CHAPTER TWO
CHAMPING AT THE BIT

The morning after the Queen's ball, the sun filtered through the lace curtains of the Crawford's drawing room, casting a soft glow on the polished furniture and delicate china tea set arranged on the table. The air was filled with the scent of fresh flowers, the servants bustling about and ensuring everything was in perfect order for the case Lady Victoria received any callers that day.

Speaking of Lady Victoria, she was sitting on one of the sofas and next to her mother, who was offering words of encouragement and advice on how to conduct herself, for it had been a while since the last time she had any social calls. Nevertheless, Victoria was not paying attention, remembering her first season out in society.

Four years had passed, but she could still recall how nervous she had been on the day of her debut, and on the day after the Queen's ball. She was extremely insecure back then, and she had not expected anyone to show up at their house to call upon her. But, lo and behold, many men did.

Men who were each more boring than the last. Men who either only talked about their own accomplishments and wealth or questioned her instead of getting to know her. She had smiled politely and engaged in small talk, but she could not shake the feeling of emptiness that lingered after each encounter.

It was then that Victoria realized she was not ready for that part of her life. Maybe she had known it before, but after those first weeks out in society she decided it was time to be honest with herself. She needed more time. More time to explore and discover who she really was. And so, she made the decision to focus on her own growth and happiness.

But that was four years ago. Victoria was a whole different person now, and she was ready to take the next step.

"Sweetie, you do not need to worry," Lillian spoke, taking her daughter's silence for nervousness. "I am sure there will be a few callers today. After all, the Queen complimented you at her ball. And you look stunning today."

Victoria smiled, looking down at her deep burgundy silk gown. Madame Delacroix never failed to amaze her with her talent.

"Even if she does look stunning," Noah intervened, standing next to the fireplace along with Arthur. "We have to remember most gentlemen will be at the Dalton's today to see Miss Aiya."

"Noah is right," the other brother intervened. "Miss Aiya rightfully earned herself the diamond title, and the gentlemen will most likely battle themselves for her now."

"We know," Lillian sighed. "But that does not mean your sister will not get any callers. Do not be such pessimists."

"Mama, I think my brothers just want to keep me here," Victoria joked, a teasing smile on her face.

"You wish, sister," Arthur rolled his eyes playfully.

"Besides, we just want you to find the best suitable match," the eldest Crawford spoke. "So excuse us if we are a little disappointed that the best gentlemen in the ton will not be attending."

"Victoria does not need the best gentleman in the ton," their mother countered. "She just needs someone who cherishes and supports her, and I am positive she will encounter that man today."

The girl chuckled, having missed their family and their shenanigans. She had even been about to join in when one of the servants stood at the door to the drawing room, announcing there was a caller.

And so, the morning started, with Victoria surrounded by two of her brothers as they stood guard, ready to step in if needed.

The first gentleman to call upon Victoria was Sebastian Ashford, the son of the Earl of Norfolk.

"Good day, Lady Victoria. How are you this fine morning?"

"Good day, Mr. Ashford. I am well, thank you for asking. And yourself?"

"Oh, I am quite well, thank you," the gentleman smiled, looking out the window. "The weather is rather pleasant today, don't you think?"

The weather, really?

"Yes, indeed. It is a lovely day outside. Have you been keeping busy with your work lately?"

"Oh, yes, quite busy as always. The usual affairs to attend to, you know how it is."

"Of course, one must always stay occupied with important matters."

"How about yourself? Any new and interesting activities keeping you engaged?"

"Not much excitement on my end either, I am afraid."

With those words, the conversation died. Great. Hopefully the next caller would be better.

Wrong.

"Lady Victoria," the Baron of Hertford, William Harrington bowed his head before he took a seat down next to her. "You look absolutely radiant today."

"Thank you, Lord Hertford. How have you been?"

"Oh, simply marvelous, as always. My business ventures are flourishing, and my social calendar is filled to the brim with important engagements."

"It sounds like you've been quite busy."

Please do not talk to me about your accomplishments.

