༻❁༺

Her thoughts echoed his name, rummaging through her body like a caged bird. She wished to avoid the next few days and remain locked in her chambers, but in doing so, her deception would be revealed.

She couldn't allow these feelings to haunt her through every breath. Now more than ever with the ton joining them, she had to keep up appearances that nothing unfolded between them. If it can even be counted as anything. Certainly it meant nothing, because in what conceivable way could it signify something?

"Are you alright?" Adelaide questioned as she took the spot next to her, propping her feet up against the cushions and leaning her chin against her hand. "You have been very pensive lately. Sometimes you seem like you're with us and then as if you're miles away."

"Is it the sting?" Aurora joined their conversation and sat in between them.

Instant panic arose within her at the possibility they witnessed yesterday's events. "What? What do you mean?"

Aurora gestured at the bright red spot on her collarbone, "Is your sting still bothering you?"

"You have been acting strange ever since the creature stung you," Adelaide pointed out, concern and curiosity lacing her expression. "You have been keeping to yourself and aren't vexing the lot of us like usual."

"No, not all, but if you want me to become your nightmare, I will certainly become so," she warned them, but the playfulness in her voice didn't match her eyes.

Aurora chuckled and nudged her on the ribs, "Is that a threat, sister?"

"It is not a threat, it is a promise," Elizabeth rose from her spot and headed to her bed, where her emerald dress was laid out smoothly. She ran her hands through the soft silk, admiring the gentleness and elegance of the intricate design.

"Do you happen to know if Edwina is still upset over the viscount's lack of action?" Adelaide nonchalantly asked as she gazed upon her dark blue dress as well.

"I thought he was going to propose," Aurora pondered out loud, unsure as to why the viscount hadn't popped the question when he had the opportunity.

Elizabeth didn't know what to say seeing as she was just in the dark as they were. She couldn't obtain an answer considering what unfolded between them had caused them to create distance. She wanted nothing more than to see him, but she was afraid as to what would be said or if it would be ignored as if it were nothing.

And that terrified her more than anything.

"She seems to be alright," she told them. "There's always a chance he will propose at the ball, so she's holding on to the hope."

"Perhaps it will happen!" Aurora agreed, hastily jumping from her spot and rushing to her pink dress. "If I were her, I would be losing my mind. Can you imagine how nerve wracking it would be to wait for a proposal?"

"Imagine if he doesn't," Adelaide actually hoped he wouldn't declare himself. She could see the way he looked at her sister and the way she looked at him. It was something indescribable, something meant to be a part of novels or even dreams.

Elizabeth perked up at such a thought, "Why would you say that? It is obvious he's proposing. It would be ridiculous if he didn't."

She hummed suspiciously, uncertainty yet also clarity coursing through her. "Look, if I were a man and interested in someone, I would wait no time on declaring myself. If the lady in question had truly captivated me, I would have made the grand gesture already, but he hasn't. It just makes me believe there is something or someone holding him back."

Her indirect statement certainly didn't go unnoticed. Elizabeth knew what she was trying to do and it upset her that her sister would even consider such absurdity. Why would she be the cause for his lack of proposal? It was ridiculous to even think about.

"As if," she grumbled, rolling her eyes.

"I don't know, I mean, his mind seems to be elsewhere," Adelaide had been having tea with their mother earlier this morning when the viscount had entered the drawing room. He seemed extremely pensive that he hadn't noticed their presence until his mother called him out for it. She thought it was strange that her sister was in the same circumstance, which definitely made her believe something had occurred.

Elizabeth didn't know what to say. She worried that her words would get twisted or perhaps she would accidentally reveal what had occurred. They were extremely close to each other to the point it seemed like they would kiss, and if anyone knew about it, they would be forced to wed, which would then lead to further complications between her and Edwina.

Something she was afraid of causing.

"Maybe he's thinking on how to declare himself," she sheepishly said, hoping the topic of conversation switches. "How about we stop worrying about that and instead get ready? The ton will be arriving very soon, so we need to look our best-"

Her words were interrupted by a knock on the door. One of their maids went to open it and in came Edwina in her soft pink dress, her dark hair raised in an intricate updo and allowing a few of her curls to frame her features.

"Edwina, hi!" Aurora waved enthusiastically before embracing her. "Are you nervous? Excited? It will be a very big day tomorrow!"

"Yes, I am, but I first need to speak with Lizzie," Edwina smiled gently, glancing over at Elizabeth, who stood as if worried she would get reprimanded.

