Chapter Two: Shock and Delight
While the duke and eldest Bridgerton daughter were the talk of the night, this author witnessed another interesting match to be. Benedict Bridgerton and Letitia Everly were seen dancing, not once, but twice at the Vauxhall Ball and, even though the first dance seemed playful and innocent enough, the second was filled with silence and stares so intense, one could feel the heat from across the lake before Miss Everly fled into the night. What, pray tell, may Mister Bridgerton have said to cause such a scene. Shock and delight indeed.
Letty was hiding in her room in the morning, pacing back and forth in her day dress. Elsie had tried summoning her multiple times just for Letty to send her away. Now her mother was pushing her door open and watching as Letty panicked in her mind.
"Two dances with Mister Bridgerton and you ran away?" her mother finally asked.
Letty stopped for a moment before she began pacing again.
"You have a few callers downstairs," her mother announced.
"Is he?" Letty spoke slowly.
"No," her mother's voice was soft.
Letty sat on the bed beside her mother, letting out a low breath.
"I shall tell them you are unwell," her mother gave her hand a gentle squeeze before standing and leaving the room.
Letty didn't know if she were relieved or disappointed by the news of Benedict's absence. She knew her running off may be the reason but she couldn't face him, one of her best friends second eldest brother, after realizing her feelings. Benedict had always been kind to her, all the Bridgerton's had, but Benedict was the one whose company she sought out. He was funny and bright and did not mind when Letty made her feelings on a subject known right out. He was patient and kind and always protected Letty, as if she were his to protect. Her words to her mother just a few days prior of what she was looking for in a suitor echoed in her mind, groaning before she began pacing again. It was exactly what Benedict made her feel.
Two days later, Letty and her mother were walking around the park, staring around at everyone else, quietly speaking back and forth as they passed Benedict and Colin.
"Lady Everly. Miss Everly," Benedict bowed formally and Colin gave him a strange look before bowing as well.
"Mister and Mister Bridgerton," Elizabeth curtseyed and Letty followed her lead. "How are you both doing today?"
"Well," Colin nodded with a soft smile, eyes moving to Letty. "I hear you were unwell the past few days, Letty. How are you feeling?"
"A bit of a headache. Nothing the fresh air couldn't fix," Letty assured him. "Came on during the last ball."
"I was wondering where you'd run off to," Colin nodded. "Thought I was going to have to defend your honor from my own brother no less."
"Ah. I assure you I can defend my honor on my own just fine," Letty smirked to him.
"I'm sure you can," Colin smirked back, knowing that he'd helped to teach Letty how to throw a punch when she was younger.
"We should be moving along," Elizabeth spoke up, taking Letty's arm again. "Mister and Mister Bridgerton."
The Everly's curtseyed and the Bridgerton's bowed before they moved pass one another. Once out of hearing range, Letty looked to her mother with wide eyes.
"I couldn't even look at him," Letty whispered.
"He could not take his eyes off of you," her mother smirked. "I dare say that I believe he was a bit jealous when you spoke so openly to his brother. The new gown from Madam Delacroix will surely pull him to you at the ball in two days' time. Shall we allow callers for the next two days?"
"I believe we shall. Maybe turn away any flowers and chocolates though. I fear Elsie may very well have to be rolled around the house if I pass any more candies to her and my nose will fall off from the sneezing the flowers cause."
"Yes, my dear," her mother smiled gently, leading her daughter back towards their carriage.
Two nights later, Letty and her mother walked into the ball, many turning to stare as they did so. Letty was left to her own devices as her mother went to Lady Featherington, the two whispering back and forth as they watched over their respective daughters from a distance.
"A dance, Miss Everly?" Lord Cho requested.
"I believe Miss Everly's first dance is mine," Benedict spoke up, moving to Letty's side.
"Is it?" Letty questioned, raising her brow at Benedict.
"If the lady does not have your name on her card, I believe the dance is up for grabs," Cho spoke up.
Benedict and Cho stared one another down and Letty escaped on Colin's arm quickly, dancing with him rather than watch in case Benedict and Cho tried to break out measuring sticks. Colin and Letty shared a look before they began dancing, smiling to one another as they did so. Cho approached her at the end of the dance, signing her card for the next as three others came to do the same. Benedict approached her last, signing for her last two dances of the night.
"I believe you are supposed to ask permission to sign more than once, Mister Bridgerton," Letty challenged.
"Go dance with your sister," Anthony demanded, appearing beside them.
"What, why?" Benedict asked in shock.
"Because I said so," Anthony pushed Benedict away before stalking off after the duke.
Letty sighed before smiling as Cho approached her for his turn. The two danced, making small talk in the process.
"So, how many children do you wish for?" Letty asked.
"A boy," Cho told her.
"Yes, but how many?" Letty asked, holding in a laugh and holding her polite smile in place.
Cho remained quiet.
"Do you prefer the countryside or the city?" Letty asked.
"I've never really thought of it," Cho admitted and Letty had to bite the inside of her cheek from asking why Cho even bothered trying to court anyone if he didn't know what he wanted.
Letty danced with the other three, finding them just as underwhelming as Cho had been before Benedict rescued her from her toes being stomped on any longer.
"I think my toes are bruised," she admitted as he took her waist.
"Why did you leave?" Benedict questioned, immediately staring at her with such an intensity that she felt her stomach flip.
"Do not look at me that way," Letty whispered to him.
"What way?" he asked, voice low.
"As if I'm the only person in the room," Letty told him. "You never looked at me that way before Vauxhall's ball and I'm not sure what caused it."
"I realized a few things after we danced," he admitted.
"You mean before you abandoned me on the dance floor first?" Letty reminded him.
"Yes."
"What did you come to realize?"
"That I may have feelings for you," Benedict admitted, causing Letty to freeze before Benedict pulled her along in the dance.
