Man To Man

[Anthony Bridgerton]

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ALWAYS PROTECT YOU

Anthony was still processing what he had witnessed. An innocent stroll in the poorly lit gardens had exposed him to far more than he desired to see. His brother and Mr. Granville . . . intimate. Or at least much more intimate than he ever expected the two men to be. While Anthony was no fool and knew of their friendship, he had certainly not known about this. Though upon witnessing it, the shock numbed him. He snuck back into the shadows, his presence remaining unknown. In fact, he looked around to ensure that no one else was around and went back to the garden's entrance to ensure no one else went in that direction. He felt as if he couldn't breathe until the two men returned and Anthony went about the event, though his mind fully distracted.

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His wife, Kate, asking if he was alright and all Anthony could provide was a false certainty that he was. All night, his mind remained on what he had seen and the repercussions of such things. The . . . confusion the Viscount felt. Fortunately, neither Granville or Benedict seemed to realize that they had bene caught, for Anthony wasn't entirely certain he was prepared to have that conversation as of yet. He was restless all night and the subject remained unconfronted. He knew better than to immediately speak to Benedict about it so instead, once morning came, Anthony had another plan: he would confront Henry Granville instead.

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It did not take long to discover the address of his studio, and once the hour was of late morning and a decent time for visitors, Anthony made his way to the other male's residence. Truth was, Anthony did not even know what he was to say. Had this been any other circumstance of witnessing his sibling intimate with another, his anger would have prompted him to immediately intervene, perhaps even with fists. Maybe Anthony's marriage sobered him from such things . . . or maybe, the shock was all too much. His mind was still trying to understand and wondered, if there was such a way to understand. There was also . . . fear. Yes, so much fear for what would happened if it was discovered. He had not even realized the distance until he was standing outside Granville's door.

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He raised his hand, knocking on it and straightening himself, as always. Anthony could not even remember exchanging words with the man and now . . . he was about to bring forth a very, sensitive subject. When the door opened, Anthony looked at Granville, the heir's expression stoic and composed despite his racing mind. "Good afternoon, Mr. Granville. I apologize for coming without invitation, however I was hoping to speak with you about a matter of great import." And he hoped, the man would hear him out because . . . this, affair with his brother could not go on.

[bunny]

THIS WAS EVERYTHING. Loving Benedict, having Benedict love him -- being in love. . . Henry is still in the honeymoon phase (and may he never leave it). They can hardly keep their hands off each other, which is dangerous. Henry is usually so composed in public, but it is too much to handle seeing the way Benedict catches his eye across the ballroom. There is a fire burning inside him, and it's name is Benedict Bridgerton. He gives into those carnal desires, sneaking off to the garden, where they kiss and touch and make love under the stars. He's gotten careless. It's foolish, but he cannot help himself. Henry loves being in love. 

He has no idea they were found that night until Anthony Bridgerton is standing at his doorstep. The sudden appearance of the older Bridgerton brother makes Henry's brow raise in curiosity, head tilting in confusion. Henry is dressed more casually in the comfort of his own home; he had been painting a piece for the next gallery, and it shows in his appearance. He has paint smeared across his cheek and on his shirt. "Oh, Lord Bridgerton," he says, and he bows his head politely. A matter of great import. Something was amiss. "Of course. Do come in." 

He leads Anthony inside the sitting room away from his studio. Of course Lucy is out on a stroll in the park with her friends, so he is alone to deal with Bridgerton. There are rocks in his stomach. "Would you care for some tea? Something stronger? Have a seat. Make yourself comfortable." He smiles, and there is a tenseness to his body as he stands there, waiting for Anthony to answer. No, this could not be good. It doesn't seem to be urgent enough to mean Benedict is in peril, so it can only mean. . . please let his suspicions be wrong. If there is a God above, may he be with Henry now. He has heard of Bridgerton's temper. 

Tag: Anthony Bridgerton

[Anthony Bridgerton]

Tag: bunny
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i will

ALWAYS PROTECT YOU

Anthony gave a nod of gratitude as he followed Henry into his home, the door closed behind them. He continued to follow his lead as they arrived into the sitting room, the older male telling him to make himself comfortable and offering a drink. The Viscount turned to towards the man, craving a drink right now but also was unsure how . . . welcome his company would be after he said what he did. Besides, coming unannounced, Anthony did not wish to inconvenience him.

