmth in your cheeks betrayed you.

“It’s not flattery if it’s the truth,” he replied, his gaze unwavering.

As the dance continued, a group of gentlemen approached, their laughter echoing with a cruel edge. One stepped forward, a smirk plastered across his face. “Well, well, if it isn’t the Viscount and his precious wife,” he sneered, his voice dripping with condescension. “I never thought you’d stoop so low after stepping out on her for that soprano. What a delight to see you back with the real prize. But then again, is she really a prize if you had to search elsewhere?”

The laughter from his companions was sharp and mocking, and your heart sank at their words. You could feel heat rising to your cheeks, a mix of embarrassment and anger flooding through you.

Anthony’s demeanor shifted in an instant. “If you’ll excuse us,” he said coolly, his grip on your waist tightening as he moved to lead you away. “Your lack of manners is as appalling as your lack of character.”

“Come now, Anthony. You can’t seriously think anyone would believe you’re happy here,” the gentleman continued, his smirk widening. “After all, we all know your heart is still with that soprano. Poor thing, she wasn’t simply a phase, was she?”

The cruel laughter of the group hung in the air, and you felt the sting of their words cut deep. Anthony’s protective nature surged to the forefront, his expression hardening as he glared at them. “Fun at the expense of another’s feelings is not fun at all,” he retorted, his voice steady but low, a clear warning laced with anger.

You watched in surprise as he stood his ground, the intensity in his gaze unwavering. “You’d do well to remember that she deserves respect, not your mockery.”

As the gentlemen backed off, their laughter fading into awkward silence, you felt a rush of gratitude for Anthony. “Thank you,” you whispered, looking up at him. In that moment, you truly saw the man he was becoming,the way he stood up for you, how he was learning to respect your feelings, and the genuine warmth in his eyes. It was as if a veil had lifted, and you could see the sincerity in his actions.

Your heart softened for him, the edges of your hurt beginning to blur. “You’ve really changed,” you added, your voice barely above a whisper. “It means so much to me.”

“Always,” he replied softly, his gaze searching yours. The intensity in his eyes was filled with an unspoken promise, a vow that he would continue to earn your trust and love.

As the evening wore on, you both enjoyed each other’s company, the space around you brimming with laughter and joy. The memory of the cruel words from the gentlemen faded, overshadowed by the warmth that radiated between you and Anthony. With each smile, each shared glance, you could feel the distance between you gradually closing, drawing you closer together.

You gently squeezed Anthony’s hand and leaned in close, your voice barely above a whisper, “Come with me.”

His eyebrows raised in curiosity, but he didn’t hesitate. You led him out of the ballroom, down the halls of the house, until you found a small, secluded alcove at the back of the house—a quiet corner where you could be alone. The air was cooler here, with the faint scent of roses from the garden outside, and the moonlight filtered softly through the window.

Anthony looked at you with concern, his eyes searching yours for any sign of what was on your mind. “Are you alright?” he asked gently, his voice filled with care.

You nodded, stepping closer to him, feeling your heart pound in your chest. “I’m fine, Anthony. I just… I wanted to talk to you alone.”

He looked nervous, as if he feared what you might say. His eyes flickered between yours, waiting, bracing. You took a deep breath, your fingers still wrapped around his.

“I’ve been thinking,” you started, your voice soft, “about everything that’s happened between us. The pain, the distance… but also, how far you’ve come.” You met his gaze, your heart swelling with the depth of emotion that had been building inside you for months. “You’ve changed, Anthony. Truly. And I can see how hard you’ve worked to prove yourself, not just to me, but to everyone.”

Anthony’s jaw clenched slightly, his brow furrowing as he listened. “I did it for you,” he said quietly, “because I couldn’t bear the thought of losing you completely. You mean everything to me, Y/n. I know I’ve hurt you, and I’ve regretted it every day since. But I’ll spend the rest of my life making it up to you if you’ll let me.”

Your eyes glistened with unshed tears as his words struck a deep chord within you. He was baring his soul to you but this time, in the privacy of this small, intimate space, it felt even more real—more raw.

You reached up, gently cupping his cheek, your thumb brushing over the stubble on his jawline. “I know, Anthony. I can see that now.” Your voice wavered slightly, thick with emotion. “And I want to give us another chance.”

His eyes widened, surprise flickering in his gaze, followed by an overwhelming rush of relief. “Y/n… are you sure?” His hand covered yours on his cheek, his thumb caressing your skin as if he was afraid you might disappear.

You nodded, stepping closer until your bodies were almost touching. “I’m sure,” you whispered. “I want to be with you, Anthony. I want to move forward together. No more walls between us.”

A soft breath escaped him, as if he’d been holding it in for far too long. “I’ve waited so long to hear you say that,” he murmured, his voice low and filled with emotion. “I love you, Y/n. I’ve always loved you, even when I was too foolish to realize it. You are everything to me. My heart, my soul… I don’t deserve you, but I will spend the rest of my life making sure you never regret giving me another chance.”

Tears prickled at the corners of your eyes, but they were tears of joy, of hope, of finally letting go of the past and embracing the future. “I love you too, Anthony,” you whispered, your voice barely audible. “Despite everything, I never stopped loving you.”

The moment hung between you, charged with emotion, until Anthony, unable to resist any longer, gently cupped your face in his hands and pressed his lips to yours. The kiss was soft at first, tender, as if he was afraid to push too far. But as your hands found their way to his shoulders, pulling him closer, the kiss deepened, becoming more passionate. Years of unspoken feelings, of longing and heartache, melted away in that single, soul-stirring kiss.

When you finally pulled apart, both of you were breathless, your foreheads resting together, the weight of the past lifted from your shoulders.

“You’re mine,” Anthony whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “And I’m yours, forever.”

A soft smile tugged at your lips as you nodded, feeling the warmth of his love wrap around you like a blanket. “Forever,” you agreed, your heart full.

Years later, the memory of that night remained vivid in your mind, a turning point in your love story. Life had changed for the better, your marriage growing stronger with each passing day. You and Anthony had built a beautiful life together, filled with laughter, love, and the joy of your growing family.

On sunny afternoons, you would find Anthony in the garden, playing with your children—two boys and a girl—who adored their father with all the fierce love you had once felt when you were a child. He was a different man now, a devoted husband and a doting father, and every day he made good on his promise to you.

One afternoon, as you watched from the porch, you saw Anthony scoop up your youngest daughter, spinning her around as she giggled uncontrollably. Your heart swelled with happiness, and you realized how far the two of you had come. The man who once made mistakes was now the man who never let a day go by without showing you just how much he loved you.

Anthony caught your eye from across the garden, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. He smiled, his eyes filled with the same love and devotion that had been there that night in the alcove, when you decided to give him another chance.

And you knew, deep in your heart, that it had been the best decision you had ever made.

Everyone's like what is in the water at Bridgerton that makes them hot for their season. The answer was nothing they are all hot just in unflattering clothes and hair. They just have a hard time hiding Benedict for some reason.