Ben Meaning To See You

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict knew that he should return to his family's estate, but the past several days had certainly been a bit of an emotional whirlwind. His mind often lingered to Genevieve, having to fight every urge within him to visit her. To check on her. To see if she was well. To see if she needed anything. None of which was his place or offer or tend to her . . . yet, the desire to do so remained. So he had spent the time at his bachelor lodgings, deciding that he would return home when he was able to keep himself composed and not carry every conversation with such strong emotions. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Eloise was far too . . . perceptive. In fact, most all his sisters were. Hell, even his brothers. So yes. Benedict had decided to remain just for a shorter while. But of course, to avoid any suspicions or rumors throughout the ton, he had eventually set out, making public appearances where necessary. Joining his family for various outings and finding -- as he always did -- comfort in their company. That did not mean recent events were quickly forgotten. Quite the contrary. Benedict had found himself in need of distractions during the day and at night . . . it was most difficult as his mind tended to wander. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ But today, he happened to be home in the evening, sitting in his study with a novel in hand, his sketchbook set to the side. He had given up on trying to sketch for while he craved the creative outlet, he also could not focus. A strange contradiction yet only that was only increasing his frustrations. It wasn't until he was told that Mr. Lewis Anwyl was here to see him that Benedict immediately rose to his feet and urged for them to let him in. The second son quickly picked up both books, and set them on the table, just in time for as he turned, he saw Anwyl at the entrance of the drawing room. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Anwyl," Benedict greeted warmly, approaching him with an extended hand. "It is good to see you." And he meant it. Benedict had never had a chance to have proper conversation with the surgeon after the events of that night. Emotionally, it had taken a toll on Benedict and he felt the need to recover from it and of course . . . Anwyl had seen Benedict at a time where most many didn't. Emotional and vulnerable. It left the second son almost . . . embarrassed for it. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Lewis Anwyl]

THE   CAUSE   YOU   ARE   SUPPORTING IS  NOT  OUR  CAUSE,  BUT  YOURS tagged Benedict Bridgerton

Genevieve was not generally the sort of patient that would stick in Lewis' mind. In his earliest days as a surgeon, there had certainly been patients that he did worry about long after his time with them had ended, but the longer he'd worked, the more he'd realised the futility of doing so. If every patient's fate kept him up at night, he would never get any sleep. These days, as much as possible, he attempted to leave his concerns in the consulting rooms and operating theatres. There were exceptions that stuck in his head every so often, despite his best attempts to shake them, but those tended to be the extraordinary cases. 

Medically speaking, Genevieve's case had been anything but extraordinary. Bruises and scrapes were hardly the sort of injuries that should have concerned him. And yet, he had not been able to get the thought of that late night visit out of his mind. In fairness, it was not the injuries themselves that had stayed with him, but the sheer strangeness of the whole situation. First of all, there was the fact that Benedict had called for a surgeon over such minor injuries, and then there was the fact that Lewis had been the surgeon to whom he'd turned. 

He had to admit that the matter continued to intrigue him, even days afterward. He had dismissed that curiosity at first, insisting to himself that it really was none of his business, but in the end, curiosity won out over his sense of courtesy. After all, it was not so odd for a surgeon to check on a patient, and he considered Benedict something of a friend. It was only proper that he should inquire after Genevieve's progress. 

Satisfied enough with that self-justification, he had resolved to call upon Benedict. He was somewhat surprised to find the man at home, but he was certainly grateful that he would not have to wait around or call on another day. Once the servant showed him into the room, he handed off his coat and hat, then turned to Benedict to greet the man with a firm handshake. "Mr. Bridgerton." He did not smile — he never did — but the tone of his voice was warm. "I hope I am not intruding."

