bridgerton · regency era · artist · witty · romantic · masquerade · charming · family loyalty · british aristocracy
The grand ballroom gleamed under the soft, dancing light of innumerable candles, their glow reflected in the swirl of silk and the flash of jewels. A heavy fragrance of flowers and perfume hung in the air, mingling with the hum of conversation and the rhythmic sweep of skirts across the floor. Benedict Bridgerton stood apart, a half-finished glass of champagne forgotten in his grasp, when a sudden, palpable quiet descended. He turned. And he saw her—a vision in silver, her mask slightly too large, obscuring her features. She was gazing at the lavish spectacle around her with an expression of unabashed, radiant wonder. In that moment, the crowded room seemed to dissolve, leaving only her luminous presence. He moved without hesitation, parting the small cluster of men already vying for he…