"You may?" she questioned, not looking into his eyes.
"Yes. It was highly inappropriate of me. I needed a moment to sort myself out," Benedict admitted.
"And did you? Sort yourself, I mean?" Letty questioned.
"It was merely a passing moment," he told her. "You have just come of age and I'd never thought of you in any way other than Eloise's friend. Seeing you have suitors call upon you and seeing you dressed for a ball put my head in a spin. I apologize for any discomfort I may have caused. I only wished to discuss this with you tonight where it would be appropriate. Calling upon you as a suitor would have given you the wrong idea."
"And arguing with Lord Cho over receiving my first dance didn't do just that?" Letty questioned, feeling anger and knowing her face was betraying her emotions.
"Forgive me," Benedict sighed. "I forgot myself for a moment. My apologies, Miss Everly."
"Stop calling me that," Letty hissed.
"It is your name."
"It is a name you have not called me in years," Letty reminded him. "We've been calling one another by our familiar names since I was a girl and I do not understand why you have chosen to become so cold."
"Why did you leave?" Bendict returned to his original question as the song ended.
"I believe I am danced out for the evening, Mister Bridgerton. I must bid your farewell. It seems my headache has returned rather suddenly," Letty said dismissively.
Benedict stared at her in shock as Letty left him on the dance floor, making her way to her mother as she held in her tears. Letty gave Pen a tight smile as she passed her the moment she left the dance floor. She schooled her features, holding her head high with her shoulders back as she approached her.
"Mother, it seems my headache has returned. May I be dismissed, please?" Letty asked in a quiet tone.
"Yes," Elizabeth nodded. "We shall both go."
A squabble between two couples last night? Whatever to discuss first? Shall we attempt to decipher Daphne Bridgerton and the Duke of Hastings small tiff? For why would she entertain a baron when she seems to have charmed a duke? Or do we discuss the more interesting argument that this writer overheard herself between one Benedict Bridgerton and Letitia Everly? It seems that Mister Bridgerton admitted to having feelings for Miss Everly before dismissing them completely before demanding Miss Everly explain why she no longer wanted to be in his company. Could it be that Miss Everly had been feeling affections for the second eldest Bridgerton before he'd dismissed the very thought of considering her anything other than his sister's friend.
Letty tossed the paper to the side, trying to figure out how Lady Whistledown had overheard the conversation. She thought over everyone that had been close enough to hear them, only seeing Pen's face in her head in the process but dismissing that thought immediately. Sure she and Pen gossiped together, but there was no way that Pen, her friend, would speak so negatively about Daphne, her own family, and one of her best friends.
Letty groaned before getting ready for the picnic. She wore a soft, off white dress with flowers decorating it. She grabbed her favorite fan, the one with small flowers all over it, before Elsie tied a bonnet onto her head and the two stepped out of her room. Her mother gave her a pitying look before leading her out of the house, her father joining them for the picnic that morning.
The three sat under their tent, Letty on the blanket on the ground as she nibbled on the corner of her small sandwich before seeing Eloise and Penelope walking close by.
"Mother, may I join Eloise and Penelope?" Letty questioned.
"Of course," her mother nodded, dismissing Letty as before she continued speaking with a few of her friends, her father speaking to their husbands.
"That poor maid," Eloise sighed as Letty finally reached them.
"What poor maid?" Letty questioned, taking Pen's other arm.
"One of the Featherington maids is with child," Eloise explained.
"Which of your maids is married?" Letty questioned.
"She isn't," Pen said, voice quiet.
"Then how is she pregnant?" Letty questioned.
"Love, apparently," Eloise rolled her eyes.
"There has to be more to it then that otherwise people would be with child at all times," Letty scrunched up her face in thought. "I shall ask mother today and meet you by the swings after supper to tell you my findings."
"Yes, please," Eloise begged. "We need to know how to prevent such a thing."
"Not to worry," Letty smirked to the two. "I'll figure it out one way or another."
"She is quite resourceful," Pen smiled to Eloise. "We should have asked her to begin with."
"Sorry for not having been around the past few days," Letty's smile fell.
"Did you truly have a headache or were you avoiding my idiot brother?" Eloise questioned.
"Avoiding," Letty admitted, letting out a sigh.
"My brother could do far worse than you," Eloise admitted. "He's an idiot if he does not see how amazing you are."
"Mm," Letty hummed, thinking of Pen's crush on Colin. "Maybe we can convince your brothers to marry Pen and I just so we can all be sisters. You have plenty of brothers to go around, after all."
Eloise laughed as Pen shoved her elbow into Letty's side, causing her to bite her lip to keep from laughing.
"What is happening over there?" Letty questioned, watching as Berbrooke rushed towards the Bridgerton tent.
"Oh, no," Eloise groaned, rushing forward.
Pen and Letty followed after her, both listening in as Berbrooke spoke with so much disrespect that Letty couldn't stop the glare that overtook her features. The duke stepped forward and Benedict blocked him from causing more swelling to Berbrooke's face. Berbrooke took a half step back before seeing Letty's angry glare as Pen held Letty's arm tightly, holding her back as well.
"I look forward to the union of our families," Berbrooke announced, finding a way around Anthony, the duke, and Letty as he left the tent in a hurry.
"We should go," Lady Bridgerton announced to the family. "Go discuss this in private."
"Come, Letty," Pen whispered, pulling Letty away.
Benedict saw the anger on Letty's face as she glared after Berbrooke, pride swelling in him at her protective streak before he shook his head, freeing himself from his thoughts as Penelope and Letty left the Bridgerton's.
"I'll escort you back to your family," Letty told Pen, voice softening as she looked to her friend.
"Poor Daphne," Pen whispered to her.
"We shan't speak of it," Letty whispered back. "We can discuss it tonight at the swings. Eloise will need us. I'll ask my mother when we head home in the next hour."
