A/N:PHEW HELLO!
I'm so so sorry everyone for how long it took me for this update, because I updated this fic twice my other one got delayed so I updated that one twice and you know what happened. HOWEVER, we're back on schedule, I'll try to update every fic per week (so about 15 days or so between every update), my other fic is shorter than this one so when that one is finished, update schedule will change here (for better).
About this chapter, things are going to start getting more traction with the public eye and gossip etc so I'm introducing a lot of elements like social media, internet articles etc. Because I'm using text messages occasionaly, you will soon understand why, some words will be shortened as in text messages - for my non english native readers I'll keep the "translation" to them in the notes at the end of the chapter.
And I will do the same if i end jup using any jargon that wouldn't sound naturally if explained by the characters (i.e: in this chapter DP = director of photography).
And oh to answer alex: yes! Charlotte is Queen Charlotte, both Agatha and Charlotte have the same ages as their characters in Bridgerton (not Queen Charlotte)
Family business? Colin Bridgerton to join 'The Sword and the Heart' Movie
By Sita Malhotra
Mere weeks before the shooting of the most-awaited book adaptation of the decade begins, "The Sword and the Heart: The East Dynasty" has just unveiled its official cast, leaving fans in awe of the unexpected choices made by the production team.
Featuring the acting prowess of Thomas Dorset, Kate Sharma, Colin Bridgerton, Cressida Cowper, and more, the trilogy will immerse viewers in the captivating tale of a war between two nations and the illicit love affair between a king and a queen who has been exiled.
Dorset ("The Mando") will headline as Dorieus, the heavily laden young king of the South Nation. Joining him is Sharma ("Love Education") who will play Marjorie, the rightful heir to the throne of the East Nation but now living in exile due to the power struggles within the ruling factions.
One of the most unexpected choices was the selection of director Anthony Bridgerton's brother Colin Bridgerton( "An Englishman in Italy","War of Thrones") to play the fan-favourite Leonidas, Dorieus' incorrigible yet charming brother. After years of individual success in the industry, the two brothers have finally joined forces for their first-ever collaboration. Colin will be joined by Cowper ("Poor Unfortunate Strolls"), who will portray Catherine, the mysterious and ethereal maiden who captures Leonidas' affections.
New additions to the cast of "The Sword and the Heart: The East Dynasty" also include Dolores Stowell, Penelope Featherington, Edward Hall, and Emma Kenworthy.
Amy mrscolinbrigertonn
Penelope Featherington isn't that the girl that used to hang out w Eloise
| Jade ✨ englishmansbiceps
mrscolinbrigertonn They were best friends I think. I can't find any recent pictures tho you know how Eloise is
| Ro is waiting for Sword and the Heart roroswift
mrscolinbrigertonn englishmansbiceps she was in that picture of Colin's 25th bday they know each other for sure
Hyacinth: Anthony? Colin?
Daphne: ?
Daphne: wrong gc?
Gregory: as if they share another one
Benedict: lemme get this straight
Benedict: u let me speak for days abt NYC
Benedict: while the 2 were hiding this from us
Daphne: Will someone explain what is going on
Gregory: Daph check the news
Daphne: what news?
Francesca: what is going on what are all of these messages
Anthony: hiding what? we were working, stop being so dramatic
Hyacinth: dramatic? I had to hear from lily my own brothers r working together
Anthony: who is lily
Hyacinth is currently typing…
Daphne: working together doing what
Gregory: DAPH JUST OPEN THE BLOODY INTERNET
Daphne: not if you r going to be like that
Hyacinth: my friend
Gregory: her influencer friend
Hyacinth: they r doing a movie together daph where r u under a rock?
Daphne: im busy
Gregory: in the middle of the desert?
Daphne: movie? what movie?
Francesca: k i'm rehearsing i can't check all these messages
Benedict: the mediaeval one
Anthony: it's not mediaeval, it's fantasy
Benedict: set in mediaeval times
Anthony: a fictional time period similar to the mediaeval times
Anthony is currently typing…
Daphne: i don't know what you are talking abt
Gregory: seriously r u in the middle of the desert right now
Hyacinth: and is colin w u
Colin: no im here
Hyacinth: FINALLY
Hyacinth is currently typing….
Colin: idk what any of u r talking abt
Colin: *staring at Anthony's lawyers*
Anthony: youre hilarious
Hyacinth: WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL US
Colin: bc it's not a big deal it's work
Colin: do u want updates on my colab with calvin klein too or
Gregory: ew
Hyacinth: don't play dumb you two AND PEN in the same movie is huge
Gregory: what
Daphne: what
Benedict: wHAT
Hyacinth: was i the only one who read the entire article?
Gregory is currently typing…
Benedict is currently typing…
Colin is currently typing…
Eloise: what
Colin is currently typing…
Benedict is currently typing…
Daphne is currently typing…
Anthony is currently typing…
Hyacinth is currently typing…
Gregory: look who decided to show up
Benedict: hi el how has your YEAR been
Eloise: haha.
Hyacinth: if I knew all i needed to do was mention pen id have done it sooner
Daphne: wait anthony colin and penelope are all in the same movie?
Gregory: 3 THOUSAND yrs later…
Anthony: It's just work and i'm actually busy so
Hyacinth: no don't give me that this calls for a family reunion
Colin: ?
Colin: why am i related only to psychopaths
Anthony: sure we can schedule it 8 months from now
Benedict: ?