"Indeed," he smiled proudly. "I am a man of many talents and responsibilities. People often marvel at my success and charm, you know."

"I am sure they do," Victoria forced a smile.

"But enough about me. Tell me, Lady Victoria, what have you been up to lately? Any noteworthy accomplishments on your end?"

"I am afraid nothing quite as impressive as your achievements, but–"

"Well, not everyone can be as remarkable as myself, I suppose. But fear not, my dear Lady Victoria, for I am here to bring excitement and sophistication into your life."

Yes, that is not happening.

"Thank you for your kind offer, Lord Hertford. I appreciate your generosity."

Another gentleman that did not meet her standards. But third time's the charm, right?

Wrong.

"Good morning, Lady Victoria," Cedric Fitzroy, the new Lord Cambridgeshire, walked into the room. "You are looking quite lovely today, as always."

"Thank you, my lord. How kind of you to say so."

"It is only truth, my dear. A woman's beauty is her greatest asset, wouldn't you agree?"

She already did not like him, and neither did her brothers.

"Well, I believe there is more to a woman than just her beauty, Lord Cambridgeshire."

"Oh, of course, of course," he let out a chuckle. "But let us not deny the undeniable allure and charm that a beautiful woman such as yourself possesses."

Faking a smile, she composed herself. "Thank you for your flattery. Is there something specific you wanted to discuss with me today?"

"Ah yes, I almost forgot amidst your captivating presence. I wanted to inquire about your thoughts on matters of the home and family. Do you believe a woman's primary role should be in the domestic sphere?"

Definitely not.

"I believe that women should have the freedom to choose their own paths and roles in life, whether it be in the home or outside of it." Arthur looked down and smiled, proud of his sister's words.

"Ah, but my dear Lady Victoria, it is a man's duty to provide and protect his family while a woman's duty is to nurture and care for the household. It is simply nature's way."

Victoria was never one to back down from a challenge, and today was no different. "I respectfully disagree, Lord Cambridgeshire. Women are capable of much more than just domestic duties and should be afforded equal opportunities and respect in all aspects of life."

The gentleman just waved his hand, dismissing her and her opinion. "Ah, but you see, it is men who know what is best for women and society as a whole. Your opinions are charming but ultimately misguided."

"Lord Cambridgeshire," Noah spoke sternly, approaching the two. "We will not tolerate such words in our household, so I kindly ask you to leave."

"What?"

"You heard him," Arthur joined in. "Have the day you deserve."

Victoria smiled at her brothers thankfully as the gentleman angrily left the drawing room.

So far, she had only encountered a man who did not know how to engage in conversation, a man who resembled Narcissus himself, and a man who held outdated and sexist views.

Not a great start.

"Do not worry, honey," her mother smiled. "I am sure the next callers will be worthy of your time."

Victoria nodded. She was not so sure about that.

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After a rather unsuccessful and stressful morning of pretending to listen and care about what the gentlemen were talking about, Victoria, having decided against being escorted by any of them, since she would rather enjoy herself than to be questioned, arrived at the Royal Races alongside her brothers. Noah and Arthur immediately went to make their respective bets, while Victoria and Elliot walked around the place, waiting for their brothers to be done so they could find their seats.

"I saw you dancing with Eloise Bridgerton during the Queen's ball," she started the conversation, a teasing smile on her face.

"Of course you saw us," Elliot sighed. "Mother basically decided it would be a good idea for us to share a dance. Just like Lady Bridgerton did."

"Oh, I see..." It seemed Benedict and her were not the only ones with secret schemes.

"Yes..."

"But, how was the dance? Was it pleasing?"

He smiled slightly. "Surprisingly, it was. Eloise is a smart lady, and we had a few things in common to talk about."

Victoria smiled too. "Well, perhaps it could blossom into a friendship." Or something more.

"Perhaps."

As they walked through Ascot, Victoria and Elliot greeted the ton, engaging in small talk here and there. However, they quickly grew tired of it, and since their brothers were taking their time at the betting stand, they decided to get themselves some refreshments.