Adelaide grabbed ahold of her sister and practically forced her into the other room. "We will give you two some privacy."

Once the two left, Edwina quickly headed to her with a pleading look in her eye. "I must ask for a favor, Lizzie, but you must promise it will remain between us."

Now she was growing more worried. She wasn't sure what to expect, but it was her same curiosity that made her agree. "I promise, but what favor are you asking?"

Edwina sighed nervously as she paced around, unsure how to ask without sounding so desperate. "You and the viscount have become great friends and I was wondering if perhaps you might be able to find out if he's intent on proposing. I just- I am worried the ton will believe something is lacking in me when they discover he's no longer interested."

"Edwina-"

"He is the one I want, Lizzie," she snapped and Elizabeth felt her dismay and shame submerge her as if a tidal wave had crashed onto her. "The viscount, his family, this home, the life he offers me."

Refusing to get herself involved in this courtship any longer, Elizabeth couldn't find it in herself to go through with her suggestion. While a part of her wanted the best for Edwina, the other part didn't want her to find it in the viscount. Such a thought made her self-loathing intensify as she felt like the greatest betrayal was unfolding.

"I do not think I should become compromised in this," she simply said, hoping to be able to reason with Edwina. "If you and the viscount are meant to be, all the pieces will come together. You do not need to worry. Good things will come."

Edwina shook her head, scoffing lightly. "That is the thing. I do worry, because if he is truly interested like you told me, then why hasn't he declared himself?"

Elizabeth was still uncertain about this, "I do not know-"

"I've been thinking, and, I feel I might have figured out a possible reason for this," Edwina's cryptic statement made her grow wary that perhaps she might have noticed something between them. "Kate claims to be accepting of him, but she still voices her doubts about his morality. On the other hand, you and him pushed your dislike aside and are now getting along perfectly well. I was thinking that you could help my sister change his mind about him, so that way, you can tell the viscount he has my family's support and then he would feel much more inclined to declare himself."

Ironic how this resembled the agreement she and Anthony have. If Edwina only knew of this, she could only wonder how she'd react. Perhaps she would be ecstatic or maybe she would be upset, but that's something that would unfold in her darkest dreams.

"I do not know how you two managed to get along, but if you managed to get him to fall in love with you, you could get him to fall in love with me," Edwina explained and took a seat next to her, gently placing her arm around her.

"Edwina, I certainly can't-"

"Please, Lizzie," she pleaded and Elizabeth was finding it harder not to agree. If this was what she wanted, then helping her obtain a declaration would have to make do. "Can you help me encourage him to propose? Because I have not given up. I will not give up."

Hesitantly, Elizabeth managed to muster up a smile and nodded. She didn't want to partake in this any longer, but she could see how much Edwina desired this. It was important to her, which meant it was important to her as well.

For her loved ones, she would do anything. Even if it meant dismissing her own feelings as long as they were happy.

__________________

William Swan arrived at Aubrey Hall around the same time the Featheringtons did. Unknowing of his courtship with Elizabeth, Portia Featherington wasted no time in introducing her youngest, Penelope, all in hopes that her daughter would pique the Duke's interest. While he found the young woman to be remarkably beautiful, he was already calling for someone else.

After having shared a conversation with her, he dismissed himself and went to look for his intended. He had been looking forward to this country visit as those days without her had been the most dull and lacking. She had managed to consume him and bless him with the most beautiful of dreams, and while he was still uncertain if she felt the same, he was willing to wait until she was ready.

As he roamed the gardens, he couldn't help noticing all the prying mamas and their eager daughters gazing his way. Ignoring them would be the most proper, but even he couldn't find himself to be the picture of discourteous. So for the next few moments, he shared conversations and even promenaded all in the name of being polite.

However, the second he noticed her, he wasted no time in bidding his farewells and striding to her. She was deep in conversation with Penelope and even from a distance, he could feel her embracing charisma and found himself floating toward her through the notes of her laughter.

"Lizzie!" Edwina called her over and sitting next to her was Viscount Bridgerton.

Now, William was never the type to get jealous, but ever since the viscount had attempted to wreck his dance with her and blame her for it, he grew a dislike he was certain was reciprocated. He came to a halt when noticing a strange look in her eye, a mixture of hesitation yet also longing. The viscount had it as well, which brought a questionable worry to begin consuming him over what could have possibly happened in the past few days.

