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Tense with the knowledge that they had vastly exceeded the maximum guest limit, Benedict tried to ensure that his siblings and mother were seated and not doing anything to draw public attention. Today was one of the most important days of Sophie’s life, and Benedict was determined to do everything in his power to make it perfect. His girlfriend, the most beautiful and intelligent woman he knew, had just graduated from UCL with a Master's degree in French Language and Literature with high honors. Benedict had never been particularly ambitious or cared much about his own academic life, but he was so proud of Sophie’s achievements that his chest physically ached.
"It will be wonderful to have another woman in the family who is this academically successful," Eloise said. She and Hyacinth were sitting in the row of chairs behind him. Hyacinth had already taken out her camera and started recording before the ceremony even began; even though Sophie hadn't asked for it, she had promised not to miss a single moment and to create amazing content for her social media. Benedict was right in front of them. To his right, Violet was fanning herself and looking around. To his left sat Colin and Gregory, with Colin confidently arguing to his younger brother that traveling the world was much more beneficial than going to university. Because an increase in the number of Bridgertons in any given setting naturally meant a decrease in control and an increased likelihood of a scandal, Benedict hadn't really wanted them to come. But his family had loved Sophie so much from the moment they met her that, despite all of Benedict's attempts to stop them, they hadn't missed her big day.
"Another one? Oh, I see. You're counting yourself," Benedict teased jokingly.
Eloise frowned slightly and immediately counterattacked. "You'd better focus on your own problems, brother, instead of talking back to me. You're bouncing your leg so much from nerves that you're generating kinetic energy right where you sit. Hyacinth could charge her camera with you."
Benedict stuck his tongue out at Eloise and turned back around. Being reminded of the subject had triggered his nervousness all over again. Part of his tension, of course, stemmed from sharing his girlfriend's excitement. The larger part, however... came from the fact that he was about to meet Richard Baek, who was sitting in the front rows of the adjacent section—a man Benedict had stared at for so long that he was starting to hallucinate an angry, frowning face on the back of the man's neck.
Throughout their relationship of over a year, Sophie had, of course, talked about her father. Even though he hadn't met him yet, Benedict knew enough to say that his girlfriend got her seriousness, discipline, and work ethic from him. Besides, even before meeting Sophie, he had heard things from Anthony and his mother about Richard Baek's demeanor in the business world and high society, but naturally, that information hadn't meant much to Benedict at the time. Now, however, every piece of information he learned was crucial for the ‘you can safely entrust your daughter to me because she is the love of my life’ image he had to build and maintain.
Benedict knew that Sophie loved and respected her father deeply. He knew that especially after her mother passed away, her father had reduced his workload to be there for Sophie more often, personally taking care of her every need, and that the father and daughter had developed an even closer relationship after this painful period. Richard Baek had come to England at a very young age and built a massive, successful, and wealthy empire almost from scratch. This perseverance and ambition had permeated his daughter's education as well. He had mobilized all his resources to ensure Sophie was raised by the best tutors and received the highest quality education from a young age. Even though Benedict, like all his siblings, had been raised with the generations-old Bridgerton discipline and refinement, he often felt inadequate next to Sophie. Even Violet, after meeting Sophie and seeing how well-equipped she was, had started to be more meticulous about Hyacinth and Gregory's education.
When handing out the graduation invitations, Sophie had told Benedict she was excited to introduce him to her father. Benedict was well aware of how important this was, given her devotion to her father. Furthermore, although he never doubted it, he was overjoyed that Sophie trusted him enough to introduce him to her dad. Richard Baek had married for a second time when Sophie was 17, and although Sophie didn't talk much about it, it was obvious she didn't have a stellar relationship with her stepmother. Richard had solved this issue by not making his wife and daughter interact much. Because of Araminta spent the vast majority of her time traveling with her own daughters, he could easily create one-on-one father-daughter time. Because of this, Sophie's definition of "family" consisted solely of her father, and coming from a large, loving family, Benedict understood exactly how significant that was. Colin, wearing a casual shirt and slacks, had made quite a bit of fun of Benedict, who viewed wearing a suit as torture even at the most important events. But Benedict was certain there was no other clothing option for the day he met Richard Baek, a man he had seen wearing a suit in every single existing photograph.