"Say, we might as well fetch ourselves some lemonades while we wait, wouldn't you agree, sister?" Elliot asked, offering his arm to her.

Victoria smiled. "Wholeheartedly." And holding onto Elliot's arm, the two headed to get some drinks for themselves and their brothers.

Once there, Elliot had been about to step in line when Victoria spotted none other than Emmaline Davison. Immediately smiling, she pulled her brother along with her as she approached the girl and her brother.

"Emmaline! It is wonderful to see you again."

"Victoria?" Emmaline asked in surprise, approaching her along with her brother Cornelius. "My word, it truly is you!" she smiled, letting go of her brother's arm to embrace her friend. "Oh, how I have missed you!"

Victoria hugged her back tightly. "I have missed you too, Emmaline."

Pulling away, the Davison girl held her shoulders gently. "I did not know you were in town. When did you arrive?"

"We arrived a few days ago! In fact, we were in attendance on both Lady Danbury and the Queen's balls," Victoria explained. "I saw you at the latter, but I sadly did not have the chance to speak to you. Nevertheless, we are here now, aren't we?"

Emmaline smiled. "I must have missed you at the balls then. My apologies, my mind has been scattered all over the place since arriving back home."

"It is alright. But when did you arrive?"

"A day before debuting," Emmaline sighed. "I did not have high hopes for this season, but now that you are here, maybe it will not be a bore after all."

Victoria smiled widely, linking her arm with hers as she led her away. "Come on, let us walk together. You need to catch me up on everything that occurred last season."

Looking over at Cornelius, who sent a nod her way, Emmaline smiled before following Victoria, who waved goodbye to Elliot, promising she would come find him before the race started.

"Of course. Where do I begin?" Emmaline asked as the two started their walk along the place.

"How about you start with Daphne? I heard she got married to a Duke?"

"She did," she smiled. "Oh, you should have seen her, Victoria, Daphne was truly a diamond! But throughout the whole preparation she missed you so much. She didn't want to get married without you being there. Trust me, if Daphne had had it her way she would have postponed the wedding until your return."

"Oh, I wish I had been there! If only I had known the season I decided to travel would be the season she found her soulmate... I would not have left," Victoria chuckled. "I assume she is busy with her new title and estate?"

"She is, she is back at Clyevon for the season to spend time with Auggie. Oh, which reminds me, she just had her first child," Emmaline exclaimed excitedly. "Motherhood suits her so well."

"Oh, yes. Mr. Bridgerton mentioned that during the Queen's ball. Do you think she will be free for Aubrey Hall? Because I certainly am wishing to see her again," she smiled.

"Mr. Bridge– do you mean Benedict?" Emmaline asked as she raised her eyebrow. "And I am not quite sure but knowing Daphne she would not miss the annual game of pall mall. I swear they all become a menace when it comes to it."

"Well, I really hope she attends so we can reunite," Victoria chuckled. "And yes, I mean Benedict. We engaged in conversation during the ball. It was nice to see him again."

"I am glad to hear that, but oh how I am going to murder him," she whispered, leaning closer to Victoria. "We talked the day after the Queen's ball and he did not mention to me that you arrived. And he knew how much I was waiting."

"It must have slipped his mind," she chuckled. "But speaking of the Queen's ball... I saw you staring at Lord Bridgerton as he approached Miss Aiya."

Emmaline's face reddened slightly as she shook her head. "I do not know what you mean by that. You must be mistaken."

"Emmaline, how long have we known each other?" Victoria asked teasingly.

"Dare I say far too long?" she admitted, smiling.

Victoria smiled too. "Precisely. And if I remember correctly..." her voice turned into a whisper so only Emmaline could her. "You always were enamored by the Viscount."

"Victoria," she whispered back as her eyes widened, feeling her cheeks turning even more red than before. "That was a long time ago, and... that was before I realized how much of an arse he really is. He is a cruel, arrogant, egoistical knob! God, he gets on my nerves, I can not stand him."