There was an obvious tension between them and while he was taught not to interrupt a conversation, he couldn't help from striding her way as all he wanted was to hear her beautiful voice and share a moment with her.

"Miss Windsor, Miss Edwina," William called out, both of them curtseying and offering gentle smiles. "Lord Bridgerton."

"Your Grace," Elizabeth rose from her seat, now standing alongside him. "Have you been here for long?"

"I arrived a couple moments ago," he admitted, unable to notice the harsh gaze from Anthony. "The city was quite dull without you. It certainly missed you a lot."

Elizabeth chuckled, its harmonious sound making his heart skip a beat. "I missed the city as well, but the peacefulness of the country was marvelous. I really needed a break from everything."

"I wouldn't blame you-"

"Your Grace, it is a pleasure to have you with us," Anthony interrupted and bowed his head forcefully. His gaze was sharp and the sound of his voice didn't match the supposed kindness of his words, but William couldn't care less about it.

"It is an honor being here," he forced himself to say before turning back to her, but it seemed Edwina didn't catch on to the rise in tension.

"Did you tell the viscount about your bee sting?" Edwina asked her, making both men turn to her at the same time.

She chuckled softly and avoided making eye contact with Anthony for a short while. "I got stung."

Anthony's breath hitched, "Ah."

William could tell something was bothering him, but he couldn't quite decipher what it was. He narrowed his eyes, but chose not to think much of it, "Are you alright, Miss Windsor?"

Elizabeth nodded, looking at both him and Anthony. "I am well," she assured him, but she seemed to be reassuring the viscount more than him.

"Ah," Anthony sounded relieved, his gaze softening at her reassurance before hardening when seeing William alongside her.

"Good thing bees are the most harmless creatures," William said through a smile, failing to notice his sentence was upsetting the viscount. "The worst that can happen is a little swelling or even dizziness."

"Yes. That is certainly the worst," Anthony responded through gritted teeth as his fists clenched under the table.

"Lizzie was telling me how she was eager to see more of the grounds of this magnificent estate," Edwina told him and William couldn't help but feel as if she intended for her and the viscount to spend some time alone. He wasn't sure what game she was playing, but such thoughts made him feel unsettled.

Elizabeth furrowed her brows in uncertainty, "I was?"

"Yes," Edwina said before turning back to Anthony. "I was wondering if you could give her a tour today while I spend time with the other ladies."

"Actually, Miss Edwina," William began and glanced over at Elizabeth. "I was thinking perhaps Miss Windsor and I could roam the gardens together. If you'd like."

Elizabeth was quiet for a moment as she looked in between him and Anthony. She seemed to be lost in thought, almost as if unsure which direction to take. Her heart was telling her to accept going with the viscount, but her mind was demanding she went with the Duke instead.

She chose to listen to her mind.

"I think I shall roam the gardens with you, Your Grace," Elizabeth declared, making him smile in delight. "Certainly Lord Bridgerton is occupied with his guests."

Anthony glared at William with such a heavy look that it resembled the shot of a cannon. He detested seeing her in such close proximity to him, and while he was afraid of his desires getting out of control by being alone with her, he was willing to take on the risk.

"I would be delighted to give you a tour, Miss Windsor," he rose from his seat and started heading in her direction, managing to "accidentally" step over William's foot. "You are one of my guests, so I will be more than happy to do so."

Earlier, William had managed to overhear a couple of gentlemen were going shooting soon. He had declined their invitation all in means of spending time with her, but something was telling him the viscount had already made plans to join them.

"Say, Lord Bridgerton, I overheard a few gentlemen were going shooting," William stated, making Anthony shoot daggers at him. "Surely, since this is your lovely estate, you won't miss out on a great voyage with your guests."

Edwina exchanged a look with Elizabeth, prompting the youngest Sharma to continue her attempts. "Did you know that Lizzie and Kate are excellent shots? They would often wander off to practice."

Elizabeth nearly cringed at how hard Edwina was trying. It was almost comical to say the least, especially when sensing the competition between Anthony and William.

"Of course she is," Anthony grumbled, a sarcastic tone laying within his voice.

William simply stood back as he noticed his comment had upset her. It seemed the viscount had dug his hole all by himself. Surely, all he could do was watch, so that's exactly what he did.

However, Benedict arrived before she could respond. "Are we all set for the hunt, brother?"

Anthony shook his head, "There has been a change of plans. I shall give Miss Windsor a tour of the estate."

