C H A P T E R F O U R
ART OF SWOON
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"I can say I was with Daphne in the garden at Vauxhall."

"You are a complete nitwit if you think that will work Emmaline!" Augusta slightly yelled, being annoyed. "It wouldn't work, did you forget Lady Whistledown and everyone from the Vauxhall saw you and Anthony dance."

"Well do you have a better idea then!" She yelled back.

"Girls now is not the time to be yelling" Eleanor scolded her daughters, "and your sister is right Emmaline that could not work."

"By those in attendance all eyes were on you and Anthony sweetheart" Violet explained, placing her hand on Emmaline cheek, with a small worry smile.

"and not to mention the scandal this could bring you as well." Her mother, Eleanor explained as well.

Everyone from the Bridgerton and the Davison were at the drawing room with doors being shut as both families tried to come up with a scheme to prevent Daphne and Nigel Berbrooke to wed, helping Daphne to get out of this forced marriage.

"This can't happen, there must be a way to prevent this from happening." Emmaline said with a defeated sigh as she continued to pace around the room, trying to come up with a solution.

Colin sighs, "Daphne already made up her mind. Every solution she came up with all ended badly. There is no way out of it Em."

"You know Daphne, she'll do whatever it takes in order to protect her family and protect the very Bridgerton name." Cornelius said.

"And if that means marrying Nigel in order to make sure the family name avoids ruins, she'll do it" Benedict explained as he sat down on the sofa, next to Eloise.

She knew that they were only stating the facts and telling the truth but oh god how much she hated it when they were right.

"What if you send her away and stay with a family member?" Joshua suggested.

Shaking her head, Violet sat down, feeling overwhelmed "It wouldn't work dear. It would only draw out more suspicions."

Eleanor noticed this and faced her childrens, "Why don't you all head back home, Cecilia wondering where we are and we must've keep your father waiting"

"And of you mama?"

"I'm going to stay and give Violet some company. You must've worry dear" She smiled at Emmaline

With one last look they agreed and bid there farewell to Violet, Benedict, Colin, and Eloise. They made their way out of the drawing room and the Bridgerton home, heading back to their home.

Before looking at Benedict, Colin, and Eloise, "Give your mother a little space. I'll keep an eye on her" She whispered quietly, making sure that only they heard her.

The three nodded and whispered thank you to her, before heading out of the room.

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It has come to this author's attention  that the ton is abuzz with a most sordid tale. It is said one cannot judge a book by its cover. But in the case of the bumbling Baron Berbrooke, it seems his displeasing appearance is quite an apt metaphor for the state of affairs in his household. I would not be surprised if Lord Berbrooke were called away to the country on alleged business... Business which, perhaps, might involve sending some much overdue funds to one former maid and young boy, who we can only hope takes after his mother.

Lady Whistledown

1813

After speaking with Eleanor the plan went into motion days later. Violet was sitting near the fireplace as she read what Lady Whistledown wrote. She set the pamphlet down with the brightest smile on her face.

As she continues with her sewing, her eldest son Anthony entered the room, "I have heard talk that Berbrooke has left town. I think this solution to our problem did not come about by chance. I am resolved to handle matters differently in the future."

"Or perhaps not at all." Violet said with a pause, looking at her son. "I know society has dictated your present role in this family, Anthony but with Daphne officially out, I assure you, I am more than capable." She looked down at her stitching work just before as she held it up to show him. "This is for Daphne. Tulips. They symbolize passion. A most appropriate hem for your sister when she decides to marry the duke. Perhaps your bride would like the same." She smiled slightly, "If I recall they are Emmaline favorites, are they not?"

Anthony could only look back at his mother. Not reacting to her suggestion. He wasn't going to let his mother's suggestion get under his skin. "Good night, Mother." he said finally before walking out of the room.

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Dearest gentle reader, it is often said that those who marry in haste must repent at leisure, a sentiment that is clearly shared by Miss Daphne Bridgerton, who has apparently rejected not one, not two, but three proposals already this week. Some believe she is showing admirable forethought in her deliberations, but I would venture a different conjecture, that she, like this author, is still waiting on the only suitor of note.

Lady Whistledown

1813

"I still can't believe you turned down three proposals. Not just one but THREE Daph!"

It was the early spring winds that chilled the cheeks of many. It's been a couple of days since the morning after the news broke out the square was the most alive it's been since the start of the season. People walked about whispering to one another, laughing and giggling.

"And let me guess, you've heard this from Lady Whistledown?" She raised her eyebrow with a small smirk.

"Maybe?" Emmaline said with a small smile as she shrugged her shoulders.

"You're unbelievable did you know that Emma," Daphne gently nudged her friend's arm in a joking matter as the two laughed quietly among themselves as their maids accompanied them on their promenade.

"Yes but you're still my friend, try explaining that Miss Bridgerton." She joked, "So now since that vigil Berbrooke is out of the picture–"

"You mean since he ran away and far from our lives?"

"Yes so... does that mean your chances with the duke are far greater?" Emmaline asked Daphne with a smile.

"Perhaps... maybe.. well... " Daphne paused and sighed. "We shall see," she replied shortly as she continued fidgeting with her silk white gloves.

"I still can not believe your mother's and your house maid were able to pull that scheme off. I'm never undermasting her ever again."

"Neither could I. I was rather confused once Mr. Berbrooke's mother left. I saw the mischievous look on my mother's face and once the head maid came into the drawing room my mother told me their plan." She explained to Emmaline, as they walked closer and closer to the Bridgerton estate.

"Now if I'm ever in a situation like yours I know who to come to now," she smiled and noticed they made it to the front gates of Daphne homes, alreadying hearing the loud commotions from Hyacinth and Gregory. "Duties calls?" She looked over at Daphne.