The way she looked at him said otherwise, but Victoria decided not to mention it. "Did something happen between the two of you?"

"He... I... We had a falling out," Emmaline confessed, her face softening as she looked down. "He expressed how he truly felt about me, saying our friendship was all a lie. We reconciled last season, but... it did not last long, and, well, I am afraid we have said some cruel and nasty things to one another."

"Oh, Emma..." Victoria pulled her closer. "I am sorry to hear that. But I do hope you two can reconcile again. Your friendship was one for the books. I used to be envious of it, you know?"

She held onto Victoria tightly as she comforted her, leaning her head against hers. "I am sorry to disappoint you Vic, I honestly do not see that happening any time soon. And... Really? You were envious? I had no idea."

Victoria nodded, smiling slightly. "Yes. You were inseparable when you were younger, always understanding each other without having to utter a word. Whenever I saw you the two of you, I wished I had a friend like that, someone I shared such simplicity with."

Emmaline smiled slightly, glancing at the second oldest Bridgerton as she spotted him in the crowd. "I think that friend you wish for might come sooner than you think."

Victoria did not notice this, so she just shook her head playfully. "We will see. But, tell me more about last season! We still have some time before the race starts."

Emmaline chuckled, nodding her head as she begins to tell Victoria more about what she had missed last season.

The two girls walked and talked for a while, enjoying each other's company before they decided to head back to where they had last seen their brothers. To their luck, they were still at the refreshments table, engaging in some small talk about the races. Once they reached them, it didn't take long for Emmaline and Cornelius to leave, leaving Victoria and Elliot on their own.

They weren't alone for that much longer though, for Noah and Arthur joined them shortly after, the two arguing about which horse would win the race and therefore which one of them would win the money.

Victoria brushed them off playfully, and the four Crawford siblings made their way to the stands to find their seats, despite there still being some time left before the races began.

Conveniently, and unbeknownst to her until she and her brothers reached their seats, the Crawfords were sitting next to the Bridgertons, with the second oldests being the one dividing the families.

"Good day, Lady Victoria," Benedict smiled, bowing his head. "I am glad to see you."

Victoria smiled too, curtsying slightly. "Mr. Bridgerton."

"Are you looking forward to the race?"

"I am, yes," she nodded, letting out a small chuckle. "But I am looking forward the most to see which one of my brothers win. They always have a private bet going on between them, and it is rather funny to see the aftermath."

Benedict chuckled alongside her. "Do they really?"

Victoria nodded again. "Yes. It is kind of a tradition, I think, for Noah and Arthur have been doing it for years now."

"And may I ask who tends to win?"

"No one can beat Noah when it comes to betting," she smiled. "But Arthur is always optimistic, which is admirable and foolish at the same time."

"I admire the optimism," he chuckled again, glancing at her brothers before looking back at her. "I am sure Noah is betting on Nectar then."

She nodded. "He is. Are you betting today?"

Benedict shook his head. "Not today. I am here to enjoy the event."

"Wise choice," she smiled, taking a sip of her lemonade.

The Bridgerton nodded, looking out at the horses as a moment of silence went by. Then, he spoke again. "Tell me, do you believe I would make a good jockey?"

She frowned slightly, a confused yet honest smile on her face. "Why do you ask?"

"Oh, no reason," he shrugged nonchalantly. "I just wonder if you think I would fill that role nicely is all."

Victoria looked out at the jockeys that were on the track, getting ready for the race. "Hmm, I believe so, yes. But I also believe you can do anything you set your mind to, Mr. Bridgerton."

Benedict looked at her, smiling genuinely. "That is a wonderful thing to hear. Thank you, Lady Victoria."

And she looked at him, smiling widely. "You're welcome."

Silence set in between them again, but it was somewhat... comfortable?

Looking at her brothers, Victoria remembered something, leaning her body slightly closer to Benedict's as she whispered.

"By the way, I found out the reason behind our siblings dancing together last night."

Benedict looked at her, raising an eyebrow. "Oh?"

