The Artist's Muse

Die a Lie

The annual social picnic always leads to such intriguing couple pairings. Miss Cowper was seen, while unhappily I might say, on the arm of a distinguished older gentleman. Desperation is often not a good look on a young lady. There is always next season, Miss Cowper.

It would appear there is a brewing love triangle involving a certain Bridgerton. I won't name names, but I presume we are all capable of determining which Bridgerton I am referring to. Who shall become the victor? Only time will tell.

LADY WHISTLEDOWN'S SOCIETY PAPERS, 20 AUGUST 1815

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"She can be so dreadful!" Eloise snarled as she slapped the newest edition of Lady Whistledown onto Benedict's drawing table. He had been in the process of preparing his belongings to attend his painting session with Lander when she had burst into his chambers unannounced. "She is insinuating that Mister Thyne would ever want anything to do with Miss Hardinge! It is possible to merely be friends, such as Pen and Colin!"

Benedict's gaze flitted to the paper. He had not had a chance to read it as of yet, but he saw his name in neatly typed letters. Of course, the column would be buzzing about him and Flor. He was the most sought-after bachelor alongside Lander while Flor was a beautiful lady who had gained the attention of two handsome men. It was to be expected. It did not mean he appreciated it. He was just not shocked nor did he feel the anger Eloise did.

"It is merely gossip, Eloise. Do not allow it to rile you up," he said tiredly as he slung his bag over his shoulder. He was both thrilled and weary of the session ahead. It had been well over a week since Benedict had spoken to Lander.

"Gossip that every being takes for the truth!" Eloise threw herself into a chair in front of Benedict's fireplace. "How are you not upset!"

Benedict laughed and headed toward the door, hoping she would realize he was leaving. "Because I know the truth. Others opinions are of no importance to me."

Eloise looked at him skeptically. "I don't believe you."

"As you wish. I have a painting class to attend."

Eloise follows him into the hallway. "Do you love her?"

"What?" Benedict scoffed.

"The woman you have taken an interest with. Why have you not called upon her?"

Benedict rolled his eyes. "Because I do not wish to wed her."

"Then why spend so much time with her?"

Benedict paused on the landing and turned to face her. "She's a terrific conversationist." Eloise looked at him blankly. That was good. She did not know the true meaning of his words. "As you previously stated, males and females can be friends just as Pen and Colin are."

Eloise scoffed as Benedict turned and continued down the stairs. "You have never been one for friendships with the opposite gender!"

"Perhaps I am turning over a new leaf."

"You are such a liar!"

Benedict sighed heavily as he reached the front door. "Eloise, my dear sister, I would love to discuss with you the finer points of my private life, but I truly must go."

"This conversation isn't over!" Eloise said as Benedict stepped out the door.

He turned as he walked down the front walk and nodded at her. "Have a terrific day!"

While he hoped she would forget it, he was not going to count on it. Eloise was not easily dissuaded once her mind was set.

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