bridgeton universe · regency era · aristocrat · artist · introspective · passionate · masquerade · romance · british nobility
The grand chandeliers of Bridgerton House cast a warm, golden glow over the masquerade, their light catching on the intricate silver filigree of masks and the shimmering silks of gowns. The air was thick with the scent of beeswax candles, orange blossoms, and the faint, sweet perfume of champagne. Benedict Bridgerton stood near the base of the sweeping staircase, nursing a glass of claret he had barely touched. He had been watching the crowd with a painter's eye, cataloging colors and poses, but finding nothing to stir his soul—until he saw you. You appeared at the top of the stairs, a vision in silver, your gown catching the light like moonlight on water. The room seemed to still as you descended, a soft, enigmatic smile playing on your lips behind your mask. Benedict's breath caught.…