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"I'm fine, thank you for the offer," he told him as he took a seat. "Should you desire a drink, do not hold back on my account." Because, as Anthony previously thought . . . he was uncertain as to how this conversation was going to go. Anthony was doing all that he could to maintain eye contact with the man before him. Fortunately, a lifetime of practice -- mainly the past decade or so -- had taught him how to suppress discomfort and his own emotions. Otherwise, looking at Henry Granville would have been challenging, considering what he had seen last night. But still. Anthony remained proper and . . . steeled in his expression.

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"How is Mrs. Granville?" The question genuine but there was also reason for him asking. Really, he was fishing to see if she was present because, surely she did not know about this and it was not Anthony's intention to expose Henry for his . . . infidelity. "I should hope that we are able to speak in private," he added on, making at least that part of his intention clear to Granville. That he did not want the man's wife to be present nor overhear.

[bunny]

LORD BRIDGERTON OOZES DISCOMFORT. Henry stands there with a curious gaze as Bridgerton struggles to keep eye contact; Granville is no stranger to masking emotions, all things considered. He has to do it doubly well considering his situation. "Very well." He nods and moves to sit across from him, keeping his back straight. Although he may not be dressed for it, Henry becomes the picture of polite gentleman, tilting his head curiously. 

Bridgerton asks about Lucy, and Henry feels his stomach twist in knots. "Lucy is out for the afternoon." He comments, and then he relaxes his shoulders somewhat. He hates this. "Forgive my -- bluntness, Lord Bridgerton, but please. Out with it. Why have you come to my home unannounced?" He may not have Anthony's position, but he still has the blessing of the queen. He is older than the man in front of him, and he hates this beating about the bush. 

"Does this have to do with your brother?"

Tag: Anthony Bridgerton

[Anthony Bridgerton]

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i will

ALWAYS PROTECT YOU

Anthony felt a sense of relief that Lucy was not present. Though, the relief was hardly enough to make this conversation remotely . . . comfortable. The subject was an incredibly difficult one and a topic that Anthony never thought he would have to address. But the overprotective nature he felt towards his family and honor of the Bridgerton name was . . . compromised. And it needed to be addressed, and resolved. This could not go on. However long it had been going on, it needed to stop before it was too late. Before it was exposed. And then, Henry finally asked. Bringing up the subject of his brother. He knew. Well, of course he did. Anthony may not know Granville but he knew of his reputation -- not, this part of his reputation -- but enough to be fully aware that he was no fool.

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The question of whether this being about his brother lingered in the air as Anthony tried to find the ability to carry forward the conversation. He was not scared. He just knew it was not an easy subject. "To what end will you carry on these, relations with Benedict?" Anthony finally got out. His voice firm, serious, questioning Henry's intentions . . . whatever they were, neither of the men's actions were honorable. Not Henry's, and not his brother's. "And do not ask how I know. I saw you and he last night in the garden." A . . . truly awkward sight, one that left Anthony numbed with shock. And an image he wished he could erase from his mind. Though despite the discomfort of seeing it, he continued to remain stoic, an expectant look on his face as he awaited a response from Henry.

[bunny]

WITH HIS SUSPICIONS CONFIRMED, Henry's demeanor changes. How humiliating that Lord Anthony Bridgerton would discover their secret. It must have been the night of the garden. Oh! How so very foolish. How reckless. This? This is not good. It is not a well-known secret in the Ton, only underneath the layers that Henry has carefully crafted. The Queen knows, but of course she does. She could smell it on him -- she is a terrifying woman at times. He adjusts the tension in his jaw, hands curling into fists in his lap. He inhales a slow breath to keep himself calm. He is not his father. He will never be. 

"I should have listened to instinct and told your brother to calm himself at that ball." Henry needs a petty jab. He needs to feel some kind of control in this situation, because it can be bad. It can ruin both of their families, or Lord Bridgerton could be threatening him at this moment in time. Perhaps not yet, but there is obvious agitation in his brow at the questioning. He knows how how the other must see him. Dishonorable. Disgusting. It is why he and Alfred had been so, so careful. 