"Really?" Benedict was surprised as he thought he would have wanted to spend time with Edwina instead. Truly if he intended on making her his wife, it would be reasonable to share every moment by her side.

"Yes, brother," Anthony assured him, glaring at him with a stern look that indicated he should not be questioned any longer.

"Lizzie, why don't you tell him how you and Kate used to shoot all the time?" Edwina intervened, fully determined on this agreement between them.

Elizabeth tried getting a word in, but Anthony found her skill to be nothing but a lie, which definitely got under her nerves. To make matters worse, he was now smiling in disbelief while muttering something to his brother.

"Do you think I am incapable of such?" Elizabeth asked, appalled to believe that he was thinking so little of her to the point he thought she wasn't skilled at this. "Or is there another reason for why you're smiling so foolishly?"

Anthony's smile faded as his eyes widened in astonishment. "I do not think you are incapable. I just believe that maybe you might have trouble managing-"

"Because I am a woman? Is that what you're insinuating?"

Benedict pressed his lips in a tight line to prevent his laughter from escaping. It was such a rarity for his brother to be at a loss of words. Oh, how he loved how much Elizabeth brought him down from his pedestal.

"I did not say that," Anthony argued, but Elizabeth only huffed in response and locked her arm with William's.

"But you were thinking it, which is why I refuse your tour," she glanced up at the Duke, forming a smile that made Anthony become more vexed that it wasn't directed at him. "I would much rather have better company, so what do you say, your Grace? Shall we stroll around the gardens?"

"Absolutely, Miss Windsor," William guided her away from the scene, but not before offering him a triumphant smirk. He didn't have to do anything as the viscount wrecked everything himself. Seems all he had to do was wait with his arms folded and he would still come out victorious from the other end. "Good day, Lord Bridgerton."

Anthony clenched his jaw and felt his veins burn in rage. He despised seeing her arm locked with his and the fact that she chose his company over his. How could she find this man interesting and worthy of her attention? Did she not have her priorities sorted?

"Well, brother. It seems you just got handled," Benedict joked, which only made Anthony's anger intensify.

Edwina nervously laughed and tried comprehending what just happened. If she didn't know any better, she would believe him and the Duke were competing for Elizabeth's attention, but such a thought wouldn't be conceivable. Elizabeth was being courted by the Duke while the viscount was courting her, so instead of dwelling in these thoughts, she figured moving past it would be suited.

"Lord Bridgerton, I was just thinking-"

"If you could excuse me, Miss Edwina," Anthony cut her off and bid his farewell. He didn't wait until receiving the green light to follow in the direction she had left in.

There was no way he could let her wander off alone with him. Surely, he had to make sure there was a chaperone present. Anything could happen in the gardens (as he had noticed), which made him unsettled that they were roaming alone with the full intention of becoming compromised.

"Miss Windsor!" Anthony called out, ignoring the curious stares and overbearing chatter. He was relieved when she turned around and had chosen to give him his attention. Something that was visibly getting on the Duke's last nerve. "I would like to apologize for my words. I can assure you that I did not mean you were incapable, which is why I would like you to accompany us," he paused for a quarter of a second before unwillingly including William. "You are more than welcome to come as well, Your Grace."

Elizabeth wasn't sure what his intent was. She expected him to respect her time with her intended just like she respected his, but it seemed like he was determined on preventing it. She wanted to deny his invite, but for the first time, she chose to follow her damned heart.

"I would very much like that, my lord," she raised her chin ever so slightly, smirking at him challengingly. "Perhaps I may teach you a thing or two."

If William's dislike for the viscount wasn't up to one-hundred percent, it certainly was now. There was an obvious interest in Anthony's part, but he couldn't comprehend why he was courting Edwina instead. If anything, he expected him to be free from any compromise, but perhaps he was wrong about everything.

"I shall enjoy learning more about you, Miss Windsor," William softly said, ignoring the sharpened gaze from his now rival.

Elizabeth chuckled, but found herself now regretting her decision when realizing she would be spending time with the man she had a near intimate encounter with, and with the man that she was being pursued by.

What did she get herself into?

__________________

As expected, Elizabeth was now longing to backtrack. She found herself riding in between the two of them, unable to ignore the harsh looks they directed to one another. Clearly their competitive spirits were clashing and making what could have been an enjoyable moment, nothing more but an uncomfortable one.

