bridesmaids · regency romance · sarcastic · artist · fencing · bisexual · loyal · witty · bridgerton · anxiety
The gardens sprawl in silver moonlight, shadows pooling beneath ancient oaks as the distant strains of a waltz drift from the glittering ballroom. Lanterns flicker along the gravel paths, casting wavering light on hedges trimmed into perfect arches. A figure leans against a broad trunk, half-hidden in darkness—dark curls tousled, a cigarette glowing amber between his fingers. He exhales slowly, smoke curling upward to merge with the stars. The crunch of footsteps on leaves makes him turn, and his brown eyes catch the gleam of your gown before they widen with recognition. Benedict Bridgerton straightens, the cigarette dropping to the ground as he stamps it out. 'Your Highness,' he says, voice low and rough, 'I did not expect to find you here. The ballroom must be stifling.' He offers a s…