Follow Your Heart

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Whenever there was disagreement of a serious nature among the siblings or parent in the Bridgerton family . . . there was an air of tension among the household. The recent events, proved no such exception. Since they had returned from an event where Colin had announced his engagement to Marina . . . the house was quite quiet. Their mother had quickly gone to her room and Anthony's disapproval could be felt by all. So as Benedict returned home from a night out, it was no surprise that he could see a light from the drawing room, assuming it was one of the individuals involved in such tension. that remained awake. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Benedict poked his head through the door to see Colin sitting there, a smile immediately forming on the second Bridgerton's sons lips. "Now that is not the expression of a man in love," Benedict teased. Entering the room, he gently hit Colin's upper arm in greeting as he pulled a chair out to sit next to the couch his brother was on. Benedict of course perceived things quite differently from his mother and eldest brother, so he wished for Colin to know that he was here to listen should Colin desire to talk, and have some company that would not judge his seemingly hasty decision. "What's on your mind, brother?" He asked, his voice now less teasing though a soft smile remained on his lips as he welcomed and opened the conversation for Colin to speak freely. Tag @colin Note: Better layout coming soon! Hope it's ok!! Please let me know if you'd like me to edit anything!!

                        the rules of society.

[Deleted]

Follow your heart
Benedict Bridgerton

Colin was annoyed by the tension he felt everytime he walked into a room full with members of his family. He really thought that they were going to be happy for him, he was in love after all ! Was it not what his mother wanted ? The third gentleman of the family did not understand. He was not a child anymore, he was a man, and as such, it was in right to marry the woman he loved ! Why was it so hard to understand ? He was disappointed, deeply disappointed, especially in Anthony. He did not need his approval, but it would be easier for Colin to live with it if he had it. Unfortunately, he was kind of convinced by the fact that he would not have it soon.

Colin sighed, he was sitting in the drawing room, lost in his thoughts, when Benedict entered the room. By the look on his brother's face, Benedict was a little more happy for him than the rest of the family. Colin smiled back when he heard his teasing.

« Yeah, tell me about it. »


Colin looked at him while he was sitting next to him. In a way, he was touched by his gesture, his brother did not have to come to him this late, especially right after a night out. The youngest listened to what his brother had to say, then paused. Was it alright to tell him how disappointed he was in his family ? Was it reasonable to confess his plans to run away with Marina wherever no one will follow ? Because that is exactly what he was thinking about. He looked at his brother's face and saw that he was honest, concerned even. Colin decided to share his thoughts with him, well, not entirely but enough for him to understand.

« I am kinda lost Ben... I wished Anthony and Mother would have been happier for Marina and I but.. I feel like I screwed something up. I just wanted to marry the woman that I love you know... I do not understand why everyone is so against my marriage. Is it because they did not choose her ? I mean, I am old enough to make my own decisions ! »

Colin was lost and he was looking at Benedict in a way which begged him to be gentle with him. He was not as mentally strong as their eldest brother, even though Colin was stubborn. He knew that Ben was a good listener and he was not afraid of his judgment, his brother was kind and caring so, he hoped that he will see a light at the end of their conversation..

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict felt for his brother. He truly did. The second son had an escape from all these . . . societal pressures. The freedom to be himself without fear of repercussions or watchful eyes. A liberty that came and only found in a part of society Benedict had never experienced before in all his years. But his dear brother, was now stuck in this position. The weight of similar expectations upon his shoulders which directly conflicted with what his heart desired. So yes. Benedict could truly understand how he must feel and it pained him to see him in such a position. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ But, that was not to say that Benedict didn't believe this would be it. He was optimistic enough to believe that surely, their family would come around. So he listened to his brother, and in attempt to comfort and reassure him, reached out to put a hand on Colin's upper arm. "You only followed your heart brother," he told him, not wanting him to feel any fault with that but . . . also understood the idea that he might inevitably feel such due to the reactions from their family. "And unfortunately, that sometimes comes with repercussions." Not to justify it, but rather, to explain it. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "I do believe however, that once the surprise wanes, that mother will embrace this union. Perhaps get to know Marina so that she may understand what prompted you to ask for her hand." Anthony, tended to be a bit more stubborn. "Either way, you have my support," he assured him. "It is just, the shock I imagine that has stifled the others. And the fact that you are all grown up," he said teasingly towards Colin, his hand moving from his shoulder, to his hair to ruffle it as if he was a child. "But give it time. I believe they will come around." Because, their family was built on love and surely, no one would allow something like this to cause such a deep rift within the foundations of the Bridgertons. Tag @colin Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Deleted]

Follow your heart
Benedict Bridgerton

Colin was grateful that Benedict took the time to stop by and to chat with him. He was not in a good place and totally lost. He did not know how to escape this situation. He just wanted to marry the woman he fell in love with, why was it so difficult to accept ? He felt Benedict's hand on his arm, and, without knowing why, Colin felt listened. He nodded.

