𝐈 𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐁𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐒, 𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐧

past shadows.

The late afternoon sun cast a golden hue over Hyde Park, dappling the grass with warmth as Charlotte and Benedict strolled along the winding paths. The air was crisp with the promise of autumn, leaves crunching underfoot as they walked side by side.

"Isn't it just perfect today, Ben?" Charlotte said, her voice light with enthusiasm as she looked around at the park's beauty. Benedict smiled warmly at her, his easy charm evident.

"It certainly is, Lottie. I can see why you enjoy coming here so much," he replied, glancing sideways at his friend. Charlotte had always found solace in the park, its open spaces and quiet corners providing a welcome escape from the bustle of London society.

They walked in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the peace of the park. Charlotte took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before she spoke.

"Benedict, there's something I need to tell you," she began, her tone serious yet tinged with nervousness. Benedict looked at her curiously, sensing the weight of her words.

"What is it, Lottie?" he asked gently, concern knitting his brow. Charlotte hesitated for a moment, gathering her courage.

"It's about Anthony," she started, glancing at Benedict to gauge his reaction. He nodded encouragingly, urging her to continue.

"We... we've grown closer recently," Charlotte admitted, her cheeks flushing slightly. Benedict's eyebrows shot up in surprise, but he kept his expression neutral, allowing Charlotte to continue at her own pace.

"We've shared moments together, intimate moments," she confessed, her voice dropping to a whisper. Benedict's surprise gave way to a knowing smile.

"I see," he smirked. "And how do you feel about him, Charlotte?"

Charlotte paused, considering her answer carefully. "I care for him deeply, Benedict," she replied honestly. "I didn't expect it to happen, but it did. He's... he's unlike anyone I've ever met."

Benedict nodded thoughtfully. "And Anthony? How does he feel?"

Charlotte sighed, her gaze drifting to the path ahead. "I believe he cares for me too," she said quietly. "But there's something... something he's keeping from me."

Benedict frowned slightly, his concern growing. "What do you mean?"

"He's secretive, Benedict," Charlotte explained, her voice tinged with frustration. "There are times when he's distant, almost as if he's hiding something. I've tried to ask him, but he always deflects or changes the subject."

Benedict mulled over her words, his brow furrowed. "Have you confronted him about it?"

Charlotte nodded. "Yes, but he never gives me a straight answer," she admitted. "I want to trust him, Benedict, but it's hard when there's this... this wall between us."

Benedict reached out and squeezed her hand gently. "I understand, Lottie," he said softly. "But perhaps there's more to it than meets the eye. Anthony has always been a complex man."

Charlotte nodded, grateful for his understanding. "I know," she replied. "And I want to give him the benefit of the doubt. But sometimes... sometimes I feel like I'm waiting for something that may never come."

Benedict hesitated, unsure to speak. "Charlotte, Anthony has been through a great deal," he began, his voice quiet yet firm. "More than you might realize."

She nodded slowly, prompting him to continue.

"You see, it started when we were still quite young," Benedict explained, his thoughts drifting back to a time long past. "Our father... he died unexpectedly."