The Artistic Pursuit

Chapter 8 - Cruelty of Miss Cowper

All the Bridgerton men had visited her a mere few weeks ago. Yet, Pen had found a strength she never knew she possessed.

Penelope could take on the world if she wished. Benedict hadn't visited her since he basically told her that he enjoyed their kiss. It was rather passionate, even though he did not know it was her, she secretly wished he would kiss her like that again. It gave her stomach butterflies.

No matter what the situation, Benedict always seems to know the right words. He was unlike anyone she had ever met.

An awful thought crossed Pens mind. Ben knew she was Whistledown, does that mean that he realises why El and her were not speaking. Oh no. Would he ever forgive me?

Penelope Featherington was getting changed for the Cowper ball. Truth be told, she'd rather stick needles in her eyes than deal with that awful family. She did not wish to see anymore of Eloise and Cressida Cowper's friendship blossoming.

It was fortunate that Ben had distracted her so often. She didn't have to witness the new found friends giggling over needlework. Or whatever they did.

Even Rae looked at her with concern "Rae, I will be fine. I promise"

"If you like, I could wrap up a hideous fragrance for you to douse on Cressida's garment when she's not looking"

Pens mouth dropped "Rae!!"

"Just a suggestion, Miss" she looked pretty pleased with her idea.

"Believe me. It is appreciated" Pen giggled.

"I am feeling confident enough to fight off whatever she throws at me"

"If you change your mind, I will leave a bottle by the ..."

"Thank you Rae!" Pen scorned, but obviously didn't mean it.

THE COWPER ESTATE

Pen wore a soft green dress, that sparkled in the light. Her lips a bright red and her hair in a loose style in a green clip.

She looked at her reflection.

It does not matter what I wear, Cressida 'the bitch' Cowper will always dig at me. One day I swear she will get her just desserts. I hope Benedict will be in attendance, I have missed his company terribly.

Oh god. Here we go.

She stepped into the hall with her family. The first set of eyes she saw on the other side of the room were Benedict's.

They swiftly walked towards each other, their eyes still on one another's. Just as the music stopped, they were in the centre of the room. Looking at each other. Unlike Benedict, he was at a loss for words.

She is breathtaking. It is taking all the strength I have not to embrace her right now, for all the ton to see. Bring my lips to her red lips. Move my hands over her and claim her right here, right now.

He realised that he hadn't said anything.

"Pen. You look so beautiful"

"Thank you. So do you"

He gave a smirk. She corrected herself "I mean to say. You look very handsome, but then you always do"

Ben stepped closer "Penelope, can I be honest with you?"

"Always, Benedict"

"I am struggling to get through a day without thinking about you. I have not visited because I thought it would be easier"

"You're not one to take the easy route" she smiled, not really contemplating what he was trying to say.

"That is true" he smiled "But it is becoming increasingly difficult not to pull you close and kiss your lips"

Pen's mouth fell open "Oh, Benedict"

"I am sorry. I should not have said that, but when I am around you I feel.."

"Vulnerable?" She offered.

He nodded. Her voice was soft "Me too"

"I am sorry Pen, this is my fault. I should not have kissed you at the studio. Now I feel like I'm losing my mind. We are still friends?"

"How could you ever ask me that. Ben we will always be friends" she gave a giggle "What's a bit of kissing and nudity between friends, right?"

He laughed "You need to stop that"

"Stop what?"

"Being more desirable. I feel like I'm loosing my mind. I don't think I can take it"

"More desirable. Meaning you find me to be desirable?"

"Pen. I want you to be happy, I do and I know when you find the love of your life, I will be happy for you. But know this, whomever you find that wins your heart. I will be forever envious of him"

Pens cheeks started to burn.

"I will be right back. I need refreshment. I appear to have got a bit warm all of a sudden"

Benedict watched the beautiful lady and green walk away. I think I might love her.

Cressida appeared like an evil serpent from a nightmare. Slithering her way through the crowd.

"Miss Penelope Featherington. I was just speaking to my mother about how your dress is almost the exact shade of green my father threw up after our return from New Market last year"

"The meat had gone foul, had it not?" Her mother added with a grim smile.

"I believe so"

Her mother continued "Your poor father was sick for days, it was such a horrid colour it looked as though it came from a swamp"

They both sniggered.

Benedict looked to Pen. She was trapped in a double Cowper trap. He would have to intervene.

Anthony had taken note of Pens discomfort and had already started to walk to their friend.

The tables suddenly turned. Pen looked at her heroes on route and shocked everyone.

Pen retaliated.

She had a comeback. She didn't even look like she thought through what she had said. She simply let the words fall. Leaving a stunned Cressida and her mother. For ladies known for their composure, they were looking rather shocked.

Pen on the other hand was having the time of her life linking on to Anthony and Benedict.

Anthony smiled at Pen "I do hope Whistledown is in attendance, I cannot wait to see what she writes" Pen smiled and then stole a glance at Benedict.

The glance became heated rather quickly. Pens heart was thumping so hard that she thought it would jump from her chest. Benedict looked proud. His eyes were resting on her bust, before they moved back up to her eyes.

He wanted her. Good god, he wanted her.