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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 7, 2021 19:36:00 GMT
 Elizabeth smiled and nodded her head. "I would be pleased to make a new friend this evening," she agreed. "I must admit, I am less than thrilled with the idea of finding a spouse tonight. I'm quite content to hide from over-eager gentlemen." They all wanted to dance and impress with the daughter of the Marquis. Elizabeth had done her fair share of socializing for the evening so that it wouldn't look poorly upon herself or her family. She might have disliked all of this but Elizabeth would never do anything to reflect poorly on her family or to put her father in an awkward position. She loved them far too much.
She smiled yet again, finding herself rather fond of Philipa Featherington already. She wasn't sure what she thought of the girl before properly meeting her, except maybe that she had assumed she would love all of this. "I am not fond of being used as an accessory," she admitted, her voice a little lower so that those around her could not hear. Elizabeth noticed that Philipa's gaze kept wandering elsewhere and she looked to see where she was looking, only to see the matriarch of the Featherington family sending them a look. She was likely displeased with her daughter speaking with Elizabeth and not off trying to gain favor with eligible bachelors. "Your mother appears to think differently though," she added with a small smirk.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 7, 2021 19:23:35 GMT
 It seemed that Francesca didn't have it quite right but she didn't feel the need to correct her. A Rake was much more than someone who simply enjoyed the company of woman, but rather many woman without getting married. It was improper and usually frowned upon, depending on the ranking of the Rake in question. But it wasn't like it would destroy his entire life, not like if he were a woman who was known for spending time with multiple men. "I'm sure Anthony will settle down when he is ready," Elizabeth pointed out. "He knows it is important for the family." And in Elizabeth's opinion, Anthony would do anything for his family.
She chuckled and nodded her head. "You can always pretend you simply don't know what it is," Elizabeth pointed out. It was an astute observation for her to believe her brother had been with half the ladies in the ton. Elizabeth didn't know the details but she didn't believe she was entirely wrong. It was quite possible but she felt she didn't need to comment on the situation, at least not to Francesca. "I'm not sure your mother will have much luck with any of your brothers," she said with a grin.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 7, 2021 19:13:49 GMT
 She supposed she was quite lucky to be close to her family, knowing that not every family was like hers. It was something she didn't take for granted but didn't always think about it. It wasn't until she got to know someone new and found out about their life that she was reminded that she was incredibly fortunate. "I am," she agreed with a smile. He spoke of these girls perhaps yearning for a family like the one she had, and Elizabeth had never thought of it like that. She'd always assumed most girls yearned for status and money, something that would raise their status in this world. She'd never thought that some were just looking for an escape from their current family. "I've never thought of it like that," Elizabeth confessed. Lizzie was someone that could often admit when she was wrong, as pride had never been an issue for her.
Elizabeth chuckled and shook her head. "I do not think it being my home could pardon my rudeness or inability to pay attention," she pointed out. But she knew that wasn't always the case with hosts. Often times they thought others were being given a gift for even being in their homes, so perhaps that was what Slade was used to. Still, she would not let herself become one of those people and she knew that her entire family was like that, except for maybe William.
He seemed to agree that it was exhausting and Elizabeth found it quite a relief to be speaking with someone that agreed with her. It wasn't often she could have these types of conversations and it was nice. Being the perfect lady was indeed the image she needed to put forth. It wasn't just about her, but her family as well. Her father was an important person and it was her love for him that she continued to play the role she needed to play. "If playing the part will help my family then it is not entirely horrible," she said.