Pen nodded, releasing Letty's arm and going to her family once close enough. Letty sighed before turning around to head to her own family, finding Benedict heading towards her. She waited for him to approach her.
"I realized that you had no one to escort you to your own family," Benedict told her. "Thought I may offer my arm."
"You are quite confusing lately," Letty sighed, taking his arm.
"I apologize," Benedict sighed, leading her towards her family tent. "I do not mean to confuse. You made a rather good point that other night, Letty."
"So, I am Letty again?" she questioned.
"Yes. You are Letty. You are my friend and a friend of my family and deserve the respect that I did not show last night," he told her.
"I do love your family," Letty nodded. "I think if Pen had not held my arm so tightly and you had not held back the duke, you and the others would have had to pull the both of us off of him."
"You must be careful, Letty. You are a lady and if a lady is seen trying to fight a man, no matter how honorable the reasoning, it will not go well for you."
"I am aware," Letty sighed. "Your mother was ready to step between Berbrooke and I as well, I think. She saw me struggling."
"She is fierce, my mother."
"She is an angel," Letty smiled softly before her smile fell. "I do hope she is doing well with this stress. Daphne, as well. If there is anything that I can do to help, please let me know."
"Thank you, Letty," Benedict said, voice dropping to a whisper as they approached her family tent. "I do not deserve your friendship."
"You have it either way," Letty smirked before releasing his arm. "Thank you for escorting me."
"It was my pleasure," Benedict gave a slight bow before leaving Letty to get back to his own family.
Letty watched him go, staring after him with sad eyes before turning and sitting on the blanket again. Her eyes met her mother's for a moment before she turned away, grabbing another small sandwich as she waited for the hour to be up.
Once home, Letty knocked on her mother's door, walking in slowly when she heard her mother call her in. Letty shut the door behind herself and sat on her mother's bed, feeling nervous.
"What is it Letitia?" her mother finally asked, sitting beside her.
"How does one come to be with child?" Letty asked slowly, not looking into her mother's eye.
"That is the business of a husband and a wife," her mother told her stiffly.
"But, if I am to be a wife one day, how will I know what to do?" Letty questioned, finally looking up and seeing her mother blushing. "Is it something terrible?"
"No," her mother shook her head. "I'm sure that, with the right person, it is highly enjoyable."
"What is it then?" Letty pushed.
Letty listened with rapt attention for the next thirty minutes as her mother explained sex to her. She asked questions, to which her mother answered as simply as she could before finally sending Letty away. Letty was in her room, thinking over the conversation with her mother before thoughts of Benedict took over her mind as they had been for the past week now. This time though, thoughts of Benedict mixed with the conversation she'd had with her mother and she had to sit up and shake her head roughly, dispelling the thoughts from her mind.
Supper was a quiet affair and Letty found herself glancing at the grandfather clock every few seconds as she begged it to be over. When she was finally dismissed, Letty climbed out of her window before rushing towards the Bridgerton backyard. She found Pen and Eloise already waiting for her, talking back and forth quietly.
"Mother told me," Letty said, falling onto the grass and laying on her back.
Eloise and Pen joined her quickly, begging her to tell them as Eloise passed Letty her cigarette.
"It is highly inappropriate," Letty told them taking a drag before passing it back.
"What is inappropriate?" Benedict's voice asked, appearing in their vision.
"Nothing!" the three yelled, sitting up quickly as Eloise tried to hide her smoke.
"Have one to spare?" Benedict asked and Eloise passed her silver package to Benedict.
"We should be getting home," Letty said to Pen. "We can continue this discussion tomorrow."
"Do not stop on my accord," Benedict smirked.
"I'm sure the conversations held between three girls is of no interest to you, Benedict," Letty insisted. "Goodnight."
Pen and Letty fled in different directions. Letty was struck with more inappropriate thoughts of Benedict as she climbed back through her window and changed into her sleeping clothes. She climbed into bed, sighing as she turned out her lantern and attempting to close her eyes. Her mind continued to wonder though and Letty groaned in frustration.
She thought back to her mothers words and wondered how it would work. She decided to figure it out for herself. Letty reached under her blankets, lifting her sleeping gown up her thighs before sliding her fingers into her panties. She felt around gently, unsure of if she should be touching herself like this. No one would know except for her but still, it felt a bit strange.
Letty's fingers brushed over her skin, causing her to gasp in shock when she felt something sensitive between her legs. She decided to touch the spot again, holding in her gasp this time. She continued touching the spot, feeling something building inside of her until her head fell back and she bit into her lip to hold in the noise that tried to escape her.
Afterwards, Letty just laid there in shock, wondering why everyone failed to mention that a man was not needed for pleasure. She could just marry herself at this rate, wear trousers as she pleased and touch herself. How would a man possibly make it any better? She didn't really care to find out before she rolled to her side and closed her eyes, falling asleep rather quickly this time around.
The next morning, no callers came and Letty was more than pleased as she headed out to the Featherington household to gather Pen before they would go to Eloise. Pen was grateful to leave her family to escape with Letty to the Bridgerton's.
"How has your mother been?" Pen asked curiously.
"Better," Letty sighed. "The doctor gave her a new tonic. She's been much nicer lately."
Eloise joined them in the front room then, giving them sad smiles.
"How's Daph?" Letty asked softly, taking Eloise's hand in hers.
"Well, she's sulking in her room at the moment. Mama had to get to an important tea and just left before you arrived," Eloise explained. "Anthony is rather upset with himself for not being able to take care of Berbrooke. He wanted to challenge him to a duel originally but mother talked him out of that ridiculous notion."
"Do you wish for a distraction?" Letty asked.
"Yes, please," Eloise sighed, dragging Pen and Letty up the stairs and into her room.
