I.       /       Whispers and Whismy

Princess Genevieve Floquet had caused an uproar amongst London society. She had arrived only three days ago—spending all of her time cooped up in her bedroom—and was met with Lady Whistledown's Society Papers her brother and sister, Léo and Adélaïde, had dropped on her bed unceremoniously. She read over the words—half flattered and the other mortified—and nonchalantly placed it back on her bed, eyeing the pair of siblings with speculation. 

"What?" she asked, rolling her eyes as she sunk herself into the plush silk comforter. 

"It seems marriage is on the horizon," Léo responded, raising an eyebrow as he let out a chuckle and flopped himself onto her bed, Addie following suit. 

"Please do not marry the Prince of Prussia," Addie said, the name slipping off her tongue with obvious distaste. "I hear his family is—" she paused, eyeing the door which was closed completely, and continuing, "almost penniless. We cannot have you sent off to a family that is—that is—" She struggled to say the word.

"Poor," Léo said with ease. "Didn't you hear, Addie? Those are just rumors." He turned his neck to look in Gen's direction. "Gen, if you must marry the Prince, I won't stand in your way. You don't need money if there is love—"

Genevieve wasn't sure when Addie picked up one of her smaller pillows, but she used it to smack it across their brother's face. "Little Gen can never fall in love with Friedrich."

"Friedrich? You are on a first-name basis with him? Perhaps you wish to keep Gen away from him so that you might have him all to yourself," Léo teased, his tone light and unbothered by Addie's assault with the softest pillow Gen had ever laid her head on.

Addie gasped in horror, her lips curving into a frown at his words. "Léo, I am married! Don't make such insinuations."

"Yes, to Lord Montrose," Léo retorted, rolling his eyes. "A match made more in the ledger books than in the heavens."

Addie sighed, a shadow passing over her face. "We all have our duties, Léo. But that doesn't mean Genevieve should be burdened with a loveless match."

Genevieve's eyes were shooting between the pair throughout the entire conversation, almost as if she was watching a pickleball game play out. She sighed, but their glare continued to be directed at each other. She sighed again, louder this time which made their necks snap in her direction with a questioning look. 

"I don't want to marry a Prince—I have five of them as brothers and they are the most annoying bunch who don't stop butting their heads in my business." She punctuated her words with a kick to Léo's leg, which was only a few inches away from her. "One of them should start looking for a wife, too, instead of barging into his sister's room without a knock."

Léo feigned a wounded expression, dramatically clutching his leg where Genevieve had kicked him. "Alas, dear sister, you wound me with both your words and your foot! But you are right, perhaps I should begin my search for a bride. I hear London is teeming with eligible ladies just waiting to fall in love with a handsome French prince."

Addie rolled her eyes and gave him a light shove. "Please, Léo, spare us the theatrics. If you are serious about finding a wife, then perhaps you should start by showing a bit more maturity."

Her brother waved his sister off, and Genevieve smiled softly. "Addie, do you know who I should be looking out for at tonight's ball?" she asked her sister, swiftly changing the never-ending conversation. She only asked because she assumed Ádelaïde would've researched the entirety of the London society to steer her away from all of the men who weren't worth her time. 

"Well, off the top of my head," she said, pausing as though searching through her memory. "There are a few gentlemen who might be worth your attention. There's Lord Harrington, who recently returned from his travels in the Americas. He's wealthy, charming, and his family is highly respected."

Léo snorted. "Lord Harrington? The man is as dull as dishwater. You wouldn't last five minutes in a conversation with him, Gen."

Adélaïde shot him a withering look. "And what would you suggest, Léo? One of your artist friends who spends more time with a paintbrush than with people?"

Genevieve interjected before the bickering could escalate further. "I appreciate the suggestions, both of you. But I am not looking for a list of names. I need to know who I should avoid."

Addie sighed but nodded in understanding. "Alright, then. You should steer clear of Lord Berbrooke. He's notorious for his lack of manners and his even worse intentions. And then there's Mr. Denny, who has a penchant for gambling away his family fortune. Oh, and let's not forget Sir Philip Crane. He's rather easy on the eyes, yes, but his reputation with the ladies is less than stellar."

Genevieve nodded thoughtfully. "Perfect. Now I know who to run away from."