She nodded. "It turns out our mamas had the same idea as we did."

He blinked, chuckling slightly. "I cannot say I am surprised. My mother always likes to meddle in her children's lives, and with Eloise debuting this year, especially after Daphne's successful season, it is no wonder she is trying her best to find her a suitable match."

"And my mama would not mind having one child less to worry about," she chuckled.

Benedict laughed, enjoying Victoria's company.

"Say," she spoke again, lowering her voice once more. "How about we start our... matchmaking endeavors today? Help our mamas in their mission."

"Or better yet, beat them at their own game," he smirked slightly. "I am in. Any ideas in mind?"

Victoria nodded with a smile, rather eager to start playing Cupid. She looked at Elliot, whose drink was already empty, and then at Eloise, who was not drinking anything, before she cleared her throat.

"El, I see your drink is empty," she spoke to her brother. "Why don't you fetch yourself a new one? It is a rather hot day, after all."

"I guess you're right," Elliot nodded slightly.

"And why don't you take Miss Bridgerton with you?" she glanced at Eloise.

"What?"

"Come on, Elliot, she does not have a drink, and you would not want her to stay dehydrated in this heat, would you? She could pass out."

Benedict just chuckled, looking at his sister. "Eloise, are you thirsty?"

"As a matter of fact, I am, brother," the girl nodded, assuming Benedict wanted to get something to drink. "I would like a–"

"Perfect! Because Lord Elliot is about to head to the refreshments table. Why don't you accompany him?"

Eloise and Elliot looked at each other over their siblings, both sighing. However, they were also wearing small smiles on their faces.

"Miss Bridgerton, may I get you something to drink?" the youngest Crawford approached her, offering his arm for her to take.

And she took it. "You may, Elliot. Just... do not call me that."

He chuckled slightly, the two walking away. "Got it, Eloise."

Victoria and Benedict smiled as they watched their siblings head to the refreshments table. Looking at each other, the Bridgerton man lifted up his hand, and the Crawford woman just chuckled, fist bumping her partner in crime.

"A piece of cake," she chuckled.

He chuckled too. "Indeed."

It did not take long for Elliot and Eloise to return, and for the races to start. Being a competitive bunch, the Crawfords yelled and screamed, enthusiastically cheering on their chosen horses — Noah for Nectar, Arthur and Victoria for High Flyer, and Elliot supporting all the horses. So, when High Flyer crossed the finish line in first place, all siblings except for Noah cheered.

"You finally won, brother!!" Elliot exclaimed, this being the first time Arthur had won one of his and Noah's bets.

"That I did, El!" he chuckled.

"I guess congratulations are in order," Noah sighed.

"Thank you, brother," Arthur wrapped an arm over his older brother's shoulders. "Now, pay up!"

Victoria just observed the scene with a smile, chuckling at her brothers' antics.

"What a race, huh?" Benedict said, smiling at her.

She looked at him, mirroring his smile. "Oh, hands down."

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A week after the Queen's ball, it was time for the Davison's annual family event. Ever since their oldest daughter Augusta had debuted last season, the family started a tradition, hosting an outdoor picnic at their estate to celebrate their daughters' debuts. This year was Emmaline's turn, and Victoria was rather excited for her friend. From what she had heard, the event had been a success last year, so there was no doubt it would be the same for Emmaline.

As her family stepped out of the carriage and into the gardens of the estate, Victoria gently fixed her pale blue muslin dress before draping the matching shawl over her shoulders. Arthur offered her arm to her, and she took it, the family walking towards the hosts.

"Lord and Lady Davison," Walter bowed his head, his wife and children bowing and curtsying.

"Lord and Lady Essex," Thomas Davison did the same thing and so did the rest of the Davisons. "Welcome."

Looking up, Emmaline slightly waved at Victoria, a small but genuine smile on her face. And Victoria smiled back at her.

"I thought last year's event for Augusta's debut was one for the books, but you have exceeded yourselves."

"Thank you, Lillian," Eleanor smiled. "It is lovely to have you back here, this time with the entire family."

