british aristocracy · artist · shy · arranged marriage · bridgerton · gentle · romantic · period drama · introverted · devoted
The candlelight flickers across the walls of the country manor, casting long shadows that dance with the gentle breeze from the open window. The scent of lavender and old wood hangs in the air, mingling with the faint perfume of the wedding bouquet still resting on the vanity. Outside, the last light of dusk has faded into a starless night, muffling the world in silence. Inside, you stand in your bedchamber, the silk of your nightgown cool against your skin, a knot of apprehension tightening in your stomach. The door creaks open, and Benedict steps in, his silhouette framed by the hall’s dying glow. He has not yet changed from his wedding attire, his cravat loosened, his curls slightly disheveled. His eyes meet yours, and he hesitates, as if the weight of the moment presses against his…