She chuckles, rolling her eyes, "Yes, now I'm wondering what Eloise said to get them to bicker again." Daphne looked over to the emerald green door. "Oh before I forget Benedict has mentioned that he found Oliver journals and was meaning to give it back to him." She glanced at Emmaline.

"Oh my, Oliver's been going ludacris over it. He thought he must have lost it." Emmaline explained.

"I'll fetch it for you, come now." She smiled. Looping her arms between Emmaline arms and leading them inside her house. Leading them up the stair of the corridor, Daphne lets go of her best friend's arms, "It'll only be a moment."

Emmaline saw her best friend disappear into Benedict's room as she waited patiently in the hallway.

"Miss Davison?"

She turned around and was faced with none other than Anthony Bridgerton. She groaned in annoyance as she hoped she would avoid running into him.

"I did not expect to see you here. What brings you by?" He asked.

She awkwardly stood there, "I just um... came to collect Oliver things. Daphne is getting it for me."

"I see. I remember Oliver mentioning he misplaced it over at Whites a couple nights ago." He explained before he noticed the small cut grazed her right cheek. His voice filled with concern, "What happened there?" He questioned. Having no control over his body, his hand begins to lift upwards toward the tiny red streak, caressing ever so gently as he fears of hurting her. Emmaline winces, making Anthony stop himself and dropping his hand back to his side.

Emmaline tilted her head slightly, not understanding what he meant. Until her realization hits her. Stepping away from him she shook her head and faked a smile, "It's nothing really, and regardless it's umm... a long story."

[Trigger warning: physical abuse]

Emmaline was getting ready for the Ramsbury ball as Mary was putting the last finishing touches as she painted a light shade of pink and her cheeks tinted peach, to preserve her natural beauty. Her hair was let down adding more soft curls to her natural dark brown curls, tying a few strands of her hair to the back with a black ribbon while still leaving a few to frame her oval face. For once Emmaline was actually excited to attend tonight's ball. Her maid Mary noticed it, seeing the young girl gleaming with pure joy.

"My lady if i'm not mistaken it seems you are excited to attend tonight's festivities." She laughed softly as she added a few tiny jewels in her hair.

Emmaline turned around to face Mary with her signature sweet, soft delicate smile, nodding her head, "Indeed I am Mary. Now more than ever now that Bermbrooke is gone." She laughed softly as she stood up from her chair, spinning and twirling her ivory dress. The dress was spread out with colorful dainty floral embroidery. Emmaline was able to ask Madem Delorix to add a little touch of Emmaline's preferred style and was so happy to see the end result once Madam Delorix had delivered it to the young girl. "How do I look Mary?" She said with a nervous and quiet tone.

Mary took a good look at her and smiled, "My dear..." she walked toward the young girl, gently grabbing Emmaline's hands as she gave a light squeeze. She couldn't believe how much she has truly grown. She had known and taken care of Emmaline since the day she was born and oh how she always kept Mary on her toes with her little mischiefs and pranks, chasing her around as the manor filled with Emmaline laughter. But she wouldn't change it for the world. "You look gorgeous, truly like an angel."

"Oh I don't know about that," She chuckles, not able to take the compliment, looking down not meeting Mary's eyes.

"Don't do that miss," She lifted her chin making Emmaline look at her, "You need to start believing what I tell you child, you are everything that is good and kind. You are beautiful from the inside and out. Now..." Mary fixed Emmaline's hair and carefully smoothing the wrinkles that had begun to form in her dress. Straightening out last time before letting her go, "I think you're ready to go Miss."

Emmaline hugged her maid, giving her the tightest hug, "Thank you Mary," she whispered. But that moment soon turned into a living nightmare for Emmaline.

Her father Thomas walked into her room with a stern look on his face, "Mary would you let us be."

Emmaline held on tight to Mary, with pleading eyes, begging her not to leave her alone with him.

"I think I'll stay s–"

"That was an order Mary! Leave!" He raised his voice, getting impatient.

Mary gulped and bowed her head, apologizing, "Of course my lord." She looked over at Emmaline and whispered to her ear, "Everything is going to be okay child."

"Mary please don–" Emmaline reached out for her hand but it was too late, her maid was already walking out of her room. She looked at her father, trying so hard not to show ant signs of fear.

Thomas looked at his daughter up and down with disgust, shaking his head in disapproval. Emmaline knew that look all too well. No matter what she does, nothing is ever good enough for him. "Emmaline, do you mistake me as a fool."

She shook her head, confusion filling in her voice,  "No father of course not why would you think that?"

"I'm giving you another chance, do you mistake me as a fool?"

"Father I do not know what you m–"

"DO NOT LIE TO ME!" He yelled and grabbed the closest object from Emmaline vanity and threw it against the wall, almost hitting Emmaline face.

Her eyes widened as she saw the glass shatter into a million tiny pieces. "NO!" She knelt down picking up the broken pieces. It was a crystal star constellation spheres that Anthony had gifted her for her 14th birthday. He knew how much Emmaline loved the stars and constellations, knowing physically he can never gifted her star but have something that resembles it so she can always look at it whenever she wants day or night. It was her most valuable possession and oh how she treasure it so much with all her heart.

She didn't notice a piece of glass flew and created a fresh cut across her cheek until a small droplet fell onto her dress. She flew her shaken hand up her cheek to feel the damage and pulled her hand back down and saw  the blood it drew on her fingers, gasping. Anger started to build up inside her, clenching her hands into a fist. She stood up from the ground and looked at her father, "I'm not lying father! The only person who lying to himself is you "

"You ungrateful child!" He roared as he attacked Emmaline. Grabbing both her arms and slamming her against the wall as Emmaline shrieked in pain feeling her body ache all around. "You listen to me child, I am the man in this house. You will not disrespect me and the Davison name do I make myself clear!

She looked up with tears in her eyes and glared at her father, "You're anything but a man's father!" She snaps, "You're nothing but a coward– "

Silence filled the room. The only noise that was heard was the scream that came out of Emmaline's mouth, holding the stinging pain on her cheek. Looking at her father with more horror in her eyes.