"I agree," Walter nodded. "It was not the same attending these events with just our eldest, so it is nice that the whole family is back in London again."

"Oh my, Victoria, look at you. You have grown into an even more beautiful young lady these months abroad," Eleanor complimented the Crawford woman. "In fact, you all have grown so much."

"Thank you so much, Lady Davison," she smiled.

"And here I sometimes wish they had stopped growing a long time ago," Lillian chuckled slightly.

"You and me both," Eleanor agreed, chuckling alongside her friend. "But please, enjoy yourselves."

"Thank you," Walter smiled, bowing his head before the family walked away, with Victoria sending one last smile in Emmaline's direction as she followed.

The Crawfords strolled through the gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling gathering. The ladies were chatting under some of the trees, sipping on lemonade and exchanging gossip, while the men discussed their next hunting trip. There was also live music and a small dance floor, currently unoccupied, but Victoria knew it would be full by the end of the evening.

A while later, the children separated from their parents, who were engaged in conversation with Violet Bridgerton and Eleanor and Thomas Davison. As the siblings walked around, greeting anyone they knew with bows and curtsies, Victoria noticed the eldest Davison talking to who she remembered was Kathani Sharma, one of the ladies being sponsored by Lady Danbury that season. Hmm, interesting...

As she was about to mention it to Noah, who had gone to Oxford with Cornelius, Lord Fife stopped in front of her, bowing his head at her with a smile. Curtsying, she greeted him back and accepted his request of walking alongside them. Victoria and him engaged in small talk, but she did not fail to notice her brothers' reactions to the man: Arthur was sending glares his way, and Elliot was nodding along to what he was saying, really immersed in a conversation that did not involve him in the slightest. The oldest Crawford though, was ignoring the situation, and as he excused himself to go greet some of his friends, Victoria noticed him slip something into his drink.

That could not be good, right?

Shortly after Lord Fife bid the Crawfords goodbye and, being in need of something to drink since the weather was starting to get warm, Victoria excused herself from her brothers and went over to the refreshment tables, looking at her options. Grabbing a glass filled tea punch, she took a sip and sighed happily.

Finally, a little bit of peace.

She hadn't noticed someone else was standing at the table, and glancing up, she noticed it was none other than the diamond of the season, Miss Aiya Chen Dalton.

"Cheers," she smiled, raising her glass towards her.

The girl couldn't help but chuckle, raising her glass as well. "Cheers," she sipped her glass again. "I'm Aiya."

"Victoria," she smiled, taking a sip as well.

Aiya mirrored her smile. "H-Have you been to an event with the Davisons before?"

She nodded. "Oh, yes. Many times. They are close family friends."

"That is wonderful to hear," her eyes lit up. "I recently met Miss Emmaline... she is lovely."

"She really is," Victoria smiled softly. "Is it your first time at a Davison event?"

"It is," the girl nodded. "It is... my first time engaging with the ton per se."

"Oh! I assume you debuted this season, then?"

Aiya nodded again. "I did. It has been.... Interesting."

"If it is anything like my debut, then I can imagine," Victoria chuckled, taking another sip.

"May I ask what your debut was like?"

"Well, there was no diamond title, and no Lady Whistledown for that matter, so I guess it did make it more amenable to not have the weight of society and possible scandals on your back," she let out another chuckle."But it was interesting regarding all the different events you get to attend and all the different people you get to meet."

Aiya's eyes widened slightly. "You mean to tell me that the diamond title used to not exist?"

"Oh, yes. As far as I am aware, it was only introduced last season."

The Dalton girl looked down briefly. "A season without a diamond does seem stressfree."

"It definitely was," Victoria nodded in agreement, letting out a small chuckle.

Both women took another sip of their respective drinks, finishing them.

"Is there anything you are enjoying about being out in society though?" Victoria asked Aiya.

"I have... enjoyed getting to meet so many wonderful people."

She smiled widely. "If you ask me, that is the only perk in this situation."