Anthony: we do need to shoot the movie first it's how this works in case u didn't know
Hyacinth: they said the filming was only starting in a few weeks
Anthony: that they know of
Benedict: and in actuality?
Anthony: we're leaving tomorrow
Colin: like i said im related to psychopaths
Daphne: leave me out of that im the most normal outta all of u
Benedict: leaving?
Colin: sure daph
Anthony: it's called filming in location
Benedict: …
Hyacinth: so the two of you are leaving just like that
Hyacinth: mom is going to kill you
Colin: it will be fine
Benedict: and you can't come back in 8 months? where on earth are u going to be? mars?
Anthony is currently typing…
Colin knew Anthony would be a nightmare to work with even before filming started.
To begin with, his brother had a strong conviction to film in New Zealand, following the footsteps of the Lord of the Rings, and he was determined to use authentic, realistic settings instead of relying on a green screen. And Colin did not blame him for that. It was a pleasant change to stay in location for an extended period, being able to act in a dynamic environment instead of being confined to a studio.
So New Zealand was not the problem. The problem was Anthony's insistence on starting rehearsals immediately, despite their exhaustion from a twenty-four-hour flight and a few extra hours of driving to the filming location.
As the costume designer made adjustments to his outfit, Colin let out his fifth yawn. Even though they had made some initial adjustments to his attire while in London, there was still a substantial amount of work to be done in the following months.
"For now, it's as good as it gets," she remarked as she adjusted the blue doublet on his body. "Please be careful not to make sudden movements yet, as there are still some pins in it. I will do the final sewing after your rehearsal."
Exhausted, he nodded and made his way towards the door, muttering softly, "As soon as Anthony allows me to rest."
She could not help but smile, fully understanding the actor's sentiment but trying not to laugh at the director, who happened to be his brother.
Colin glanced back once more before leaving, saying, "Thank you, Genevieve."
Following Anthony's instructions, he made his way to the designated spot where they would begin filming the next day. With the day still in its early hours, the sky wore a mesmerising blend of dark blue and soft pink, as the sun slowly emerged on the horizon. When he spotted Anthony, he could see him engaged in a conversation with a couple of men from the crew. They were busy lighting up torches and strategically placing them in the open field.
Catching his eye to the right was a medieval cart, packed to the brim with hay, and as he took in the impressive prop, he soon noticed a pair of legs partially hidden behind one of the wheels. Curiosity getting the better of him, he crouched down to get a clearer view of the person hiding behind the cart. The mysterious figure eventually walked around it, their features becoming visible in the warm glow of the torches and the dawning sun.
Then Colin started laughing.
"It isn't funny," Penelope said, her voice filled with frustration as she crossed her arms tightly over her chest, script clutched in her other hand. She wore a sepia toned hooded doublet with a shirt underneath that was clearly still too big for her. It looked as though she had a wig on, since her usual long, curly hair had been replaced with a shorter, straight style that was still red, along with an asymmetrical bang across her forehead.
"I'm sorry, Pen," he responded, trying to regain his composure while his eyes continued to twinkle with amusement, "I wasn't prepared."
With a glare she considered his amused demeanour and said, "I think you are too prepared, it looks like you are in character even," referring to Leonidas' known mocking attitude.
Sensing the underlying anxiety behind her annoyed stance, he immediately adjusted his posture. Drawing nearer to her, he straightened out her outfit with his hands, taking another look. She briefly followed his fingers as they traced the edge of her shirt, then shifted her attention to his face, captivated by the gentle smile on his lips. Then he looked at her again, catching her gaze, but he didn't seem bothered by it, and for a moment, Penelope blushed as they locked eyes.
"I don't know, Pen, there's a certain charm to it," he said, referring to her outfit.
Rolling her eyes half-heartedly, she then directed her attention towards his hands, which were still tightly holding onto the edge of her shirt. She had the strange urge to intertwine her fingers with his, unable to comprehend why Colin always stayed so close, but resigned to the fact that this was their dynamic sometimes.
"There you are," Anthony said, catching their attention at once.
Sporting a satisfied grin, the director made his way towards them, hands rubbing together. Colin looked at him with a hint of irritation, while Penelope took a moment to steady her racing heart before also turning to Anthony. The older Bridgerton brother then briefly examined their attire, his smile fading.
"This isn't the final version, is it?" he asked.
Colin gave him a stern look, fully aware of his brother's perfectionist tendencies, as Penelope anxiously inspected her outfit yet again. Apparently, production had only just begun, and already it was a disaster.
"No," Colin answered, "Genevieve mentioned she will complete the final adjustments by tomorrow."
Anthony nodded, satisfied with the response. With his back turned to the cart, he surveyed the vibrant scenery surrounding them—the colourful sky at dawn, the dimmed torchlights—and remarked, "This time of year provides us with the ideal lighting that the DP and I need for the scene where Nora escapes from the East Nation." As he nodded towards the torches, he said, "But with just a tad more darkness, while it's still night, but almost transitioning out of it."
"So." He turned back to them, clasping his hands together in a business-like manner. "We'll kick off with that scene tomorrow while the weather and lighting are still in our favour." Leaning on the cart, he specifically addressed Penelope. "Nora will be wandering aimlessly in the bustling streets, unsure of what lies ahead. The throne was taken by force, and because she served as a lady-in-waiting to Kate's character, she had to find a way to disguise herself to avoid being persecuted, arrested, or worse," he mentioned without providing further information, but it was sufficient to send shivers down Penelope's spine.