Addie looked at her, scanning her face before she said, "A Bridgerton is most suitable when it comes to money and personality. Their eldest daughter married the Duke of Hastings last season—a lot of scandal. The Dowager Viscountess is most likely the best mother-in-law once could have, from what I hear—"

"Absolutely not," Léo cut in, shaking his head vehemently. "I am friends with their second eldest son, Benedict. I want you nowhere near him, Genevieve."

Genevieve raised her hands in faux surrender, a gleam of curiosity twinkling in her eyes. "Why? What is wrong with him? If you are friends with him, he cannot be that bad."

Léo sighed, rubbing his temples. "Benedict Bridgerton is an artist—the most free-spirited man I know, honestly. He is at places and with people far from the respectable circles you should be mingling with." 

Genevieve arched an eyebrow. "And yet, you call him your friend?"

"Yes, well," Léo hesitated, searching for the right words. "He is a good man, but his lifestyle is not one I would recommend for my sister. You need someone stable, someone who can offer you the security and respect you deserve."

A part of Genevieve, the stubborn, hate-the-world part, got rather annoyed at Léo telling her what she needed. It wasn't that she was going to seek Benedict Bridgerton out and ask for his hand in marriage, but if she were, she was sure she could handle a man who runs in unrespectable circles, as her brother put it. But the other part agreed—she couldn't tell her father she married a man who was associated with everything her father was against. She was on thin ice with him since coming to London—something about him being worried about their reputation being ruined in another place—and she didn't want to worsen it. 

"What about his brother, Anthony? I hear he is looking for a wife this season," Addie said carefully, noting the thoughtful look on Gen's face. 

Genevieve shook her head, snapping herself out of her pattern of thinking. "We are getting far too ahead of ourselves. It is very likely these men will have no interest in me—also, I do not wish to go to the first Ball with expectations in my mind. I apologize for asking, sister."

Addie stared at her incredulously. "Genevieve, you are a Princess who has had fourteen proposals already. You must have some expectations, and they would be fools to not have any interest in you. You are gorgeous, have the most brilliant mind, and you haven't tripped over your own feet in at least over a month!"

Genevieve couldn't help but laugh at her sister's teasing. "Well, I suppose that is an accomplishment," she replied, rolling her eyes with a smile.

She looked at the brown mantle clock on her vanity, the clock itching closer to four PM, then at the dress hung on her wardrobe that she planned to wear tonight. She had mostly designed it herself, with the help of Lady Guinevere, her family's seamstress, and fell in love with it. It was made with the most expensive deep, royal blue silk and satin in their principality because she thought the color sat well with her skin. Guinevere helped with embroidering silver threads into floral patterns on the bodice and made the sweetheart neckline adorned with tiny pearls Gen sewed on. The sleeves were off-shoulder, made in mind for the blue sapphire necklace her mother had gifted her to be shown, and the skirt was multiple layers of soft tulle beneath the silk with a short, elegant train in the back. She planned to leave her hair down except for some small, barely-there braids with a few strands of silver ribbon woven into her hair underneath her silver tiara.

She had been confident in her choices, but she was beginning to grow wary. What if the Ton didn't like her? What if she made a fool of herself in front of everybody? She heard the Queen was to be in attendance tonight, and she didn't want to disappoint her especially after she invited her with high hopes. 

Although her father wasn't in attendance tonight because his trip to London was scheduled for the next week, her eldest brother, Étienne was left in charge of maintaining the family's reputation, and their Lady Margaret, who was left in charge as her chaperone to maintain her reputation. 

          The grand ballroom of the Duke of Hastings' London residence was a sight to behold. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm, golden glow over the elegantly dressed guests, whose laughter and conversation filled the air with a lively hum. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries and gold leaf, reflecting the opulence of the event. The scent of fresh flowers mingled with the aroma of fine cuisine, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that promised an unforgettable evening.

Princess Genevieve Floquet stepped into the ballroom, her deep royal blue gown shimmering under the chandeliers. The delicate silver embroidery and pearls on her bodice caught the light with every movement, making her the center of attention. Her siblings flanked her, each playing a crucial role in her entrance.