« You are right, there are some repercussions. It sucks by the way. »


Colin knew Ben was right, maybe he helped him seeing things from a different perspective. It must not have been easy for his family to deal with his public announcement, and deep down, he did not blame them. It's just that Colin is always full of joy and optimism, sometimes he sees things a little too idyllically. Anyway, his brother knew how to reassure him.

« I suppose you are right, no matter how annoying it can be » teased Colin.

He wanted to know more about Marina, it will be easier for him to defend his point of view then. He will get to know this woman, but not only for his family, it would be for himself in the first time. He likes everything about her, even though he is not aware of a lot of things. Colin grumbled when Ben ruffled his hair.

« Just when I thought you were wise, you do that... » sighed Colin.

With one of his mischievious smile, he looked at his brother, touched by his words. It meant a lot to Colin to know that Benedict was on his side, event though there were none.

« Thank you Benedict, it means a lot. »

He smiled back at him and decided to change the topic of their conversation. Colin was curious and he wanted to know where Ben was right before he came to him.

« How was your night out ? Did you find something... or someone, interesting ? »

Colin remained Colin, he was not going to let Benedict go without an intel about his night out.

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict smiled with amusement at Colin's reaction of him ruffling his hair, the response well worth it. The older brother's smile turned into a reassuring one when the third born son thanked him for his support. That was something that he could certainly assure Colin of; that he understood the desire for love above all else, including rank. Though, he supposed it was fortunate that her rank did not fall too far below the expectation. Colin then asked him how his night was, and whether he found something -- or someone -- interesting. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Benedict knew he could not fully divulge the details of his, nightly affairs. They were best kept secret, for the time being. As he found the more he attended them, the more a part of that world he felt he belonged to. "I went to a friend's home as he was having some guests over," Benedict explained. He wasn't a particularly good liar, nor did he feel the need to in this case. He just merely, left out certain details. "You would hate it," he further teased Colin, rather certain that these events were . . . not exactly any of his siblings' preference. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "So brother, tell me about her," Benedict said, leaning back in his seated position to get more comfortable. "What captivated you about her above all other women you've ever set eyes upon." His voice clearly teasing but also, open to hearing more about the woman that would be joining their family soon. Tag @colin Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Deleted]

Follow your heart
Benedict Bridgerton

Benedict was really kind with his younger brother and Colin was grateful for that. He knew that the man who were sitting next to him was a little more wise than him. Anyway, that was what thought before Ben ruffled his hair, making Colin grumble. He was now able to see how his family felt about his announcement and deep down, he understood. His brother was right, Colin knew it and recognized it. It really meant a lot to him when Ben showed him his support. Colin was really grateful and he thanked his guardian angel for having him grown in a such caring family.

Enough about him, he wanted to know what was Benedict doing before he went home. Colin raised an eyebrow when his brother talked about being at a friend's. He was sincere, Colin knew that, but he was under the impression that Benedict was hiding something. Colin would discover what was silenced, but not now, he had enough of his plate.

« Oh come on, Am I not the most social gentleman in town ? » teased Colin.

He smiled at him and listened to his brother, now asking what caught his eyes when he first looked at Marina. Colin could not decide, he was speechless when he first saw her and knowing him, it was quite the accomplishment.

« I don't know, I was kinda speechless when I first saw her. She was beautiful, graceful and I saw what softness was like just by looking into her eyes. I am not the kind of man to be afraid of asking a woman to dance, but trust me brother, I was, with her. I feared doing something that would make her go away. When I am with her, it's like the time stops and I am enjoying every minute of it. »

Colin did not thought about it before saying it, but it made him realize how true it was. He was really hoping that his family would come around and see what he found in Marina.