Thomas had no remorse, no guilt for what he had just done. Then came another one but this time Emmaline was able to dodge it. Which enraged him even more, grabbing her shoulder and tossing her roughly on the hardwood floor, tearing her dress, he pinned her wrist to prevent her to stop moving. "I'll say this again you will not disrespect me in my own home, you good for nothing of a daughter!"

But that wasn't enough to hold Emmaline down, as she tries her hardest to stop him from hurting her even more. "Let go of me!" She yelled, straining her voice and attempted to kick him on his knee but before her father could do any more damage...

"Thomas let her go!" Running into the room, Eleanor yelled, 'That's enough!" Eleanor was able to get Thomas off their daughter. Once she did she scurried toward her, kneeling down ready to scoop Emmaline into the safety of her arms. Her husband dragged her away before she had the chance to comfort her.

"Don't touch her! Mama!" Yelling at her father still feeling shaken. Emmaline cried out for her mother.

"Everything alright sweetheart. I'm okay." Eleanor said with a reassuring look in her face, but deep down she was lying. All she wanted was to get Thomas out of the room and out of sight of Emmaline. In order to do that she lied and let her husband drag them out of the room, slamming the door. She saw her children out of their rooms, Joshua and Oliver wondering what was happening while Cecilia was afraid of all the noises she heard. "Children go back to your rooms."

"Mother is everything alright?" Joshua said feeling concerned.

"What was all that noise coming out of Emmaline's room?" Oliver asked.

"Should we notify Cornelius," Cecilia whispered. "Should we go check on Emma"

"Yes and do not worry about it. I'm handling it. Let your sister be and do not inform Cornelius  what you think you saw or heard. Now to your room this instance please." She demanded and her children obeyed her. But the three of them knew something must've happened, they never heard Emmaline scream so much and their father so furious in their life.

Behind the closed door of the young Davison room, Emmaline took deep breaths, attempting to calm herself down, but the more she tried the more it seemed to have the opposite effect. The more breaths she took the quicker they came and the faster she started to hyperventilate. Her body moved quickly as she shut her door, locking it. Hearing her parents yelling out from the hallway, she turned around and had her back against her door. Sliding her body down, her body soon became wracked with sobs.

"Heres Ollies journal Emma," Daphne said was she walked back

"Will we see you at Bufford ball tomorrow night." Anthony asked

Emmaline shook her head, "Most likely not."

"Which reminds me, I missed you at the Ramsbury ball last night. I never got the chance to ask your mother about your whereabouts. Is everything alright?" Daphne asked with a worry tone in her voice, wanting to make sure Emmaline was okay.

Emmaline felt her whole body tensed up and faked a smile "Yes I'm fine no need to worry Daphne, I wasn't feeling well that is all." She explained as she lied straight to her best friend's face. Hoping that she wouldn't figure it out.

Anthony glanced down to Emmaline hands. Noticing the way her hands were shaking lightly. Looking back up, he saw some of the bruising on her shoulder underneath what he presumed to be the powder in order to cover it up. Emmaline noticed his gaze, and with pleading eyes telling him,

Please... don't. It's nothing

But deep down he knew it was not just nothing.

Daphne smiled, "Very well then, if you do change your mind hopefully I'll see you tomorrow night, tell your mama I said hello and your siblings."

"I will. Tell your mother and the rest of your siblings I said hello as well." She smiled back,

"Emma wait—" He was about to grab her hand but it was too late. Emmaline quietly said goodbye to them and quickly walked downstairs. He watched her walk out of his home and  watched her walk across the street, heading back to her estate with her maid Mary by her side.

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Anthony couldn't help but think back what Emmaline said about the other night while he was in the white gentlemen's club. What she said left quite an impression over him. The more he thought of it the more he couldn't get the thought of Emmaline out of his head.

"I am inclined to investigate the provenance of such lucky dice." Skeptical, Lord Featherington said as Anthony just won another round.

"They did not land the same way when you were casting, Featherington!" Simon smirked as he pointed out before looking over to Anthony. "Perhaps the common element is you. Might it be best to show some restraint?"

Anthony snapped out of his thought. He fake a smile and laughed. Joining in again as he tried to see how far he could push Featherington. "Restraint is not among Lord Featherington's skills."

"Well, then, neither is gambling." Simon said, making both him and Anthony laughed as Lord Featherington walked away bitterly as he took defeat. "I seem to have done it, Bridgerton." He said as they walked away from the gambling table.

"Done what?" Anthony question, following him.

"Proved you remain capable of laughing again in my presence."

"You cannot fault me for being doubtful of your intentions." Rolling his eyes as he scoffed quietly, defending.

"Indeed, I can. For all the mischief you've witnessed me make, you'd also know I would never make a fool of a lady, and certainly not one such as your sister." Simon explained as they both sat down on the dark emerald green couch in the lounging area.

"You confound me." Anthony saif with a mock tone. "You are respectful, and yet I know you have no intention of marriage. Has that changed?"

"I cannot claim so."

"Then what could your intentions be?" Anthony raised his eyebrow.

"Respectful. Might we leave it there?" Simone stated, wanting nothing more to drop this conversation. Not wanting to get any further discussion on the matter.

The crowd started cheering and applauding. Making both of them and turn their heads toward the commotions. Watching the main door opened, revealing the ladies walking in the room with a sultry. Anthony smiled but his expression changed quickly as he immediately recognized Siena from the crowd of women.

"If you will excuse me." Anthony said quickly in a quiet tone. Excusing himself from Simon.

"You look exceedingly familiar to me, my lord. Or is it Your Grace?" Siena said with a smirk

"I am afraid it is." Simon said.

"Might I have seen you at the opera? I perform there."

"Do you?"

"Mm."