After speeches by the rector and several professors, it was time for the student presentations. Hyacinth had already discreetly slipped from her seat and moved to a spot where she could find a better angle with her camera. When Sophie appeared at the top of the stairs with a few friends, their eyes met instantly. Sophie smiled at him softly and gave a subtle wave. The ecru dress she wore under her black gown, ending just above her knees, wrapped elegantly around her slender waist. With heels matching her dress, her wavy hair left down, and light makeup, she looked like a gorgeous swan. Among the hundreds of people around, Benedict saw no one but his girlfriend, who didn't just reflect the light, but shone like a beacon all on her own. And, of course, Richard Baek...
"And now, one of our most precious students, graduating with honors, Sophia Chae-Ah Baek!"
At the announcement of her name, all of his siblings leapt from their seats, cheering and applauding. Benedict was so happy and proud that he didn't even reprimand them; he stood up and started clapping so loudly his hands turned red. Sophie gracefully walked onto the stage and shook her professors' hands. She received her diploma and posed for a few photos. Then, she stepped up to the podium to give her speech and leaned into the microphone.
"Honorable professors, friends, and guests..." she began. In the background, Benedict heard Eloise snapping at someone who was telling them to sit down, but he felt too happy to care right now. He was relieved that Hyacinth had taken over the photo and video duties, because he was so caught up in the magic of the moment that he didn't think he could take a single non-blurry picture right now.
As Sophie delivered the speech that had been revised countless times and rehearsed dozens of times with Benedict, he was involuntarily moving his lips in a whisper, repeating the now-memorized speech along with her. But he, too, was about to hear Sophie's next sentences for the first time. Sophie locked eyes with Benedict, and despite the meters of distance between them, they both felt a rush of warmth from the intensity of the contact. "Finally... to that special person who inspired me when I lost my words on this arduous journey, who stayed awake with me during my all-night study sessions, who helped me stand back up with his belief in me when I lost my courage, who waited by my side with a piping hot mug of herbal tea when I was on the verge of a caffeine crash, and who has always supported and nurtured me with his endless love... Your presence is my greatest fortune. I am so glad you are by my side. Thank you."
Benedict realized his eyes were tearing up when his vision began to blur. Colin had wrapped an arm around him, squeezing his shoulder. Looking at Sophie in a way that meant he could never comprehend how he got so lucky, Benedict smiled broadly and shook his head slightly from side to side. Mouthing the words, he silently said, "I love you."
Sophie beamed. "Thank you for listening to me," she said, and turned to leave the podium. The applause started up again at a high volume.
"That's my girl!" Benedict said, clapping with all his might. In that moment, he wasn't Benedict Bridgerton, member of one of England's most established families and a successful, well-respected artist and curator in the art world. He was simply a proud boyfriend celebrating his girl's success.
Violet watched Sophie descend from the stage with emotional, proud eyes, and then turned to Benedict. "I am so happy you found a pearl as precious and rare as her. I'm proud of you, dear," she said, pulling her second son—whom she once worried would never experience such happiness—into a tight hug.
- - -
Benedict adjusted the lapels of his dark navy suit and his tie clip. After asking his mother how he looked and making sure he was presentable, he looked over at Sophie, who was hugging her father in the crowd a few meters away. The dreaded moment was approaching. The free-spirited, unserious, artist Benedict Bridgerton was breaking into a cold sweat like a high school boy about to meet his girlfriend's father. Thinking about how important this was to Sophie and Richard Baek's reputation in society only fueled his anxiety further.
"Oh my God, I took such beautiful photos that the university is going to contact me personally to ask permission to use them!" said Hyacinth, taking her seat after being absent from their side throughout the ceremony. "And Sophie is going to love me more than you, brother."
"Wandering around with a camera in your hand all day finally paid off. Maybe they'll hire you as a graduation photographer and you'll somehow manage to get through the doors of this school," Gregory said, taking the camera from around Hyacinth's neck.
"Shut up, Gregory! You're just jealous because I have tens of thousands of followers," Hyacinth said, quickly snatching her camera back. "Before you throw shade at me, don't forget that you're preparing for university for the second time this year."
"Oh children, don't start again, this isn't the time. It's already so hot and the sun beating down on us is sweltering enough." Violet let out a deep breath and began fanning herself in an uncharacteristically inelegant manner. It was a hot June day for London, and the outdoor ceremony was making the heat unbearable.
Eloise placed one hand on Gregory's shoulder and the other on Hyacinth's. "I don't want either of you at my graduation next year, my dear siblings. Sophie might be too graceful to tell you that you embarrassed her, but I'm not."
A few minutes later, Sophie left her father's side and began walking towards the Bridgerton family. Benedict, who already had his eyes on her, took a few steps forward when he saw her approaching. Sophie quickened her final steps and, with childish excitement, hopped and threw her arms around Benedict's neck.