Her brother, Crown Prince Étienne led the way, his commanding presence ensuring that eyes followed them wherever they went. Léo walked beside Genevieve, his lighthearted banter easing her tension. "Remember, Gen, just breathe. It's only a room full of people who want to know everything about you," he teased, earning a laugh from her which she immediately stifled at the sight of eyes fixed on her and her family.

Princess Adélaïde, ever the strategist, whispered names and important details about key guests into Genevieve's ear. "That's Lady Danbury over there, with the peacock feathers in her hair. She's one to impress."

Prince Bastien, with his easy charm, had already engaged with a group of young gentlemen, subtly steering the conversation to gather information about potential suitors.

It seemed that all her siblings were on the path to helping her, and she was inexplicably grateful for that because while she was confident, she wasn't sure she could handle so many people from a different culture than her all at once. She straightened her posture and lifted her chin, determined to make a good impression. Lady Margaret, their trusted chaperone, followed closely behind, her keen eyes scanning the crowd.

"Princess Genevieve, you look absolutely stunning," came a voice from her left. She turned to see Lord Harrington, who Addie had pointed out only mere seconds ago, with a practiced smile on his lips.

"Thank you, Lord Harrington. It is a pleasure to meet you," Genevieve replied with a polite smile.

"Tell me, Princess, have you had the chance to see much of London yet?" Lord Harrington asked, his tone courteous but slightly dull.

"Not as much as I would like, but I am looking forward to exploring more," she answered diplomatically.

Before the conversation could continue, another voice cut in. "Lord Harrington, do save some of your charms for the rest of us." She didn't recognize the Lady, but she was blonde with a voluminous updo Genevieve was rather jealous of. The Lady looked at her in amusement and calculation, and Gen debated on whether or not she should introduce herself.

She decided otherwise. Her brother had said Lord Harrington was as dull as dishwater, and even though he seemed rather charming, she wasn't going to impose on him if somebody else already had their sights set. Genevieve excused herself from Lord Harrington's company and moved on, feeling a mix of relief and curiosity. 

She engaged in a few conversations, learning the names of the people. She was introduced to a handful of mamas, who either complimented her dress and asked where it was from or introduced their son to her. So far, her conversations seemed to be rather pleasant. Nobody had stood out to her, but she was quite alright with that—she had only spoken with around five men properly and the rest were fleeting conversations her siblings dragged her away from.

"There's Anthony Bridgerton," Adélaïde whispered, pointing to the man only a few feet away from them. His eyes were already on the Floquets and brimmed with curiosity, as were everybody else's. "Go! Introduce yourself," she said, pushing her lightly towards him as Léo began telling Addie to not make Gen associate with the Bridgertons.

Genevieve took a deep breath, her heart pounding as she approached him. "Lord Bridgerton," she said, curtsying gracefully. "I am Princess Genevieve Floquet. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Anthony inclined his head, his expression thoughtful. "Princess Genevieve, the pleasure is mine. I've heard much about your family's arrival."

Gen laughed lightly. "I can imagine. Especially with those all-telling society papers you have," she replied. 

He looked slightly amused. "Ah, you have been exposed to the world of Lady Whistledown? It was bound to happen, she seems to have taken London Society by quite a storm for sometime."

Genevieve nodded, her smile growing. "Indeed, I have. Quite the introduction to London society, I must say."

Anthony chuckled, a deep, resonant sound that made Genevieve's nerves ease just a bit. "Well, I assure you, Princess, not everything written is to be taken at face value."

"That is reassuring to hear, Lord Bridgerton," she replied, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Though I must admit, it does add a certain... flair to the experience."

Their conversation flowed easily, and Genevieve found herself enjoying Anthony's company. He was courteous and attentive, and his reputation for being stern seemed softened by the warmth in his eyes. As they spoke, Genevieve couldn't help but notice the glances they were receiving from the other guests, the whispers, and the curious looks.

He was in the midst of retelling a tale about his sister, Daphne's marriage to the Duke when Léo appeared by her side and said, "Ah, Genevieve. There you are, I have been looking all over for you." He was pretending as though he had no idea she was there the entire time. "And who might you be?" he asked Anthony, and it seemed he was pretending he had no idea who he was, either.

Anthony extended his hand to Léo as Genevieve said, "This is Viscount Bridgerton. He has been most kind in keeping me company."