"I have often wondered what plays in one's mind when an aria is performed." He asked the opera singer

"Sometimes I think on the meaning of the words I sing. At other times, I think of all the tasks I have failed to accomplish during my day. And sometimes I ponder my plans for after my performance. Might I entice you to take in one of my performances sometime soon? Perhaps tomorrow night?" She knew Anthony was watching them and she could feel his piercing gaze right through her.

With a frustrated sigh, Anthony watches the whole thing from the other side of the room.

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"Sister? Whatever are you doing?" Anthony whispered as he walked out of his study, catching his sister Daphne outside of the hallway. Seeing he has just come back from the gentleman club, he wondered why his sister was up late this hour.

Daphne glanced at him letting out a sigh, "I could not sleep. I thought a bit of warm milk might help matters."

"Should I ring for a servant?"

Daphne shook her head slightly, "No. No, do not wake them." She paused before continuing, "Would you like to join me?"

Anthony looked at her quizzically, wondering what was troubling her sleep, but alas he nodded and the two walked downstairs and headed toward the kitchen. As Anthony lit some candles while Daphne looked for the bottle of milk. They both made their way toward the stove as they stood next to each other. For the next 10 minutes they both kept looking at the stove trying to figure out what to do next.

"We should light it." Daphne suggested.

"Excellent idea."

"Well, go on." Daphne nudged his arm as she looked up at him.

"Me?" He turned to her, furrowing his eyebrow quizzically.

"I should not know how to do it." She exclaimed with a slight shrug.

Anthony turned around and faced his sister, putting his hand on his hips. "And you believe I should?"

They both glared at each other as they kept going back and forth from looking back at the stove

"Cold milk, then"

"Most refreshing, given the heat."

"Mm. Can I ask you a question, Brother?"

"So long as it has nothing to do with the inner workings of that thing." He said jokingly as he pointed at the stove.

The two of the shared a light chuckle. Both of them taking a sip of milk out of their glass bottle.

"It is about the duke." She looked down at her bottle.

"What about the duke?" He raised his eyebrow.

"Well-- Do you know the reason he is so opposed to marriage?" She asked as she kept avoiding eye contact with her brother.

Anthony closed his eyes and sighs, "Daph..."

"He is your closest friend. Surely you must know things." She insisted as she  finally had the courage to look up at him.

"The things I know are certainly not for your ears." Anthony retorted sternly.

She scoffs as she looks down. After a few moments of silence she fidgeted with her hands and took a deep breath before she sheepishly said, "How foolish of me to ever even wonder about such things."

Anthony took a sip of his before he sighs,  still looking down, "He barely knew his father. Never knew his mother. Not one sibling.The duke grew up...quite differently than us, Daph. In all the 20 years I have known him, he has not mentioned his so-called family even once. He has spent his entire life alone."

"How very sad." She said quietly, shaking her head.

"He prefers it that way. You must not concern yourself with his troubles." Anthony raised his head and his face softened, "You must simply know some people are not meant to be together...no matter...how much we might wish otherwise." Anthony couldn't help but think of Sienna but somewhere along the way his thoughts shifted to Emmaline. The young lady who seemed to be plaguing and invaded his inner thoughts more than ever lately. Getting lost in his thoughts the more he thinks about her and what he would've done differently that night.  

"I see."

From there Anthony was brought back to reality. He nodded and smiled, "Very well."

"Thank you, Brother, for the milk. We will have to do this again sometime."

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I have always thought that an appreciation of the arts is what lifts us beyond mere animals. It stirs the passions and moves the spirit and this author hopes, inspires more newsworthy pursuits. A new wing at Somerset House is to be opened today, where several attractions will be on display... like the lovely Miss Marina Thompson, newly recovered from her mysterious illness and expected to finally rejoin the season. Of course, there is today's royal attraction as well, Prince Friedrich of Prussia. His Highness has come to our shores in want of a fine Fräulein. Could this be the reason a certain language tutor has been seen visiting Cowper House all week?

Lady Whistledown

1813

A new wing at Somerset House opened today. It was a good excuse to get Emmaline out of the house, as her mother would say "Another chance  to practice before her debut." Eleanor was quick to accept the invitation extended to her by the Davison family. Ever since the Vauxhall ball and reading Lady Whistledown new issues, Emmaline have been on edge ever since then. She hasn't felt this much stress in such a long time. When their carriage came to a full stop. Lady Eleanor was the first to step out of the carriage, while all six of her children followed closely behind. Emmaline observed as a group of girls cluster themselves at the Prince the moment that he arrived. Fanning themselves, all in fits of giggles as they batted their long dark eyelashes in hopes to catch his royal highness's attention. She couldn't help but roll her eyes as she tried not to physically gag at the sight of it. Her mother, leading them inside, Emmaline pushed her way through the hoards of people crowding within one room. The body pressed against Emmaline made her feel anxious as she felt she was going to suffocate if she didn't get away from these hoards of people. Grabbing a hold of one of her brother's hands, she continued to follow very closely behind her siblings as they whispered sorry and thank you as they passed by them.

Once they were all inside, the Davison siblings parted ways. Augusta went back where all the other debutantes were at trying to catch a glimpse of the princes, Cornelius and Oliver ran into an old friend from Oxford, Joshua being where the drinks were at but soon was walking with Lady Danbury, and Cecilia had run off and found Benedict, indulging him into the biggest hug. The two shared their love for art and feeling right in their element. Cecilia was beyond excited to be here and getting to see all the new paintings and sculptures in the new wing. Benedict smiled and chuckled as he stumbled back a bit, hugging the young Davison.

She watched from a far with a small smile, seeing the two as they spoked and stared intently over one of the new paintings.

A few moments went by as Emmaline was still accompanied by her mother. The whole time her mother kept introducing her to potential suitors and trying her hardest to convince her to talk with the Prince. Front there on she had gone off on her own trying to escape from her mother.