OWL

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Once Lewis returned the handshake, Benedict removed the hold, listening to the surgeon speak of intrusion. "Not at all," he assured him. "You are most welcome here," he further added. Of course the reason for Lewis' presence was indeed a curious one, but hardly one that Benedict would immediately question upon his arrival. "Please have a seat," he said, motioning to the sofa and chairs, whichever the surgeon was most comfortable sitting upon. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Once he was seated, Benedict remained standing for a few additional moments. "Would you care for a drink?" He asked, motioning to the brandy as it was a little too late to offer him tea. Truth was, he was uncertain as to what Lewis' drink of preference was. A realization that Benedict was unsure of a lot of Lewis' personal likes and dislikes. It should not come as a massive surprise considering they had met only a few times but still. Benedict made it a point to try and learn more of this man so that he would know how to better accommodate him in times such as these where he stopped by. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Lewis Anwyl]

THE   CAUSE   YOU   ARE   SUPPORTING IS  NOT  OUR  CAUSE,  BUT  YOURS tagged Benedict Bridgerton

Lewis took Benedict's invitation and settled himself down on one of the chairs. It was odd, being here in this drawing room in the daytime — or, rather, it was odd having been here already in the night. He did not generally make it a habit to call on friends for impromptu visits as is, but on the rare occasions when he did so, it was not generally after a harried midnight examination in the same home. The whole experience was rather foreign and more than a little disconcerting. He found himself not entirely sure how relaxed he ought to be, torn between whether he ought to present himself more as the concerned surgeon or the sympathetic friend.

A drink would help matters, no doubt. Trying not to appear too relieved at Benedict's suggestion, he nodded once. "Brandy, yes. Thank you." At the very least, it would relieve some of the tension. He kept his gaze on the Englishman as he poured a glass and held it out, which Lewis accepted with a soft hum of thanks. Once he had taken a sip and rested the glass on his knee, he asked, "Your... friend fares well, I hope? Forgive me, but in the rush of that night, I never learned her name." 

OWL

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Brandy. Well, at least Benedict knew the man to enjoy the common drink. It was something at least, though quite minimal. The second son proceeded to fill both cups, passing one to Anwyl before taking a seat in the chair across from him, cradling the drink in his hand. Lewis's question should be of no surprise and yet . . . Benedict paused for the briefest of moments upon him asking. It would seem so foolish, not to give a name to the patient. And perhaps sounded even more foolish that Benedict did not know of her full recovery. The distance had been once again forced between them. So before responding, Benedict took a sip of his drink, swallowing as a small smile returned upon his lips. Fortunately, he was in far better control of his emotions this time. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Ms. Genevieve Delacroix," he responded. There was no shame in revealing who she was. A working woman. The Modiste. Yet, Benedict could only assume what Lewis may have thought with . . . everything. Clearly friend was a disbelieved term. Hell, Benedict hadn't even believed it when he described her as such to the surgeon. "Yes, she is recovering well," Benedict said politely, of course not knowing the details. He had attempted to listen to his sisters' conversations regarding going to the Modiste; a subject that had never been of any interest to Benedict prior. Nor could he overly inquire about it. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ So, all he could do was make an assumption, and felt the tightening in his chest that he was unable to see for himself. "It is kind of you to ask," he added, genuine in his words. "I greatly appreciate you coming that night," Benedict told him. "And examining her." Benedict had been . . . an emotional wreck, perhaps is what could be best described. There was still some embarrassment over his demeanor that night, now that rationality had set back in. Now that reality had set back in. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Lewis Anwyl]

THE   CAUSE   YOU   ARE   SUPPORTING IS  NOT  OUR  CAUSE,  BUT  YOURS tagged Benedict Bridgerton

Ms. Genevieve Delacroix. It took Lewis a few moments to place the name. He knew that he had heard it before — where, however, he could not initially recall. After a moment of furrow-browed rooting in the back of his mind, he at last found the proper identity to match to the name: the dressmaker, on the high street. Having no sister in London, he did not exactly have cause to visit a modiste, but he had heard her name passed around here and there at parties, and he was sure Morrison might have mentioned her on some occasion or another. 

So, Benedict's... intimate friend was the modiste. That explained a few things, Lewis supposed. It explained, chiefly, why she might have been mugged: he had wondered at that, as he was quite certain no noble family would allow a young woman to be alone at night and few pickpockets would target anyone with chaperones or servants in tow, but a tradeswoman might find herself running errands in all sorts of unsavoury parts of town. It explained, too, why Benedict might be keen on a medical man with discretion. The ton would no doubt be abuzz if the news leaked that a Bridgerton brother was carrying on a dalliance with the modiste. 