"Now, Pen," he said, gazing into her eyes as she widened hers in response. Having known Anthony for years and being aware of his reputation, she anticipated him being more formal when speaking to her at work. "This scene is complicated because it's a mix of despair and humour. You and I both need to find the right balance of each to engage the audience."
As he explained attentively, she nodded. It was becoming increasingly clear why the director was so good at his job. His attention to detail and unwavering dedication set him apart from everyone she had ever worked with.
"So you'll be filled with fear and hopelessness as you walk the streets, until Leonidas emerges from under this mound of hay," he commented, his hand resting on it. "Then we lighten up the scene."
"Colin," Anthony redirected his focus to his brother, who was fully engaged in listening. "You will also need to maintain a similar balance in this scene, but not to the same extent as Penelope. What sets Leonidas apart is his excessive confidence and unwavering optimism, which stands in stark contrast to Nora." He briefly touched Penelope's arm and continued, "However, you'll need to handle the nuances carefully. The task at hand is to show that behind his carefree facade, he truly cares about his friend, going so far as to go undercover in enemy territory to save her."
The actor nodded, having already deduced this while reading the script, but he was relieved that he and Anthony were in agreement.
"Today, let's just go through the lines and organise them in the scene, no need to worry about the acting, just remember these things for tomorrow," the director instructed. And with a nod, the trio stood there for over an hour, diligently rehearsing the lines until Colin and Penelope had everything in order.
"Alright, that is perfect," Anthony said when he felt they had practiced sufficiently. "Now make sure you get some rest, because we're all getting up early. Also, remember to return the costumes to Genevieve." He took a deep breath and put his hand on his hip before saying, "Actually, I need to have a chat with her." And off he went, carrying on with his day.
While shaking his head, Colon observed his brother and was about to make a playful remark about feeling sorry for the costume designer. However, his expression changed when he glanced at Penelope. The girl held the script tightly in her hands, her gaze fixed upon it, her grip so strong it seemed as if she might crush it.
"Pen?" he called. "Are you okay?"
She nervously bit her lip as she looked up at him, her eyes squinting a little due to the sun being higher in the sky. "Did I get it right? Are we on the first scene they're shooting in the film?"
A small frown appeared on his face as he tried to understand what the problem was. "Seems like it," he answered.
With a slight grimace, Penelope nodded in agreement as Colin simply observed her.
"Are you nervous?" he asked.
Her frown intensified as she uttered, "A little?" As she fiddled with her fingers, she added, "It's a bit of a responsibility, isn't it?"
Her expectation was that Kate and Thomas would be the ones starring in the first scene of the movie, not her and Colin. Being thrown into the spotlight so early, especially during the first shoot of the movie, was not something she expected and it made everything frighteningly real.
"I guess," Colin replied, never really considering it like that before. He always believed that the final shooting of a movie held more significance, personally finding the first one to be rather stress-free. However, as he continued to watch Penelope, he came to the realisation that she did not share the same belief.
"Pen," he said, his hand resting on her shoulder. "Don't worry, you did brilliantly just now, you've got all the lines down pat."
She gave him a lacklustre smile and nodded, accustomed to his never-ending optimism. Colin was no stranger to acting in large productions, but her experience had been limited to small studios and low budgets. There, in a more relaxed setting, she could easily conceal her lack of skill. However, with a production of their magnitude, her acting skills would stand out significantly lower compared to the others.
Seeing the concern etched on her face, he gently grasped her shoulder and suggested, "We could go through the lines a few more times today, if you want." And when she glanced at him with curiosity, he couldn't help but flash a playful grin and carry on. "We can go through them until we're practically reciting them in our sleep."
"Colin, you don't have to—"
"Would that make you feel better?" He asked with sincerity, causing Penelope to nervously bite her lip and glance down at her feet. "Then I have to," he said.
"Are you sure?" she asked, her blue eyes turning both doe-eyed and hesitant.
"I am," he motioned with his head towards their trailers, "Just promise me we'll have a restful night, or we'll end up looking ashen tomorrow. Trust me, I strongly advise against that."
Penelope chuckled as they leisurely walked back, all the while reflecting on how fortunate she was to have someone like Colin in her life.
On the following day, just before dawn, when Penelope and Colin returned to the same location where they had rehearsed, Penelope was noticeably more self-assured. However, her confidence quickly waned when she saw the overwhelming crowd gathered there.
The first thing that caught her attention was the abundance of torches, their flames dancing in the night, twice as many as the previous day. Furthermore, there were dozens of extras, all adorned in medieval-style garments in different shades of brown. Then there were the assistants, the camera operators, the gaffer, the boom operator, the cable holders, the makeup artists and even Genevieve. Anthony was discussing something with her while gesturing towards all the extras. She nodded with little enthusiasm, pausing to give Penelope a playful wink as a form of greeting. Penelope's eyes then widened slightly when she spotted Charlotte as well, who insisted on being present during the movie production, as well as Agatha, the two of them sitting by the camera and talking among each other and observing around. Although the cast knew that the two of them wouldn't always be present, Penelope suspected that since this was the first scene to be shot, they wanted to be there to watch it firsthand.
"Ready?" Colin asked from beside her.