Henry should have known better than to give in to that temptation, but he wants Anthony to know that it does take two to dance the way they danced that night. That is is not Henry alone who -- who seduced his brother into some eternal damnation. His insides are constricting, and his nails dig into his palm, turning his knuckles white. "To what end, you ask. What a question. To what end was your relationship with Siena Rosso?" He smiles tightly. "Though, I imagine my ... relations with your brother are based in equal admiration, as opposed to being a nobleman's plaything." Henry knows how to protect himself. He does not wish this to get ugly, but perhaps it is too late. 

Tag: Anthony Bridgerton

[Anthony Bridgerton]

Tag: bunny
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i will

ALWAYS PROTECT YOU

The conversation quickly escalated the moment Henry spoke of needing to calm his brother. The Viscount felt the anger boiling inside of him at such insolence and making it sound as if his brother had no control. Which, perhaps he did just as much as Henry. But either way, Anthony loathed to hear anyone disrespect anyone in his family so. "You speak of him in such a manner, as if you were completely absolved of any responsibility." Of, both their actions. The ability to remain seated and calm was becoming increasingly challenging, especially when he brought up Siena.

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"I am now married. I have a wife." Siena was his past where . . . he had been foolish to imagine they could be together, and happy. "As do you." Clearly, it mattered little to Henry considering he was unfaithful. Had Anthony not found a woman who helped keep him grounded, he most certainly would have already leaped from his seat. But, he was trying. And yet, if the man kept pushing . . . Anthony was unsure what would happen. There were certain triggers that even he could not control. "And as will Benedict one day." His brother would . . . surely find a wife. Benedict had been with women before so surely, this was not indicative of his interest in solely men. "You may be content with your life, to be unfaithful to your betrothed. But where is your honor and care for whom else you involve in this . . . complicated circumstance." Married, having an affair with another man. Yes. Complicated indeed.

[bunny]

HENRY DOES NOT RELAX; he remains still there, knuckles still white. His heart has started pounding in his chest, and self preservation is at the front of him mind. "I am not absolving myself of anything. I very much wished to be with him that night, but with our kind, we have to be careful. Or else, this." And he motions between the two of them. "I do not blame Benedict. I was reckless. I am usually much more private about these things." Henry feels like he's got a bitter taste in his mouth, and he rises to the corner of the room to pour himself that drink.

Out of courtesy, he pours Anthony one, too -- in spite of the fear he feels creeping up his neck. Anthony Bridgerton will never know the fear. Perhaps even Benedict will not; he is too young, too new to this. And Henry has considered that he might be a phase, a stepping stone for the younger Brigderton, to get this out of his system before finding a good wife. It is no secret to Henry that Benedict is also interested in women; his wife certainly had enough to say about their encounters. 

Henry walks over to Lord Bridgerton and places down the glass of brandy. He sips his own, walking away from him again. He stares at the window in the room, listening to Anthony go on about marriage and infidelity. He rolls his eyes with his back still facing the other. "Do not pretend to know the business between me and my wife, Lord Bridgerton." He glances back to Anthony, looking a bit more... worse for wear. Confident is not the word. He is frightened of this. The only consolation he has is that if Anthony exposes him, he must expose his brother as well. "Lucy knows and approves of Benedict. She has always been a keen friend in making sure I am happy, as I have been with making sure she is happy. You may have married for love, and I applaud you for such an accomplishment in this environment. . . but many in the Ton do not marry for love or companionship. They marry for power, for money. Lucy and I married for convenience, and for friendship. She did not wish to be carted off to an older man who would not love her, who would use her only to sire his heirs."

He should not be giving Anthony the intimate details of his relationship, but perhaps it will help him understand. "Men like me," he says, turning again to face Anthony, "we do not have the luxury of choosing the true person we want to be in. Say what you want about honor. All I ask is that you consider that maybe your brother is happy with me. And if... Benedict will marry one day, may he find happiness in it. I would not stop him." Henry's eyes suddenly sadden as he remembers when Alfred tore his heart into pieces. That final statement came off... rawer than he anticipated. The pain is apparent. He does not expect Anthony to care. 