As Lewis himself was not the gossiping sort, at least when it came to society matters, Benedict had chosen well. Lewis was pleased to have his curiosity satisfied, for his own sake, but he would not go around spreading any rumours, nor would he pass any judgment. If Benedict wished to spend his time with a tradeswoman, so be it. At least three quarters of the men in London were having affairs of some sort or other. 

After taking another small sip of his brandy and swallowing, Lewis replied, "You need not thank me. I was glad to be of service. You and Ms. Delacroix both seemed quite shaken." 

OWL

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Lewis may have thought it unnecessary for Benedict to thank him, but never the less . . . he still felt compelled to. He knew that this was Lewis' job -- at least in part -- to tend to the wounded and ill. But, there was a great deal more that Benedict had gratitude for, knowing that his specific reason for being that night was just one of the many. Discretion, mostly. And for allowing Benedict to place his trust in the man. One that did not seem to be misguided for nothing had spread among the town. It was not Benedict's reputation he worried for; it was Genevieve's. Especially since what they had would result in her being named a mistress and . . . that was not what this was. It was never what it was. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Yes, indeed," Benedict said thoughtfully, taking another sip of his drink and knowing that he had to give Lewis some semblance of explanation. Brief, or detailed, he was unsure. But he owed it to the man. Or at least, an apology. "I must admit that night I was quite, disturbed to learn that a group of men would assault a woman in such a way." He was not naïve nor an idiot -- contrary to what some may think. He knew it happened. But, he had never witnessed the aftermath. "I know that it does indeed occur. And you, I am certain, have seen your fair share of injury inflicted upon others." Benedict paused, this being part of the reason he had been so . . . emotional. That, and of course the deeper reasons due to the complexity of their relationship, or former one but this was a safer part of the explanation to offer to Lewis. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "However for me, it was the first time someone . . . a woman I know, had been injured in such manner." Benedict took another drink not for liquid courage to continue, but to cease the images of the men surrounding her and attacking her from entering his mind. Images, that quite honestly continued to disturb him. "I fear I did not handle it well," he added with a bit of a smile, though not jovial, it was his own admittance that he was quite out of sorts that night, and his tone held apology towards Lewis, before Benedict knew he would need to actually say the words to the surgeon. It was after all, the reason he was even offering this information instead of simply accepting Lewis's words and moving the conversation along. Benedict had far too much respect and gratitude towards the man to be dismissive. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Lewis Anwyl]

THE   CAUSE   YOU   ARE   SUPPORTING IS  NOT  OUR  CAUSE,  BUT  YOURS tagged Benedict Bridgerton

Lewis was once more conscious of the same stirrings of guilt that had visited him on the night of the incident. It was easy to forget, at times, that not everyone was as desensitised to injury and blood as he was. To a man who dealt regularly with amputations and lithotomies, a few bruises might seem trivial, but to a man like Benedict who had likely witnessed no more than a few cuts and sprains, it was only natural that Genevieve's injuries might appear somewhat alarming. 

He remained silent as Benedict explained, rotating the glass upon his knee with slow twists of his fingers balanced around the rim. It was plain enough that Benedict was somewhat embarrassed by his conduct on the night in question; Lewis would have liked to say something to reassure the man, but he was not entirely sure what. Anything he tried to came up with simply sounded empty and vapid, even in his own head. This was always the part of his profession that he found most difficult: treating wounds and conducting operations was simply a matter of knowledge and skill, but dealing with people required a finesse he did not have.

Still, he had to say something. Wetting his lips with a quick flit of his tongue, he drew in a breath, then said, "Believe me, Mr. Bridgerton, I am accustomed to dealing with people who do not handle the injuries of their loved ones well. You certainly did better than most. You obviously care for the woman very much; you did what you felt was right."

