Hold me, lover, like you used to (so tight I'd bruise you)

Those songs we sang, those words we flung

"Are you sure about this?" Simon asked.

"Yes," Anthony replied, slightly annoyed. He glanced back at Simon and saw the pensive look on his friend. "Relax, I promise you my family won't mind you joining us for the holidays."

Simon only nodded as Anthony led him through a snow-covered pathway toward the Bridgerton's country home, which looked like a Christmas postcard came to life. Anthony basically dragged him to come when his friend found out he had no plans for the holidays. He still can't believe he said yes but the way Anthony described their family holiday - the laughter, music, and traditions that made it all up made Simon crave some sort of belonging to a family.

So, now Simon is following his friend who is buzzing with excitement. Regardless of his apprehension, he can't help but smile at his friend's childlike glee.

"I'm home!" Anthony hollered the moment he opened the door. Simon followed closely and could see that the house was decorated for the holidays.

"Brother!" One of Anthony's sisters called out, as she moved towards him giving him a tight hug. "I've missed you. This must be your guest." She released her brother from the hug as she spotted him. "Mother was thrilled when you said you were bringing someone. But, I think she'll be a little disappointed that it's your friend and not a girlfriend."

Anthony's sister teased, cocking her head towards her brother. Simon chuckled as he heard his friend groan. Before, Anthony could say anything she turned towards him, smiling and holding up her hand.

"I'm Daphne, by the way."

"Simon, nice to meet you." Gently taking her offered hand and shaking it. He was charmed by Anthony's sister and maybe spending time with the Bridgertons wouldn't be so bad.

Her smile became brighter, dimples gracing her face. "I hope you'll enjoy your stay here. "

Simon beamed in return. He was definitely going to enjoy his holidays.

"You're making quite a splash." He turned his gaze towards his godmother, sipping her tea across from him. He rolled his eyes, knowing full well that she was pertaining to the latest Whistledown gossip.

"I don't care about what Whisltedown has written." He loathed what the rumor-writing author was trying to do, trying to paint a story, a sensation, that would sell. Simon was definitely not looking forward to what the next couple of weeks is going to bring his way.

"Well, you can't blame her, Simon. After years of making your feelings towards taking over your father known, this decision of yours is a surprising one."

He can't deny the truth in her words. He detested his father, holding a grudge towards the company his father valued and cared for more than his wife and son. It didn't help that his father expected him to be a part of the company from the moment he graduated. He's not following the path his father already designed for him only cementing his father's view of him as a failure.

"You've been telling me to take over the company." He answered lamely, can't think of anything else to say. "To step up."

"I wasn't the only one that has been telling you that."

Simon cleared his throat, his aunt's knowing look piercing through him. He should have known that breakfast with his aunt Agatha would lead to an interrogation or something that felt like one.

"I can't help but wonder if a certain Bridgerton influenced your decision in some way."

"Anthony had nothing to do with it." He replied, in a vain attempt at humor. Hoping she'll drop the conversation.