OUR HOME, 6.            

"i should be at home in peace,
but here i am on short notice."

            APHRODITE EXHALED SOFTLY, cradling her stomach delicately as the maidens assisted with her attire. "Do you think it's too casual? Perhaps too formal?" she queried, scrutinizing her dress.

   "You look splendid, Princess Aphrodite," the maiden reassured calmly, prompting Aphrodite to turn towards her.

   "Honestly, Anne," she interjected firmly.

   "My dear, you look exquisite, as always. No need to worry," the maiden replied earnestly.

   Aphrodite nodded and sighed, gently exhaling before she closed her eyes. "Forgive me, Anne. I am simply feeling nervous... It must be the nerves," she confessed, her gaze shifting to her light green, exquisitely designed dress. The maiden smiled serenely, her reassurance unwavering as she observed Aphrodite. "Do I appear as though I am seeking courtship?"

   "I would not know, your highness. I've never seen such a look on you," Anne replied calmly, adjusting the dress with practiced hands. Aphrodite glanced at the maiden before a laugh bubbled up, contagious enough to elicit a smile from Anne as well.

    The laughter between the two finally subsided, and Anne regarded Aphrodite with earnestness. "I do know that you are quite stunning. Whatever your plans may be with the prince, I daresay he'd find you agreeable," she affirmed warmly.

   The princess smiled at her through the mirror before she turned her head at the sound of her door opening. "Your Highness, Princess Edward has arrived," announced the attendant respectfully. The princess finally cleared her throat, readying herself before the maidens finally let her go, allowing her to exit the room.

   As they walked through the corridors, she practiced breathing as though she'd forgotten how. She followed behind the staff, moving calmly to the drawing room. Aphrodite steadied herself as the doors were opened before her, revealing her mother, the prince, and the king of Saxony.

"Princess Aphrodite," her mother addressed, extending her hand for Aphrodite to join her side swiftly. With a smile from her mother, Aphrodite hesitantly mirrored the expression, a rarity for her usual countenance. "This is my daughter, Princess Aphrodite," her mother introduced proudly.

"Princess Aphrodite, I've heard many commendable things about you. It is with my deepest apologies that the queen could not make it," greeted the King with formal courtesy and a warm smile.

"Thank you, Your Royal Highness. It is an honor to meet you—there's no need to apologize," Aphrodite responded, her voice steady despite her nerves. Beside the King stood a handsome young man, recognized as the prince. He approached with a composed demeanor and a fleeting smile before introducing himself.

"Princess Aphrodite, it is a pleasure," he stated, gently taking her hand to place a small kiss upon it. As their eyes met, they scrutinized each other almost as if searching for flaws to criticize.

The man released her hand, and their eyes finally shifted away from each other. "Likewise, Your Majesty," Aphrodite replied courteously.

Queen Charlotte, observing the exchange with a discerning eye, smoothly interjected, "Shall we proceed to the garden for some refreshments?" Her tone was inviting.

Aphrodite nodded in agreement, assuming they would all converse together once outside. However, upon reaching the garden, Aphrodite realized her mother's truly evil intentions: seating her and the prince alone at a table, while the high-ranking guest and herself observed and conversed nearby.

To Aphrodite, the situation felt sinister because her mother understood how awkward she could be in forced conversations. Now seated alone with the prince at a table in the garden, they watched in silence as servants poured their tea and brought small treats. Neither knew how to initiate a conversation without their parent's guidance.

   "The weather is beautiful today," Prince Edward finally spoke, taking a sip of his tea. Aphrodite, who had been lost in watching a butterfly, cleared her throat and nodded.

   "It truly is," she replied softly. She grabbed her cup as well, taking a small and polite sip.

   "Might I ask, Princess... I've heard that you have a keen sense when it comes to the arts," Prince Edward ventured, watching her closely. Aphrodite slowly looked up at him, nodding slightly. The hint of a grin touched the corners of his mouth as he continued, "I would say, I enjoy the arts very much as well. Do you have a favorite artist in mind?"

She set her cup down abruptly, settling back in her seat. "Before I embark on my usual tirade, I must warn you that my mother may have intentionally ensnared you, as most people avoid this topic with me. But... Joseph Turner." She looked at him, "I just find his paintings so.."

"Beautiful," the prince finished, prompting Aphrodite to tilt her head in acknowledgment. "I know of the painter. He's truly remarkable," she replied warmly. The conversation began to fade into silence once more until he spoke again. "May I also ask... why others avoid discussing such matters with you?"

"My dear friends and family believe that I launch into harsh and lengthy rants about it all the time. But I just don't see how," she shrugged, her passion evident. "All I go on about is how beautifully his paintings are constructed— and how could anyone resist discussing Turner's mastery? His ability to capture the interplay of light and shadow, the way his landscapes evoke both serenity and drama... It's as if each brushstroke tells a story."

Her excitement spilled over once more as she continued, taking a breath to steady herself. "And his use of color! Vibrant yet delicate, like whispers of emotion on canvas. Take, for instance, his depiction of storms at sea— so tumultuous yet breathtakingly beautiful. It's almost as if he paints with the very essence of nature itself. And—" She paused, turning to find the prince still attentively listening, a bright smirk on his face. "And, that is all I must say."