"A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness," Anthony said, firmly shaking Léo's hand.

"Ah, Anthony Bridgerton?" he asked, playing off clueless. He was a stickler for his reputation. "I have heard a lot about you from your brother, Benedict. He is one talkative fellow." 

Anthony nodded with a small, acknowledging smile. "That he is. He has more stories I can count," he said, chuckling. "Sometimes, I think he could write a novel with all his adventures."

Genevieve smiled, feeling a genuine warmth from Anthony's words. "He sounds like quite the character. I look forward to meeting him."

As they spoke, Daphne Bridgerton, now Duchess of Hastings, joined the trio. "Anthony, I hope you have not been boring them?" she asked, mimicking Léo's words when he had joined them. 

"No, sister, I have not. In fact, I was in the middle of telling them your engagement story and was about to get to the part where Simon Basset and I—"

"Sh!" Daphne said, placing her hand over her mouth. She looked at Genevieve and Léo and cleared her throat, her cheeks turning a shade of apple-red as she leaned into a curtsy. "Princess Genevieve, Princess Léo. It is a pleasure to meet you both," she said with the same form of diplomacy Gen had learned in her English lessons a few years ago. 

"Duchess," Genevieve said with a curtsy. "It is a pleasure to meet you. The story of your marriage. It sounds quite romantic."

Daphne laughed lightly, a sparkle in her eyes. "Romantic, yes. Though I assure you, it had its fair share of drama. But enough about me. How are you finding London, Princess Genevieve?"

Genevieve glanced around the bustling ballroom, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. "It is... different from what I am used to, but I am enjoying the experience," she replied honestly, her thoughts drifting to the endless social expectations and the whispers that followed her every move.

Daphne nodded sympathetically. "I can imagine. It can be quite overwhelming at first. But you seem to be handling it with grace." Her eyes scanned Lady Danbury's ballroom, noting the several eyes on them.

"Thank you, Duchess. That means a lot coming from you," Genevieve said, her smile sincere. She noticed Anthony watching her closely as if gauging her reaction.

"I hear you two come from quite a large family yourselves, right?" Anthony asked, his interest piqued.

"Yes, we do," Léo replied with a proud smile. "There are seven of us in total. It certainly makes for lively family gatherings."

"That must be wonderful," Daphne said, her eyes twinkling. "I have always thought large families have a special kind of magic. There's always something happening, and you never feel alone."

Genevieve nodded. "It can be chaotic at times, but it's also comforting to know that there's always someone to turn to. Family is very important to us."

Genevieve nodded. "It can be chaotic at times, but it's also comforting to know that there's always someone to turn to. Family is very important to us."

"Is it only the two of you in attendance tonight?" Daphne asked curiously.

"It is me, Léo," she paused, pointing at her brother with a gloved finger. "My eldest brother Étienne, and my elder sister, Ádelaïde." She scanned the room, attempting to find both of them in the ballroom swarming in colors. "There Étienne is," she said, chuckling as she pointed at Étienne who was surprisingly standing only a few people away from them engaged in a conversation with a group of young ladies. She noticed Ádelaïde by the refreshments, a glass of champagne held between her fingers as she spoke with a gentleman Gen didn't know the name of. "There Áddie is," she said, her voice trailing off as she noticed her sister laugh with a full smile on her face, a laugh she hadn't seen all that much of since her marriage two years ago. 

She and Léo exchanged brief glances, and she realized he had noticed the same thing. 

Daphne followed Genevieve's gaze and smiled. "Your brother seems to be enjoying himself."

Genevieve chuckled softly. "Yes, Étienne has always had a way with people. He can make anyone feel at ease."

Anthony nodded. "It's a good quality to have, especially in our circles. Have you met many interesting people tonight?"

"Quite a few," Genevieve replied. "Though I must admit, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to remember all the names and faces."

Daphne patted her hand reassuringly. "You'll get used to it. And if you ever need any help, just let us know. We're more than happy to assist. I have memorized nearly every family's name and face in the ton after my season last year."

"Thank you, Daphne. That means a lot," Genevieve said, feeling a warm sense of camaraderie.

Just then, Étienne approached, his expression as charming as ever. "Sister, I see you've made quite the impression."