Slade's question about what she truly wanted made Elizabeth pause and think for a moment. There were many things she wanted out of life and many things that she desired but if she had to figure out what the most important thing was, she supposed she would have a simple answer. "Happiness," she spoke. "I just want to be happy with my life. Whether that is finding a husband to spend my days with and having a family with, or spending it in the countryside reading books with my family, then I suppose it doesn't matter." She lifted a shoulder slightly in a small shrug. "What of yourself?" She turned the question on him.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 5, 2021 0:27:44 GMT
 It wasn't until she felt the couch sink and Anthony speak close to her that she turned to look at him. He asked what the doctor said and she frowned for a moment. "How . . . ?" She trailed off for a moment before realization dawned on her. Of course, he would have been told as soon as he arrived home. The people that worked in their house were expected to tell Anthony everything that went on as he was not only Viscount, but man of the house in general. It was unlikely that they would ever show any loyalty to Elizabeth over Anthony, not that she would ever expect them to.
She shook her head and closed the book on her lap. "I'm fine," she assured him. Pursing her lips, she looked off to the side for a moment. Elizabeth and Anthony had their spats but she had never lied to him before and it didn't take much for anyone in the Bridgerton family to learn what Elizabeth's tells were when it came to lying. Should she try to do such a thing, he would see right through her. But she had never lied to him before and she certainly wasn't going to start now. "I'm with child," she mumbled, keeping her expression blank while she continued to avoid eye contact with him. But oh God how she knew how Anthony hated it when she mumbled. "The physician believes that I am with child," she said more clearly.
It wasn't the best timing, but there was nothing she could do about it now. Elizabeth's feelings regarding Anthony had been so confusing lately. Shouldn't one be happy to fall in love with their husband? But how could she when she felt like he was constantly keeping her at arms length. Of course, that wasn't to say that he was particularly cold towards her; not at all. It just wasn't what she had seen between her own parents, or even what she'd seen between Anthony's parents. So was she the problem? Was something wrong with her to make him not love her?
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 4, 2021 23:40:59 GMT
It was strange to think of how much time had passed since she'd married Anthony. Less than a year, but it felt like longer. It felt like they had been doing this forever. Of course, that wasn't to say they didn't get into arguments over silly things now and again. Both were too stubborn and headstrong to sit idle on certain things. Elizabeth struggled, feeling like Anthony held back from her but there was nothing she could do about it. In truth, she loved him, but did not know if he truly felt the same about her. But their marriage worked; they spent far more time with the Bridgertons than the Davenports, but Elizabeth really didn't mind. Growing up she felt as if she had always been over at the Bridgerton house more than her own, especially after the death of her mother.
To find out that she was likely with child was something that Elizabeth didn't know how to handle. It would make sense, given her change in behavior recently. Sometimes her mood changed at the drop of a hat and then there were times that she simply could not keep her hands to herself when it came to Anthony. She'd not felt well that morning and so had called a doctor to see upon her while Anthony was out, not wanting to tell him in case he worried. Then again, when did he not worry? The doctor had all but confirmed it and left, no doubt Anthony would hear of the doctor visiting as soon as he stepped through the door.
Sitting in the drawing room with a book on her lap, Elizabeth tried to focus on the words but found she simply couldn't. She was to be a mother. It wasn't anything she thought too much of, especially as she grew older and began to come to terms with the idea that she might not get married to someone she loved or have children. Of course, she knew love was not required for children but why would she want to bear the children of a man she could not care for? Her mind was so busy that she did not even hear the arrival of her husband, far too lost in her own thoughts.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 4, 2021 18:05:20 GMT
 Something on his face told Elizabeth that he was not pleased with her words. Could he truly not understand why she was displeased herself? To Elizabeth, it sounded like he was implying that if they could agree that affection could come naturally then they did not need to bother getting to know one another. Perhaps she had misunderstood him and she realized their communication was something dreadful if that were the case. It did not bode well for their future if their communication could not be on the same page. He chastised her for her mumbling and Elizabeth pursed her lips to keep herself from snapping at him. No, this would not do.
"Perhaps it is prudent for us to make an agreement right now, Lord Bridgerton," she began, as it appeared the formalities were back with his previous statement. "To not play games or hide behind formalities if there is something we do not agree with. Honesty and communication are important, do you agree?" She asked. "In which case I will tell you that it came across that you were implying that if we could agree affections were likely in the future, that we need not get to know one another." There, she'd said it. Lizzie found herself being honest with most people in her life but Anthony was another creature entirely. They were not close enough to forgo formalities and what was appropriate, but perhaps they would have to if they were going to figure out if this would work or not.