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict chuckled with amusement as Colin spoke of being the most social gentleman in town. "I am unsure if that is a compliment or an insult towards yourself," he told him with clear jest. As much as he adored and loved his brothers, and sisters, he feared they might not understand. Mindsets all varied among the Bridgerton children, but he did not wish to risk it. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Fortunately, as the second son, he was able to slip through the cracks a little. Fading into the background as he often did which in this case, worked in his favour. Never neglected, but never requiring attention. Fortunately, Benedict focused on the way Colin described Marina. A soft smile was on the second son's lips as he listened to his brother's words, and watched his expression. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ An expression that he was unsure he had ever seen on Colin's face before. It was a welcome sight, to see him so . . . taken by another. Benedict could not say he himself understood that feeling, that sensation of loving someone so quickly. So he was incredibly happy that his brother had indeed found it. Even if things were moving quickly. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "It certainly sounds like love," he told him. "Anything that leaves you speechless and lacking confidence is surely a wonder." Benedict continued to tease him but there was also truth in his words. Recognizing that for Colin, this was all incredibly knew. Of course the man had sought out the company of women in flirtatious conversation and dance. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ It was perhaps why his family did not think him so serious about this one woman. But Benedict could see it in his brother's eyes. He was serious indeed. "I am happy for you," he told him sincerely. "I have never seen you this way before," he added on, vocalizing his thoughts and his words meant more to be perhaps validation of Colin's feelings, rather than insult or criticism. Tag @colin Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Deleted]

Follow your heart
Benedict Bridgerton

Colin was intrigued by Benedict's answer when he asked him about his night out. His younger brother was one of the most social gentleman out there and he was easily pleased. However, if the second son said that he would not have enjoyed himself, Colin believed him. He stared at Benedict when he chuckled and pretended to be offended.

« I only speak highly about myself. Tell me brother, if I do not compliment myself, who would ? »

He was kidding but a part of it was true though. How could someone be loved if he does not even love himself ? It was the eternal question. Colin smiled when he heard his brother's question and took a minute to think about it. There were so many reasons to love Marina, which one could possibly be the best ? He did not know, so it let his heart speaking.

The second son's comment was honest and Colin was happy to hear him say that. He was in love and it was one of the numerous reasons why he was annoyed by his family's reaction. He thought they did not respect his feelings and did not believe in him enough to support his decisions. He was hurt but Benedict found the right words. A smile appeared on Colin's face when his brother teased him. He agreed with him.

« Tell me about it. »

He chuckled and stared at the wall in front of him. He felt his brother's glance on him and before he had time to ask him anything, he said something exceptionally true and kind.

« Thank you Benedict, it means a lot. I wished you were all. » He looked at him with a sad smile which disappeared when he heard the name of the love of his life, or so he thought. « Yes, sometimes it seems like Marina is the only one capable of taking me seriously. »

He sighed and looked at his fingers, wondering how he could convince everybody how serious he was about this wedding.

« You will probably think that I am crazy, if it is not already to late, but, I am considering asking Marina if she wants to leave the country soon in order to marry me if my family still stand in the way. I do not want to do that to Mother nor Anthony but this is how serious I am about it... »

He did not know why he revealed his plans to Benedict, but he just did. Maybe he was looking for his wise opinion, or maybe he simply wanted to talk to his brother. He did not want to leave whereas he only came back but it was not up to him anymore.