She took in the scenery around them, inhaling deeply before answering, "As ready as I'll ever be."
Colin glanced at her dishevelled appearance, a smirk playing on his lips as he remarked, "I hate to admit it, but Anthony was right - your outfit is much improved today."
Finally giving him a sharp look, fully aware that she closely resembled the character Nora as described in the script: once an aristocratic lady, now wearing tattered, dirty clothes that made her resemble a sweaty teenage boy with an unfortunate haircut.
"Oh yes, I beheld my magnificent beauty in the mirror before I made my way here," she replied sarcastically.
And while he was having a good chuckle at that comment, Anthony was making his way towards them. With a swift command, he told Colin to hop into the cart and hide under the stack of hay, while he and Penelope would begin the scene on the other side of the wide field. He then strolled alongside her until they arrived at the desired location, gently placing his hands on her shoulders to ensure she was positioned correctly.
"Alright," Anthony began, causing Penelope's heart to leap into her throat with anxiety. He gestured towards the camera in front of them and she tried her best to pay attention to his every movement and word, rather than letting her nerves get the best of her.
"The camera will follow you as we start this scene. Just as we discussed yesterday, Nora had been on the run for days ever since the kingdom was seized. All the security she once had was gone - the money, the connections, the friends, the family. Even your entire beauty was taken away when you decided to let go of all your possessions and chop off your hair. All that's left is to run away."
She nodded, having already contemplated the mindset she needed to be in while getting ready for that scene. IIt was effortless for her to convey her overwhelming sense of hopelessness. When acting, she chose upbeat, make-believe characters that allowed her to escape a monotonous reality. Nevertheless, if she needed to tap into that sense of desperation to enhance her performance, she could easily do it. Or so she hoped.
Upon determining that Penelope was prepared, Anthony made his way back to his chair near the camera, while Penelope followed the script and put on her hood. She listened as he gave the order for the cameras and sound to start rolling, while the second camera assistant positioned the clapboard in front of the camera and announced, "The East Dynasty, Scene 31, Take one, Mark," before closing it with a loud clack.
Then, she heard Anthony yelling "action background" to the extras, and finally, he yelled "action" for her to begin.
And the moment he uttered those words, a wave of transformation washed over Penelope, exchanging her anxiety for Nora's gripping fear and desperation. It was curious, truly, how acting had this fascinating ability to detach her from reality, which was one reason why she fell in love with it.
She then found herself immersed in the bustle of the fictional street market as the vendors set up their dirty beige stalls. With her head lowered, she adjusted her hood, attempting to conceal her identity. Taking a cautious peek behind her to ensure she was undetected, she swiftly refocused her gaze forward. However, she came to an immediate stop in her tracks to sidestep a passerby, following the script's instructions to the letter.
Wide-eyed, she stared at the dishevelled man, who let out a moody grunt before resuming his journey. While she continued on her way, she found herself unable to look away from a vendor, debating whether or not to purchase food for the journey ahead—wherever that journey would take her since she no longer had a kingdom to call home.
"Psst"
With a frown on her face, Penelope shifted her attention towards the sound, and it repeated itself. Just then, Colin's head unexpectedly appeared from the stack of hay on the cart, nearly giving her a heart attack, even though she was well aware that it was part of the planned scene.
"What on earth are you doing here?" she whispered, quickly scanning her surroundings, worried that someone might have caught sight of him.
Frowning his eyebrows, Colin said as easily as if he was indeed Leonidas, "What does it look like I'm doing here? Saving you, obviously."
She stared at him in astonishment before taking a few steps towards the cart, "Have you lost your mind?" she whispered, terror injected in her tone despite her exasperation. "You cannot be here. If someone sees you—"
"If you just hurry up, no one's gonna see me," he replied, his blue eyes gazing at her affectionately while a smirk played on his lips.
Her jaw literally dropped at his absurdity. "Hurry up, where?" she gestured around, as if there wasn't a single place for her to go.
He gave her a cheeky look and said, "Where do you reckon?"
And that's precisely what Nora was dreading.
"I cannot," she responded, and as he persistently replied, "Yes, you can," she reiterated more firmly, "Leo, I cannot. I'm a dead woman there as much as I am here."
"Nora, listen to me," he said, raising himself slightly so that she could see him more clearly. He quickly surveyed his surroundings before locking his gaze on her with unwavering determination. "I will not let that happen, alright?"
As Nora shook her head slightly, and Penelope was taken aback by the sudden welling of tears in her eyes. It was a sudden, instinctual reaction that instantly brought to mind all the times Colin had promised to keep her safe. In addition to the overwhelming sense of relief that comes from having someone by her side, and a touch of disbelief that it could actually be true.
"My brother would never harm anyone who is important to me, regardless of the war between our kingdoms. But if you don't trust him, I will figure something out. We can give you a fake identity as a servant, an undercook, a jester, or even pretend that you're my secret lover. Whatever it takes to keep everyone out of your business."
At that, she turned to him with wide eyes and a murderous expression. True to form, he remained completely undeterred and simply laughed in return.
Irritated, she replied, "I think I'll stay here," with a pointed raise of her eyebrows.
He gave her a disapproving look, creasing his forehead, "Quit the theatrics and join me. It wasn't easy to infiltrate your kingdom, you know? I'm sticking my neck out for you. Quite literally."
With a continued glare, she retorted, "Right now, that might be my preferred outcome."
