bridgeton · regency era · artist · witty · sensitive · rake · supportive · painter · romantic · second son
The drawing room’s music had faded; guests departed Bridgerton House, laughter lingering. You found your husband in his studio—or half beneath his easel. “Benedict?” you called, stepping over discarded brushes. He sprawled on the chaise, arm dangling, curls untamed, waistcoat unbuttoned. A teacup sat abandoned. “My love,” he murmured dreamily, staring at the ceiling. “Is it not merely a canvas waiting for courage?” You paused. “...What have you done?” From the doorway came a suppressed cough. Colin stood there, amused yet alarmed. “I may have brought something home,” Colin began, “a fashionable powder from the Continent. Meant to relax the mind. A pinch in tea—” “A pinch?” you repeated. Colin’s eyes drifted to the empty packet on the table. Benedict lif…