"So, do either of you know what sex is?" Letty asked.
"Like the sex of a person?" Pen questioned.
"Like sex the action," Letty clarified.
"Whatever do you mean?" Eloise questioned.
"Well," Letty got into the explanation that her mother gave her, both girls listening with rapt attention.
Eloise seemed completely disgusted while Pen seemed rather interested.
"Well, I will not be doing that," Eloise stated, leaning back. "It sounds absolutely horrid."
"I think it sounds romantic," Pen whispered. "Imagine being so in love with someone that you give everything to them."
"It sounds extremely vulnerable," Letty agreed with both of them. "I don't know whether to be moved or terrified."
"I can't believe your mama told you," Eloise commented. "She's typically so stand offish."
"She's doing better," Letty shrugged, not sure why she didn't wish to tell Eloise about her mother's illness in present or past.
Pen was the only one she spoke to about it in all honesty. Many seemed interested in her mother's actions, how she could go from calm and sweet and caring lady to detesting every one who breathed in her direction the next. Most just stayed away, minus Lady Featherington, which was why Pen and Letty were so close. No one was rude to her, many even going out of their way like Lady Bridgerton to include her in polite conversation, but there was still talk.
The three girls talked for a bit longer before Pen and Letty left Eloise to her family as her mother returned from her tea. Violet Bridgerton had a smirk on her face, giving away that she had a plan to Pen and Letty as they left out the front door.
"Do you want to go for a walk?" Letty asked Pen.
"That sounds lovely," Pen smiled to her.
The two took a lap around the neighborhood, their handmaids following at a distance.
"How's your maid?" Letty asked softly.
"Sad," Pen admitted. "She hasn't heard from her love in a while. She wants to run away to the country with him."
"How romantic," Letty sighed. "I do hope she hears from him soon. Must be hard."
"All will be well in time I'm sure," Pen nodded.
"How have you been?" Letty asked. "I feel like I haven't seen you in forever."
"It has been a while," Pen smiled.
"Would you like to tell me about Colin?" Letty asked softly.
Pen sighed, shoulders slumping slightly.
"I've been infatuated with him for years now. I was hoping to catch his eye now that I'm on the market, but he seemed more interested in Marina than anything else," Pen admitted.
"I'm sorry, Pen. That must be hard for you," Letty gave Pen's hand a soft squeeze.
"What about you and Benedict?" Pen smirked.
Letty groaned in frustration.
"I have no idea what is going on in his head anymore," Letty admitted. "One moment, we're just dancing and laughing. The next he's staring at me in a way that can not be deemed as appropriate. Then he's telling me that he had feelings for me but now he only sees me as Eloise's friend. It's rather confusing."
"Sounds so," Pen nodded. "But how do you feel?"
"I'm not sure. When we were dancing and he was looking at me, I thought there was something there. I have been able to think of almost nothing besides him since. It's as if my brain has stopped caring for anything else."
"I know the feeling," Pen sighed.
"And you've been dealing with it for so long," Letty sighed. "I'm so sorry, Pen."
"It's fine," Pen shook her head. "I've grown used to it in a way. It's almost a part of me now."
"Want me to knock some sense into Colin's head?" Letty smirked.
"That is unnecessary," Pen smiled. "All will be well."
"Well, I should head inside," Letty sighed as they reached her house. "Do you want me to escort you home first?"
"No," Pen shook her head with a soft smile. "I'll see you later."
"Bye, Pen."
"Bye, Letty."
Letty sighed as she walked inside, pulling her gloves off as she headed up the stairs to her room. She set her gloves down and pulled the pins from her hair, allowing it to fall down her back now that she was home. Her mother and father were out for the rest of the week, having business to attend to in the country. Her father's sister would be at the house in time for the next ball to attend to her, but Letty still had the large house to herself, minus the workers.
Just before supper time, Letty went down to the kitchen, sitting at the servants table and eating with them. She smiled and listened to the latest gossip, excited to pass it along to Pen next time that she saw her. She debated inviting Pen and Eloise over to stay the night the next day as they did when they were younger. Eloise would probably be distracted with her family but Pen would want to be stolen away. She remembered when the two of them used to swear they'd get a home of their own one day before Eloise joined them and they decided a bigger house would be needed to include her.
She wrote a quick letter to Pen, asking if she wanted to stay over the next night and sent it over, waiting by the front door for her courier to return. When he did, she smiled brightly, accepting Pen's response. She squealed excitedly, happy as she ran to the large room that they always slept in. A few servants helped her drag mattresses and pillows into the room, moving other furniture out of the way. The next night, before Pen arrived, Lady Whistledown came.
It has come to this writer's attention that the ton is abuzz with a most sordid tale. It is said that one cannot judge a book by its cover. But in the case of the baron Berbrooke, it appears the cover is quite telling.
Letty smiled as she read the article before her smile fell.
And after such a rude display towards his future in-laws, ones that did not want him to begin with as he forced a special license on them to try to accost Daphne Bridgerton with a surprise marriage during the picnic, one must truly question his character.
Another character to question is that of Letitia Everly. The beautiful second choice for diamond was seen at the picnic attempting to attack the baron. Some may believe it to be a loyalty to the family but it seems quite unbecoming of a lady to glare with such fierceness at a man. It seems that, had someone not been holding her back, she would have jumped at the man herself.
Letty was shaking in anger. She took a few deep breathes, calming herself before rereading the article. She thought back to the picnic, knowing it hadn't been obvious that she'd been wanting to strike Berbrooke from an outside perspective. She also knew that no one had approached the group during Berbrooke's outburst. She'd been looking out for it. The only other person that had been there had been…
Penelope walked into the room and Letty turned to her slowly, paper still in hand. She stared at Pen, always staring at those around her just as Pen always did. Pen who she gossiped with always. Pen who had been her friend since they were children.