Genevieve smiled up at him. "I hope so. Everyone has been very welcoming."

Léo held an easy grin on his face. "Ah, there you are, Ét. I was beginning to think you were going to be spirited away by that flock of girls."

Étienne chuckled. "They were quite persistent, but I managed to escape. For now, at least."

Anthony and Daphne exchanged amused glances. "Prince Étienne, it seems you are quite popular this evening," Anthony said with a smile.

"Yes, well, it seems the ladies of London are rather enthusiastic," Étienne replied with a twinkle in his eye. "But I must say, the company here is even more delightful."

Her brother had a way with words; she had seen his magic play out in real time in France. He was usually the sibling who garnered the most attention as he was the Crown Prince, and he had learned to deal with the attention rather elegantly if Gen had to admit it. 

"Your charm seems to work just as well here as it does back home," Genevieve remarked with a playful smile.

Étienne gave a modest shrug. "It's all about finding common ground. People are people, no matter where you go."

Léo grinned. "Well, you certainly have a knack for it. I, on the other hand, prefer smaller, more intimate gatherings. The noise and crowd can be a bit much."

Daphne nodded sympathetically. "I understand completely. Large gatherings can be overwhelming, especially when everyone wants a moment of your time."

Anthony glanced around the room. "It helps to find a quiet corner now and then, just to catch your breath."

Genevieve laughed softly. "I think I might take that advice. Though it seems finding a quiet corner in this ballroom might be a challenge."

Étienne leaned in, his voice conspiratorial. "There's always the gardens. I was there only a few minutes ago with some of the ladies and their chaperones. They're beautifully lit at night and offer a bit of respite from the chaos."

"I'll have to explore them later," Genevieve said with a nod. "Thank you for the suggestion, Ét."

Genevieve returned the smile. "I would love that, Duchess. It sounds like a perfect escape."

Léo chuckled. "Just don't let the ladies of London hear you, Duchess. They might be jealous of the time you spend away from the party."

Daphne laughed lightly. "Oh, they will manage. Besides, it's important to make new friends."

Genevieve felt a warm glow of contentment. Despite the initial nerves, she was finding her footing in this new world, and the Bridgertons' kindness was making it much easier.

As they continued their lighthearted conversation, Lady Danbury and Violet Bridgerton approached the group, their presence commanding and warm. "I see the Floquet siblings are making quite an impression," Lady Danbury said with a twinkle in her eye.

"Indeed," Violet added, her smile genuine. "Princess Genevieve, Prince Étienne, Prince Léo, we would be honored if you could join us for dinner soon. It would be a wonderful opportunity to get to know each other better."

"We would love that, Lady Bridgerton, Lady Danbury," Étienne replied smoothly. "Thank you for the invitation."

Léo nodded in agreement. "Yes, it would be a pleasure to spend more time with your families." Genevieve was glad she and her siblings were making friends who seemed genuine—she only felt a little off at losing sight of her sister, who seemed to have left the refreshment area along with the man.

Lady Danbury looked at Genevieve with a keen eye. "And how are you finding our London society, Princess Genevieve? Quite different from France, I imagine."

Genevieve smiled politely. "It is different, Lady Danbury, but I am enjoying the experience. There is so much to learn and so many interesting people to meet."

Violet nodded approvingly, as though realizing her words were spoken from the unofficial manual of how to converse as a woman. "You are handling it with great poise, my dear. And if you ever need any assistance, do not hesitate to reach out. We are all here to help each other."

"Thank you, Lady Bridgerton. That is very kind of you," Genevieve replied, feeling genuinely touched by the offer.

Lady Danbury's eyes sparkled with mischief. "And I must say, Your Highness seems to be quite popular among the ladies tonight. I believe he has already charmed half the room."

Étienne laughed, his expression humble. "I assure you, Lady Danbury, I am merely enjoying the evening and the company."

Daphne, picking up on the lighthearted tone, added, "It seems the Floquet siblings have brought a breath of fresh air to our gatherings. We are very pleased to have you here."

As the conversation flowed, Genevieve felt more at ease. She exchanged a glance with Léo, who gave her a reassuring smile. It was comforting to have her siblings by her side, navigating this new social landscape together.