"I'm so proud of you, baby. You were amazing, absolutely amazing." Benedict planted a big kiss on her neck through her hair. After a minute, they pulled apart. Sophie's hands rested on Benedict's arms, which were wrapped around her waist.
"I was so nervous, Benedict!" She fanned one hand toward her flushed cheeks. "It was as if I wasn't the girl who had given presentations in front of crowds dozens of times over the years. Still, I managed to finish without embarrassing myself. I can't believe it."
Benedict was laughing, biting his lower lip. "Everything was perfect, you were radiant. I saw how proudly all your professors were looking at you. Well, second to me, of course."
With a grateful smile, Sophie rose on her tiptoes, and her lips met Benedict's for a brief, seconds-long kiss.
"Did you like the end of my speech?" she asked flirtatiously.
"I couldn't believe how lucky of a man I am. I can't thank you enough for choosing me, Sophie."
Sophie's eyes welled up. "Benedict," she said in a soft voice, tenderly stroking his cheek.
This romantic moment was interrupted as the Bridgerton family members approached them. Suddenly, Violet and her four children surrounded them, congratulating Sophie with small rounds of applause. For Sophie, who years ago had thought only her father would be at her graduation, being surrounded by this crowd was incredible. Thanks to Benedict, she had found not only the love of her life but also the affection of a large, loving family that she had never experienced. Violet stood with her hands clasped in front of her, watching her with a loving gaze. Benedict had joined Colin, Gregory, Eloise, and Hyacinth, who were clapping for her in a sweet rhythm. Sophie covered her face with her hands in excitement and slight embarrassment.
Violet tucked her fan under her arm and hugged Sophie tightly. "Oh Sophie, congratulations, darling. You've made us so proud." When they pulled apart, she cupped Sophie's face with her hands. "You looked so pretty up there. And I absolutely loved your speech."
"Thank you so much, Mrs. Bridgerton." Sophie held Violet’s hands.
"I especially loved how you read that quote in its original French first," Eloise chimed in. "Next year, during my own honors student speech..." She pointed her index finger menacingly at her siblings. "Don't you dare say otherwise, I will be chosen as an honors student as well. I want to quote philosophers and read them in their original language just like Sophie. How does Latin sound, Sophie?"
"I'm sure it will be perfect, Eloise. And I'll be sitting right over there, waiting to tell you what a brilliant speech you gave," she said, pointing to the guest chairs.
Afterward, she hugged everyone one by one and accepted their congratulations. Hyacinth started showing Sophie the photos and videos she had taken, explaining at length and with reasons which photo was better suited for a story and which for a post. While Benedict happily watched his family's affectionate demeanor toward his girlfriend, his eyes kept darting in the direction of Richard Baek. At one point, they made eye contact, and Benedict swallowed hard. The man stood impeccably straight in a perfectly tailored brown suit and a camel-colored tie, shooting Benedict a 'I know who you are, and I've got my eye on you' look. Though, given the harshness of his glare and the furrow of his brows, one could also say he looked like a mafia boss ready to give his rooftop snipers the order to execute Benedict at any moment. Once Sophie escaped Hyacinth's hold, she followed Benedict's gaze and realized he was looking at her father. She walked over, took his hand, and gently stroked it with her thumb. "Are you ready to meet Richard Baek, Mr. Bridgerton?"
If given the choice, Benedict would have loved to say no, ditch his family, take Sophie home, and celebrate her graduation until the early hours of the morning just two of them. But since Sophie had become so close to his family, had started attending the traditional Bridgerton Sunday breakfasts, and since he was thinking seriously about her and envisioning a future together, he knew he had to meet her father at some point. Perhaps constantly having casual relationships in the past and never meeting anyone's family hadn't been such a great idea. He was a man over thirty, and having zero experience abput that was not making things any easier. He gave Sophie a slight nod.
Sophie turned to the Bridgertons. "Thank you for coming, it means the world to me. If you'll excuse us," she said, before turning forward and beginning to walk.
As Benedict walked away from his family, the last thing he heard was Colin shouting from behind, "Good luck, soldier!" followed by him and Gregory bursting into laughter.
Richard Baek stood with his hands clasped behind his back, watching the approaching couple. He slowly looked Benedict up and down, resembling a commander waiting to bark orders at his soldiers rather than a joyful father attending his daughter's graduation. Benedict prayed he had passed quality control.
"Dad," Sophie said, letting go of Benedict's hand and stepping between her father and her boyfriend. Benedict's sweaty hands felt cold the moment contact was lost. "I want you to meet my boyfriend, Benedict."