She felt she was being suffocated the more she was around her. But by doing so she'd been taken by the crowds. Being pulled into the midst of the chaos, unable to find her way out. Causing her to feel overwhelmed by the crowd, feeling as the room around her started to get smaller and smaller. Her body grew more tense to the point of shaking.

As she walked rapidly through the crowd, greeting only a few that she knew, a few stopping her, grabbing her arm, pulling her more into the crowd, wanting to get her opinions on the painting and other art pieces, asking about her siblings, and so on. Bodies were being pressed against her, she felt restrained as the people around her weren't letting her go.

There were too many things going on around her. The voices were getting louder and louder, hearing the chittering voices, the sound of heels clicking against the wooden floors. The more she tried to get away the more the noises around her got louder. All she wanted was to get out and leave. It was all too much for her. She couldn't take it anymore. Her heart began to race. She felt her chest growing so tight it started to become too hard for her to even breathe.

Her vision started to get blurry. She started to look around the room trying to find any sign of her siblings. Oh how she wished Cecilia was nearby. "God where's Oliver" she thought as she continued to look for him. She was able to get away from the crowd, but that uneasy feeling still didn't go away. She tried controlling her breathing but the more she tried the more her breath became short and unsteady, clenching her chest, digging her fingernails into her hands, piercing her skin, drawing blood. She wanted to scream but her lips were pressed together too tightly as she couldn't inhale a breath.

Across the room, Anthony was with his mother and Daphne. His siblings walked off, mingling and doing their own things. Daphne excused herself and headed off toward Augusta.

His mother, Violet, started making her way to him, referring to a young woman in the distance. "Miss Anna Vaughn, speaks several languages, I hear." She nodded her head towards another lady. "Oh Lady Egglesfield, lovely to see you" She smiled as she made her way toward the Egglesfield family.

Anthony had a confused look on his face, "Mother what are you doing?" He asked as Violet continued to drag them, and continued to ignore him.

"Miss Mary, I wanted to introduce you to my eldest son."

Oh god no, please this isn't happening. He put on a fake smile and bowed his head, "Miss Egglesfield, pleasure meeting you."

Miss Mary Egglesfield smiled and curtis, "The pleasure all mine my lord."

"Miss Mary, I heard you're quite a reader, is that true?" Violet asked.

So is Emmaline, she's also an exquisite poet.

Anthony paid no attention to them as his mother continued to attempt to arrange a courtship for her eldest son. After they excused themselves Anthony looked over to his mother, "Were I looking for a list of debutantes and their dubois accomplishments, I could have stayed home and read Lady Whistledown." With that, he walked off and proceeded to scan the room.

He spotted Emmaline across the room, he chuckled softly as he saw the young girl trying to escape, but failing miserably. He decided to make his way over to her. As he walked closer the more he noticed something was wrong with her. "Em— Miss Davison."

Emmaline held her head down trying to calm down, She heard a voiced echo, she couldn't tell who it was.

Anthony looked around the room and found a somewhat secluded area. They're were still some people roaming around but it was better than the enormous crowd in the hallway they were in. Without thinking he moved them toward the corner, where there were less people.

Her back was against the green wooden wall, she started to slide down, closing her eyes shut, as tears started to make their way through. Still couldn't inhale a single breath.

Anthony knelt down, bringing both his hands up to her cheek.

Emmaline felt two cold palms pressed against her warm cheeks. Her eyes widened and sucked in a sharp breath. Suddenly the voices, the nosies, went away. She looked up and saw Anthony out of all the people. "Anthony? Where am–"

"--Yes, I'm right here. Are you alright?" He said as he sat next to her, glancing over to her. "I've been trying to catch your attention." He explained and his eyes widened. "Em, your hands are bleeding!"

She furrowed her eyebrows.

What is he talking about?

She looked down at the palm of her hand and it was then she felt the stinging sensation. A small trickle of blood slid past her hand and dripped onto the floor, missing her shoes. She hadn't even realized she did that to herself. She must have dug her fingernails far too deep.

Quickly, she brought her hand up to her mouth. Nearly gagging as she tasted the bright red iron liquid in her throat.

Anthony also wore a look of disgust on his face, "Classy," he commented. He pulled out an ivory handkerchief from his dark black waist coat and handed it to Emmaline, "Here, this should help."

Emmaline rolled her eyes as she continued to suck on her hand until the bleeding stop, "Fuck off." She mumbled. She looked down at his hand and accepted his handkerchief. She wiped the accent blood off her hand. "Thank you"

"Are you alright? You put on a scare." He asked, a hit of worry present in his tone.

He sounded like one of her brothers, she didn't like it.

"It's not like you even care"

"Must you always." He scoffed, "Whenever I try to be civil with you, you guard yourself."

Emmaline didn't have the energy to pick up a fight with him. She shook her head, brought her knees up to her chest, hugging herself as she looked down. "I'm fine."

Anthony rolled his eyes. From the panicked look she had just moments ago, he knew she was lying to him. "I still know you like the back of my hand Miss.Davison" he glared, "Spare me the lies you tell your parents," he told her, scoffing. "You looked as if you were making your great escape just moments/seconds ago."

Emmaline shrugged, not wishing to go into the details of what had just happened, "Perhaps I was," she told him. "But you as well were rushing for the exit. You had to have been there if you'd seen me."

Oh how the table had been turned. "Oh I was." He told her truthfully, eyes wide and exaggerated. "Our mothers, Miss Davison, have used the better part of the afternoon picking young ladies that they believed to show promise, should I choose them as my bride." He looked over to her, "My mother tried setting me up with Miss Egglewards already."

All she could do was chuckle and turn into a big fit of laughter. She couldn't hold in her laughter anymore. It was no surprise that Violet Bridgerton was starting to panic when she overheard them talking after dinner with the Duke. Violet was coming to believe Anthony would never wed. And very well might not. If it is up to him, that is.

