If you were to ask anyone in the ton about the Lady with a Fan, even an errand boy could give you an answer. That's the name Anastasia Bridgerton had built for herself to protect her family after their father's passing. As the oldest sister and twin...
Chapter 14: Words are weapons, wielded most by the ones you love
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"You do realize I am wearing multiple layers of clothing in a garden with little to no breeze and direct sunlight, yes?", Anastasia questioned, the fan in her hand moving faster with her words.
"Well, I have no personal experience so you cannot expect me to relate. However, I do understand your annoyance of having to attend this event", Nicholas breathed, shifting his weight from his toe to heel and back again, "The eyes are rather piercing today".
Anastasia released a tired sigh, "I expected as much. With Daphne gone unless another scandalous couple appears, we'll have all eyes on us".
A spark of mirth spread through his gaze as the man smiled teasingly, "While I do enjoy the spotlight, I'd rather have your eyes alone watching me".
"I humbly request Your Highness to stop adding fuel to the fire", The girl grumbled, bringing the fan closer to her face, "If your words were even a little louder, Whistledown would find herself drowning in wealth".
Nicholas chuckled with affection, knowing well of the red tint on her skin she so desperately tried to hide.
Just then, the peaceful garden event echoed with the sound of ringing glass.
"May I have everyone's attention? I have a rather small but happy announcement to make", Colin Bridgerton began, holding the hand of Marina Thompson as high as a trophy, "I have asked Miss Thompson to be my wife, and she has accepted".
The crowd exclaimed in delight, gathering around the happy couple with pleasant smiles and unseen intentions as they clamoured and congratulated the ton's newest hot topic.
The silence between Nick and Anna said more than any words could ever express.
"This was not what I meant...", Anastasia whispered, lips barely able to maintain a smile. Despite her calm stature, only her fiance would notice the tick marks on her forehead.
Nicholas too had trouble containing himself, except he found the situation utterly hilarious, letting out silent chuckles as he nodded, "I truly cannot tell whether you are lucky or unlucky, My lady".
Anastasia gazed at the man with the most exasperation he had ever seen on a woman's face, "At this point, even I cannot tell".
"Well, at the very least, we have gained ourselves a little bit more time. And you have one less sibling's marriage to worry for", Nicholas comforted, lingering smiles hanging off his lips.
Anastasia released a tired sigh, "But I have gained a new set of troubles in return, haven't I?".
"You cannot expect the best of both worlds, my love, many consider it greed".