With a hint of exasperation, he shifted his tone to a slightly more earnest one as he said, "Come on, you can be my esquire, then. You can be whatever you fancy. What you can't be is dead, because I assure you I won't let that happen to my closest friend, and you don't actually want to make the war even worse with a prince's death on your hands, do you?"
With a raised eyebrow, she continued to stare at him until she finally gave in to his puppy dog eyes. He easily recognised the expression, and relief washed over his face in response.
Walking around the cart, she found a spot in the hay and dove in beside him. He wore an annoyingly victorious expression as he watched her. With her crouched beside him, struggling to breathe amidst the pile of fodder, he directed the cart driver to go.
"I can't be your squire since you're not even a knight," she murmured quietly, looking away as they started to move.
He responded with a frown, saying simply, "I'm a prince, who cares?"
Glancing at him with exasperation, she redirected her gaze forward and sarcastically remarked, "You're not even a proper heir to the throne. I highly doubt your death would make any political crisis worse."
"Please," he scoffed. "As if Dorieus is ever going to get married. No one can stand him for that long."
"It's hard to believe that anyone could tolerate you for that long either, especially if your only focus is on pursuing relationships with royal mistresses," she remarked, fully aware that was his meaning when he mentioned a secret lover earlier.
Her jab made him laugh, and he felt even more at ease as they moved further away from the market, ensuring his friend's safety. "Don't worry, Nora," he said with his irritatingly overconfident tone, annoying her even more by placing a hand on her shoulder, as he always did. "I was only joking. You know that if it ever comes to it, I'll make an honest woman out of you."
Her lips curled up in amusement, despite the utter ridiculousness of the exchange.
"I detest you," she replied.
He let out a heavy sigh, gazing up at the sky with exaggerated drama. "Someday, you'll appreciate all the sacrifices I'm making for you," he said, as the cart continued on its path.
"And, cut!" Anthony's voice boomed, jolting them both back to reality as applause filled the room.
Turning to Colin, Penelope's eyebrows furrowed in a mix of confusion and realisation, as if it had just occurred to her that they had already gone through the entire scene.
"Is that all?" she asked, and just as Colin was about to respond, Anthony appeared next to them at the cart.
"Do we need to go again?" she asked him.
"No, that was perfect," he replied, flashing an okay sign with his fingers, which filled her with a swell of pride and relief. "Great start, you both," he said, before settling back into his familiar seat.
She looked at Colin with a big smile, and he smiled back at her, shrugging as he reminded her, "I told you yesterday that you would do great."
Something absolutely extraordinary was happening to Colin on the set of "The Sword and the Heart" book one: he was completely at ease.
It wasn't like he had lost the joy in acting, but things had just been different for quite a while. The pressure for the flawless performance, the fear of being judged for making rookie mistakes, the cynical outlook of someone who had dealt with far too many self-serving individuals in his line of work, they were all factors that made working burdensome.
But suddenly he was feeling lighter. Acting seemed to be more enjoyable again. Being side by side with Penelope had always been easy, but he had never realised how easy it was. The reason she was his friend was solely for his own sake, without any ulterior motives or secret gossip. And how she had complete faith in him, that he always knew what was best, even when he himself felt lost. Penelope had always been that way, her unwavering belief in him surpassing any understanding, unlike anyone else in his life.
And these were things he already knew about her, but having her so close to him made everything so obvious. It served as a constant reminder that she was not like everyone else in his field of work, which was a good thing.
"Cut!" Anthony yelled for what seemed like the tenth time in a row.
With a pinch on the bridge of his nose, Colin attempted to suppress his own Bridgerton temper. For the first time, he couldn't hold his brother responsible for his frustration. Unfortunately, Anthony couldn't be blamed for Colin's struggle to act alongside Cressida, who, in turn, had her own difficulties with acting in general.
Although it was ultimately his decision to cast the two of them as romantic partners, perhaps a portion of this was entirely Anthony's fault, putting the world back on its axis.
"Okay," Anthony uttered as he strode towards them, his jaw tightly clenched and his hands firmly planted on his hips. And it amused Colin to discover that he reprimanded the actors during his directing in nearly the same way he used to scold his siblings as children. "Just to make a recap of what we previously discussed," he added sharply. "This is the first time Catherine and Leonidas are connecting after their first meeting, when they fell in love instantly. So yes, you're both talking about the horses," he motioned to the scenario they were in, as well as the black, brown and white magnificent horses around them, "but it's an excuse to look at each other, to interact, to slowly step in closer and look deeply into each other's eyes."
Colin and Cressida both nodded obediently. The man was acutely conscious of his lacklustre performance in showing his affection for the woman facing him. In fact, while they were pretending to discuss horses, he found the horses to be indeed the most fascinating element of the scene. He even caught himself contemplating how they had found such impressive ones and what their cost might be.
"Roll camera," Anthony's voice cut through his distractions, bringing him back to the present moment and the task at hand. "Roll sound," his brother carried on, and Colin took a moment to compose himself. He reminded himself that he was an experienced professional who had previously acted as if he were in love with dozens of people. There was no reason to believe he wouldn't be able to do it again this time.
"Action," his brother finally said.