Should he ever choose to wed, the ton would be shocked. Gasps might even be heard across the square. And should he ever admit to loving, well, that would turn London upside down.

"Tell me," he said suddenly, eyebrows dropping low as he looked at Emmaline. "What were you running away from?"

Emmaline looked over to him, glaring. "It's none of your business."

Anthony nodded. Emmaline had not told him anything, and yet it seemed he already knew exactly why she was running.

She watched his gaze travel along the room. Taking in every part of it. He watched the crowds walk along the room, stopping to gawk marvelously at a piece of work they knew nothing about. Everyone was arm in arm with someone. Smiling and whispering to one another. Mothers watched happily.

Without her needing to tell him, Anthony just knew. He always knew even though they despised each other. It wasn't always the case for them, he'd read her like a book. Emmaline did not want any of this, and luckily for her neither did her.

He stood up from the ground and sighed, "Come on," he extended his hand out for her.

She looked at his hand and eyed him skeptically.

Anthony nodded toward the door, reaching his hand out to Emmaline. Even if he doesn't want to admit it, deep down he felt bad for her. Because unlike him, she would not be able to run and escape forever. The world was closing in on Emmaline Davison, and far too quickly for her liking. In less than a year not all of this, all of what she hated, would be her life.

But at least right now, Anthony might be able to offer her a moment of escape.

"We're leaving?" She asked as she stood up, eyebrows raised, a whisper of a grin on her lips. "Just like that?"

Anthony smiled. "Just like that. For old time sake."

"I don't know,"

"When did society's rules ever stop you?" He smirked.

With that Emmaline couldn't help but smile a little and placed her hand onto his as Anthony intertwined their hands together, ready to make their great escape.

┈ˋˏ༻❁༺ˎˊ┈

It was an early evening for the young Miss Emmaline Davison. Her morning was filled with her parents' arguments. Hearing their yells from the corridors getting louder and louder while her older brother and sister, Cornelius and Augusta, were down in the drawing room, which was filled with Augusta callers lining down the hallway. Cecilia was down the street at the Bridgerton household as today was one of the days that Cecilia governess was teaching a lesson to both her and Eloise. Joshua was at White's gentlemen's club doing some business and Oliver was down by the stables washing and feeding the horses. Emmaline was getting overwhelmed and wanting to get away. It still seems her parents were still fighting over what happened the night of the Ramsbury ball. Lately she started to believe more and more that she's the reason her parents are having problems. She wanted nothing more than to escape. She ran toward the courtyard, walking down the steps and toward her mother's gardens filled with ivory and soft pink roses. The more she walked away the noises started to fade away. Letting the sun hit her face as the wind blew the floral scents from the garden. The sky was painted blue as the clouds appeared hearing the birds sing their lullaby. She closed her eyes and looked up as she enjoyed the peace and quiet. She lowered herself as she laid her back on the green grass. For a moment she felt at peace enjoying the scenery and the quietness that surrounded her.

"Sister!" Cecilia Davison pulled her back from her tranquil escape and reality as she ran across the lawn in her most favorite light pink day dress. She hovered over created a shadow in front of Emmaline face, tilting her head

"Cecilia! What on earth are you doing here?" She said as she opened her eyes, "Aren't you supposed to be with Eloise right now, attending your lesson?" She asked, furrowing her eyebrows with confusion.

"I did, it ended an hour ago?"

"Oh my, have I been lying down here for that long?"

"It seems you have Miss Davison." Anthony walked over with his hand behind his back, hovering over as well, tilting his head slightly with a small smile.

Emmaline's eyes widen, as shock starts to take over her body, "Lord Bridgerton! I didn't expect to see you here." She pulled herself up to lean on her elbows. Looking over to her sister, motioning her with her finger to bring her head closer.

Cecilia did what she was told and lowered herself down to her sister's height. Emmaline brought her lips toward Cecilia and whispered in her ears, "You could've warned me Lia!"

"Now where the fun of that Emma" Cecilia laughed softly, "Anthony walked me home."

"Well she umm..." He coughed, "...insisted I walk her home." He lied and Cecilia knew it. Anthony saw Cecilia from his window as she waited outside the front porch for Oliver to escort her back home. From the looks of it, it seemed like he was late. So Anthony being the gentlemen that he is, accompanied Cecilia back to her house. Cecilia didn't want to bother or annoy him but he reassured her with a soft laughter and a genuine smile that he didn't mind at all. He wouldn't forgive himself if anything bad happened to Cecilia. He has known Cecilia since she was just a baby. She reminds him so much of his younger siblings that he would go to the end of the earth for her just in order to protect her in the same way he would protect all his siblings. Knowing how some men are when they see a young lady unchaperoned, they would do anything to take advantage of them. Of course Cecilia wasn't going to reject his offer.

"That's not the way I remember it Anthony. If i remember clearly you said you didn't trust any men and it wasn't safe for me to walk by myself" Cecilia said with an innocent smile and at the same time calling him out.

Emmaline couldn't help but notice the soft red tinted on Anthony's cheeks. She covered her lips trying to cover her laughter. "Is that so Lord Bridgerton?"

"I– well p-pe-perhaps" He stuttered and looked at the youngest Davison, "Cecilia that was supposed to stay between us peanut." He whispered, now feeling quite embarrassed.

Before Cecilia had a chance to respond back, Emmaline beat her to it, "Thank you... you know, always looking out for her" She looked up with a small smile.

Anthony nodded, still not meeting her gaze.

She raised her eyebrows, "Is there something else my lord?"

"Would you like to promenade with me this evening, Miss Davison?" He glanced down at her, with hope filled in his brown eyes.