OWL

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Loved ones. The core of the word -- love -- struck in his mind. Is that what this was? Benedict had never named his relationship with Genevieve, nor were such words exchanged between them. Benedict had never thought himself to be in love. And so, foolish as it may seem, someone stating the word in any reference to how he felt about the Modiste, was . . . unfamiliar. As if he had never even considered it before. He knew the love of a family, the love of parents, siblings, friends even . . . but not romantic love. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ He slightly clenched his jaw, taking another swallow of his beverage if only to push back these thoughts. At least in Anwyl's company. Benedict had thought himself to be on the path of healing and now . . . bringing love into it, seemed like an entirely different need to recover. If that truly was, what it had been. But Benedict focused on the words of the surgeon. The rather, kind words. Words that touched Benedict, to hear that he did alright. That it was understood that he acted in the way that he did. And the words of him having had -- still has -- a deep care for Genevieve. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Benedict had not even attempted to hide it, finding it impossible that night to set his emotions aside, so he knew that it should come as no surprise that Lewis brought this to voice. Part of Benedict wanted to blurt out that she was not his mistress, loathing this label to be associated with . . . whatever deep affections he had with Ms. Delacroix. But the other part of him, knew it was futile. Lewis most likely did not care to hear any sort of bizarre justification from Benedict, nor in depth description of his romantic affairs. Even if Benedict had brought the man into it. So instead, the Bridgerton offered a small but sincere smile. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Thank you," he said a bit softly. "For your understanding." For not condemning him for his behaviour nor . . . seeming to even judge him for it. "I do recognize that I was most unhelpful that night," he added a bit lightly, a joke -- a mocking remark -- made at his own expense but it was mere fact. Pausing for a brief moment, Benedict continued. Knowing that he too had to explain something, whether Lewis knew it or not. "I also recognize, that your field was perhaps . . . unneeded for the injuries that she sustained." Even Benedict knew that he could have called for a doctor who was closer; that there was no need for a surgeon. Even if the man's turmoiled state, he knew that. "However, I called upon you not just for your profession, but for your person." Looking at Lewis, Benedict hoped he understood what he was attempting to say. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "That night, I required a man of good character, and one whom I could trust to handle a delicate matter." For he knew, what kind of scandal would be exposed should the wrong man catch wind of his and Genevieve's connections. He worried not for himself, but for Genevieve, and his family . . . and all that everyone would have to answer to. It was truly a relief, that Whistledown had not yet seemed to even discover it. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Thank you, for being there Lewis." And he had been there, in the most respectful of manners. Benedict's words spoken with utmost sincerity, that Benedict felt the need to remove formalities. "I am indebted to you." For the way in which he conducted not just the examination, but the entire situation. And what may not seem like a great deal to the surgeon, or to any other nobleman who held the expectation -- and entitlement -- that another would simply comply . . . it all meant a great deal to Benedict and not something that he would take for granted. Ranks be damned. Status be damned. Benedict was indeed, indebted to Lewis. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Lewis Anwyl]

THE   CAUSE   YOU   ARE   SUPPORTING IS  NOT  OUR  CAUSE,  BUT  YOURS tagged Benedict Bridgerton

It was easy enough to see the emotions that played out across Benedict's countenance. For a moment, Lewis was entirely at a loss to account for what had prompted them. He had not, in his own estimation, said anything particularly upsetting: he had simply tried to assure Benedict that he was not the first man to overreact and certainly would not be the last, and he had thought that might comfort the man, not distress him further. 

Finally, after a moment or two of confusion, it occurred to Lewis quite suddenly that it was perhaps the phrase of 'loved ones' that had so affected Benedict. It was the sort of stock phrase that Lewis had never bothered to consider very much; it was an alternative to 'relatives,' in his mind, and that was more or less all. In this context, however, when used to refer to a woman who was more than likely a mistress of Benedict's, he supposed it had been a rather poor choice of words. 

There was no easy way to apologise for that, however — and, indeed, by the time he even gathered his thoughts enough to consider doing so, Benedict had already moved on. There was little to do but leave the matter to rest and resolve not to use that troublesome little phrase again. 

Truth be told, he was rather surprised Benedict seemed to think so highly of him and his discretion. He liked the man, to be sure, and he would be happy to call him a friend, but he had not thought he'd made such an impression in their first few meetings. No sense looking a gift horse in the mouth: if Benedict thought well of him, Lewis was content enough to take the compliment. Raising his glass slightly and inclining it towards Benedict, he replied, "It is what any man would have done for a friend. You may rely upon my discretion. I am only pleased that I was able to help."

