Fresh Air - Anthony Bridgerton

Bestfriends

As Scarlett stepped into Daphne's room, she couldn't help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over her. The familiar scent of lavender filled the air, mingling with the soft glow of candlelight that cast a warm glow across the room.

Daphne welcomed Scarlett with a smile, her eyes bright with excitement. "Scarlett, I can't believe you're really here. It's been far too long."

Scarlett returned the smile, feeling a rush of affection for her childhood friend. "I've missed you, Daphne. More than you know."

They settled onto the plush cushions of Daphne's sitting area, their conversation flowing easily as they traded stories and caught up on the years they had spent apart. They laughed over shared memories and reminisced about their childhood adventures, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment.

But beneath the surface, Scarlett sensed a hint of tension in Daphne's demeanor whenever the topic of the Duke of Hastings arose. It was subtle, but unmistakable - a shadow lurking behind Daphne's forced smiles and polite assurances.

"Daphne," Scarlett began tentatively, her voice filled with concern. "Is everything alright with your... courting?"

Daphne's smile faltered for a moment before she composed herself, her gaze flickering away. "Oh, it's nothing to worry about, Scarlett. Just the usual pre-engagement jitters, I suppose."

But Scarlett could see through the facade, sensing the turmoil bubbling beneath the surface. "Daph, you can tell me the truth. You don't have to pretend."

Daphne's shoulders slumped, her mask slipping away as she let out a weary sigh. "Alright, Scarlett. The truth is, the Duke and I are... fake courting."

Scarlett's eyes widened in surprise. "Fake courting? But why would you...?"

Daphne explained the arrangement she had entered into with the Duke, her voice tinged with uncertainty as she confessed her conflicted feelings about the situation. She spoke of duty and obligation, of the pressures weighing heavy on her shoulders, and the fear of being trapped in a loveless marriage.

Listening intently, Scarlett felt a pang of empathy for her friend's predicament. She reached out to grasp Daphne's hand in hers, offering a silent gesture of support.

"Daphne, I'm here for you," Scarlett said softly, her voice filled with warmth. "Whatever you decide, I'll stand by your side. You don't have to face this alone."

Tears welled up in Daphne's eyes as she squeezed Scarlett's hand in return, gratitude shining in her gaze. In that moment, they shared a silent understanding, bound together by the unbreakable bond of friendship.

As they talked late into the night, Scarlett and Daphne's confidences deepened, their hearts laid bare in the safety of each other's presence. And though they couldn't erase the challenges that lay ahead, they found solace in the knowledge that they would face them together, hand in hand.

By the time Scarlett bid Daphne goodnight and returned to the royal palace, she felt a renewed sense of purpose coursing through her veins. Whatever the future held, she knew that with Daphne by her side, she could weather any storm that came her way.