Tag: Anthony Bridgerton

[Anthony Bridgerton]

Tag: bunny
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i will

ALWAYS PROTECT YOU

Hearing Henry take some responsibility for what occurred, slowly began to calm the raging anger in Anthony. He knew his brother was far from innocent in all this, but Anthony was already sensitive to any talk of any of his siblings. What Granville said though was indeed true. They should have been more careful indeed. It was fortunate -- and that was not a word he would usually use in such a circumstance -- that it had been Anthony and not anyone else who had stumbled upon them. But Granville most probably already recognized that, so there was no need for him to say it. Instead, he let silence fill the room as Henry went to get a drink, and brought one for Anthony as well. Anthony nodded in gratitude, immediately taking a sip of it and grateful for something to hold in his hand apart from potentially clenching his fists.

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He then listened to Granville explain his . . . relationship with his wife. It sounded like such an odd arrangement. But, he supposed at the same time not surprising considering it was not women that Granville was interested in. What disappointed Anthony the most . . . was that Benedict was a part of this. That he was contributing to this, bizarre arrangement and the unfaithfulness. It also had Anthony believe . . . that this was no, casual affair. If Benedict risked his own reputation to such an extent, then it was far more serious than Anthony ever wanted to consider. But then, perhaps he did not know his brother as well as he thought he did. His mind returned to Granville's words, speaking of this mutual understanding and acceptance he and Lucy had. "I can not say I, understand this arrangement. For I believe only one who is in your position can hope to comprehend the, complexity of your marriage and relationship with your wife." Anthony withheld judgement from his tone. The bitterness and anger seemed to have de-escalated from previously which was all good and well.

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For Anthony did not come here to fight. He had no desire to turn this into a physical altercation. He took another sip of his drink as Granville spoke of men like him. Did that include men like his brother too? But then Granville was asking him to consider that Benedict was happy with him. And that he may still yet find a wife . . . that Granville would not stop him from that happiness. Anthony looked towards the artist, wanting him to understand something. "You already are stopping him," he pointed out. His tone was not aggressive but still held that stoic, firm tone. "I may not know many things about my brother, but I know he would not risk so much if he was not . . . attached." That was the best word he could use to describe this.

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"Do you truly see this as your future? To be married to a woman and then have another on the side?" Is this how he lived his life? "I do not judge your lifestyle nor choices Granville, but I will not let you put my brother's life on hold when you can not offer him a proper one." Anthony knew this was getting into sensitive territory but it was why he had come after all. "A life of secrecy and late night affairs, always at risk of exposure and damaging reputations." Anthony did not have just himself to consider, but his entire family. If this got out, it would ruin his sisters' hope of finding a suitable match. "If you truly care for him and wish him happiness, then you surely must know that this is no life for him." Anthony took another sip of his drink and rose to his feet, approaching Henry. "I am asking you Mr. Granville, to let my brother go." Because he was unsure as to whether Benedict would be able to make that decision with how he was acting as of late, especially with his liberal and idealistic notions.

[bunny]

THIS IDEOLOGY IS WHY HE HATES SOCIETY. It is why he chooses to live the way he is supposed to in the daylight and hide away into the shadows at night. He feels absolutely filthy as Anthony speaks to him. He feels disgusting, degraded, derided. "No, why would you?" He asks quietly. "Your mother and father were the picture of romance when they presided together at balls." He does not meet Lord Bridgerton's eyes as he approaches. He cannot. 

He is deeply considering the other's words. The... it was not hated. It seems Bridgerton had some decency in him, but the rest was unforgivable. He was everything that was wrong with this -- "Do you think I would be married to a woman if I did not have to be? Do you not think for one second, I would marry your brother?" 

Oh.

Oh, he did not mean to say that. Not so bluntly. Henry is not used to being the impulsive one between him and Benedict. His eyes have glazed over. "Benedict knows his duty to society, and his duty to a wife. We all do, do we not? But there are opportunities for women that they cannot have before marriage. I am sure your wife feels the same way to an extent. She is freer for it now. Do you think Benedict could not find a wife similar to Lucy? A woman who would want her liberties to do whatever she wished, be whoever she wanted to be, with the security of a man in high position?"

He pauses, and he remembers himself. Henry inhales a sharp breath. "This is not a -- dalliance, Lord Bridgerton. What you are asking. . ." Must he go through another heartbreak? There will always be a scar from how Alfred wounded him, but Henry fears losing Benedict more. There is something so different about his relationship with Ben that is so beautiful. They are perfect together. Lucy had seen it, too, the joy he had. . . He looks up to the ceiling, tears burning in his eyes. How weak he is to be so emotional in front of this man, but what he is asking for. . . what he is demanding. 