Aiya chuckled, nodding. "It has been amazing to say the least." Looking ahead, she noticed her brother was giving her a look, which made her sigh. "I am afraid my family is looking for me."

"I understand," Victoria nodded, smiling softly. "I should probably head back to my family too. But it was delightful to meet you."

"It was delightful to meet you as well."

Curtsying slightly at each other as a way to say goodbye, both girls returned to their families, happy about the possibility of having made a new friend.

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"Brother. I need you."

Benedict looked up from his conversation with Mr. Cruikshank to find none other than his older brother Anthony standing there. It seemed he had known he would be at the grand opening of Mr. Mondrich's gentlemen's club.

"I'm in the midst of a conversation," he said in disbelief.

But Anthony ignored him. "Outside, straight away," he said quickly as he rushed outside.

Benedict just blinked. What could he possibly want?

Looking back at his conversation partner, he excused himself before standing up and following his brother outside.

"I need you to teach me how to read that out loud," Anthony spoke once they had found a rather secluded space, handing him a poetry book.

"Byron?" the second oldest exclaimed, not happy with his older brother's request. "Did I strike you much harder than I realized earlier? "

"'There is a pleasure in the pathless woods,'" Anthony started to recite the poem and Benedict just cringed. "'There is a rapture on the lon–' How does one make that sound good?"

"I'm afraid that is not possible," he said teasingly, a small smile on his face as he handed Anthony the book back. "That poem is the opposite of good. That's nonsense."

"I thought this sort of thing was supposed to be your pleasure."

"Poetry, yes. Byron, heavens, no."

"Is not everyone supposed to love Byron?"

Benedict shook his head slightly. "Many in our year at Cambridge thought my poetry far superior to his."

"Does that mean yours is more or less deceitful?"

"Deceitful?" Anthony hummed, and Benedict just sighed. "Poetry is the opposite, brother. It is the art of revealing precious truth with words."

Anthony chuckled, thinking his younger brother was joking. "Quite right, brother." But Benedict was not joking. "You... You're being serious?"

"Mhm," Benedict nodded.

And Anthony sighed, patting his brother on the shoulder as he walked away. "Good God. Good night."

"What is it, truly, to admire a woman?" Benedict spoke, catching his brother's attention, who turned away to face him as he simply shrugged, not knowing the answer. "To look at her and feel inspiration. To delight in her beauty, so much so that all your defenses crumble, that you would willingly take on any pain, any burden for her. To honor her being... with your deeds and words. That is what the true poet describes."

"You should apply yourself more often, Benedict," his brother nodded slightly, impressed with his words. "Write that down."

And with that, he walked away, leaving Benedict stunned at the suddenness of his depart. Nevertheless, his state of stun did not last long, for his focus shifted to a familiar female figure walking inside the gentlemen's club.

Victoria had been at Lady Danbury's soiree when one of the family's footmen caught her attention from outside. Frowning, since it was one of Noah's footman and he was not in attendance, she left the room and met the footman halfway. He informed her that he had been sent by Mr. Mondrich, the owner of the new gentlemen's club, and that it regarded her older brother.

She had no idea what he was talking about, so he proceeded to explain that Noah had had too much to drink and was refusing to leave the club unless his sister came, hence why Mr. Mondrich sent out for Victoria, worried about his club's reputation and Noah's wellbeing.

During the carriage ride, she could not help but wonder what had caused Noah to start drinking as heavily as it appeared he was doing. She remembered seeing a flask under his suit jacket, and seeing him slip things into his drinks during events, but she had assumed it was just him trying to relax.

Apparently it was more than that.

"Lady Victoria, thank you for coming so quickly," Will Mondrich bowed his head in her direction. "And I profoundly apologize for disturbing your evening."

"It is alright, Mr. Mondrich," she smiled politely. "Now... where is my brother?"

Will nodded in his direction, accompanying Victoria there. Once she saw him, she could not help but sigh. Noah's table was filled with empty bottles, a few broken glasses lying at his feet, and he was whispering and talking to himself.