With a casual gesture, Colin affectionately stroked the horse next to him, savouring the sensation of its velvety hair between his fingers. The gentle rays of the sun seeped through the door, enveloping the horse's brown coat in a radiant, golden hue. As Colin turned his eyes towards Cressida, he couldn't help but be mesmerised by the way the sunlight illuminated her long, blonde hair, creating an ethereal aura around her. It was as if she had descended from heaven in her delicate, white dress. If only her true character aligned with that sentiment.
"He is beautiful," she commented softly, eying the horse and then him, as she took a few delicate steps towards the duo. "Is he yours?"
Colin nodded, looking at the horse with a smile before saying, "Steadfast." Then, returning his gaze to her before the conversation once again turned about horses, he continued with a self depreciating smile, "Ridiculous name, isn't it?"
"I like it," she replied, her gaze shifting towards the horse as she reached out to pet it. "It exudes a powerful presence," she commented, her voice betraying a hint of overconfidence that was uncharacteristic for her character.
He replied, "I suppose," keeping his gaze fixed on her as she caressed the animal.
"You know…" she trailed off before fixing him with a predatory stare that made tense chills rise on his spine. "They say a horse is often similar to its owner," she added seductively, when it should have been a lighthearted, charming line.
Truth be told, Catherine was a gentle, fragile character, unlike the fierce and cunning lioness that Cressida had become accustomed to, both on and off the screen. From the start, Colin could tell that this role was completely unsuitable for her, and he despised being proven right over and over again. Still, his acting should be unaffected by her; he should be able to perform even with a flat door if required.
His lips curled into a wry smile as he admitted, "If only it were that simple," a sharp contrast to his typically self-assured demeanour.
"Why is it not simple?" she asked.
With a sigh, he averted his eyes, focusing on Steadfast as he answered, "Dorieus was born to be a king, unlike me. And he better survive this mission to the east, because I assure you, I am not fit to become the ruler in his place."
"He will," she replied, and he turned his gaze towards her.
Getting in close, her breath tickled his face while she tightly grasped his arm, her enthusiasm slightly overwhelming. "But I'm sure that you would make a great king if the situation ever arises," she remarked.
Colin felt his jaw tense, but he then let out a lighthearted chuckle, "How can you be so sure? You barely know me."
Responding with a smirk, she boldly stated, "No one can match my intuition," her eyes locked onto his lips hungrily.
"Cut!" Anthony yelled, and Colin's shoulders sagged in relief, even if Cressida still haven't released his arm. The elder Bridgerton sibling then rubbed his forehead and said, "That is… better. Take a break, you two."
Knowing Anthony his whole life, Colin could easily see he wasn't entirely satisfied with how the scene had turned out, but accepted it was the best they were going to get at the moment. He knew that because he for sure shared that feeling.
Without saying another word, Colin jerked his arm out of the blonde's grip and headed towards his chair, rummaging through his things in search of his phone.
Colin: Tell me you didn't have lunch yet
It was a long shot, given Penelope's conflicting schedule, but he couldn't ignore the nagging feeling inside him that demanded he see her and find solace from the stress that consumed him.
Penelope: I haven't had lunch yet
Colin's eyebrows rose at her unexpectedly quick reply.
Penelope: I'm free now, are you done with your scene?
He smiled.
Their makeshift dining area was surprisingly good, even for Colin, who could eat a massive amount of food and always wanted a wide selection of dishes. And Penelope chuckled as he told her exactly that.
"I never thought I'd see the day when Colin Bridgerton's hunger was satisfied," she remarked as she sliced into one of the rosemary roasted potatoes on her plate.
With his mouth full, he raised his fork in the air to emphasise his point and replied, "I never claimed to be satisfied. I said that the catering service was decent."
With a fondly exasperated expression, she shook her head and jabbed her fork into her grilled steak.
"So, how was your day?" Changing the subject, he casually popped a potato into his mouth.
With a slight grimace and tilt of her head she said, "Okay, I guess? I have never really shot an action scene, or just the beginning of one, until my stuntwoman took over." Then pausing as if she suddenly realised something, she added, "I never had a stuntwoman period."
Colin chuckled at her astonishment over having a stuntwoman. "Does she look like you at least?" he asked.
"Not really?" She replied, and a playful smile crossed his face. "Maybe just her height."
The comment elicited a boisterous laugh from Colin, while she responded with a fierce glare.
"You know, I didn't agree to have lunch with you just so you could make fun of my height," she stated.
"I'm sorry, Pen," he said, his eyes still filled with affection. "I promise I'm not making fun of you. I just find it cute."
As soon as he spoke those words, her face turned red and she found it difficult to reply in a friendly and playful way. However, her embarrassment was quickly averted when his phone rang, preventing her from making a fool of herself.
"Hey, Trace," he said as he held the phone to his ear, causing Penelope's stomach to sink.
The amount of time they spent together without him mentioning his girlfriend was so extensive that she ended up stupidly forgetting about her existence. And it was quite absurd on her part, considering that Colin was only spending that much time with her because of their work obligations, most likely wishing he was free to be with his girlfriend instead.
After getting that healthy taste of truth straight in the face, she propped her chin on her palm and gazed forlornly at her plate, absentmindedly pushing her food around. Minutes seemed to stretch on as Colin chatted away with Tracy, his laughter echoing in the room. Feeling left out, Penelope dug into her pocket, hoping to find solace in her phone.
For about five minutes, she mindlessly scrolled through social media until she stumbled upon a news story that left her eyes wide open in astonishment. Now completely absorbed, she clicked on article after article, oblivious to the fact that Colin had stopped speaking and had resumed eating.