"I love him. Does that mean nothing? Does that truly mean nothing to you, Lord Bridgerton? That I love him, and he -- he loves me? Men like us are no strangers to hiding. . . to feeling so foul to hide in the shadows. Benedict can still find a suitable wife who can keep his secret safe, should he desire." He's considering, though. Is he holding Benedict back? He is older than him... and it will be expected of Benedict to have a wife of high society. Are there others like Lucy? There must be. Or even better, a woman who prefers the company of other women. That could be a fortuitous arrangement. . . 

But he feels as though he will be losing another beloved. Henry considers again, quiet, staring at Anthony's chest instead of his head. Did Benedict love him? Or did he love the idea of this kind of freedom? His lips purse together, and he finds himself laughing ever so softly as a tear trickles down his cheek. "You are asking such a horrid thing, you know." He whispers, "but men like me will never be happy, it seems. Our happiness is fleeting, because we must hide away. Like animals. Like... scum." Henry has known a lifetime of pain. It is why he is no longer talking to his family outside of the social politeness. 

"Benedict should not be subjected to a life of that," his voice is hoarse. "Not when he still also favors the company of women." And he turns away from Anthony as more tears fall down his cheeks.

"I will... end it."

Tag: Anthony Bridgerton

[Anthony Bridgerton]

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i will

ALWAYS PROTECT YOU

Henry remaked on how Violet and Edmund were indeed the picture of romance and . . . yes. They had been. Thus far, those who married -- Daphne and then of course Anthony himself -- had both followed in their parents' footsteps and married for love. It was not always the case, but for them, it had been. So Anthony knew that to be true and, well, it was obvious now that Granville's arrangement was quite different. But before Anthony could say anything on the subject, Henry spoke of . . . marrying his brother. It caused the Viscount to freeze, falling quiet in the surprise of his statement and knowing that said surprise, was evident in the way Anthony's eyes ever so slightly widened, lips slightly parted.

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This, was worse than he had thought. They were in love. They were serious. Henry had assured him previously that it was not just a casual relation but now . . . seeing the extent of it, was even more concerning to the heir. He could not find the words to speak in this moment and instead, just remained quiet . . . trying to determine what he could possibly say. It did not change his mind in the slightest. If anything, it only further reinforced the need to end this relationship because the two men could never be married. It was an impossibility. Upon hearing him state that Benedict knew his duty to society, Anthony finally found his voice . . . though there was still the politeness of allowing Henry to finish making his point. Ironic. Considering the objective of this conversation.

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"Does he?" Anthony asked in return. "He has not stated his intention to find a wife, nor has he show any interest." Anthony had suspected Benedict found someone -- much like Anthony had been distracted with Siena in the past -- but this someone was not who Benedict expected. "You speak of wanting to marry him. You speak of Benedict finding a wife who is, comfortable and accepting of this circumstance. Yet, do either of you consider how . . . idealistic and  unrealistic this can be?" Anthony's social circles clearly differed from Henry's but he couldn't imagine that many in Henry's position were fortunate enough to have a wife who was as supportive of his . . . lifestyle and preferences.

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"You speak of you two being in love--" Anthony wasn't even sure he had properly processed this even still. "Yet that in itself is the very problem, for I doubt Benedict will marry another so long as he is with you." Though, Benedict was with a married man, he imagined it was quite different should they both be married. How would that even work? "Not to mention the constant threat of discovery. It is not just Benedict's reputation at stake.  It is my entire family's." There was a bigger picture here and Anthony needed to bring the situation back to reality. To their reality. Granville spoke of his love for Benedict and it seemed that love, went both ways. Anthony's gaze fell for a moment, though his position unwavering.

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"I sympathize with your position Mr. Granville," Anthony said sincerely. He may not understand it for he was not of the same mind nor desires for men . . . but the way he spoke of love, and being in love, anyone who felt as such could sympathize. "But do not put his life on hold in the hope of finding a rare circumstance like the one you have. Especially when I doubt he will even open his mind to marrying another." Anthony had seen Benedict's clear disinterest. His, lack of effort to court any other woman.