"What is it? What is wrong?" Pen questioned, approaching Letty.
"Nothing," Pen shook herself, looking at the paper again. "Nothing at all."
"What has she done now?" Pen sighed, taking the paper and reading it.
"It doesn't matter," Letty shook her head. "Come. Supper is ready and then we'll have dessert and snacks in here. We can star gaze a bit as well if you wish."
"That sounds lovely," Pen smiled, following Letty out of the room.
They ate supper, Letty sharing the gossip she'd heard the night before with Pen, trying to seem enthusiastic and hide what she feared to be true.
"I heard something else the other day," Letty whispered, deciding to test something.
"What is it?" Pen asked excitedly.
"Apparently, Lord Weatherby is trying to obtain a special license," Letty told her. "No clue who for though."
"Where did you hear this?" Pen questioned.
"I over heard two maids," Letty told her. "Then, during my walk this morning, I heard Cressida Cowper and Kathryn Dewitt mention it as well. Don't know if there's any truth to it or not."
"I'll see if I can find anything," Pen smirked.
"Let me know if you hear anything," Letty smirked. "Have you heard anything from Eloise about Daphne?"
"She said they are all beyond relieved now that Berbrooke has fled the city. It is quite the scandal, is it not?"
"I would be quite relieved if I was her. The Duke seems rather taken with her. Did you see the way he tried to stand up for her when Berbrooke was at their tent? I wouldn't be surprised if he proposes soon now that the nasty business has been taken care of. I almost want to thank Lady Whistledown for her part in it, even if she did then proceed to try dragging me through the mud afterwards."
"I'm sorry," Pen sighed, taking Letty's hand.
"Not your doing," Letty shrugged. "What are you wearing tomorrow night?"
"Something yellow," Pen rolled her eyes.
"What if we were to sneak you a different dress into the ball?" Letty asked. "I could steal you away when we arrive and have Elsie dress you in a private room?"
"I think my mother would notice the change," Pen smirked.
"We'll convince your father to chaperone a ball and do it then," Letty decided.
Pen laughed brightly as they headed outside. They laid in the grass, looking up at the sky and pointing at the stars to one another, holding each other's other hand together. They headed back inside, eating small cakes before laying down and going to sleep. Pen left the next morning after breakfast, promising to see Letty at the ball later that night.
Letty was already dressed, hair and makeup done by the time her aunt walked through the door. She gave a polite smile before they climbed into the carriage. The ride was silent, Letty not having been around her aunt very often in the past and suddenly wondering why that was as the carriage came to a stop. Letty stepped down, smiling gratefully to a footman before waiting for her aunt.
"How does your mother typically do this?" her aunt asked curiously.
"She typically will escort me inside and then go speak with Lady Featherington while watching from a distance," Letty explained.
"And how many proposals have you had?" her aunt questioned.
"None," Letty shook her head. "I'm looking for a love match. Tends to be hard when the only men I've spoken to are not the brightest around."
"Maybe we should change tactics," her aunt offered. "Try dancing with anyone who asks."
"I do," Letty nodded. "My dance card is full every night. I've had multiple callers."
"And no proposals."
"Miss Everly," Benedict suddenly appeared. "May I have your first dance?"
"You may," Letty smiled, taking his arm and grateful that he was taking her away from her aunt.
"She seemed pleasant," Benedict whispered as they approached the dance floor.
"My aunt that I rarely see," Letty grumbled. "I know why now."
"Well, allow me to distract you," Benedict smirked.
The playful dance had the two laughing as they danced around one another. Benedict led Letty to the refreshment table after that, passing her a small glass of lemonade before they slowly began walking around the outskirts of the dance floor.
"So, how are you dealing with Lady Whistledown's latest issue?" Benedict asked.
"Well, you did warn me," Letty sighed. "It seems all the men are avoiding me tonight."
"I'm not avoiding you," Benedict pointed out.
"That is true," Letty smiled softly.
"I was wondering if I could call on you tomorrow," Benedict said, looking at the floor rather than at Letty.
"Like a caller?" Letty asked.
"Yes," Benedict nodded, finally looking up at Letty. "Only if that suits you, though."
"I thought I was nothing more than your younger sister's friend," Letty reminded him.
"Please, excuse my earlier words," Benedict whispered, something flashing in his eyes that Letty couldn't quite place.
The two stared at each other for a long moment before Letty gave Benedict a soft smile.
"Yes."
"Yes?"
"You may call on me in the morning," Letty clarified.
"May we promenade?" he asked, stepping closer to her.
"We may," she nodded.
"Excellent," Benedict smiled.
"Indeed," Letty let out a small laugh. "I look forward to it."
"We must dance again to celebrate," Benedict insisted, taking Letty's glass and setting it down. "Come."
Letty and Benedict danced twice more before Letty went in search of Pen. She found Pen hiding in a corner, eavesdropping on a few servants. Letty stood beside her, remaining quiet and thinking over her theory.
"So, I haven't heard anything about Weatherby," Pen told her. "I have seen you dancing with Benedict."
"We're promenading tomorrow," Letty told her with a soft smile.
"How do you feel about that?" Pen questioned.
"I'm not sure yet."
"You never were interested in getting married," Pen stated.
"I still don't think that I am," Letty shrugged before noticing her aunt coming towards her. "Brace yourself."
"Letitia, what are you doing over here? Should you not be dancing?" she questioned.
"I needed a small break," Letty explained. "I've had three dances so far."
"Well, hiding over here isn't going to get you your next dance," her aunt pointed out. "Come."
Letty gave Pen a pleading look as she was dragged away. Anthony saw the panicked look and waltzed over, asking for Letty's next dance, which she happily accepted to escape her aunt. Colin grabbed her next, followed by Benedict yet again.
"I thought you were danced out?" Benedict smirked.