"Pen?" he called, puzzled by the way she seemed fixated on her phone.
Her head snapped up to him, quickly gauging that his phone call had ended. Without missing a beat, she asked, "Did you check the news today?"
As his eyebrows furrowed, fear crept over him, wondering what had caused her to react that way. "No," he answered, "why?"
Her nonverbal response came as she turned her phone to him so he could read what was written on its screen. He looked at her confusedly for a moment before focusing on what she was showing him.
Certifiably Royal: Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset officially dating
"What?!" Colin's yelp echoed through the room as he read the title, swiftly snatching the phone from Penelope to read the rest of the text.
Certifiably Royal: Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset officially dating
Page Six was the first to break the news, which was later confirmed by the respective agencies.
by Freddie Stroma
Exciting dating news has taken the internet by storm, thanks to the notorious celebrity news outlet, Page Six. In a recent publication, it was disclosed that Daphne Bridgerton, a well-known beauty influencer, is currently in a relationship with Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings. The couple's representatives later confirmed the information, releasing a joint statement stating that the two are currently in the process of getting to know each other. It's not every day that dating rumours involving public figures get confirmed so quickly and nonchalantly and the news sparked a range of reactions online, with many expressing joy for the new celebrity duo and commenting they were a good-looking couple.
In fact, rumours of a potential romance between Basset and Bridgerton have been swirling since the start of the week, causing quite a stir on the popular social media platform, Twitter. The speculation gained even more traction when candid photos of the pair enjoying a lunch together emerged online. But it seems that the jokes made by online users about the possibility of the Bridgerton family princess becoming a real princess were not as far-fetched as they seemed.
"Anthony is going to have a seizure," Colin said, his gaze locked on the news, his hands gripping Penelope's phone with an intensity that threatened to shatter it.
"And how about you?" she asked, seeing he was about to have a fit himself.
He took a deep breath and gave her back the phone, saying, "I'm okay, but I'm worried things won't stay that way."
Placing her phone back into her pocket, she gave him a puzzled expression.
He raised an eyebrow and explained, "We've got an ensemble scene to shoot? This afternoon?"
Staring at him, Penelope sat frozen, her mind racing to process the sinking feeling of the information.
"Oh no."
Anthony: DAPHNE?
Hyacinth: now you show up here early
Gregory: hahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha
Benedict: well hi brother how is your day going?
Anthony: you truly approve of this benedict?
Benedict: approve? was is there to approve it's daph's life not mine
Colin: please everyone just agree with anthony im begging
Hyacinth is currently typing…
Benedict is currently typing…
Gregory: well that was more shocking than page six
Anthony: it is her life but we are her family
Anthony: we can't just sit here and do nothing when she makes a mistake
Anthony: you know how hastings is
Hyacinth: he's one of your best friends you wacko!
Colin: I for one think anthony is right
Daphne: hi
Gregory is currently typing…
Anthony is currently typing…
Hyacinth is currently typing…
Daphne: yes its true no im not changing my mind anthony
Gregory: so /that's y u were so busy
Hyacinth: who cares abt anthony since when is this going on
Hyacinth: why do I have to find out everything from this family on the internet?
Colin: are u new here?
Hyacinth: we're not the golden globes, no award for trying to be funny.
Anthony: he has dated half of london daphne
Anthony: and since when has this been going behind my back?
Anthony: I stopped bringing him to family events because of you just so you know
Daphne: it was ONE disagreement ONE time
Gregory: I think simon's shirt disagreed
Hyacinth: u're not funny no one in this family is funny
Benedict: Hey
Francesca: why are there so many messages? You guys talk too much
Daphne: we reconnected
Daphne: it happens
Hyacinth: pls everyone knew u liked each other
Anthony: since when?
Hyacinth: honest question are u blind
Benedict: yes
Gregory: yes
Francesca: I can't scroll up that much I'll check with you guys later
Colin: for the record i agree with anthony
When Anthony's day started off with Colin and Cressida's insufferable scene at the stables, he should have known it was off to a bad start. However, even he couldn't predict how everything would go downhill and turn into a total disaster.
To begin with, his sister made the choice to date one of his closest friends, whom he loved but also happened to be a notorious womaniser. The same friend with whom she had a heated argument at one of Anthony's birthdays, resulting in Simon's Ermenegildo Zegna beige shirt getting soaked in wine, and a vow to never attend another Bridgerton family gathering.
Then, to make matters worse, he had to tackle one of the most complicated scenes of the movie, starring the one person who refused to make his life easier.
"I have experience riding horses since I was a child, I know how to do this."
With a huff, Anthony felt the dampness of the drizzle causing his hair to cling to his forehead.
"Fantastic for you," he said with a piercing look, "but that doesn't mean it will look good on camera."
Kate crossed her arms over her chest defiantly, giving a dismissive scoff. She could feel the gentle rain on her long brown cape, which was protecting her and her ash yellow dress.
"Oh, is that the problem, or are you just unable to admit to one tiny mistake?" she asked.
"Admit to one tiny—" he pressed his lips together in an indignant grimace, waving his hands around because his patience was wearing thin. "I am the director. I'm telling you how I want this sequence to be performed."
Instead of showing compliance, Kate's reaction was to sarcastically widen her brown eyes. "Really? Is that the defence you plan to use when the scene ends up being completely absurd?"
