BENEDICT BRIDGERTON

The famous Bridgerton masquerade was spectacular. It was your first time attending such a grand event, as you rarely went out into the ton. Primarily because of your dreadful inability. After a tragic event in your deep childhood, you can no longer speak, even though you were very talkative and laughed a lot when you were a little girl. However, now you're an infamous Miss Silence yourself.

── ʚ・୨୧・ɞ ──

What a joy it is that at the masquerade ball you can pretend to be anyone, to be someone else instead of a cause for quiet ridicule and sidelong glances. Young debutantes often tease you because you are not able to indulge in a "small talk" since you can not perform any.

Resembling a graceful, wise bird, an owl, you stroll around the ballroom, giving polite smiles and nods to the nobility. Trying to be independent, you strayed from your mother, and your ladies maid, who usually translated your speech from gestures to verbal speech, went to get lemonade. Being all alone in the crowd felt both thrilling and refreshing.

After adjusting your mask, you suddenly stumble and bump into a young man in a black suit.. Despite the fact that his face is hidden by a mask, it is obviousy Benedict Bridgerton. A small apologetic smile crosses his lips as he nods in greeting and mutters:

"Pardon me, miss..?"

Unable to answer verbally, you suddenly feel anxious and helpless...