A/N: EEEEEEP the plot is finally plottingggg
May 19, 1816 – By now, it's fairly obvious that the esteemed Mr. Colin Bridergton and Lady Y/N Montclair have, to put it lightly, an intense dislike for one another. How this contention began, this author does not know. However, Lady Montclair has yet to dance with Mr. Colin Bridgerton at any ball this season, despite dancing with Benedict and even older brother Anthony Bridgerton. This, coupled with the endless glares between the two and Lady Montclair's perpetual frown around Mr. Bridgerton, indicates a less-than-friendly relationship.
Luckily, this rivalry is not of any particular consequence to our heroine, since Lord Arthur Barlow seems on the cusp of a proposal. After a month-long courtship, it could be mere days before the Duke asks Lord Philippe Montclair for Lady Montclair's hand in marriage. Although certainly a controversial choice from her parents to delay Y/N's season, the wait would certainly pay off if she marries a Duke. This union, with the Duke of Monmouth's title and the Montclair family's extensive land ownership, would be one of the most advantageous Mayfair has seen since Charlotte Bexley, who just so happens to be Y/N's sister, and her union to the Duke of Somerset. Shall we expect a public announcement soon? This author is certain that both families are itching for official confirmation.
Benedict thanked the bartender, sipping his brandy as he looked around at the gentlemen around him. Though Benedict and Colin had come to White's together, the younger Bridgerton had gotten caught up in conversation with Lord Fife, leaving Benedict alone and slightly bored.
However, Louis Montclair's appearance quickly piqued Benedict's interest. It was the first time Benedict had seen Louis at the gentleman's club, and he wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to find out more about your unusual relationship with Colin. It was no secret that you and Colin couldn't stand one another, but Benedict was far too absent at social functions to piece together what had happened by himself, and he thought Louis would be the perfect person to provide some clarity.
"Louis! I don't believe we've had the pleasure of speaking properly," Benedict clapped him on the back as he approached him.
Louis turned around, grinning once he saw the Bridgerton.
"Ah, Benedict, of course. Every time my mother successfully forces me to attend a ball, you seem to be absent! One would think you've been avoiding me," he said jovially.
Benedict laughed and shook his head. "Since my painting was placed in the national gallery, Mother hasn't been too insistent on my appearance at social functions," he explained. Then, with a cheeky smile, he added, "I believe the rivalry between our families starts and ends with Colin and Y/N."
Louis rolled his eyes, annoyed at the reminder of your hatred toward Colin. "Lord knows what the two have against each other. Even just thinking about having to listen to my sister complain about Colin after tomorrow's ball is giving me a headache."
"Then a drink is in order, to be sure!" Benedict called over the bartender and asked for another glass of brandy for your brother. "Though I wouldn't fret too much about your sister; I'm certain Colin must have done something unforgivable to elicit such a response," he said, only half joking.
"Well, I'm sure he has. I do not doubt that," responded Louis, grabbing his drink and thanking the bartender.
"Oh?" prompted Benedict, surprised by Louis' affirmative response. He led your brother to a table in the back corner, sitting down across from him.
Taking a sip, Louis explained, "My sister might be the most irritating person I know, but she rarely holds anyone in her bad graces unless she has a good reason."
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Lost in Translation (C. Bridgerton)
FanfictionIt took you all of two days of being in England to absolutely despise Colin Bridgerton. It took him approximately twelve hours after that to hate you right back. But he doesn't care that you're the only person in the ton who doesn't like him. You're...
