Love is a choice (Benedict Bridgerton)

14. The Big Question

It can not mean Benedict and I are bound to get married this season as well, right? Though it is not the worst thing to happen, it is at this very moment where I know I am not ready for it just yet.

"Oh, I think Augie's hungry." The Duchess says. "Excuse us."

And with that, Simon and Daphne both head inside with their child.

Knowing Simon, it is very strange to see him as a true family man. Honestly, he is the last person I imagined to ever marry- and be happy about it. As kids, I've seen him go through a lot, especially with the issues he had with his speech and his father. I am genuinely glad he has found the love he lacked in his life.

"Miss Griffiths," Kate calls. "Are you familiar with the game pall mall?"

•

"Now the rules are simple, Miss Griffiths. To win, you must be the first to hit your ball through each wicket and–"

"I do not think I am in need of an explanation for this game, Mr. Bridgerton." I say to Benedict who seems surprised at my cockiness.

To be truthful, I grew up playing pall mall when I was younger at the Danbury household. Alongside Simon, in fact. He never admitted it, but I beat him most of the time.

"As our special guest, you may pick your mallet first, Miss Griffiths." Colin announces.

Without even thinking about it for a second, I take the blue one. "No pink for the lady?" Benedict asks to infuriate me, but I know he only does it to affect my game.

"What about you? Wouldn't you rather be inside and doodle a bunch of disfigured hands?" I respond, causing a few to chuckle. Even Benedict seems entertained.

"Love her." I hear Eloise mutter to Kate behind me.

Everyone has picked their own mallet so we can finally begin the game.

"You go first, Miss Griffiths." The Viscount tells me.

Oh, I hope I still got it. The last time I played was before I left for New York.

Swinging my mallet, I hit it against the ball straight through the first wicket thus causing everyone to applaud. "Excellent shot, Miss Griffiths!" Colin compliments.

I make eye contact with Benedict who only grins at me proudly. "Alright, your turn, brother." Benedict tells Anthony.

•

It has been almost an hour I believe, and Benedict and I are tied to the last wicket with our balls next to each other. Surprisingly, the viscount and Kate are both out and headed inside to take care of a certain business.

...whatever that means.

It is my turn and I have two choices; either take the opportunity to get my ball through the last wicket or knock Benedict's ball far away.

If I attempt to get it through the last wicket and miss it, Benedict might be able to knock mine even further.

"Scared of losing, Miss Griffiths?" Benedict asks with a raised eyebrow.

I do not know whether his cocky remarks are utterly infuriating or very pleasant, but whatever it is out of the two, I enjoy seeing him this way; Careless from worries.

"Definitely not." I respond confidently before effortlessly hitting my ball straight through the final wicket, causing everyone to cheer.

"What a wonderful game!" Colin says. "Now, let us head back and get some rest before dinner."