Anthony turned to Genevieve, his tone friendly. "So, Princess Genevieve, have you had the chance to explore much of London yet?"

"Not as much as I would like," Genevieve admitted. "But I am looking forward to seeing more of the city."

Violet interjected warmly. "Perhaps we can arrange a tour. There are many beautiful places to visit, and it would be our pleasure to show you around."

"That sounds wonderful," Genevieve said, feeling a surge of excitement. "Thank you, Lady Bridgerton."

Lady Danbury nodded approvingly. "London has much to offer, and you should experience all of it. Now, I must excuse myself, but I do hope to see more of you all this season."

"Of course, Lady Danbury. Thank you for your hospitality," Genevieve said, curtsying slightly as Lady Danbury departed.

Just then, a young man approached, his eyes gleaming with a mischievous glint. It seemed that her and her brothers were never breaking away from this little group, and she wasn't complaining. "Ah, Princess Genevieve, I see you are becoming well-acquainted with my family."

Genevieve looked at him with curiosity. "And you are?"

The young man gave a charming bow. "Colin Bridgerton, at your service."

"Mr. Bridgerton," Genevieve said coolly, her smile polite. "Yes, your family has been very welcoming."

Colin's smirk widened. "I trust my brother Anthony has been regaling you with tales of our escapades. He does enjoy telling stories."

"Actually, we've been discussing more recent events," Genevieve replied, her tone measured.

"Is that so?" Colin replied, raising an eyebrow. "Well, I'm sure Anthony has plenty of tales to tell. And if you ever tire of his stories, you can always seek me out for a different perspective."

"Thank you for the offer, Mr. Bridgerton," Genevieve said, her patience wearing thin. "I will keep that in mind."

Violet interjected, her tone cheerful. "Colin, I was just telling Princess Genevieve about Benedict. Have you seen him? We should introduce them." Genevieve didn't bother thinking over the fact that they weren't talking about Benedict but assumed this was a mother's ploy in matchmaking.

"Benedict is around here somewhere, no doubt charming someone with his latest painting," Colin said, his tone dismissive. "But Princess Genevieve, I must ask, how do you find our little society compared to the grand courts of France?"

"Different, indeed," Colin said with a smirk. "I spent some time in France during my travels. I must say, I found it quite," he paused, as though searching for the right words. "Underwhelming. The people there seem to think too highly of themselves, and the food, well, it's rather overrated, don't you think?"

Genevieve's eyes narrowed slightly, her patience wearing thin. "I suppose it is a matter of perspective, Mr. Bridgerton. I find both cultures have their unique charms."

Daphne interjected, sensing the tension. "France is known for its rich history and beautiful art. I would love to visit someday."

Étienne, noticing the shift in the conversation, added with a smile, "And we would be happy to show you around, Duchess. There's much to appreciate if you know where to look."

Léo grinned. "Indeed. And if you ever tire of London, our home is always open to you."

Colin raised an eyebrow, leaning in slightly. "Is that so? Well, I do hope you find our London suitors to your liking. They may lack the flair of the French, but they have their own...charms."

Genevieve maintained her composure, her voice steady. "I'm sure I will, Mr. Bridgerton. Every place has its own qualities to be appreciated."

Colin's smirk widened. "You must forgive me, Princess. I sometimes find the grand tales of other places to be exaggerated. For instance, I heard that in France, the suitors are quite relentless. How many proposals have you had, if I might ask?"

Genevieve felt her patience thinning further. "I prefer to keep such matters private, Mr. Bridgerton. I find such personal inquiries rather forward."

"Ah, but forwardness can be a virtue, don't you think?" Colin pressed, his tone still light but with an edge. "Especially in a place like London, where everyone is always so proper. A bit of directness can be refreshing."

Daphne stepped in again, her tone firmer. "Colin, perhaps you should give Princess Genevieve some space. She has only just arrived and deserves some time to acclimate."

Étienne added with a pointed look, "Indeed, my sister is here to enjoy herself, not to be interrogated."

Colin chuckled, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Of course, of course. I meant no harm. Merely making conversation. But I must say, it is refreshing to meet someone who can handle herself so well."