OWL

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict smiled upon hearing Lewis state that it was what any man would have done for a friend. Were that only true, that it was something that could be expected. Yet, the second son knew all too well that such things -- such friendships -- should not be taken for granted. "A friendship, that is not one I take for granted. For I am certain you understand that it is not all too a common thing in this world." Benedict had friends, of course he did. However, there were few among them that he would trust with his life . . . or more importantly, that he would trust with the love of someone he cared about. There were those in this ton that would seek to blackmail or exploit the Bridgertons -- not always personal, for he supposed it came with being a reputable family. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Nigel had all but attempted to blackmail Daphne into marrying him -- fortunate that he did not succeed. Marina who sought to secure an elevated position and father for her unborn child by engaging with Colin. Yes. The ton could indeed be a cruel place; a place where one had to watch their back. It was also fortunate, that Benedict fell in the background somewhere and did not have public scandal attached to his name. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ The few times he was mentioned in Lady Whistledown's column, it had been fairly positive . . . but with that said, Benedict knew all too well that there was always the risk of being exposed. Whether it was due to the parties he attended, or news of a 'mistress' being found in his bed late at night. He supposed, it was one of the benefits of being Number Two. "So I thank you for that," he continued. "In being someone that I may rightfully place my trust in. And I hope you feel it is mutual." Should Lewis require anything, Benedict hoped he would be able to help him, or that Lewis would feel comfortable enough to come to him. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Lewis Anwyl]

THE   CAUSE   YOU   ARE   SUPPORTING IS  NOT  OUR  CAUSE,  BUT  YOURS tagged Benedict Bridgerton

Now it was Lewis' turn to go very still and very quiet. Benedict's remark had been a charitable one, on the whole; it was flattering, on some level, to hear that the man trusted him so fully. But that was not the part that had caught Lewis off guard — it was, instead, the comment that followed, expressing Benedict's innocent hope that Lewis would trust him to the same extent, if he ever found himself in need.

Lewis did not. 

Oh, that was not Benedict's fault, certainly. He was a charming, earnest fellow, one with which anyone could surely find few faults, and he was, as Lewis had already decided, a man that would make a thoroughly good friend. Indeed, Lewis liked him quite a lot better than he liked most men in London. If Lewis were to trust anyone, Benedict might have been a sensible enough choice. 

And yet, the thought of admitting even a tenth part of his secrets to Benedict horrified him, and that very horror, in turn, saddened him a little. He would have liked to be the sort of man who shared secrets — or perhaps, to put things more accurately, he would have liked to be the sort of man who did not have secrets to share that could ruin him. It had never been his intention to have those sorts of secrets, but life had a dreadful way of deciding that for a man. The best laid schemes o' mice an' men gang aft agley, and all that. It was not a pleasant thing, to feel as though one misstep or one bit of misplaced trust could cost a whole life. 

To save himself from having to force a smile, Lewis took a long sip of his brandy. Once he had swallowed and set the glass back down, he had composed his thoughts enough to reply mildly, "I am happy to be of service to you. She is a fine woman, Ms. Delacroix. Was she able to make a report on the men who attacked her?" There — a change of subject.

OWL

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

Benedict studied Lewis, the silence speaking perhaps more than words. The Bridgerton tried to think back on what he said that could have prompted it . . . something related to friendship perhaps. But he would not pry, nor be too intrusive. After all, Lewis had certainly not done anything of the sort. It just added to Benedict's realization that he did not know a great deal about the man; nothing too personal about him. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ He seemed to wish to change the subject and the second son would respect that, taking a casual drink of his brandy while Lewis complimented Genevieve. It was indeed something that Benedict could emphatically agree with, though he contained himself, keeping his features and demeanour composed. "Indeed she is," he agreed. Fine, certainly putting it mildly but once again, Benedict felt no need to elaborate. Whatever the man thought -- or presumed -- of his relationship with the Modiste, perhaps it be best left to that: speculation and assumption. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Unfortunately, not," Benedict explained, regretful that the criminals were unable to be caught. It had been dark and the men most likely would make it a point not to cross paths with her should she be able to identify them. "A terrible thing," Benedict continued. "That such men can get away with these crimes and not brought to justice." He had felt incredibly angry towards them upon finding out what they had done to Genevieve. It was sickening, to think that people -- men -- like that existed in the world. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.