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"That may be," the Viscount continued as Granville told him he was asking him to do a horrid thing. "But Benedict still has a chance at a life of happiness. And the sooner both of you part ways, the sooner you can heal from this and find someone better suited to your life." Not Benedict though. This arrangement would not last; there was too much risk and Anthony was far too protective over his brother to simply allow this to happen. The heir remained silent once more as Henry seemed to consider his words. A raising hope as he continued and then . . . Anthony felt a wave of relief wash over him, exhaling a breath he had not even known he was holding.

"I will... end it."

That was all the Viscount needed to hear to be assured. To know that he did not have to push harder, to fight harder. "I am sorry that it came to this," he told him. "But it is the right, and honorable thing to do." For the sake of his brother. Anthony was well aware that he was using that love to convince Henry but Anthony too had once learned that perhaps the best thing you do if you loved someone . . . was to let them go. The relief that Anthony felt, was also due to Henry's confirmation that Benedict still favoured women too. How, Anthony did not understand. But it just reinforced his position and belief, that Benedict could move on from this affair and find a woman that he could freely be with, without any risk or scandal attached.

[bunny]

THIS IS HORRID. Henry's heart is breaking once more. He hears Anthony speak, and he recalls his conversation with Alfred -- the one he'd had after their initial breakup. His mind swirls around the words duty and honor, and Anthony mentions how rare his situation with Lucy is. He feels like he sinking into a pit of despair, asked to give up his heart again and again. . . He still faces away from Lord Bridgerton, staring at the bookshelf. He blinks away the tears. He rubs his hand over his throat, happy it is not bound by a cravat at this moment. 

Benedict still has a chance to avoid this life, to . . . oh how he loathes it all. If only it could be different. Perhaps if they were not nobility, they could be whoever they wanted to be, hide away where no one would find them. He is a romantic at heart. A man who loves love. He hears every word Anthony says, and it is alarming how much he sounds like Henry's father, like Henry's brother. 

"You must marry. We cannot have this, Henry. You will bring misfortune and dishonor to this family! I will not have it! You will stop these dalliances. You will right this wrong before the news gets out, and you bring this family to ruin."

He had been a bit younger than Benedict is now at the time. It seems they do not have the same malice toward him and his position, but the end result is still the same. Happiness, freedom be damned. He should stand his ground. Here he is, waxing poetic about freedom, but at the same time he knows the game -- the part he must play in these theatrics. 

"Yes, Lord Bridgerton. The right and honorable thing." He says, and there is malice in his voice. . . but there is more hurt. "Happiness be damned." He has a headache now, and he knocks back the rest of the brandy in his class. Henry steels himself and turns to face Anthony, but there is the hint of his tears as he faces him. "Now that your business is concluded, Lord Bridgerton, would you do me the courtesy of leaving? There is much to do." His expression is hard to read. "For all your sympathies, it is still a great -- pain. I would like to be alone." 

He pauses, and he adds: "Now that I have... done your bidding, I would ask that you never bring this up again. I do know the danger of my position, and I treasure my privacy. I have no intentions of ruining my or my own family's reputations, and I will not be so... foolish again." 

Tag: Anthony Bridgerton

---

HENRY SENDS WORD to Benedict early the next day to invite him for tea. He told Lucy of Lord Bridgerton's visit and informed her of his decision. During the morning, he makes plans to leave for France, to visit friends. He cannot stay in London. Not now. Not for a long time.

Tag: Benedict Bridgerton

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict had been up late that night finishing up one of his art pieces. And by the time he was done, all he could do was stare at it. It was perhaps, the first drawing he had done that he could finally say, he was satisfied with. Perfect was a bit of a stretch but as he inspected his, his eyes moving over the lines, the shadows, the depth . . . yes. He was pleased with it and the feeling was rather, unfamiliar. Certainly not unwelcome though. He also knew precisely what he wanted to do with it and that was gift it to the very man that made all this -- and much more -- possible. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ It was perfect timing too for the next morning, Henry had sent him an invitation for tea. Benedict of course, was all too happy to accept. He rolled up the paper and tucked it in his coat, deciding that he would gift it to him when the time felt right today. Wanting it to be a rather special moment where he could express his gratitude towards the man for all that he had done. Making his way to Henry's when the time came, he knocked on the door, an immediate bright smile upon his lips as he saw the older male standing before him. "Henry," Benedict greeted, always enjoying the fact that it was so . . . comfortable to use his first name. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ That they no longer needed formalities between them. Once he entered and Henry closed the front door behind him, Benedict immediately turned around to face him and leaned forward to kiss the artist's lips, Benedict's hand resting on the other's cheek. Letting the kiss linger, gently deepening it to take his time with the embrace until Benedict eased out of it, lips once again immediately curving into a smile as he slowly opened his eyes and rested his forehead against Henry's for a few moments. There. That seemed like a far more suitable greeting indeed. The younger male's confidence had grown exponentially thanks to Henry Granville. Not only when it came to his sketches . . . but when it came to himself. Tag bunny Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[bunny]