Before Genevieve could respond, Violet stepped in, her tone firm yet gracious. "Colin, I believe you have other guests to attend to. Princess Genevieve, we would be honored if you would join us for dinner soon. It would be a wonderful opportunity for you to get to know the family better."

Colin inclined his head, his smirk still in place. "As you wish, Mother. Princess Genevieve, it has been an enlightening conversation."

Genevieve gave a polite nod, grateful for Violet's intervention. "Thank you, Mr. Bridgerton."

As Colin finally moved away, Violet leaned in, her voice warm but with a hint of determination. "Princess Genevieve, I apologize for my son's forwardness. We would truly be delighted to have you join us for dinner."

Genevieve smiled, sensing Léo's subtle tension beside her. "Thank you, Lady Bridgerton. I would be delighted."

          It had taken some time, but after a few more conversations with the Bridgertons, she and her brother had broken away from the group to let Genevieve converse with others. She had shelved Colin Bridgerton and his less-than-acceptable comments toward her and planned to debrief it with her siblings that night. Aside from him, she found the Bridgertons to be the most welcoming out of everybody at the Ball. She had yet to meet Queen Charlotte formally, and it seemed she had disappeared from her seat right as she was speaking with Lord Blackburn. 

She had gone through a conversation with a few men throughout the rest of the night, most of them making a positive impression yet nothing that truly stuck with her. The only one who seemed to be different compared to the pool of Lords at Lady Danbury's Ball was Colin Bridgerton and she knew that if she didn't remember any conversation from tonight for its dullness, she would remember Colin Bridgerton's. 

Léo and Genevieve found themselves together once again, right after she was done speaking with Lord Blackburn and Lord Melbrooke, the latter whose addition seemed to sullen the already-wilting conversation almost immediately. It might have been a little early, but Gen didn't want to deal with the same line of questions once again: How is London? What is the difference between London and France? Oh, Princess...

She felt like a parrot repeating the same answers in different variations over and over. But she knew she mustn't blame the men for the most part—they couldn't begin asking her about her deepest darkest secret the first time she spoke with them.

"I believe I am done with tonight's Ball, brother," she said to Léo, a shaky sigh of tiredness leaving her lips. 

He nodded, a similar expression coating his features. "Me as well. It seems that Benedict has left early, I am a little vexed he did not say hi. Or asked me to go where he was going."

She nudged her elbow into his torso. "You mustn't leave me!" she exclaimed softly. "You have to go to all of the Balls until I find a husband," she teased, giggling as they reached the refreshments.

He threw his head back in faux frustration and asked the bartender to give him a glass of champagne. "I must go look for Addie and Ét. Why don't you make one more round while I do so? Just to really seal the night."

Genevieve gave a reluctant nod and started to make her way around the room once more. As she moved through the crowd, she felt a mix of exhaustion and determination. Just as she was about to retreat to a quieter corner, she found herself face-to-face with Colin Bridgerton once again.

"Princess Genevieve, fancy seeing you again," Colin said, his smirk firmly in place. "I hope you are enjoying the evening."

Genevieve forced a polite smile. "Mr. Bridgerton, it seems you are quite the social butterfly. Are you enjoying yourself?"

Colin chuckled. "Indeed, I am. But it's not every day one meets a princess. I imagine you must find these events rather dull, don't you?"

Genevieve's patience was wearing thin, but she maintained her composure. "On the contrary, Mr. Bridgerton. I find them quite fascinating. There's always something interesting to observe."

Colin's smirk widened. "Interesting to observe, perhaps. But surely you must get tired of all the empty flattery and hollow compliments."

Genevieve met his gaze steadily. "One learns to navigate such situations with grace. It's all part of the experience."

Colin raised an eyebrow, his tone teasing. "Grace, yes. But I wonder, do you ever find anyone here genuinely intriguing? Or are we all just part of the scenery for you?"

Genevieve felt a spark of irritation but kept her tone even. "I believe everyone has something unique to offer, Mr. Bridgerton. It just takes time to discover it."

"Well, aren't you diplomatic?" Colin replied, his smile still in place. "But I must say, it's refreshing to meet someone who doesn't immediately fall for the usual charms."

