'Since I've laid my eyes on you' | BRIDGETON

this is torture

'Look! They are expecting us outside.' Catherine announced. The Bridgerton family first greeted Florence's parents. Florence did not know how is she going to recall all the names as they happen to be such a big family. Even the duchess arrived along with her firstborn son.

'Had a pleasant ride?' Anthony enquired, arms behind his back.

'Indeed.' Cornelius pulled out his arm, going for a handshake. Celestia was headed towards to Colin, grin appearing on her face. Florence watched her younger sister as her eyes slowly traveled to Raymond's intense glare at those two together.

'Aubrey Hall happens to be breathtaking.' Celestia gasped, gazing at the building. Florence's eyes caught Raymond's as he slightly parted his lips. She was unable to read his expression, she could sense it wasn't positive though.
'What do you think, Florence?'

'Astonishing indeed.' She said, rather quietly.

'Let us show you your rooms.' Violet stated as the younger kids started squeaking.

~

The families decided to go on a walk later on in the afternoon. Florence walked beside Eloise as they discussed topic such as books, studying or women's rights. However, Eloise occurred to be the most enthusiastic in conversation about Whistledown for her own reason. She claimed that she only intended to find her to give her certain writing 'tips'.

'Well, how far have you got until now?'

'I believe I am close.' She gritted her teeth as she passionately tightened her wrist at the thought of catching the writer. Florence suddenly felt a splash of water as they were passing a tiny stream on the back of her leg

'What was that?' She turned around to see Raymond's clueless face. They both stopped walking as they glared at each other.

'Shouldn't we wait?' Eloise asked.

'I am sure they will find their way.' Benedict rolled his eyes as he pulled her arm.

'I hope it doesn't turn into something dangerous.' Catherine joined, slightly nervously.

'I believe we wouldn't be so lucky.' Albert sighed as Catherine glared at him.

'Albert!'

'Oh, it is nothing Mrs. Everleigh. They shall be alright.' Violet grabbed her arm as she pulled hee dorward.

'Did you have to splash that dirty liquid onto me?' Florence accused Raymond.

'Pardon me? You must be delusional.' He argued as he started walking away. Florence followed him in frustration.
'I believe we are lost.' He stood in front of the paths' separation. Florence bent down to the stream that got larger and deeper with the road, splattering the water in Raymond's direction.

'Hey!' He cried out as he jumped. He copied Florence's action until they both happened to be soaking wet. Florence's boot slipped on the moistened ground, causing her to fall into the going water. She struggled to fight the flow as Raymond ran towards her in order to pull her out.

'My hand! Florence!' Her head got under the water multiple times before she could stick out her arm far enough for him to clasp it. Raymond was holding her face as she continued coughing.
'I- I thought-' He seemed to be unable to speak.

'I am okay.' She said. 'I am fine. You can let go.' Florence repeated herself. She slowly removed his hands away, gazing into Raymond's eyes.

'Brother!' It was Anthony's voice followed by others.
'Are you alive!' He shouted. Raymond let go of Florence as he helped her stand up. She had her mouth happened due to the shock.