"So," she tried breaking the silence and avoided glancing at any of them. "Where are we headed then?"

Anthony's heart skipped a beat at her dulcet voice, "Toward our camp, I believe."

She noticed tracks on the opposite way everyone was heading in. It seemed foolish that they were riding away from a possible hunt, but if anything, it made her satisfied in knowing these men might not actually have a clue on what they're doing.

"Look over there," she pointed in its direction. "There are tracks heading to the left in the moss. There's a cloven shape."

William followed her line of sight and realized she was right, "What a nice eye you have, Miss Windsor!"

"You see? I told you both I knew what I was doing," Elizabeth prided herself and started feeling a new sense of enjoyment now that there was at least one person who believed her. "We shall head there. If we go to the camp, we will miss our chance."

Forgetting about the Duke's presence, Anthony returned to his once teasing charms. "Let us stay with the group. If we find nothing, I shall offer myself up for your target practice."

That was certainly an intriguing offer, which was the only reason why she agreed. "Very well. I shall hold you accountable for it."

William was about to cut in, but to his misfortune, Jack Featherington called him over. "Your Grace, why don't you tell us a couple of stories from your travels?"

All the men in front paved a path for him, technically forcing him into agreeing. He glanced over at Elizabeth, who nodded encouragingly at him to join the others. Now he had no other choice than to follow through, so reluctantly, he excused himself and joined the rest, leaving her alone with Anthony.

A silence embraced them as they rode alongside the other. Despite millions of thoughts running through their heads, no words were able to be placed into a coherent sentence. Just being this close to each other was clouding their minds, so for the next few minutes, they remained quiet and tried focusing on their surrounding nature.

Elizabeth was tempted to form a conversation, but she was afraid he would choose to mention what nearly occurred between them. While she wanted to discuss it, she knew in her heart nothing good would come out from it. Disaster and deception are the only qualities that would resurface. Something she was terrified and unwilling to bear.

She sighed, quickly glancing his way to find him already doing the same. Her heart banged against her ribcage at those alluring and mesmerizing eyes, resembling a chocolate bar melting under the sun's blaze.

The remembrance of her agreement with Edwina suddenly returned. While she was hesitant in meddling anymore (like he claimed she did), she made a promise to her and she would never dare to break her word.

"I was wondering-"

"How long did it take to learn-"

Both of them bashfully smiled and turned away, averting their gaze ahead and finding comfort in knowing they wanted to speak to each other.

"I was a quicker learner," she answered, making him turn her way. "Kate is an excellent teacher and taught me everything she knows. She believes that only the most fortunate women are granted this opportunity, which is why she was eager to take me under her wing. I owe this skill to her, so when I teach you a lesson, you should take it up with her."

Anthony smiled, unable to peel his eyes away from her even when she turned away. "Then it seems you'll manage quite well. Much better than your maid on her horse, let us hope."

Elizabeth looked back and felt terrible when seeing her maid gasping and struggling to keep up. She would have had no trouble attending this hunt by herself, but a chaperone was always needed even for sharing a cup of tea.

"Lord Bridgerton-"

"Yes?" Anthony hastily faced her, but his stare made her feel as if he could see right into her. She felt vulnerable under his gaze, as if he managed to find the key to her vault and unlock it with ease. She wanted nothing more than to respond, but just like him, they were at a loss of words for what seemed like the millionth time.

"Here we are!" Jack hollered in delight, breaking off their firm trance.

"Brother!" Benedict called out.

William peered behind his shoulder and became distressed when noticing how much closer they were. There was reluctance in Anthony to part away, which was making him question this so-called friendship between them. Something was definitely occurring between them, but the thing was, why weren't they doing anything about it?

Not that he complained, seeing as all he desired was to declare himself. She was the only woman who made him feel like he could be suited for marriage, but despite this feeling, he couldn't bear putting her through the pressure if she wasn't ready for it.

Anthony soon joined the rest of the gentlemen and Elizabeth was left at the very back. She was relieved when noticing the Duke was still getting bombarded with lots of questions. She needed a moment by herself, especially now when being surrounded by the beauty of nature, but it seemed solitude would not be granted seeing as she was now being called over.

Just as they arrived at the camp, Elizabeth followed the rest, but was certain they were going the wrong way. Footsteps were going the opposite from where they were headed, not surprising her since it seemed their pompous spirits were higher than any of their logic.