Elizabeth nodded her head in agreement. She would never know what it was like to be in his position and she knew it must be difficult. But she supposed the same could be said for herself; that he would never know what it was like to be in her position. He would never have to worry about his entire future coming down to a marriage proposal. "You've done an excellent job in your position," she said, her voice a little softer with the compliment.
He made note that his family would always be his top priority and Elizabeth offered him a small smile. "Yes, it is perhaps the thing I like the most about you." Because they were the same. Elizabeth's family was important to her, but perhaps she put her happiness a bit above them at times. If she truly put her family first then she would have married in her first season to solidify her family's continued importance in the world. But she wanted to be happy and if her father allowed it, then Elizabeth had continued to live with the dream of marrying someone she could call her dearest friend.
She chuckled and nodded her head. Of course his intentions were honorable. It was Anthony Bridgerton and he was nothing but, right? Truthfully, she'd never expected anything less from him. He was proposing this marriage because it would honor his father and his family. Elizabeth had wished it was because he was fond of her, but knew that might never truly be the case. "Not scandalous," Elizabeth agreed. "But perhaps people would find it intriguing that the Viscount has decided to find a wife." Elizabeth shrugged lightly. "I'd rather her papers not exist but we'd be remiss to pretend they do not gain favor with the ton." It wasn't something she often read but rather her sister, Emily, was fascinated with them. "Another promise. You shall never find me reading Whistledown in our home should this arrangement come to fruition," Elizabeth added with a genuine grin.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 4, 2021 2:24:48 GMT
Elizabeth listened intently, wondering what had happened for Daphne to be mentioned so many times. Although she supposed it could be a good thing if she was doing many things right. Then Francesca asked about Anthony being a rake and she found herself in a rather awkward position. Most of the time, Elizabeth would have no trouble explaining things but this was something where she was worried age would become a factor. It was probably inappropriate for her to explain such a thing to her, but Elizabeth found herself going against her better judgement.
"Well a rake is a man who rather enjoys the company of women," she said slowly. "But if anyone asks where you learned such a thing, blame one of your brothers," Elizabeth added quickly. "It's not a good term." But there was no doubt that Anthony Bridgerton was indeed, a rake.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 4, 2021 1:51:50 GMT
Spending time at the Bridgerton house was not out of the ordinary for Elizabeth. Usually one could always find a member of one family at the other's house. It was a great friendship that had formed between the two families due to the patriarchs of each being friends since boyhood. Elizabeth was usually found with the Bridgerton family, as she often enjoyed their company more than her own siblings. This afternoon she was pleased to be spending time with Francesca, laughing as she allowed the younger girl to pull her into the gardens.
"Oh? And what does she say this time? I did not have time to read the paper this morning." Her sister, Emily, was fond of reading Whistledown but everyone else in the Davenport house usually went without reading it unless their own name was mentioned or even that of the Bridgerton family.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 4, 2021 0:36:43 GMT
Balls were not something Elizabeth was fond of. There was too much fake smiling and to be quite honest, she didn't like dodging suitors every chance she got. She knew the truth was that they were after her only for her money and title. Her father being a Marquis made Elizabeth an appealing choice for a wife, but somehow she found herself sticking to the back of the room for the time being. It was only a matter of time before her step mother found her and pulled her back out to show her off. But for now, the silence was a gentle reprieve.