   She glanced awkwardly at the prince before noticing her mother watching her intense rant with curiosity. Clearing her throat softly, she redirected her attention back to the prince. "My apologies," she spoke softly.

   "There's no need to worry. I enjoy a woman who's comfortable speaking up about her likes and dislikes," Edward stated warmly. "Truly, if you would like to continue, I would be more than happy to listen in."

   She looked at him, a smile spreading across her face before shaking her head lightly. "I fear if I talk any longer, my head may explode." She picked up a cookie from her plate. "But I would enjoy hearing more about you."

   The man nodded thoughtfully. "Well, as I've stated before, I enjoy art, perhaps not as much as you, but I do appreciate it." He considered what else to share. "I would also say I am more of a homebody than one for attending events. My father finds it rather wearisome." The princess nodded, taking a gentle bite out of her cookie.

   "That's another thing we have in common. I'm relieved you mentioned that, as I was afraid you would say the opposite—" Her hand gestured gently in the air, their eyes meeting as they chuckled together. "And my mother forces me out of our beloved home more than enough already."

   The man simply stared at her, a wide smile spreading across his face as he nodded. "Don't worry, I wouldn't force you out of our home if it's where you feel most comfortable." Aphrodite's head shot up almost immediately at the mention of "our home." Catching his gaze, she quickly looked down at the table, nodding gently.

   And so the conversation continued, with the prince skillfully guiding it along whenever Aphrodite struggled. He noticed her hesitations and took it upon himself to fill the gaps, easing her discomfort. Perhaps meeting the prince wasn't as daunting as Aphrodite had initially feared; in fact, she found herself appreciating his considerate nature more with each passing moment.

Aphrodite sat calmly in the library, her brown curls resting gently on her shoulder as she immersed herself in a book, finding solace in its pages. It had been days since she'd properly been face to face with the prince, and although his company was not dreadful, it was also not needed.

   Lost in thought, she assumed she had nothing pressing to attend to throughout the day. However, the tranquility of the castle was abruptly disrupted as one of her maidens, Anne, hurried into the room, her usual composed demeanor slightly ruffled.

"Anneliese," Aphrodite addressed Anne by her full name, her tone sharp. "I explicitly requested solitude today, did I not?" She slowly looked up, a displeased expression shadowing her features.

"I do recall your instructions, your highness. However, your mother has requested that you... tidy yourself up," Anne conveyed delicately, attempting to maintain Aphrodite's composure.

Aphrodite smiled at the girl, maintaining her composure. "And why would she do that, Anneliese? You did inform her of my desire for solitude, did you not?" she asked, her tone measured and calm.

"I have, knowing how much you value your solitude, but she has requested that you prepare for Lady Harrington's ball," Anne replied gently.

Aphrodite's smile quickly turned into a frown. "What ball? Anne, there was no ball we intended to appear at before. Why is there one now?" Anne stared at the disrupted girl before continuing.

"Well, perhaps it's being used as a coming-out for you... Perhaps that's what this is. I've heard she has counted on the Prince of Saxony to attend, along with a large number of the ton," Anne informed her.

   Aphrodite groaned like a child, collapsing dramatically onto the couch. Anne sighed and extended her hand to the girl. "It may not be so bad," she tried to persuade her. "It appears that Miss Sinclair and Lord Northcott are in attendance as well."

Aphrodite took Anne's hand, her voice tinged with frustration. "Percival or no Percival, Lydia or no Lydia, Anne, this was meant to be my day of solitude. A day of quiet, undisturbed, and free from the pressures of courtship." Anne regarded her with sympathy, and Aphrodite sighed, conceding. "Very well, let us prepare." Releasing each other's hands, they departed the library together.

   The ball had begun, and Aphrodite had yet to make the appearance that everyone was eagerly awaiting. It was now evident that she was in line for courtship, especially after recent events. Though this felt like her mother's way of making it official, presenting her as the "second diamond" of the season, it would not truly be so until Lady Whistledown announced it. At least, that was what Aphrodite told herself as she made her way toward the ballroom.

    She tried to convince herself that it would not be obvious and that she could effectively avoid everyone with an XY chromosome. Taking a deep breath, she glanced quickly at her beautiful white gown, using the moment to calm her nerves before finally walking through the doors of the ballroom. Her eyes widened at the sight of the decorations—absolutely stunning in whites and golds.

   Aphrodite knew little of Lady Harrington and had never attended any of her events before. Yet, a small part of her felt glad that she had finally come. As she entered, she noticed a few gazes directed her way and moved through the crowd, seeking the seat where her mother would be seated. Spotting her, she made her way over, a polite smile on her face—though it felt forced. "Mother," Aphrodite greeted calmly.

   "Aphrodite," her mother interjected, observing her daughter's demeanor. "Shouldn't you be out there mingling with the ton?"