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict smiled as his brother mentioned who else would speak highly of himself. "Yes, I see your point. For you certainly would not receive any compliments from me." The words were a clear jest, as Benedict obviously did not mean them. But what was the fun in siblings if they did not tease once in a while. Teases, born of deep love that the Bridgertons had for one another. This was not exception in how Benedict felt for his dear brother. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Perhaps you would have to rely on Whistledown for such compliments," he said, adding to the tease though it was not without truth. Colin did not seem to be on the receiving end of any negative rumors or scandal that Whisteldown reported. If ever she spoke of him, it was usually without malic or insult. Benedict gave the younger male a reassuring smile. "Give it time," he repeated, though felt it necessary to give his brother that hope. Hope, that they would come around. That their minds needed to settle and accept this . . . and accept it they would. Hopefully. When he spoke of Marina being the only one to take him seriously, it was clear that he was struggling with this. With his family accepting that this was not simply a dalliance. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "If that is how you wish to be seen," Benedict began to say. "Then you need only approach the subject with conviction. So that they may see this, unfamiliar side of you." The serious side of Colin Bridgerton. Benedict's words once again held a slight tease to them, but they also held purpose. That it would need take some convincing for mother and Anthony to accept. But it was Colin's latter stated words that set all joking aside, and caused the small smile to fade from Benedict's lips, though a softness still remained. Listening to his brother without judgement. But . . . hearing that he may wish to elope, was certainly a surprise. And, wasn't at the same time considering how others reacted to this union. He remained silent for a few moments, trying to choose his words with care. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "I would implore you to wait before making any quick decisions," Benedict told him, not discouraging him of the entire idea, but rather, asking him to be patient before running off with her. While he knew their family would never disown a Bridgerton -- as others may due to elopement -- Benedict feared the potential strain this could put on Colin and mother, and even Anthony. "I wish to see you happy brother, but I fear that happiness may be compromised if you do something that may cause strain in your relationships with mother and Anthony." Benedict just wished to protect his brother. A brother who . . . had truly grown up. When, and how had that happened. That he was suddenly looking at a man, so serious and devout to his intended that he was willing to run away with her and get married in secret. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Benedict reached out to put a hand on Colin's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze to further comfort and reassure him. "They just need time, and I hope you can grant them that." Perhaps Benedict didn't understand the need to hastily get married, for he himself had never fallen in love. But, he could certainly see it in his brother's eyes. Hear it in his voice. "I do not think you crazy," he told him. "Perhaps a little madly in love," he added on unable to help the playful nature of his words, feeding into the irony of what he said. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "But I will not speak of this plan to them," he assured Colin. He assumed his brother was telling him this in confidence, with the expectation that he would not tell the others, but Benedict wished to reassure him of that through a verbal promise. "Should you move in this direction, I would ask only that you at least speak with me first. So that I may know you are safe." And that he wouldn't just disappear one night. He knew that he could not control Colin, so convincing him not to this was not an option. He could merely ask him to keep him informed, so that he knew the man was safe and well . . . wherever he may end up. Tag @colin

                        the rules of society.

[Deleted]

Follow your heart
Benedict Bridgerton

Colin smiled when Benedict said that he would not compliment his brother. Why not ? Colin was the smartest, cutest, bravest and the most humble man of the family. Or not. Maybe he deserved that. Colin knew that his brother was teasing him, and he did not mind, he loved Ben as much as his others siblings, but the second son was one of his favorites. Colin rolled his eyes when his brother mentionned Lady Whistledown. He sighed.


« I really don't care. I enjoy gossips as much as anybody else, but, be honest, do you really think she is worthy of all the attention ? »

Colin did not know if it was truly necessary, he simply did not get it. The third son confessed having difficulties with his family when it dealt with his seriousness. Benedict was right, Colin knew it and he smiled when he heard his last words. He had to be heard without giving his family a choice.


« I will try it Anthony's way. I'll look at everyone as if I wanted to murder all of you and I will see what happen. Maybe they'll take me seriously then. »

He was kidding, sort of anyway, 'cause a part of his sentence was kind of true. He smiled at his brother and let his thoughts running into his head. Colin had a plan, a mad one, involving a quick trip. He did not know what to do and was seeking for Ben's advice when he told him about it. He listened to his calm voice and nodded. He felt his brother's hand on his shoulder and sighed, knowing it was the right call to make.

« Alright then, I will give them a couple of days first, then, I'll see. »
he paused, listening to Ben, and pursued. « I am madly in love. Oh dear, what will become of me ? »

He smiled, realising how dependent he was of Marina. Colin looked at Benedict, he admired his way of respecting his point of view, even though Colin felt he did not share it. At least, he tried to understand how Colin felt, and it was quite admirable.

« Thank you. If I cannot convince the others, I will come to you before I leave, you have my word. »

If Benedict was ready to keep this conversation between them, Colin could inform him of his departure. He gave his word so, he would respect it.