Looking over, Elizabeth smiled at the woman. "Hello," she greeted. "Lovely to meet you. I'm Elizabeth Davenport." She knew more of Phillipa's sister, Penelope, due to Elizabeth's family being close with the Bridgertons.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 4, 2021 0:14:13 GMT
Elizabeth's greatest fear was that someone would marry her simply for her father's title or to marry someone because they had to. She wanted it to be about her and who she was as a person and despite her words, she had an inkling that Anthony was falling into one of those categories. He needed a wife and it was time that he found one. What was better than a close family friend with a title not far from his own? Elizabeth felt like it didn't matter who she was. Anthony found her agreeable and that's all that mattered. Elizabeth struggled with how else she could get her point across, but found that it would fall on deaf ears at this point. All she wanted was for Anthony to like her and to like spending time with her. Instead of arguing with his comment, she simply offered a small smile and nodded her head.
"Affection is not required for a marriage," Elizabeth pointed out. Was he trying to avoid having to get to know her? His comment made her think as much but Elizabeth found herself unwilling to argue with him further. The whole conversation felt like it was making her more tired and she didn't know what to think. Was she making things more complicated than they needed to be? Was she being an absolute girl about it all? "I believe you are missing my point but it does not matter," she muttered, not caring how impolite it was for her to mumble.
She sighed, not surprised by his confusion. "I've known you my entire life, Anthony. I'm an observant person as you might come to learn, and I've always known one thing to be true about you; you put your family first. Which, in itself is not a bad thing, but you put everyone before yourself. Your happiness seems to come last and for once, I think it would be nice if you prioritize it a little." It wasn't speaking entirely out of turn, given their long history, but Elizabeth didn't care. "I know you won't," she said, rolling her eyes. "Because you believe your duty comes first but it's okay to be selfish, even just a tad." She held her thumb and pointer finger an inch apart to show him the small amount she was referring it.
It was nice to hear that Anthony had no desire to whisk Elizabeth away somewhere she could no longer see her family. The Bridgerton and Davenport families spent enough time together even now, so she imagined that would not change in the future. A small chuckle left her lips when he said it might be impossible for them to separate the families, for she had to agree. The idea of not having these people in her life was unfathomable. "It appears you have an excellent point," she confessed. She was loathe to admit it, but it was true.
His agreement to do so while they remained in the country was a bit of a relief, but it caused Elizabeth to raise an eyebrow at him in question. "Would you prefer to do so with the Ton watching and while it is being written about by Lady Whistledown?" She asked, a slight tease to her tone. Anthony announcing that he was going to talk to her father about it only made it feel that more real. This was happening and it put a pit in her stomach. What if it was a mistake? She supposed she wouldn't know until it happened. No doubt her father would be delighted by the news, likely going off about how he and Edmund had always hoped for their families to unite like this. Likely, exactly what Anthony would want to hear. "Very well," she agreed.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 2, 2021 23:15:54 GMT
 It was no surprise that he was here for a friend, or maybe it was. Elizabeth wasn't sure what business he could possibly hope to conduct with all of these prying people around, but it was not of her concern. Curious, however it made her, Elizabeth refrained from asking. No doubt if anything good happened that Elijah might be involved in, she would hear about it from someone else at a later time. "You have friends?" She eventually teased, a light smile playing on her lips. She was unsure what had made her say such a thing. They did not have a teasing relationship but Elizabeth knew it was nothing he could not handle.
He asked of why she had no choice in the matter and she quirked an eyebrow at his question. Perhaps he did not truly know who she was, which was no matter to her. "My father is a Marquis," she explained. "It is expected of me and my family to attend the balls." She would have rather avoided them, but was unable to talk her way out of most of them. "I have little interest in men trying to gain my affections with false pleasantries to obtain a marriage that will raise their rank." They all just wanted to use Elizabeth, never having any true interest in who she was as a person.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 2, 2021 18:23:43 GMT
 Elizabeth was usually one who made astute observations, so had she been paying attention she might have been able to see that Benedict had kept his features the same. It should have been enough to raise concern but she was too caught up in her own thoughts to see it. He questioned what she would do if he were in a predicament and without missing a beat, she spoke up. "Of course I would help you. You're not nearly as clever as you think." Her facial expression remained neutral before finally cracking a small smile.