Muttering to herself, she chose to follow her instinct and went her separate way. If she was intent on proving them wrong, certainly she's not willing to blindly follow the guide to their loss. Making sure no one was looking, she whirled around and followed the tracks. It seemed absurd that no one had any rationality to follow these tracks, but if anything, it made her feel satisfied that she was the only one to have some sense.

After creating distance, she was ecstatic when finding a perfect place to take cover. Large branches are covering the perimeter and everyone's voices have faded, allowing her the required serenity to fully concentrate and immerse herself into nature.

She crouched down and aimed the barrel straight, narrowing her eyes with precision as her breathing got lower. The sound of the leaves crackling under the breeze fill her eardrums and become a part of her, its blare coursing through her system and permitting her the honor of understanding nature's language.

However, just when she believed she found the right opportunity to take her shot, heavy footsteps and loud breathing were heading her way.

"Miss Windsor!" Anthony strided toward her as frustration and alarm haunted him like a poltergeist.

Not taking her gaze off the target, she gestured with her hand at him to take the spot next to her. "Must you be so loud? You're about to wreck everything," she whispered angrily, making him roll his eyes.

He's unable to comprehend how she was not grasping on how severe her abrupt departure had been. The least she could have done was inform them where she was headed to avoid any worries or disturbances from resurfacing, but it seemed she couldn't care less about it.

"You cannot go off like that with your gun," he reprimanded and took the spot next to her, placing his weapon to the ground hastily.

"And why not?"

Anthony sighed in exasperation, "Because there are dangers in these forests. Not just animal wise."

Reluctantly, she willed herself to turn his way. Her concentration would surely become lost as gazing into those breathtaking, chocolaty eyes made her weak on the knees. She hated becoming so vulnerable under his presence, yet also couldn't prevent from loving it.

"Are you forgetting I have this?" Elizabeth's grip on her gun became tighter as she nodded toward it, an indication for him to know she was more than capable of protecting herself. "If any danger came my way, I would not hesitate to use it, so you do not need to worry."

He laughed, but his laugh didn't sound genuine. If anything, it sounded tremulous and filled with nerves, almost as if her belief that he was worried was purely ridiculous. "Who said I was worried? It seems nature is affecting your senses if you believe otherwise."

She rolled her eyes and couldn't prevent a wry laugh from escaping. "Well, you didn't have to come for me. The Duke could have done so and rid you of this burden."

The mention of him made his veins boil with an unquenchable fury. A flame ignited in his heart and expanded throughout his body, clouding his judgment and ability to maintain the picture of rationality. He tried forming a coherent sentence, but despite the millions of thoughts running through his head, he suddenly started to focus on the last word she said.

Burden.

Like she could ever be such a thing.

"Finding you will never be a burden," he softly said, his gaze melting once she finally turned to him. "I will always do so without a second thought."

Elizabeth's heart skipped a beat. Her blood rushed to the apples of her cheeks and for a mere moment, she wasn't afraid of these feelings rummaging through her. She chose to drown in them, to go along with the waves, and fly through the wind. Something felt right about this, but also felt entirely wrong.

Like in the Garden of Eden, the forbidden was calling out to her. Her desires and longings were becoming harder to bear and it was suffocating resisting it. Anthony Bridgerton was the forbidden fruit and if she took a bite, she would suffer the same fate as Eve.

Condemnation and exile.

Glancing away, Elizabeth tried focusing on the target ahead, but the warmth emanating from him was making her crazed through every moment. She bit the inside of her cheek as a way to bring her down from the clouds, and surprisingly, it alleviated her from this haunting.

"You know, it is rather like you to leave everyone behind," Anthony suddenly blurted out, making her turn to him with a dubious look. "Not only are you unpunctual, but you also seem to not care for rules."

Elizabeth groaned, "What is it with you and your rules? You need to learn to live a little and not follow every single protocol."

"Rules are there for a reason and you have been a perfect representation of what can occur if they're broken," Anthony wasn't sure what he was doing. He didn't want to create an argument, but it seemed better than focusing on how unbearable it was being this close to her without being able to do anything about it. "Rules are meaningless to you and if you had not been out so early the other morning without a chaperone, we might not have been put in such a difficult situation."

That morning had been all she could think about. It haunted her dreams, loomed over her shoulder like a shadow, and became the chains holding her captive. The sting on her flesh served as a reminder of it, making her unable to brush past a moment that seemed so intimate. If anyone would have seen them, the circumstances would have been different.

