We Can't Be Friends (Bridgerton Fanfic)

A Winter Ball

Art picked up the green suit that their mother had left on the bed. It had been a long time since they had an opportunity to wear something this extravagant. He was quite scared that he would spill something on it or accidentally fall earning a long talking to from his mother about how to appreciate things.

The suit was a bit tight but seeing as they didn't have time for alterations this would do. Art did a quick spin in the mirror making sure that they didn't accidentally miss a tear or stain in the fabric.

"Ah don't you look handsome!" His mother said as she took his arm in hers obviously rushing him towards the carriage waiting outside.

Before long he was inside the carriage. His mom looked longingly out the window, balls seemed to be her favourite things these days. Whether it be the free food or the gossip it gave her a spark and that made Art happy. That happiness though was soon over powered by the feeling of dread. He had never heard of a divorce in his time let alone something as scandalous as what he had just went through. Of course none of this scandal had carried over to the duke and it seemed that him and him alone was the only thing people had talked about for the last couple of weeks.

Did he leave him because he was unread? Poorly dressed? Insane?

"Do you think Francesca will be there mother?" Art questioned.

"Mmm I would think so. The Bridgertons have a reputation to uphold after all!" His mother didn't break her gaze from outside the window.

Thank god Art thought to himself. He had always had a friend in the little Bridgerton girl. A couple years ago at a ball they had met and ever since he had adopted her as a sudo little sister. Maybe taking care of the little brunette girl would allow him to escape from the rumours, give him something to do.

Soon the carriage came to a halt. "This is your stop sir!" Was yelled by the men tending to the horses. A man grabbed Arts hand and lead them down to the beginning of the ball room.

Down the steps Art walked. Shit. He was here. Simon walked with his wife towards Anthony Bridgerton.

Art leaned over to his mothers shoulder "I should have stayed home"