"Cornelius it has been you. It has been you this entire time. Spinning my world off its axis, making me reconsider everything I have ever told myself... you have to stop. You must stop. Before I--"

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Cornelius James Davison, had always known his place in society. Born amidst the winter's chill, he was the treasured eldest son of the Viscount and Viscountess Davison. His arrival brought nothing but a wave of immense joy, anticipation, and excitement for the young newlywed couple, marking a new chapter in their lives. Cornelius was always known to be protective over his siblings, especially his sisters, his thoughtfulness, his kindness, and the unwavering loyalty he showed to those he held dear. He was their pride and joy but he had long been aware of the weight of responsibility that came with his family's title.

From an early age, he understood the weight that came with his position as the future head of his family. While his father still held the title, Cornelius knew that one day he would bear the mantle of viscount, responsible for his mother and guide his siblings. But that future felt distant. So, in the meantime, Cornelius indulged in the freedoms his life afforded him.

In his youth, Cornelius befriended a boy of the same age—Anthony Bridgerton. From the moment they met, the two formed an unbreakable bond and have been inseparable ever since. Being the eldest sons of their respective families and the only children at the time, their friendship forged in the innocence of boyhood, they had become as close as brothers. Whether it was racing across the Davison or Bridgerton estates or engaging in harmless mischief. The two were nearly always joined at the hip, their shared mischief and adventures forming the backbone of their childhood. Cornelius was often the voice of reason, while Anthony, more hot-headed, led them into many of their escapades.

Both their families had grown close over the years, attending events together, often spending holidays together, and intertwining their lives in the way only old, established families in the ton could.

Over time the two were known as the biggest rakes throughout the ton, their reputation well-earned. Cornelius, however, never saw this as a burden or a shameful label. If anything, it was the truth, and he didn't shy away from it. He was a man who enjoyed his affairs without regret, and engaged in numerous flirtations. The ton could whisper all they wanted about his reputation—it meant little to him.

While Anthony's rakish behavior faded with the pressures of his title, Cornelius remained as carefree as ever. He had no intention of settling down. For him, the idea of family and legacy could rest in the capable hands of his siblings. He had no desire for a wife or children to tie him down — at least until the time came to take his father's place.

But little did he know that someday, someone would walk into his life and completely turn his world upside down. He had never imagined himself inexplicably drawn to someone, let alone a stranger. He had spent his entire life indifferent to the idea of love, certain it was not meant for him. Yet here was this woman—this stranger—who had managed to captivate him with nothing more than her presence. For the first time, he saw a future that included someone else. Who would've thought it would take this mysterious woman to make him rethink his future?

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started: may 28 2024

published: september 13 2024

ended: tbd
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COWBOY LIKE ME © pattyluquin, 2024.