"Why are those two idiots yelling near the horse?" the animal trainer, Kendrick Nectar, asked from afar. He watched with growing unease as the director and main actress engaged in a heated argument, causing the poor animal to tremble in fear.
Then, realising that the director's brother was seated right next to him, he promptly added, "No offense."
"None taken," Colin grumbled tiredly in response, his arms crossed over his chest as he slouched on his chair, observing the scene in front of them unfold.
Tired of waiting endlessly for their turn to shoot the scene, he and Penelope decided it was time to take a break and give their legs a rest. In fact, even the actors involved in the present scene had chosen to take a break and distance themselves from the escalating argument between Anthony and Kate. Dolores, for one, headed straight for the snack table, enjoying some Anzac biscuits while she sipped her tea.
Colin's stomach rumbled, making him briefly consider joining her.
Beside him, Penelope yawned and adjusted her raincoat before attempting to find a comfortable position on her chair.
"Do you reckon he'll notice if I sneak off to nap in my trailer," Colin joked, feeling fatigued himself.
She mustered a tired smile, her lips peeking out from beneath the hood that partially concealed her face. "Unfortunately, I believe your brother inherited your mother's omniscient powers and is always aware of where each of the actors in his care are," she said.
"If only he possessed the same intuitive power to discern the murderous thoughts we harbour silently for him," he replied.
While focusing on the quarrelling duo in the midst of the open field, Penelope couldn't help but chuckle. "I think your brother is such a good director," she said, having rarely harboured murderous thoughts about him.
"I suppose he is," he reluctantly agreed. "But you're definitely way too good, Pen," he added, knowing that Penelope was the one person who would never use Anthony's temper against him.
She let out another yawn and shook her head at him, before settling back into her chair, attempting once more to find a comfortable position. Colin moved his chair nearer to Penelope as he observed her struggling again, gently drawing her closer so that she could rest her head on his shoulder.
With a soft thank you, she nestled closer, burying her head on his shoulder, and surrendering to the comforting gesture, too weary to resist. Anthony and Kate's shouts, although initially irritating, took on a persistent rhythm that almost lulled Colin to sleep in his tired state. As Penelope pressed against him, her warmth seeped into his bones, offering respite from the hours of being drenched in the chilly drizzle. Before he knew it, he could feel his own eyelids growing heavy.
In the meantime, while Dolores, the rest of the cast, and even Kendrick were enjoying their snacks, their attention was immediately drawn to a piercing neigh. In an instant, the poor horse between Anthony and Kate bolted without direction, causing them to exchange shocked glances as they watched it gallop away.
"I knew this was going to happen," the animal trainer exclaimed, his small plate clattering as he hastily abandoned it on the table and sprinted off in pursuit of the runaway animal.
"If he knew, why wasn't he doing anything about it earlier?" Thomas questioned, observing the frantic trainer sprinting in despair, as he nonchalantly grabbed three mini croissants and added them to his plate.
Dolores paid no attention to him, her eyes widening as she observed the scene unfolding before them. "What are they doing?" she shouted, causing Thomas to quickly redirect his gaze towards the open field, where he witnessed Anthony and Kate chasing after the horse too.
"Oh, this is going to be great," Thomas exclaimed, eagerly grabbing his phone, his excitement standing out amidst the shocked expressions of everyone else. Thomas, a self-proclaimed social media addict, couldn't afford to let that gem slip away without saving it for later.
Kate, Anthony, Kendrick, and the horse vanished after crossing a small hill, yet Thomas persisted in pointing his camera in the direction they had headed, anticipating the comedic calamity they would unleash upon their return.
"Can you actually do that?" questioned Margaret Goring, a newer actress who was still inexperienced and overwhelmed by the confidentiality rules they were expected to adhere to.
He replied nonchalantly, "As long as I don't reveal anything too important about the movie, or maybe if I get permission. Moreover, I can save this and later share it as a humorous behind the scenes moment once the movie is released."
After a quick glance at her, he asked, "Why? Aren't you taking pictures at all?"
Pursing her lips, she confessed, "A few…"
He leaned in, keeping one eye on the girl and the other on his phone, and advised, "Look, the key is to enjoy yourself. You need some material to post on social media. Trust me, it's great for publicity."
Kendrick then made his long-awaited return, accompanied by the horse. Kate and Anthony, covered in mud, were not far behind, capturing everyone's attention - some amused, others shocked. Thomas found the situation incredibly hilarious and burst into laughter while filming a video. But while Dolores assured Thomas that Anthony would never approve the video's release, Margaret's attention had shifted elsewhere. A scene that seemed to go unnoticed by everyone else caught her attention.
Sitting a few meters to the right, there was Colin Bridgerton, peacefully resting his head on Penelope Featherington's, both of them cuddled up together and looking absolutely adorable as they slept peacefully in their raincoats.
Little did she know, when she innocently snapped that photo and later added it to her Instagram carousel, the domino effect it would unleash.
A/N: AND THE MESS BEGINS!
As promised, a quick explanation for eveyrone that isn't used to text messaging in English (just in case):
abt= about
bday=birthday
bc = because
idk= i don't know
k = okay
pls= please
r = are
u = you
w= with
y = why
And as I mentioned on the beginning notes: DP = Director of Photography
And that's it! Don't for get your likes and reviews (also in case you guys have any questions etc).
God bless you and have a good day!