in quite deep// featherington oc

fifteen

Dearest reader. It has been said that competition is an opportunity for us to rise and stand ready before our greatest of challenges. Well, if what this author hears this morning is true, then a great challenge concerning this season's diamond has been set forth, indeed. Any suitor wishing to gain an audience with Miss Edwina Sharma must first tame the rather prickly spinster of a beast otherwise known as her sister.

Bash and I sit in the drawing room together.

"I saw the new decor," Bash states. "I am to assume the new Lord Featherington has arrived."

I nod my head. "He has indeed."

"Is he as horrible as your mama has made him sound?" Bash questions.

"No," I confess. "He is not old nor ugly and he has already paid Philippa's dowry."

"At the least he seems as though he is here to provide," Bash offers.

"I think he is but things are rather tense with him and my mama," I explain. "Though I suppose it will be since he is taking over as the head of the family."

" I should like to meet the man," Bash tells me.

"You will," I assure him. "This afternoon at the races."

Bash smiles. "I look forward to it."

Pen and I find Mama and Mrs Varley standing in front of a display to hold guns.

"What on earth is that?" I ask.

"Is that Cousin Jack's?" Pen questions.

"Cousin? Is that what he asked you to call him?" Mama asks.

"Are you bothered by him, Mama?" Pen asks.

"Of course not," Mama insists. "The new Lord Featherington has come to shower us with many riches indeed. If we must endure a few... dubious style choices in return, along with some rather questionable matters of breeding, then so be it."

"I also hear he wishes to convert the morning room into his own personal gaming hell," Mrs Varley says.

Lord Featherington smiles as he walks towards us. "Ah. Now, that looks splendid. Livens up the place, yes?"

"It is a happy addition, my lord. Though, perhaps happier in your own bedchamber," Mama offers.

"Have you shot them all, Cousin Jack?" Pen asks.

"Every weapon here has a splendid history and is worthy of interest, Penelope. I shall have to fill you in on all of my adventures one day," Lord Featherington tells her. "Now, ladies, run along and get dressed. We head to the Royal Races today."

Since arriving at the races Philippa has been telling everyone about her wedding plans. I know she is happy. She deserves to be happy. Though it is getting rather annoying.

Bash and I walk arm and arm towards Benedict.

"Mister Bridgerton," Bash greets.

"Lady Seton. Lord Wilds." Benedict smiles. "I hear the new Lord Feahterington has finally arrived."

I nod my head. "He has and he has already met Bash."

"Does the new Lord Featherington approve of your match?" Benedict questions.

"He seemed more concerned with my business practices than with my love for Patience," Bash states.

"I am sure he simply wishes to see me well cared for," I offer.

Bash laughs. "He has just met you, Patience."

"Then maybe he wishes to make sure you do not sully the Featherington family name."