   "No, actually, I should be at home in peace. But here I am, on short notice," Aphrodite replied, her smile fading slowly. "Mother, we must discuss this constant pressure to join society. I find it highly—"

    Aphrodite's voice was abruptly cut off by her mother, who signaled someone over. This caused Aphrodite's frustration to spike. "Mother, really— I can't even—"

   "Princess," Edward's voice interrupted, catching her attention. Aphrodite and her mother exchanged a quick glance before she turned to see the prince standing behind her, a reassuring smile on his face. "Queen Charlotte." He took a small bow.

   Her expression shifted as she stumbled over her words, her frown transforming into her usual charming smile. "Prince— Prince Edward, how grateful I am to see you—right now." She straightened herself.

    "Yes," he nodded, "I am glad you could make your appearance. I know these things aren't exactly your style. I myself thought since I'd be in England, I should attend a ball or two as well." He explained, earning a nod from Aphrodite. "Well, perhaps we should.. join the rest of the ton together." He offered.

   Aphrodite hesitated for a moment, almost refusing the offer, but then she noticed Prince Edward extending his hand towards her. Unable to refuse, she smiled and placed her hand in his. Together, they moved away from the throne where the queen sat. Before they put too much distance between themselves and her mother, Aphrodite made sure to glance back at her.

   The two royals walked quietly beside each other, engaging in conversation more than they had before. A bright smile appeared on Aphrodite's face from time to time, clearly enjoying his company. "No, I don't mean to make you feel foolish—it's just that your mind is impressive—it's wonderful, honestly," Prince Edward chuckled, sparking her laughter.

   "That's the first time anyone has ever complimented the way I think. So, I thank you for seeing another side of it," Aphrodite replied with a smile. Edward glanced towards the crowd, noticing a woman waving them over.

   "Hmm?" Aphrodite questioned, following his gaze.

   "Are you familiar with her?" he asked. The woman nodded and waved again with a smile before turning to Edward, clearly eager to speak with them. "Perhaps we should.. greet them?" He suggested.

   Aphrodite's face brightened slightly. "Would that be okay with you? Would it interest you?" she asked carefully.

   "Of course, I'd like to do anything that interests you," Prince Edward replied, sending her thoughts into a whirl. She restrained her wide smile, nodding in response.

   "Wonderful," she said simply, then gently took his hand, without thinking and led him through the crowd. Although she hadn't gotten a good look at Lydia, she followed her instincts until she stopped in front of her, along with four others, including Lydia herself. Aphrodite couldn't help but let out a surprised "Oh," catching their attention.

   "Aphrodite!" Lydia greeted warmly, her eyes drifting to Prince Edward.

   "Princess," Percival added, his gaze lingering on their joined hands. Aphrodite glanced at the others, including the hostess of the party and the two Bridgertons she hadn't expected to see.

   She withdrew her hand from the prince's and cleared her throat. "Prince Edward, allow me to introduce you: Miss Sinclair, Lord Northcott, Mr. and Mr. Bridgerton," she said, quickly acknowledging the two brothers before turning to the hostess.

   "And I am Lady Harrington, the hostess of this event. It's a pleasure to meet both of you. I am honored to have hosted a ball attended by the Princess of England and the Prince of Saxony," Lady Harrington greeted them warmly and politely. The princess nodded at the woman calmly.

   "It is wonderful to meet all of you," Edward greeted warmly.

   "Prince Edward, so you are the one we hear so much of," Percival remarked, causing a slight shiver to run down Aphrodite's spine. She hadn't been in contact with Percival since before she met the prince. Once again, he was testing her patience, and unfortunately, he seemed to be winning their little game.

   "I have heard much about all of you as well, although I have not heard much of you, Lady Harrington, or you," Edward continued, his gaze shifting to the Bridgertons.

   Colin looked surprised, glancing at Aphrodite, his "dear friend". "Really? We hear a lot about her every day. Right, Benedict?" Colin asked, turning to his brother. Benedict raised his eyebrows slowly, a forced smile appearing on his face.

   "Yes, of course," Benedict replied tersely.

   Lady Harrington cleared her throat, attempting to diffuse the tension. "Well, this is my first time meeting the princess, but I hope we can get along in the future," she said diplomatically. Aphrodite nodded silently, her expression impassive.

   "Wonderful," Benedict added, trying to steer the conversation. "It's a pleasure to have you both join us." He took a sip from his cup, visibly irritated—though only Colin and Aphrodite noticed. Aphrodite remained quiet, nodding with a strained smile, the group's conversation now awkward and subdued.

authors note: (2.7k words)

i love leaving you guys on cliff hangers, i just can't help it!!! but this was a very tense little ending i'd say. very interesting, and do worry it only gets crazier

uhm i was waiting to put this out for you guys, once season 3 of bridgerton was fully out so i knew what to be in store for, for the next (possible) book on these two and it's definitely going to be interesting. i tend to hold you guys very close throughout this series of enjoyment. and lord i can't say much yet but evil takes a human form in ADELAIDE HARRINGTON.

i hope you guys enjoyed and didn't wait too long. love you all <3