Would her father give her more time? It all depended how much time she asked for. It would be important for her to ask for a good amount of time but not asking for too much where he would deny the entire suggestion. "Perhaps," she replied. "The plan is to find someone that I can stand to be around," she said. "Which is easier said than done, as I have seriously considered many of the eligible gentlemen that have shown interest." And Elizabeth had not liked any of them.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 2, 2021 15:37:26 GMT
 His request to stay out of her private affairs only caused Elizabeth to shoot him a knowing look. "Oh would you now?" She asked. "I shall remember that next time I hear something particularly interesting that you'd like to know." Not that she thought Benedict was a big gossip, but the two of them did get quite a few laughs out of things Elizabeth learned during events. She chuckled and nodded her head as he made a good point; if she were to appear improper then other gentlemen would likely cease to show interest in her. That was all fine for Elizabeth, but she knew how it would make her family look which was precisely why she had never actually done such a thing. "Only if we can think of something that would not send my stepmother into a fit, should she find out," Elizabeth said with a grin.
Elizabeth awaited his reaction to what she said. She wasn't sure what she had been expecting, but his laughter wasn't one of the reactions. Elizabeth frowned and her face grew quite cross at Benedict's words. She wasn't really mad at him, but rather annoyed with him laughing at her. "Well what am I meant to do!" She huffed, throwing her hands into the air. She threw another pillow at him, hoping he was far too distracted laughing to be able to dodge her yet again. "They are in the past," Elizabeth assured him. "But you are forgetting that I will have to marry someone and I love your family as much as my own. As vexing as I believe your brother to be, it isn't the worst I could do." Anthony's reasons weren't completely offensive. He wanted to honor his father's wishes and he needed a wife eventually. "I must realize that I will never get the love match I have desired," Elizabeth said with a sigh.
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 2, 2021 1:23:40 GMT
 Benedict asked who it was and Elizabeth shook her head. "I don't know," she answered. She had tried searching her brain earlier for the name so she could find out more about him, as it was not one she had heard before. Apparently he'd been in another country for the past few years so he had not been attending events with the ton. Then it struck her and Elizabeth wiped at her face. "Nicholas Granger," she said all of a sudden. "That's the name I heard my father say." She wondered if Benedict had heard of him before, but part of her doubted it since the men seemed far less interested in the names of people.
She knew he was right; she needed to speak with her father. He would be cross that she had listened to his conversation but she was cross for him not keeping his promise. She didn't know what he would do when she tried talking to him. "And who am I to choose?" She asked, hands flailing in the air for a moment. Elizabeth sighed and offered him a sad smile. "Thank you," she said. "But this is not your problem. You listening is all I can ask for."
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Post by Elizabeth Davenport on Nov 1, 2021 17:30:27 GMT
 It was an honest answer but not the answer she had been looking for. To Elizabeth, it sounded like Jeremy was merely settled upon whatever life would bring his way, which would likely be a marriage arranged by his parents if he couldn't find something on his own. Elizabeth was unsure of the relationships there, knowing that some parents allowed their children more freedom when it came to finding a spouse and others were far more involved. Elizabeth had been very fortunate that her father had always said she could marry someone for love but even she wasn't naive enough to believe there was no clock set on being able to make this decision on her own. "Well, whatever that path may be I do wish you happiness," Elizabeth said.
To hear that he was but an hours walk away made Elizabeth curious as to how she had not seen him before. She spent many of her days in the countryside venturing out across the land and this lake was one of her favorite spots. Perhaps they had always just managed to miss one another. "Quite agreeable," Elizabeth said, nodding her head, She played with the hem of her dress, fingers running along the blue stitching. Jeremy noted that he would not take much longer to fix her cape and she waved her hand in dismissal, even though he could not see her. "It is no trouble," she assured him. "I am in no rush to get anywhere. I fancied myself a ride and the lake was my destination anyway," Elizabeth finished explaining. "I'm sure it is I that is keeping you from something."
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