Emmaline was in utter shock, she didn't expect him to ask her. Knowing how the two constantly argue with one of another, never having anything nice to say, but it's been a week since the Somerset House, since the two made they're great escape they went back to the Bridgerton Estate and the whole day the two were riding their horses, racing one another just like old times again. She was debating on what to do next but once she heard the yells from her parents she glanced up at Anthony and nodded with a small smile, "If you can get me far away from here be my guest." She lent her arms up as Anthony reached for her hand, pulling Emmaline off from the ground.

┈ˋˏ༻❁༺ˎˊ┈

Strolling along their way to Hyde Park, the sun shining brightly, blazing in the bright blue sky. Laughter filled the air, children running around with the biggest grin. Feeling without a care in the world with their innocence. Roses begin to bloom upon the bushes.

Emmaline heels clicked against the stone roadway with each step she took and Anthony walking beside her along the edge of the park. The two have not spoken to one another since the incident at Somerset House. Neither dare to speak, they both enjoyed the silence but for once Emmaline dreaded and Anthony contemplated on what to say to her.

"Lord Bridgerton" "Miss Davison"

Both Emmaline and Anthony turned their gazes toward each other. For once Emmaline laughed in the presence of Anthony. He couldn't help but chuckle softly.

"My apologies Miss Davison I did not mean to interrupted you"

She shook her head, "Are my eyes deceiving or did none other than the Viscount himself apologies. What have you done with him?" She teased him.

Anthony's eyes widened. Is she mocking me?

"I do not know what you mean. I certainly apologize." He defended

She furrowed her eyebrows and Anthony rolled his eyes, "... occasionally" He mutter

"What? I didn't hear that. Can you say it louder?" She said, jokingly, holding her left ear out.

"Oh quit it you." He laughed quietly, nudging her forearm.

Emmaline had her mouth open, being dramatic while pretending to be shocked, "Rude." She laughed along with him. She glanced down. She wasn't going to lie, she did miss this, and their childish banter. It felt like how it used to be between them. "I do wonder,"

"Wonder what?"

"Why did you ask me to join you on the promenade?" She asked, glancing at him.

Looking ahead once more, not wanting to meet her gaze, "I quite don't know if I'm being quite honest with you." He said before he quickly looked back at Emmaline, "I wanted to speak with you about a proposition. But knowing how badly I hurted you in the past I–"

"You don't know me as well as you thought you did Lord Bridgerton." She joked.

"What do you mean by that, of course I do." He told her.

She stopped walking and twisted her body to face him with her arms crossed against her chest. "My Lord, " she sighed, "if you did then why did I agree to come join you in the first place knowing well I would've said no and most importantly a snarky remark. Am I wrong?"

Anthony was left speechless. Yes of course he was surprised when she agreed at first but knowing Emmaline he thought she only agreed to do so in order to get away from her home. He wasn't going to admit that she is indeed right but only she is right about this situation.

"Ant?"

Anthony faced soften, the corners of his mouth pulling his lips upward, into a smile, glancing down, "I haven't heard you call me that in a long time Miss Davison." He glanced up, looking at her. He sighs. Here it goes, "Are you willing to give this..." He pointed at her and him back and forth, "another chance. Of our friendships"

"Are you asking me if I want us to be friends again?" She still does not believe what she just heard. She never thought in a million years they'll be friends again, it never crossed her mind that there would be another chance. "I'm not going to lie to you Lord Bridgerton," she looked up, "You hurt me really badly last time and without explanation might I add" she said softly.

"I know," he whispered, "I never really did apologize to you, and for that I am deeply sorry for the way how things ended."

"Thank you, and I'm sorry for being and arse to you after all these years"

"I couldn't blame you. You weren't the only one who was being arse" He joked and smiled.

Emmaline smiled back, shaking her head.

"I understand if this is n–"

"Yes..." She cut him off, "I wouldn't mind us being friends again." She showed a small smile, "I would really like that Lord Bridgerton"

Anthony smiled, "Well then in that case, please call me Anthony"

"Oh thank god I couldn't bare to say "my lord" any longer." She explained with such ease.

Anthony laughed quietly as he looked at her. She turn around and started to walk backwards, still facing him, "Then that mean you must start calling me Emmaline in order for this to work" She teased him as she smiled back. "For the record, I like Anthony Bridgerton, much better than Lord and Viscount Bridgerton."

He was admiring her as he let out a soft chuckles, shaking his head, "Well... then you'd be the first"

┈ˋˏ༻❁༺ˎˊ┈

"A gentleman is here for you."

Anthony stepped into Siena dressing room with his gloves and his hand in his hand.

Siena spotted him in the reflection of her vanity mirror. She scoffed to herself quietly as she looked down, not meeting his longing gaze. "To what do I owe this unexpected visit?"

"I wanted to see you." He said softly as he confessed, taking a small step forward.

She turned around to face him as she got up from her chair, "What is it this time? A ball you wish not to attend? A family obligation you prefer to avoid? What, perchance, is the Viscount Bridgerton seeking to escape tonight?" Her voice filled with sarcasm. Waiting for a response from him but not much to her surprise, the viscount stayed silent. "Surprising as it may be to you, I do not sit here merely waiting for your visits. I have plans of my own to attend." She was about to leave the room until Anthony stopped her.

"With the duke?" He asked,

"My affairs are no longer your concern, sir, as you have already made abundantly clear." She snapped.

Anthony became more frustrated, "If you are using Hastings in some scheme to vex me, Siena..."

"Well, he is certainly a handsome man of great wealth and high rank, everything a woman in my position might want." She said harshly, glaring at Anthony before walking out of the room while Anthony followed her.

"Your vindictiveness is noted–"

"The duke has not called on me!" She exclaimed. And I am not consorting with any friend of yours." She chuckles ironically, "Though I must say, it is not surprising in the least to know that you are only here because you are jealous."

"I'm not here because I'm jealous." Anthony explained.

"Goodbye, my lord." She looked long and hard at him before she walked away but she felt Anthony hand on her hip in his attempted to stop her.