HENRY SITS IN HIS STUDY THAT MORNING, rubbing his hands over his face, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. Yes, the parties were fun, the clandestine nature hiding away what was considered illegal and indecent in society. Henry prided himself of a man of freedom, but there is always that danger. He rubs sits there quietly, hiding his face, when he hears footsteps coming toward the room.

"Are you certain this is what you want, Henry?" Lucy asks softly from the doorframe. He glances up to her with a forlorn look, and she frowns. "You have been through much heartbreak as of late, my darling." She approaches him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Is ... is there no other way, Henry?"

"How can there be?" He asks and looks up at her, meeting her eyes as his own glaze over. "I have become used to others choosing what's honorable over love. Benedict is so new to this. . . he does not understand the lifetime of pain, of. . ." He holds back a sob, and Lucy's squeezes his shoulder tightly. "I should save him from this, from becoming me." 

Lucy brushes the tears away as they fall, and she pulls him to her. Henry pulls himself together after a few moments. This afternoon will be difficult, but it ... will be what's best. Lucy leaves them alone, going off to tea at Lady Danbury's home. And so Henry waits, counting down the time until he hears the knock at the door. 

It is hard to stay forlorn when Benedict looks at him with such warmth and life. . . and love. . . "Benedict," he greets, "do come in." He closes the door, and then he is greeted by a kiss. What a kiss it is! Henry reaches to place his hand on Benedict's chest, and he intends to push him away politely and finds he cannot. "Mm," he hums, and he lets himself relax against the door. He knows he would marry Benedict if he could, especially with the way his body just relaxes when touched by him. Alfred had been so lovely, but Benedict was someone else entirely. 

"Benedict, I. . ." He whispers, so close to him still. Henry keeps his eyes closed a moment, leaning to nudge his nose. It is hard to be away from him. They are reckless together, and he should tell Benedict. This was a matter for the Bridgertons, and Henry has been collateral. . . but he has been thinking of it all night. It had been hard to sleep. Should he let them have one last afternoon together? No, he should not string Benedict around like this. He opens his eyes and reaches to gently brush his hands over his chest. "Benedict, I am afraid that this. . . between us. . ." He cannot look at his eyes, so he stares at his collarbone, his neck. "It has to end. I have been doing some thinking, and I. . . it is not right for me to hold you back from. . . finding happiness. True happiness." It makes him sick just to say it. 

Tag: Benedict Bridgerton

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict felt the warmth of Henry's touch upon his chest, a welcome touch . . . always welcome. The sensation of it not one Benedict ever took for granted considering the journey that brought them together like this. And to actually be together was truly an incredible thing. But his words quickly pulled the younger male out of pursuing any further action -- mainly just following him to a room where they could, have tea as he suggested. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Although Benedict's smile remained on his lips, a flicker of confusion crossed his features. "But I have found happiness," he told him, voice thick with sincerity. "With you," he added on, as if there was any doubt there. Benedict paused for a moment, before the confusion faded and left was a bit of a playful expression. "Am I not expressing my happiness well enough," he said teasingly, flirtation clear in his voice as was jest. Though he meant the words emphatically. His hand that had been on Henry's cheek slowly slid down his side to wrap around him as he leaned forward, lightly kissing the corner of Henry's lips. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Is this better?" He asked softly, his tone filled with the same playful teasing. His lips then moved along Henry's cheek in another kiss. "Do I seem happier now?" Creating a trail along his cheek of soft touches. Truthfully, Benedict's mind did not dwell too deeply on Henry's words, far too fallen in this blissful euphoria that he found in his company. They were in love. And yes, they were happy. So he wanted to prove this to Henry, and wash away any doubts that the artist may have that Benedict was not happy. Oh, he was very happy indeed. Tag bunny Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.