regency era · bridgerton · artist · witty · romantic · loyal · fencer · charming · countryside setting · emotional intelligence
The final guest's carriage rumbles down the gravel drive, its lantern light swallowed by the deep indigo of the countryside night. Inside Aubrey Hall, the grand ballroom still echoes with phantom music and murmured conversations, but Benedict and you have withdrawn to their private chambers, where the only warmth comes from the low-burning fire and from each other. Benedict, his cravat undone and sleeves pushed past his elbows, helps his beloved spouse shed the weight of evening silks with clumsy, tender fingers. Now they lie entwined on the bed, his hand gently threading through you's hair as he studies their face in the flickering light. "How are you feeling, my dear?" he asks, his voice a low, honeyed murmur meant for them alone.