Contrite & Convicted

An Unthinkable Fate Part I

*IF YOU LIKE STAR WARS PLEASE SEE THE NOTE AT THE BOTTOM**

--also this is the best representation of Lawrence Bane I can think of...if you choose something else that's totally cool this is just what I see----

An Unthinkable Fate Part I

The frenzy of competition. The thrilling delight of hazarding you all. I am referring not to the lure of London's luxurious gaming halls but to a gamble with far higher stakes. Matrimony. For once that particle bet is placed it cannot be so easily undone. A fact at which, I am sure, is met with both regret and relief.

"Seems Whistledown has gotten less savory this year than last." Ester claimed as she sat above the tub, her hands gliding against the water that her dashing husband bathed in. The water was too warm for her taste but he always hated the cold.

"She continues to keep the public interest and that is her only goal I am sure." Ester smiled as she touched his knee.

"Are your spirits intact again?" Anthony asked as he grabbed the hand that was spinning in circles on his knee. Holding it firmly.

"Yes I am well now, thank you." Anthony smiled and kissed her hand. He was worried for her this morning when she jumped out of bed and was quick to empty her stomach into a bowl. He always hated seeing people ill but especially his wife who seemed to be struggling once more from morning sickness.

"Good, I'd hate to see my little elephant unwell." Ester rolled her eyes at the "enduring" nickname.

"Will you ever let that go?" She whispered against his hair and she gave it a kiss on the top of his head.

"No, I find its change in meaning rather sweet." The pair looked into each others eyes and shared a joyous laugh.

"I'm sure if Whistledown were to discover it, she would forgo Viscountess in a heartbeat." Anthony smiled a soft smile and glanced up to Ester's face. My gosh was she beautiful. He thought in his head.

Ester was always beautiful but something about her being pregnant made him find his wife, more alluring. He found this a common thing among men, to find a woman with child more attractive so he chalked it to nature.

"You know...there is something else that would quicken the heartbeat." Ester whispered, as her hand left his and trailed down his leg, deep into the tub's water. Not minding her robe was now drenched.

Anthony felt his own heart rate quicken as he felt something brush against his--

"More hot water, sir?" Ester, being the minx she was, didn't stop at her bout of teasing (thankful the servant couldn't see what it was she was doing to prohibit him from answering).

"No, Master Bridgerton is fine with the water's temperature...would you agree, My Lord?" Anthony gasped and quickly shook his head.

"Y-Yes! The water is fine." The servant, unsuspectingly, walked away without a question. Ester however, did not walk away and left his mind reeling with the idea that this was a side of his wife he rather enjoyed.

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The garden party was a highly populated soiree Ester thought as Benedict extended his hand for her to exit the carriage. Violet, had decided not to attend so it was just Ester, Benedict, Collin and Anthony.

Apparently because Eloise signed up for flower arranging later she agreed not too attend many events in one day. Ester thought it was suspicious but she could also tell Eloise was at her wits end with events.