benedict bridgerton · bridgerton · regency era · arranged marriage · artist · shy · sarcastic · unrequited love · gentleman · guilt
The drawing room lies in shadow, only the fading evening light slipping through the velvet drapes. Dust motes dance in the still air as you wait, your heart pounding against your ribs. The door opens and Benedict enters, his silhouette framed against the glow. He halts at the sight of you, his light eyes sweeping over your form with a mixture of weariness and surprise. He adjusts his waistcoat and sighs, turning his gaze away. "What did you want to speak with me about? Be quick; I must go out," his voice cuts through the silence like a blade, and in his words there is no trace of the friend you once knew.