"My aunt is insisting I dance with as many people as possible," Letty sighed.
"Well, there are only four dances left for the night. I'm sure you'll find a way out of it," Benedict smirked.
"Remember this when Eloise is trying to get away from all of this next year," Letty smirked before curtseying to Benedict and stepping away from the dance floor.
"Go," Daphne pushed the duke towards Letty.
"Miss Everly, may I have this dance?" he asked, a soft smile on his lips.
"You may?" Letty asked more than answered.
"We've noticed your aunt hovering," the duke whispered as he led her to the dance floor. "Daphne asked me to grab you for your next dance so you could avoid her for at least a little longer."
"Bless those Bridgertons," Letty sighed.
The duke let out a soft laugh before leading Letty into a waltz. The two danced together, talking softly back and forth a bit before bowing to one another. Colin reappeared, spinning Letty around and causing her to smirk.
"Have you seen Pen?" Colin questioned and Letty had to bite her tongue for a second.
"I've seen her," Letty nodded, looking around and seeing Pen listening in to more conversations as she weaved in and out of the crowd without anyone noticing her. "Have you danced with her tonight?"
"Twice but she seems to be avoiding me now," Colin frowned.
"Well, I can see her. I'll keep an eye on her and we'll head that way after the dance," Letty promised.
At the end of the dance, the two went after Pen. Letty smirked before leaving the two alone, Colin walking slowly beside Pen as they spoke softly to one another. Letty made a round around the dance floor before turning and walking away from Lord Cho quickly. Daphne saw her distress and went to her side immediately. The two began whispering back and forth as they headed to the refreshment table, distracting themselves from the others around them.
"Thank you for sending your duke to my rescue," Letty whispered.
"Oh, he's not mine," Daphne defended.
"You may think that," Letty shrugged. "I think I see something else though. He was very standoffish when he first arrived to the ton. He's more open now though. You did that."
"Do you truly think so?" Daphne asked, looking over to where the duke was currently speaking with her brothers. "Maybe."
"You seem lighter as well," Letty told her. "More free than normal. I think you're wonderful for one another. You make each other happy. A good match."
Daphne gave Letty a small smile before going back to her drink. The two parted ways, Daphne heading towards her mother and Letty smiling softly to Lord Lumley and accepting his dance.
"How have you been, Miss Everly?" he asked.
"Call me Letitia, please," Letty told him.
"I believe my mother would call me improper if I did so," he answered.
"Hmm," Letty hummed. "I have been well. How have you been?"
"I've also been well. I wanted to call on you, but my great uncle passed," he told her.
"I am sorry for your loss," Letty frowned, just now noticing that Lumley was in all black.
"Thank you," he nodded. "I know I should not be dancing while in mourning, but I could not help myself. You look lovely tonight, Miss Everly."
"Thank you," Letty whispered to Lord Lumley's kind smile. "I also wished to thank you for the book you gifted me."
"Have you finished it?" he asked curiously.
"I have. I'm on my second read of it. I must say I prefer romance books to poetry, but the poems are simply beautiful. Thank you."
"I may have another book to gift you then. I shall search for it and bring it as soon as I find it," he nodded.
"Thank you," Letty smiled as the song ended.
Letty curtsied and Lumley bowed. At the end of the night, Letty and her aunt left in their carriage, both silent as they approached the Everly home.
"Benedict Bridgerton has asked to promenade tomorrow morning," Letty announced as they got closer.
"Did he?" her aunt questioned.
"He did," Letty nodded.
"I will be ready to escort you," her aunt nodded. "I'll be staying for the night. Why a lady was left alone in the city I'll never understand."
"A room was made up for you yesterday just in case," Letty nodded. "I wasn't sure what you preferred so I hope it's up to your liking."
"You chose the options for my room?" her aunt questioned.
"Yes," Letty nodded.
"I'm sure it'll be fine," her aunt stated as the carriage came to a stop.
Letty allowed her aunt out first, staying behind for a moment to take a calming breath before heading inside. Elsie undressed Letty and she slipped into her nightgown before taking off her makeup. Letty opened her window, letting the cool breeze blow through her room as she sat in the chair beside it, staring out at the sky before noticing movement below. She smiled down at Benedict before climbing out of her window, Benedict helping her towards the bottom.
"Hi," Letty smiled.
"Hi," Benedict smiled back. "Star gazing?"
"Sure," she smiled.
The two moved to the center of the yard, laying in the grass and looking up at the sky. They sat quietly just looking up. Soon enough, Benedict pulled out his sketch book, sitting up and beginning to draw the sky.
"One day, you'll have to let me see your sketches," Letty smirked, still staring up.
"One day, I just may," Benedict smirked, continuing to draw.
Letty just rolled her eyes as she continued looking up.
"If you could do anything, be anything, what would it be?" Benedict asked.
"I don't know," she admitted. "I've never given it thought before."
"You like to write," Benedict shrugged.
"A bit," Letty shrugged. "Not enough to make a career out of it and certainly not well enough to, either."
"One day, you should let me read some of your stories," Benedict smirked.
"I promise that I will not," Letty smirked.
"Well, what other options are there?" Benedict questioned. "I know you like music. Do you compose?"
"I made a song on the spoons once. I named it, 'Mother, please stop making me play the spoons.' It was a rather loud ensemble."
Benedict and Letty laughed quietly.
"What about the violin or piano?"
"I prefer the fiddle. That one, I've composed on. Mother found it highly undignified," Letty smirked.
"But did you like it?"
Letty thought it over for a moment, a soft smile appearing on her face.
"I did," she said, voice soft. "I don't think I could make anything of it, but I would like it if given the opportunity."
"A musician and an artist," Benedict smirked, voice just as soft. "What ever shall we do with ourselves?"
"I can play while you draw," Letty offered.
