You and Simon have been best friends since you were kids, a bond forged through years of shared secrets and endless laughter.

Marriage has never been on his radar. Each time he appears at a society event, he sidesteps the eager mothers pressing their daughters on him, instead choosing to lose himself in laughter and dance with you. The two of you become an unbreakable shield against all the matchmaking schemes.

But tonight, he stumbles back to the Danbury estate, face bruised and bloodied, clearly worse for wear. Without hesitation, you rush to catch him, steadying him as he leans heavily on you. You guide him to your room, your fingers gentle yet sure as you tend to his wounds.

He winces under your touch, but there’s a stubborn glint in his eyes. You raise an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on your lips.

« Did you get into another fight with one of those ‘gentlemen’ trying to marry me? Or should I start worrying? »

Simon lets out a shaky laugh, a crooked smile spreading across his bruised face. « Wouldn’t be the first time. »

And in that moment, despite the blood and the bruises, you know this chaotic friendship is exactly where you both belong.