"I am here because I miss you!" Anthony panting. "I cannot think of anything else, Siena." He whispered, "Come back to me." He pleaded as he kissed her.

As much as Sienna wanting to be near him she pushed him off. She panting, "Your position in life remains unchanged." Her voice broke, "And so, too, does mine. You are the viscount. Your responsibility will always be to that title, above all else. You shall marry, sire an heir, and guard your family." Her eyes started to water, "And I... I shall always be the woman you may love in darkness...

"–No." Anthony cutted her off, quickly with a hushed tone, denying her statement.

"--but never in the light of day. You have made me promises before, and I, like a fool, believed them." She sighs, "I cannot be your fool again." She walked past him and out of the building. Leaving Anthony as he stayed behind, feeling stunned and shocked by Sienna's words.

┈ˋˏ༻❁༺ˎˊ┈

It was the next evening for the Viscount. Anthony was going through the finances in his study when he couldn't help but hold and look at his heirloom, his father's pocket watch. Ever so often he did this.

"Will you be joining us at tonight's ball, Anthony?" Violet asked as she held a piece of paper in her hand.

He looked up at his mother, "I have accepted the invitation."

"Perhaps you might cast your eye over this list before the event, then." She handed him the piece of paper she was holding moments ago.

"What is this?" He asked, raising his eyebrows in confusion as he accepted the parchment paper before reading over it.

"These are names. Fourteen, to be exact. Fourteen single, eligible young ladies, all from excellent families. Lady Leeworth's eldest miss is–"

"I shall consider your suggestions. Thank you." He said in a rushed tone. Setting the piece of parchment aside as he expected his mother, Violet, to leave his study so he could possibly focus back on his work. But that wasn't the case for the Viscount as she still stayed, watching him. He looked up at his mother again, "Was there something else?"

"What time do you have?" She asked.

"What?" He said with his voice filled with confusion.

"The time. You were just checking your father's old watch when I caught you, yes? It is a lovely heirloom." She smiled softly.

He stayed quiet for a few moments before speaking again, "It is quarter till, Mother."

"It's quite late, indeed. At any rate, do let me know who I should introduce you to, my dear. Time, as we both know, is certainly of the essence." She said as she left the room, leaving her son with his thoughts.

Anthony sighs, rubbing his face before taking a glance over the list of names his mother left him one last time. He grabbed the parchment, reading the names, hoping to find Emmaline Davison's name on it but to his disappointment it was not.

┈ˋˏ༻❁༺ˎˊ┈

A light, golden hue cast over the room from the glow of candlelight and golden chandeliers that swings slowly overhead the guest. The room was filled with dark forest green velvet curtains. Draped over the four walls around the narrow room as vines of white delicate flowers stringed around the walls, the spiral staircase, and the aisle of the ballroom floor.

Emmaline's head glanced upwards as she watched the lights dangle above her. For her siblings, well mostly her and her brothers, it felt like they had been in attendance for hours but it has only been an 45 minutes since their arrival. Joshua eyelids were becoming heaving as he tried his hardest to stay awake. While Oliver kept looking down at his pocket watch watching the time tick by slowly and lastly Cornelius keeping a close eye on Augusta and Lord Weaver as they chatted and danced.

"This has to be a mistake. It has to be more than 60 minutes since we've arrived?" Oliver complained as he glanced at his sister.

She shook her head, "The more you look at your bloody watch, the more time will go by even slower than ever before Oliver." Emmaline closed her eyes imagining herself back home in her bed sleeping.

"Emmaline, please keep your eyes open. This isn't the place to fall asleep. And stand up straight please for the love of god" Cornelius whispered to her ear.

She groaned quietly, rolling her eyes, scoffing, "That wouldn't be the problem if this event was not a bore." She whispered back, "I would rather be back home. I don't understand why I have to be in attendance."

Whispers were heard among the rooms and noticed everyone's attention was toward none other than Cressida Cowper as the the ton watched her walk in with the Prince of Prussia, Prince Friedrich.

The one thing that Emmaline knew was that Cressida Cowper loved the attention while for Emmaline she despised it. She hated being the center of attention but that wasn't the case for Cressida hated not being the center of attention this season. Even when she wasn't named the diamond of the season she managed to get the prince's attention, the queen's nephew, and now the attention of all the ton.

Or so she thought.

"What the bloody hell is going on?" Joshua asked as he approached his siblings, looking at the crowd of people, with everyone's faces filled with curiosity.

Within seconds Cressida Cowper lost all the eyes that were on her. Those eyes soon faced their attention to the pure rarity of all the jewels. The ton faced their direction at the top of the spiral staircase. Where she stood, Daphne Bridgerton, glowing and wearing a white silver crystal studded dress, leaving the room filled with silence as everyone took in her beauty.

Emmaline look over at Joshua and smiled, "It's the diamond of the season."

Could it be true? The season's diamond even more precious and rare a stone than previously thought? For it now appears this treasure is set to join the likes of the queen's ever-so-cherished crown jewels themselves. The Duke of Hastings, I hear, was left looking rather tongue-tied last night, as Miss Bridgerton seems to have finally grown tired of waiting for him to pose that all-important question. Or, perhaps, the young miss has simply traded up. Surprising? Quite. Unreasonable? Of course not. After all, why settle for a duke when one can have a prince?

        Lady Whistledown

1813

┈ˋˏ༻❁༺ˎˊ┈

𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞:

In honor of a new chapter guys Cruel Summer just hit 7K reads ahhhh thank you thank you guys so much. Also after so long finally got chapter 4 done and uploaded. Once again I'm so sorry it's taken me this long to upload. I'm so excited to upload the next chapter, I'm already half way done writing it. Don't forget to comment I love reading your guy's comments. Remember don't forget to leave comments, don't hesitate to leave as much as you want :). In the meantime I'll see you guys in the next chapter.

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CRUEL SUMMER © pattyluquin, 2022