'I can draw you while you play,' Benedict thought to himself but refused to say it out loud.
"I should be getting home. I shall see you in the morning," Benedict nodded. "Need a hand up?"
"Yes, please," Letty smiled, accepting Benedict's offered hand to lift her from the ground.
Benedict helped Letty place her foot on the railing to climb back up to the second floor on the ivy outside of her window. Once inside again, Letty looked out to the yard, waving to Benedict before he began walking away. Letty watched him for a moment before laying in bed, turning her lantern off before she crawled under her blankets and falling asleep.
In the morning, Letty rushed around her room, searching for her favorite dress and accessories. Her aunt knocked lightly on her door before being allowed entrance, staring at Letty in confusion as she ran around.
"Child, you must calm yourself," her aunt stated, stepping further into the room.
"Elsie, have you seen it?" Letty asked.
"No, ma'am," Elsie shook her head. "I shall check your mother's room. It might have been delivered there by accident."
"Thank you, Elsie," Letty sighed, continuing to look through the dress boxes.
"What are you searching for?" her aunt questioned.
"Mother ordered me new dresses for my first season out. I was hoping to wear a specific one but we can't seem to find it," Letty explained, starting to feel put out.
"What does it look like?" her aunt asked, moving towards the dress boxes.
"Lilac with flowers embroidered on the skirt. There should be a bonnet that matches it in the box as well," Letty explained.
"We shall find it, dear. Nothing to worry about," her aunt promised, starting to search.
"I've found it!" Elsie announced, coming back into the room with a large box.
"Oh, thank Heavens," Letty sighed as she walked over to Elsie as she opened the box, showing Letty the dress and bonnet inside.
"Why is this the one you wanted to wear?" her aunt questioned, reminding Letty that she didn't even know her aunt's name.
"Benedict likes purple," Letty explained softly as Elsie began dressing her.
With her stay in place and skirts on, the lilac dress was lifted and placed over Letty's body. Her bonnet was tied in place and her slippers were placed on her feet. Letty's hair was pulled up into a tight updo with flower jewels placed in her hair. Letty sighed as she looked at the flowers, saddened by the fact that she could not stand to be around the real thing without irritating her nose. Once her rouge and lip stain were in place, Elsie added tint to her eyes and stepped away.
Letty stared at her reflection for a moment, smoothing out the front of her dress and smiling softly before turning to her aunt.
"What do you think?" she asked softly, trying not to pick at her fingers as she did when she was nervous.
"You look lovely," her aunt smiled. "Come. Let's go downstairs. You should eat something small before going out."
Her aunt left the room and Letty turned quickly to Elsie.
"I've forgotten her name," Letty whispered to Elsie.
"Lady Helena," Elsie held in a laugh.
"You're a blessing, Elsie," Letty whispered, giving Elsie's hand a small squeeze before heading out of the room.
Elsie followed behind a few paces back, smiling at the praise she'd been given. Letty reached the small sitting room, taking a spot across from her Aunt Helena and eating a hot roll and an egg as she sipped her morning tea. Once they had finished breakfast, they moved to the sitting room, waiting patiently.
An hour passed and Letty's leg began jumping. She stared out the window, looking towards Bridgerton house and seeing no movement, not even a carriage out front. Another half hour passed and Helena suggested they head to Hyde Park and see if they were meant to meet there. Letty agreed and a carriage was called.
Letty and Helena arrived at the park, standing towards the entrance for a few minutes before they began walking. Letty gave soft smiles to those they passed, bowing her head slightly as they passed respectfully. Her aunt walked beside her, keeping an eye out for Benedict Bridgerton as they walked.
"So, the Bridgerton family is a prominent one in the area?" her aunt questioned.
"They are," Letty nodded. "Viscounts."
"Is Benedict the Viscount?"
"No. He's the second born son. Anthony is the Viscount."
"Did you dance with him last night?"
"I did," Letty nodded. "I also danced with the third born son, Colin."
"You are close with the family?"
"I am," Letty nodded. "Eloise Bridgerton is a good friend of Penelope Featherington and myself."
"Penelope was who I found you with during your reprieve last night, yes?"
"Yes, ma'am," Letty nodded. "Her mother and mine are good friends."
"I'm surprised your mother's condition doesn't keep her from making friends," her aunt stated.
"It does," Letty said, feeling uneasy. "Lady Featherington is rather understanding. Said she had a friend when she was a girl who was much the same."
"Good woman to help your mother," Helena nodded.
"Good, indeed," Letty nodded before looking around. "Where is he?"
"Are you sure it was to be this morning?" her aunt questioned.
"I'm sure," Letty nodded, thinking of Benedict's words from the night before. "Strange."
"Hmm," her aunt hummed. "Let us make a full round and then be on our way. I would like to do a bit of shopping with you today, if you don't mind?"
"I would like that," Letty nodded. "I feel like we barely know one another."
"Yes. Your father is always a bit too busy to house me for a visit," Helena seemed bothered by this.
"He seems a bit too busy to spend time with me, either, if that helps," Letty offered. "More often than not, it's just mother and I."
"How sad that must be," her aunt whispered.
"Quiet," Letty corrected. "Not sad though. Comfortable."
"That sounds nice," her aunt gave a soft smile.
"It is," Letty smiled back as they walked over the bridge. "What of you?"
"Well, my husband passed a few years ago. My eldest son set me up in a nice home in the country when it happened."
"Do you miss your husband?" Letty asked, voice softening.
"At times," her aunt nodded. "It was not a love match like what you are searching for. It was a convenience. Our father's set it up for us when I was but a girl. My first season lasted but a month before I was wed."
"And you had only sons, correct?"
"Five sons," Helena nodded.
"So, what you're saying, is that I get to show you how a season goes from a different perspective?" Letty smiled.
"Yes," Helena smiled back. "It shall be exciting. I do hope I get to visit more often now that you are out in society."
