The Artistic Pursuit

Prologue

After the events of The Featherington Ball last season. Penelope and Benedict grew a friendship of sorts. One that blossomed day by day.

Benedict enjoyed learning her interest. Including her love of playing cards, which his family loved so much. So, it didn't surprise him when he learned of an almost parental friendship between Penelope and his father.

He enjoyed teaching her his hobbies. He taught her card games, chess, writing games and he was always overjoyed that his mere presents brought such happiness to a young girl who had not received any affection at her own home.

After Benedict informed his mother of Colin's unkind words towards Penelope. Violet put it to herself to invite the lady to stay while Colin was away. Penelope whole heartedly agreed. With Colin souring her relationship with their Bridgerton name. Violet felt obliged to bring Pen back in her good graces. Her family would have to do their utmost to make Pen feel appreciated and welcomed in the wake of Colin's unfortunate blunder.

Violet had not sent correspondence of the events that conspired. As it broke her heart that one of her own sons could be so hurtful. Violet was seething but there was also a part of her that didn't want to ruin his travel by informing him. He would no doubt rush back praying for her forgiveness. At this time Violet did not believe of such. She believed a man should own up to his mistakes. It will take time for Colin to fall back into Pens graces. But for now she would remain quiet.

Violet wasn't informed at the time of El and Pens falling out but knew that Penelope had affection with all the family. She had a glow, a spark that Violet was drawn to. Even if Pen fell out with her whole family, at least that would mean she could keep her to herself.  Extremely selfish, but as a mother who felt Pen was a daughter who enjoyed time with her. She relished the thought.

No one was more interested in Pen stay than Benedict. He could be charming and entertaining. Possibly flirty, but then he was with a lot of ladies of the ton. Fortunately most of Ben flirtatious remarks toward Pen went straight over her head. For why would a Bridgerton ever flirt with a wallflower.