"Lord Rochford, your sister is here. Like you requested."

Noah looked up, chuckling when he saw Victoria. "Look who's here! The golden child."

She sighed once more. "Noah. I see you had a few drinks."

"Can you blame me? Father has given me most of his duties, and it is slowly killing me. But he does not care, no. After all, all he seems to care about is his little princess," he remarked, a sarcastic and rather hateful tone in his voice as he downed the whiskey glass that was on his hand.

She ignored the sting his words caused. "Well, now that you are finished, it is time to go home, Noah."

"Yes, yes..." he sighed, standing up. Or well, trying to, because he stumbled, nearly falling down if it hadn't been for...

"Mr. Bridgerton," Victoria exclaimed, her eyes widening slightly when Benedict caught her brother.

"Lady Victoria," he bowed his head, securing his grip on Noah. "May I offer my help?"

"U-Uh, yes, of course. Thank you," she smiled.

He smiled too, helping Noah walk as he followed Victoria outside, the two of them bidding Mr. Mondrich goodbye.

"Is everything alright?" Benedict asked Victoria, thinking the time was fitting since Noah was back to being quiet, close to falling asleep. "This club is usually not the place for a lady such as yourself."

"I know," she sighed. "But as you might have gathered, my brother needed me here."

"Couldn't your younger brothers come?"

"Apparently not, for he asked for me specifically."

Benedict nodded, not knowing what else to say as they walked toward the carriage. Looking back, Victoria noticed he was slightly struggling to carry Noah's now asleep body, so she slowed down her walking and helped him, each one of them holding one of Noah's arms.

"If I can be honest," she broke the silence. "I did not know of his drinking habits, so this was rather a shocking surprise."

"I am sorry to hear that," he frowned.

"But... I cannot blame him," she looked at Benedict. "Being the eldest might have its perks, but it also has its limitations."

He nodded in understanding. "It does. I have seen it on Anthony first hand."

Silence settled between them again, and once they reached the carriage, Benedict and Victoria got the sleeping Noah safely into the carriage.

Glancing at him, she sighed. "I fear the stress has become unbearable for him, and... I just wish he would talk to me. Like he did before. Maybe I could have helped him deal with all of this."

Benedict stared at her softly, a small smile on his face as he placed his hand on her bare shoulder. "This is not your fault, Victoria. It is his. All you have to do is be there for him, and I am sure he will learn to accept your help, while being thankful to have you in his life."

Victoria looked into his blue eyes, his touch sending shivers down her spine.

"Thank you, Benedict," she smiled softly. "I greatly appreciate your words."

He blinked, his cheeks turning a light pink as he removed his hand from her shoulder. "O-Of course."

"Lady Victoria," one of the footmen approached them. "We are ready to leave."

She nodded, thanking him as he walked away and she moved closer to the carriage, ready to head home.

But before she could step into the carriage, Benedict extended his hand toward her, a warm smile playing on his lips. She glanced at his hand and then at him, her eyes meeting his as he silently offered his assistance. Smiling, Victoria gently held his hand, and with a tender yet confident touch, Benedict guided her, ensuring her footing was secure on the step before she made it inside.

Victoria looked at him again, gratitude in her eyes. His gesture and kindness not only warmed her heart, but it also made her feel a sense of comfort in his presence.

"Good night, Mr. Bridgerton."

"Good night, Lady Victoria."

Watching the carriage drift into the distance, Benedict's smile lingered on his face, reflecting the one adorning Victoria's features inside, as they both thought about the small yet meaningful moment that had occurred between the two of them.

『••✎••』

ahhhh, i love benevic so much🥺 they own my heart

but chapter two is finally here!!! this chapter was so fun to write, so i hope you guys find it just as fun to read haha

as mentioned in the introduction & last chapter, emmaline & aiya are my friends' ocs, so if you want to learn more about them, check out their accounts! we have a lot of things planned for this series... 🤭

anyways, don't be a ghost reader & i'll see you the next chapter! 💙

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