Letty gave a genuine smile at the idea. Her mother had brothers, none of which were alive anymore, and her father only had the one sibling. None of her grandparents were living. It made Letty feel quite isolated at times as her four older brothers were grown and living in the country with their wives and children, who she almost never saw except for special occasions. Her brothers tended to stay away from her mother at all costs.
With their lap completed, they headed into the shopping district. Letty pointed out her favorite shops and they headed inside the tea shop. After a small serving of ice and tea cakes, they headed back out and Letty insisted that they stop at Madam Delacroix's and get Helena something to wear for the next ball, claiming her parents will not be home in time for it.
"Well, I did only bring one gown appropriate for a ball," Helena sighed.
"Come! Come!" Letty laughed, leading Helena inside and smiling brightly when she saw Madam Delacroix heading towards them.
"My, my! How lovely you look in that color," Madam Delacroix stated in her French accent.
"Thank you, madam," Letty bowed her head slightly. "I was hoping you could help my aunt. See, she is to escort me to the next ball but has nothing to wear. I told her she simply must come see you as you are the best modiste in all of the ton."
"Miss Everly, you honor me," Madame Delacroix gave a gentle smile before turning to Helena and giving a small bow. "Miss."
"Lady Helena," Helena introduced herself, bowing slightly as well. "Lovely to meet you."
Madame Delacroix took Helena to the back to get her measurements as Letty looked around the shop, always happy to explore the fabrics and patterns that Madame Delacroix always had on display. She ran her fingers over a silky fabric of emerald green, thinking of how beautiful it would be on Pen with her hair and skin before looking at the silky pink beside it for herself.
"Miss Everly," Madam Delacroix gave a soft smile as she joined her. "I do not think that color would match your aunts complexion."
"I was looking at the green originally. Made me think of Penelope," Letty admitted. "Then I thought of pink for me but knew mother would never allow it."
"She does prefer you in your blues," Madame Delacroix agreed. "Pink and lilac look wonderful on you, as we can see."
"Madame, how did you become a modiste?" Letty asked curiously as they moved to fabrics more suited for Helena.
"Through hard work and years of practice. I studied under many different modistes when I was young," Madame Delacroix explained.
"Did you always know that you wanted to be a modiste?" Letty asked curiously.
"It was something I only ever dreamed of. As a woman, it was difficult to dream, as I'm sure you may know. Why the curiosities?"
"Someone asked me what I would do if I could do anything," Letty shrugged. "You are the only woman I know who actually became self-made without the aid of a man. It's rather inspiring."
"I could teach you a few things," Madame Delacroix said slowly. "If you would like, I mean."
"Would you really?" Letty questioned.
"You think I don't see the way you look at the fabrics and patterns when you come in?" Madame Delacroix smirked. "There is a light in your eyes. It would be a shame to not explore it."
"I would love that," Letty smiled softly.
"I will get a few things gathered for you and have it delivered later in the week," Madame Delacroix smiled softly. "Help me choose something for Lady Helena so we can see how much you know."
Letty smiled brightly before turning to the fabrics. There was a light blue, soft fabric lined on the wall that Letty pointed out before seeing a matching blue with golden swirls and light red roses. She smiled as she rubbed the fabric between two fingers.
"What if you made a dress from that blue fabric with this one layered over the top and for the bodice?" Letty questioned.
"That would look lovely on her," Madame Delacroix approved. "Come. We shall show her."
Helena smiled brightly when Madame Delacroix described the gown she had in mind. After giving her approval, Madame Delacroix got to work, pinning everything in place and marking the fabric. Once complete, Madame Delacroix removed the fabric from Helena and Helena's handmaid redressed her. They thanked Madame Delacroix and she gave Letty a knowing look before watching them leave. The two walked around the market slowly, finding a few random things here and there before Helena stopped in front of a flower vendor.
"There are no flowers in the house," Helena complained.
"They irritate my nose," Letty admitted from a few steps back, not wanting to get too close. "Mother keeps them out of the house because of it."
"Oh," Helena gasped, stepping away from the flowers. "In that case, let's move on."
Letty gave a soft smile and the two continued their walk before heading home. Once there, Letty excused herself. She shut her door, dismissing Elsie for a bit before sitting on her bed. A few tears escaped before she wiped them away, walking to her mirror and cleaning her face. She glared at her reflection for a moment before shaking her head and looking at the dress she specifically had worn because of Benedict, wanting to rip it to shreds now that she was alone.
After a few calming breathes, Letty grabbed the novel she'd been reading and sat beside her still open window. She tried reading but her mind kept wondering to Benedict, how he hadn't shown up. She felt another tear slip down her cheek and tossed the book towards her bed before looking out the window.
There he was, standing in the yard and staring up at her. How long he'd been there, Letty didn't know. She debated slamming the window shut and walking away, but she wanted answers. Letty climbed out of her window, slowly crawling down the ivy and being as careful as possible in the skirts and slippers. Once at the bottom, she turned, facing Benedict.
"Letty," he whispered.
"Why?" she asked, keeping her distance. "Why do you keep doing this?"
"I'm sorry, Letty," he whispered.
"It's Miss Everly," Letty corrected. "And you need to leave, Mr. Bridgerton. I have no interest in being led on anymore."
Benedict stared at Letty in shock before his face hardened slightly. He turned, walking away quickly and Letty let out the breathe she'd been holding, covering her mouth when a sob tried escaping. She leaned against the side of the house, crying softly as she sank onto the grass.
Letty wiped at her eyes roughly, pushing the tears away. After a few deep breaths, Letty decided something. She would never let Benedict Bridgerton string her along again. She would find her own way in the world, maybe with the help of Madame Delacroix. She would enjoy the dancing and the balls and everything else that came with the season, but she would never marry.