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Colin's question regarding Whistledown was indeed a simple one he supposed, for it was clear that the Bridgerton brothers paid far less attention to her scribbling than the sisters. "Not at all," he told him, Colin's tone suggesting that he too perhaps shared Benedict's opinion on the matter. "Though our sisters, like most of the ton, seem to hang on her every word." Especially Eloise. Benedict knew from his conversation with her, that it seemed she even admired Lady Whistledown. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Though I will say, she has certainly made this season in London far more, interesting than past others." Which, wasn't necessarily a good thing he supposed. Scandal columns were nothing new. This one however, certainly was not lacking in detail. Benedict chuckled at Colin's next words of mimicking Anthony's brooding glares to see if that would work in taking him seriously. "You may be capable of many things dear Brother," Benedict began to say. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "But serving murderous glares I do not believe is one of them." His voice teasing, though was not entirely untrue. "Though if you would like to practice on me, by all means feel free." Oh now that could certainly be entertaining indeed. Benedict knew that in this particular situation regarding Marina, Colin was indeed serious. But, what kind of older brother would he be if he did not tease the third son. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ When Colin spoke of being madly in love, Benedict smiled at him, not having ever seen his brother this way indeed. Flirtation was a far cry from courting with the intent to marry. "Now that, I dare not even attempt to speculate," he said with continued teasing. It was something that Benedict could not quite relate to, not having been in love himself. So the feeling was rather foreign and unfamiliar to the second son. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ But if it made Colin feel happy in his heart, then Benedict in turn was happy for his brother. He felt a further sense of relief when Colin assured him that he would tell him before he left. "Thank you," Benedict told him gratefully. "I hope it does not come to that, but should it, I am grateful for your promise." That he would come to him and just let him know when he would depart, and for how long. It would at least ease Benedict's mind to know that his brother would be safe. Tag @colin

                        the rules of society.

[Deleted]

Follow your heart
Benedict Bridgerton

Colin did not get this thing with "Lady Whistledown". Why was there that everybody was madly addicted to her writings? He simply did not get it and maybe it was his jealousy speaking as well. He would have loved that people enjoy reading his novels the way they do it with her articles. Even if he thought it to be delusional for a woman to speak as fiercely as she does, he did find it interesting. He smiled at Benedict when he mentioned the fact that their sisters were hanging on her every word. Unfortunately, it was true.


« Yes, unfortunately, they give her more credit than she is worthy of. »


Colin did not miss those gossips and those dramas when he was abroad, but he understood his brother's point of view. This season had something more than the others, something new and which brings more scandals, Lady Whistledow of course. Even if he was not a fan of this woman, whoever she was, she did not seem to be a Bridgerton enemy so, as long as it did not interfere with his sister's season, he would not care.

Colin changed the topic of this discussion and talked about his oldest brother. Your Highness, Anthony Bridgerton. He joked about his need to mimic the viscount and his glance to be respected. His brother's answer made him smile, even Colin knew that was true.

« I am afraid not, but I want to give it a try. »


Very seriously, he looked at Benedict's eyes and raised his chin, squinted his eyes, and tried to be as mean as he could. He holds the glance for about 5 seconds before laughing like a child. No, it was not his style. He did not know how his brother could keep his cool while doing that but it was certainly not Colin who could.

« I think I will have to find another way I am afraid. »
he paused and promised to come to Ben before he leaves if he could not convince the others. « You're not my favorite brother for nothing you know. »

He looked at him, truthfully and pursued.

« I hope you'll find happiness brother, you deserve it, even if you are kind of boring sometimes. »


Colin teased his big brother, he did not find him boring, he just wanted to tease him, as usual.

I am so sorry for the delay <3

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict gave a small nod of agreement upon Colin's words of giving Whistledown more credit than deserved. "Indeed. And something tells me that this, Whistledown is just getting started." Fortunately, Benedict had managed to evade her attentions and she did not seem to be overly hostile towards their family. He also knew that Eloise's determination in finding out who she was may very well lead their second older sister on the path of success. Which would be most interesting indeed. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ As Colin practiced his look, Benedict held eye contact with him, trying not to laugh as he just watched him . . . and watched him . . . and it was at the moment that Colin started laughing that Benedict smiled and chuckled with amusement as well. "If you were going for humorous rathe murderous then I do believe you succeeded," he teased him. "Practice makes perfect however. Just, don't practice with your fiancé. I doubt she will enjoy being on the receiving end of . . . whatever that look was," he continued to playfully tease towards his younger brother. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Benedict softly smiled at Colin as he spoke of being his favourite brother. "For the moment, I suppose," he retorted teasingly. The second son appreciated his brother's sentiment, hoping for his own happiness . . . speaking of deserving it despite his boring nature. Benedict once again chuckled at the teasing insult. "Or perhaps I just manage evading discovery," he joked -- though it was in part true. The scandalous parties he attended was enough to potentially cause quite the damage upon his name. It was one of the advantages of being the second son he supposed. As Henry had put it . . . second sons have all the fun. "Let us focus on securing your happiness first," he told him, unused to having the topic rest upon him for too long. "Tell me more about her." Her parents? Her family, apart from being under the Featheringtons care. Tag @colin Notes: Noooo worries!! I was also super slow with my reply!!

                        the rules of society.