"Usual charms, Mr. Bridgerton?" Genevieve asked, tilting her head slightly. "Are you referring to yourself?" She took a moment to look at his features. His dark hair was neatly styled, and his eyes held a mischievous glint that hinted at his playful nature. His jawline was strong, accentuating the sharp lines of his face, and his smile, though often edged with sarcasm, was undeniably captivating. Despite his rakish demeanor, there was an undeniable charm about him, one that many would find hard to resist. She realized, with a hint of reluctance, that Colin Bridgerton was indeed quite handsome.

Colin's smile widened as if he sensed her thoughts. He laughed slightly in realization as she felt her cheeks slightly redden. "Well, Princess, I suppose I might be. It's good to know I haven't lost my touch."

Genevieve raised an eyebrow, her tone lightly teasing. "Confidence, Mr. Bridgerton, or arrogance?"

"A bit of both, perhaps," he replied with a chuckle. "Confidence, though. It makes the world go round. And I must say, you wear it well."

Genevieve met his gaze steadily, unwilling to be outdone. "I'm not easily impressed, Mr. Bridgerton. You'll have to try harder than that."

Colin's eyes gleamed with amusement. "Oh, I'm well aware. But you, Princess, have a way of making even the most tedious of events seem bearable. You have turned the tide of the ballroom around with your mere presence"

Genevieve's smile was polite but edged with a challenge. "I'm glad you think so. It seems we both have our own unique skills."

Colin leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a more intimate tone. She hardly heard her chaperone clear her throat a few inches away from her, but chose to ignore her. He was rather close to her person, but not close enough to warrant a scandal. "Indeed. And I must say, your ability to keep everyone on their toes is quite refreshing."

Genevieve's cheeks flushed slightly, but she maintained her composure. "I am quite sure I haven't kept everyone on their toes."

"Are you reserving this just for me, or is everyone treated to your sharp wit?"

She let out a laugh, backing away from him slightly. "It's always interesting to meet someone who thinks they're irresistible," Genevieve replied coolly.

Colin shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips she found herself unwittingly looking at. "I have learned a thing or two about myself over the past few months."

Genevieve raised an eyebrow. "And what might those lessons be, Mr. Bridgerton?"

"That confidence and a bit of charm can get you far," Colin replied, his tone light but his gaze intense. "And it's always fascinating to meet someone who keeps me on my toes."

Genevieve tilted her head slightly, feeling a strange mix of irritation and curiosity. "You enjoy a challenge, don't you?"

"Immensely," Colin said with a chuckle. "And I must say, you make for a rather delightful one, Princess."

Genevieve felt her cheeks warm again, but she managed to maintain her composure. "I'm glad you find me entertaining, Mr. Bridgerton."

"Oh, it's more than just entertainment," Colin replied, leaning in slightly. "It's not often I meet someone who can keep up with me."

Genevieve's eyes met his, trying to decipher his intentions. "Is that so? Well, I hope I don't disappoint."

"I doubt you could," Colin said smoothly, his smirk softening into a more genuine smile. "You're quite refreshing."

Genevieve felt her heartbeat quicken at his words but tried to brush it off. "Flattery will get you nowhere, Mr. Bridgerton."

"Who said I was trying to get anywhere?" Colin replied, his tone playful. "Perhaps I'm just enjoying the moment."

Genevieve couldn't help but smile, despite her better judgment. "Well, enjoy it while it lasts."

"Oh, I intend to," Colin said, his eyes lingering on hers for a moment longer. "Enjoy the rest of your evening, Princess."

"You too, Mr. Bridgerton," Genevieve replied, watching as he finally moved away.

As she let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding, Genevieve couldn't deny that Colin Bridgerton's attention had added an unexpected element to her evening. He was certainly a puzzle, and despite her initial irritation, she found herself drawn to him in a way she hadn't anticipated. She needed to stop!

She turned to Margaret, her chaperone, with a shocked look covering her features. She said to Margaret, "Wow, he is an insufferable man."

Margaret nodded. 

author's note: so so so sorry if there are any mistakes in this chapter. i haven't proofread it enough, i just wanted to publish it because i am so excited for this!! if you enjoyed it, i'd be so grateful for votes and comments to know your thoughts!! do u guys like this vibe? i am also in love with the floquet siblings and cant wait to introduce their clan next chapter!!