"Difficult situation? It was hardly anything," she finally said, forcing herself not to avert her gaze from him.

He stared at her as if she had grown two heads, "Hardly anything? Are you forgetting you put my hand to your bosom?"

"To help you overcome your worries that I could have possibly been harmed," she pleaded her case, but the doubt of why he had been so afraid of a little insect kept gnawing at her. She wished to ask his reasoning, but something was telling her that it wasn't her business to pry. "You were overcome-"

He scoffed, "I was not."

"Yes, you were," Elizabeth argued and Anthony tried fighting his way through, but she seemed to hold the power over this little ordeal. "You were the one that got closer and then looked at me."

"You got closer and looked at me as well!"

"I did not look at you the same way you did."

"And how exactly did I look?" Anthony knew he asked the right question when noticing her expression soften. Her once resilient demeanor was replaced by a deliberative and vulnerable one. The same look he had, but was terrified of displaying as if it were some kind of artwork.

He stared deeply into her brown eyes and found himself tracing down to her lips. An invisible thread was luring him and making it harder to resist this temptation. His heart was banging against his chest and his entire body was tenser than it had ever been. He wanted to speak, to place the words into a perfect sentence, but her presence was more than enough to fade his thoughts from existence.

No matter how much he despised it, Elizabeth Windsor would always have that power over him.

The sound of foliage rustling came at the most opportune time. Both of them glanced away from the other and gazed into the greenery, sensing an imminent hunt was about to occur. Nothing could be seen past the evergreens, but their instincts were alerting them their prey was near. It was just a matter of being patient and waiting.

"There is something there," Anthony whispered.

"Oh, really? I did not notice," Elizabeth sarcastically said and he clenched his jaw in grievance, not understanding why she couldn't be civil for once.

"Are you incapable of answering like a normal person?" he retorted, shaking his head in disbelief.

"Can you shut it? For God's sake, you are worse than a child," she aimed her gun ahead and narrowed her eyes, listening to the gentle rustling.

"You are holding your gun the wrong way," Anthony was satisfied in knowing that she wasn't as skilled as she claimed. It seemed that perhaps she was just trying to spite him all in means of getting under his nerves.

Elizabeth scoffed in offense, "I am holding it the proper way."

"Clearly not since this is a British one," he whispered against her and moved closer to attempt to teach her how.

"I do not need your help," Elizabeth staggered away from him, but he was adamant on proving her wrong.

"Do not be stubborn and let me show you how," Anthony gripped onto the gun, his gaze setting strictly on her rosy cheeks as he tried ignoring the rush being this close to her was causing. "You hold it like this."

His fingers hovered over hers, their temperatures colliding and creating their personal one. The feeling of their graze against the other made their breaths become trapped as their hearts began beating in a synchronized pattern. As if the earth was standing still, neither dared to make a move or even breathe. Any sudden movements would result in their distance growing and neither desired for it.

Anthony admired her as he practically melted at her touch. Her scent was intoxicating yet desirable. A mixture of lilacs and summer rain, his most favorite ones that were haunting his very being upon first meeting. His fingers danced along hers, slowly tightening themselves around them and permitting him the opportunity of prolonging the forbidden.

Elizabeth's mind was demanding that she flee the scene, reminding her of how prohibited these longings were. She wanted to move, but she couldn't. Having him this close allowed her to dive into her dreams. They were no longer meant for the night, but were now being displayed under the light. She was mesmerized, completely and irrevocably vulnerable and compliant.

She let out a breath at the same time he did. Their eyes closed for a brief moment as their warmth radiated onto the other like a comforting blanket. All the signs were proving how wrong this was, but it was mother nature that brought them to such a predicament.

"This way boys! I saw movement over here," Jack hollered, footsteps following after him getting closer.

Hastily, they separated from each other and pretended as if nothing had occurred. An acceptable distance was kept between them, maiming their hearts and perforating their souls.

"There the two of you are," Benedict commented while alongside him, William was glaring at them with such intensity.

"You should rejoin us before the rain ends our pursuits," William suggested as he started striding toward her with a forced smile. "Miss Windsor, may I walk with you?"

Elizabeth sighed shakily and could simply muster up a nod. She willed herself not to look in Anthony's way, but feeling his gaze on her was making it much harder than anything. He was making it harder to breathe and it suffocated her having to endure this entire voyage if it meant feeling his heavy stare on her.

"Did you manage to teach him a thing or two?" William questioned.