[Lewis Anwyl]

THE   CAUSE   YOU   ARE   SUPPORTING IS  NOT  OUR  CAUSE,  BUT  YOURS tagged Benedict Bridgerton

Although he took care not to show it, Lewis was thankful that Benedict had followed him onto the new subject of conversation so effortlessly. As much as the man flattered him with his expressions of gratitude and indebtedness, Lewis was not accustomed to the compliments, nor was he keen on dwelling on the matter of trust between them. 

It was no great surprise to hear that the thieves had not been brought to justice. Given the scraps of information Lewis had gleaned about the circumstances of Ms. Delacroix's assault, she likely had not managed to get a good look at her attackers, and even if she had, the authorities were often not inclined to look very deeply into such crimes. If they went after all of the pickpockets and cutpurses in London, they would scarce have time to pursue any other business — so the justification tended to go, at least. Really, Lewis suspected that they simply saw no benefit for themselves in wasting effort and time on tracking down petty criminals. It was far from fair, but few things in London were.

"More is the pity," he murmured. "She is more fortunate than many ladies, at least, that she has your protection." As soon as the words left his lips, his eyes widened slightly in sudden recognition that he had likely just put his foot firmly in his mouth and said entirely the wrong thing. Hastily, he added, "What I mean to say— well, I certainly did not mean to imply that you— she is fortunate to have, ah, a good... friend to support her, that is all. In such times, that is." He doubted that had made it sound any better; in fact, he rather thought he may have managed to make it sound worse. 

OWL

[Benedict Bridgerton]

I'm not bound by                                  

"She is more fortunate than many ladies, at least, that she has your protection." And there it was. Benedict knew of course that it had been assumed, implied . . . expected even, but hearing it now, made him want to revisit a previous thought, ceased only by his own recognition that Lewis may not want to hear it. The words of offering her protection, inevitably saying that she was his mistress. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ Benedict never had a mistress. It was not as if he actively strove to avoid this, but nor had he ever met anyway he wished to ask. The second son clenched his jaw, eyes falling to the glass of brandy that he cradled in his hand for a moment to keep the words from coming out . . . for a second time. Looking back up at Lewis as he continued to speak, the sudden widening of his eyes seemed to alert him that perhaps he had said something wrong. Benedict was rather relieved that he himself had not responded to Lewis to cause such realization. He did not after all, want to offend the man, despite Lewis's assumption now that he had perhaps offended Benedict. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ But alas, what offense could Benedict truly take when it looked just like that. No one looking into the situation could have known all the deep seated complexities of his former relationship with the Modiste. Benedict took a sip of his drink, knowing he should say something to ease the man's mind. The Bridgerton son remained composed, calm . . . unangered by the surgeon's remarks. And finally, he said the words that he had been fighting to keep from being said since the subject was broached. "She is not my mistress." His words were not defensive, but rather, as calm and composed as his managed to keep his demeanour. Stated as mere fact. Benedict wasn't sure why he felt the need to even explain it. Perhaps to protect Genevieve's honor? . . . Splendid job Benedict did with that considering she was clad in his shirt and laying in his bed. But still, the words were said. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ He then took that moment to allow his lips to slightly curve upwards into a smile, albeit a small one but it was there. Seeing Lewis seemingly frantic about what he had said, quick to rectify his words -- possibly to no avail -- was as rather different side of him that Benedict had yet to see . . . until now. A charming little quality of the man, but one that Benedict imagined could get him into trouble in the wrong company. But still, he found it allowed him to further get to know Lewis and for that reason, Benedict did not mind in the slightest. ◈   ◈   ◈  ◈  ◈ "Rest assured, I do not take offense," he told him, not wanting the man to panic or feel on edge. "It is a perfectly reasonable assumption to make." And one that Benedict had now debunked. He knew that there was no sense in going on in the explanation that he was not even certain if he and Genevieve were even friends. "Would that being friend to someone be enough, to spare them of such ordeals." He knew he couldn't have done anything to have prevented the situation . . . but it did not make him wish any less that he could. Tag Lewis Anwyl Note: Better layout coming soon!

                        the rules of society.