Linger in love

(11) The Races

The Royal Races of Berkshire. The Royal Ascot. Is always a momentous occasion, to be sure.

It is a popular day out to the members of the esteemed ton. None more than Mr Colin Bridgerton who was giddy with excitement that his long time friend would be joining him.

Pen looked up at him in his rather fetching dark blue hat. Colin caught her looking.

"Pen, why are you looking at me like that"

"You look quite extinguished with your hat and facial hair"

"Thank you. Benedict was making fun of me. He referred to it at a strange growth"

Pen laughed "The hat or your beard?"

He laughed back "Possibly both"

"Pen" I lowered my head so slightly, before I brought my eyes to hers "How have you been?"

"I have been well and you.. ?" She laughed her fan at me. Reminding me of all the adventures I had while I was away. Proving once again that she took note of everything, read every letter. Unlike my own family who barely responded. Her writings were always so encouraging, making me feel like I was of importance in her life. God, I missed her.

She asked if I was perhaps, lonely. If only my sister didn't interrupt. I told her I was never lonely. I hope she does not believe I have been surrounded by ladies the entire time. Like some hapless rake, by brothers have been noted to be.

Eloise diverted her elsewhere. Putting herself between me and Pen, as always.

Surely, she must have seen that I was in the midst of a conversation. It is not like I get to see her every day as she does. It would not be proper. I wanted to escort her specifically to see her. Talk with her. But for gods sake am I not allowed even that.

"Hi Pen, Mr Fairaway is looking for you"

"Is he, I had not seen him arrive" Not that she was looking, every time Colin talks, she finds herself enraptured with every word to leave his lips.

"I promised I would retrieve you from my brother. He does go on, does he not?"

"Eloise!" I scorned "I enjoy talking with Colin. He was going to give me more details of his adventures"

"Truly" she seemed irritated "I guess someone must" El patted me on the bottom "Your prince awaits, my dear Pen"

I jolted a little bit at the tap. Thomas walked toward me with a lemonade.

I cleared my throat nervously "How are you finding the races, Thomas"

"So enjoyable, in fact I put a bet on High Flyer, would you care to join me?"

"I would enjoy that immensely" I was trying not to smile like an idiot, but how Thomas was so sweet and kind around me it was not hard to.

He secured a seat not far from the Bridgerton clan. Eloise was now standing with Colin and Benedict, while I was seated behind Violet and her youngest.

I placed a hand on her shoulder to say hi "Good day Miss Penelope" she placed her hand over mine "good day, Lady Bridgerton. May I introduce.."

Violet interrupted excitedly, her head turning a little "... Mr Fairaway. I'm so pleased to meet you. You have been the talk of the town"

Hyacinth, Gregory and Francesca were introduced. As I laughed and smiled with my group. I couldn't help but feel eyes on me. I scratched my neck and slowly looked over my shoulder. I was surprised to see Colin's eyes on me. He looked disappointed.

Perhaps, he wished to tell me more of his travels. I gave him a small smile and continued my conversation with Thomas.

Colin let out a small growl "Why do you look defeated, this race hasn't started yet?" Eloise poked him in the side. Benedict laughed at his scowl.