"You could say that," she hoped he wouldn't insist on asking her more about today. She already knew Edwina would be questioning her about it once arriving at the property, so avoiding any more queries about today would be the most needed. "Did you delight yourself in speaking about your travels?"

He frowned ever so slightly, "To my misfortune. I wished to change the conversation, but apparently travel talk is the thing that draws the most attention."

"Well, to those who have not had the pleasure of traveling, hearing others discuss their endeavors sounds like a dream. It's almost as if living vicariously through them," she pointed out, wishing to have the opportunity of traveling, but it seemed it would be a thing only meant for dreams.

He noticed the sparkle in her eyes and automatically seemed to know what she was thinking. "Where would you wish to travel to, Miss Windsor?"

Her face lit up at his question. She had tons of places she wanted to visit, but not enough fortune to grant it. "Everywhere. I wish to explore up to the ends of the earth. Even soar the skies."

He smiled, loving the way her eyes shone with enchantment. "What is the first place you can think of?"

That was a question she had a definite answer to.

"Paris," she admitted, bashfully looking away. "It has only been a few months, but I miss it dearly. If I could, I would visit every summer with my future husband and family. I would show them the hidden places, the ones that only a few know about. I would show them everything."

William wanted to grant her wish. He wanted to give her what her heart desired, but given the fact that he resided in Edinburgh, he couldn't offer something he wouldn't be able to follow through. Like she said, summers in Paris would have to suffice.

"It will come true one day, Miss Windsor," he told her. "You just have to have hope."

Elizabeth smiled, a genuine one, one that surprised her. She was actually enjoying sharing a conversation with him. He was a great listener and never judged her for her dreams. He understood her and such qualities made her realize that perhaps she had been wrong about him all this time.

William Swan could be a great, companionable partner. They could live a fulfilling life and that was all she wanted.

Maybe all she had to do was become more open minded and forget about her growing feelings for a certain someone.

Someone she could never have.

__________________

It was dark by the time Elizabeth arrived at Aubrey Hall. The rain had placed the rest of their plans on a halt, but not that she complained. She found herself surprised at how much she enjoyed conversing with William.

They spoke about everything, never an awkward pause, or uncomfortable topics of conversation. For the first time, she was feeling better about this courtship. Maybe she could find happiness in just a friendship. If it meant her family would be saved, friendship without a romantic love would be well-received.

As she entered her resting chambers, she was startled by Edwina's eager approach. From what it seemed, she was waiting for her to arrive for who knows how long.

"How did it go?" Edwina enthusiastically questioned as her smile became wider.

"You frightened me," Elizabeth removed her gloves and tossed them aside, gently laying down onto the soft duvet. "Well, we did not hunt anything, which meant I couldn't teach them a thing or two. I believe that if they had followed me, then perhaps we could have-"

"Oh, I do not care about the hunt, Lizzie!" Edwina took the spot next to her, awaiting the anticipating revelation. "How did it go with the viscount? Did you find out if he is proposing soon?"

Right, she was supposed to find out.

Elizabeth was quiet for a moment, which only made Edwina's excitement worsen. "I did not, but I sense that maybe it will happen at the ball."

Edwina was visibly disappointed, but she knew better than to lose her patience just yet. She had to trust that all the puzzle pieces would connect. Sometimes it was better to wait than to rush anything. "Alright, but you must speak with Kate next. If you convince her to approve of him, perhaps he will be much more inclined."

"Kate already seems to approve of him," she argued, refusing to become more involved in these affairs. "She's only questioning him because he didn't propose when it seemed like he would. Not to mention that he shows how interested he is in you, and then proceeds not to take action. Her doubts are more than reasonable, but if he asks her permission, I am certain she will grant it. You should not worry about her."

"Hmm, perhaps you are right," Edwina followed her to the vanity, gently holding her in an embrace. "You must keep doing whatever it is you are doing. If you say he speaks of me all the time, then that can only mean a declaration will happen tomorrow. Perhaps at the ball, like you said."

Elizabeth felt an aching in her heart. She wished for Edwina's happiness and knew that Anthony could offer her many opportunities. This match was ideal, but a part of her yearned for a declaration not to happen. It felt wrong, like it wasn't meant to occur, but all it took was one look at Edwina's smile to make her uncertainties vanish.

Whatever it was that she was feeling would certainly disappear.

It won't last.

Nothing ever does.

Author's Note

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