Benedict coughed slightly to clear his throat. "Hello, sir," he said, extending his hand with a slight bow. Richard Baek was not a tall man; there was at least a ten-centimeter difference between him and Benedict. He gripped the younger man's hand firmly. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Hello, Mr. Bridgerton," Richard replied in a detached voice. Benedict wasn't sure if he should be scared of this formal address. Perhaps the man respected him, and this was a good sign.
"Sophie speaks of you with great respect and admiration. I'm certain she gets her discipline and work ethic from you." He tried to decipher the man's expression, but he was facing the ultimate poker face. Had he liked what Benedict said and awarded him points, or did he find it to be unnecessary flattery and get annoyed? Benedict couldn't read a single thing on the man's face.
"Sophie grew up with a strict education alongside a father who always acted with the awareness of setting an example for her, Mr. Bridgerton. Though, of course, my daughter's own intelligence and perseverance must also be acknowledged."
"Of course, sir," Benedict said. Alright, now he truly felt like a soldier under command. For instance, if he turned to look at Sophie and broke eye contact with the man, would he be forced to drop and do 100 push-ups right this second?
"So, you're the inspiration who makes my Sophie tea and keeps her company until the early morning hours?" Richard Baek said, referencing Sophie's speech. He was looking at Benedict with one eyebrow raised. Benedict swallowed hard. For a moment, he wanted to scream, 'No, sir, I haven't gone further than holding your daughter's hand, we have never been alone behind closed doors!' He knew how humiliating that would be. For a second, he thought about how lucky Anthony was not to have a father-in-law, but then he got slightly annoyed, realizing this also meant he couldn't get any advice from him.
"I will do whatever it takes to support Sophie. Knowing I can be of help to her makes me happy." Okay, he had dodged that question with the most diplomatic answer possible.
Sophie looked at Benedict with a smile, and catching her gaze put Benedict somewhat at ease. Then she turned to her father. "In so many moments when I struggled and thought about giving up, Benedict put his own work aside to help me, Dad. If it weren't for him, I'm not sure I would have been able to stand on that stage with the same confidence today."
Richard's eyes, which had softened while listening to his daughter, sharpened again as they turned to Benedict. After his gaze darted between the two of them for a few seconds, his rigid posture relaxed a bit. "I'll be taking my Sophia out for a small celebratory dinner, Mr. Bridgerton. I would be pleased if you joined us."
Sophie stared at her father in surprise for a few seconds before turning to Benedict with a wide, toothy grin. Benedict thought to himself, 'I suppose I've earned the right to proceed to the next level.' After five seconds of victory intoxication, the anxiety of 'what if the next level is harder, what awaits me?' set in. But when Benedict's eyes found Sophie again, who was looking at him with excitement and happiness, the confident, fiercely protective man in love—the one who knew he would go to the moon, take on the whole world, and brave any hardship for this unparalleled woman—suddenly took over his entire being. She was worth everything.
"The honor is all mine, sir."
- - -
Benedict had thought that sitting next to Sophie at the table would be a logical idea to help ease his nerves, but now he found himself sitting directly across from Richard Baek. The man's calculating gaze, analyzing his every move, made Benedict feel as if the two of them were completely alone at this dinner. They had come to an exceptionally upscale and historic establishment situated just outside the city. Benedict wondered how his family, who had hosted gatherings in nearly every luxurious venue in town, had never been here before. The stone walls and candelabras evoked the dark, deeply rooted atmosphere of centuries past. Waiters, assigned exclusively to each table, served with commendable speed and discipline. The beautiful country landscape visible through the large windows perfectly complemented this retreat away from the city's noise.
It was clear that Richard Baek was a regular customer here and that this particular table was usually reserved for him. He had given instructions without even needing to glance at the menu and had pre-ordered a top-tier champagne. "We have had occasional business partnerships with the Bridgerton family and have been in the same meetings, Mr. Bridgerton. However, I do not recall you; I suppose your older brother manages the affairs."
Benedict only realized he was bouncing his leg out of nervousness when Sophie discreetly placed her hand on his thigh and gave it a gentle squeeze. At the contact, he quickly turned to her. After receiving a look that silently told him to relax, he took a deep breath and joined the conversation. "Yes, sir. After my father passed away, my brother Anthony took over the management of our company. Of course, my mother, myself, and my other adult siblings hold shares and attend board meetings, but we are not at the company every day. Frankly, Anthony prefers it that way, too," he said, letting out a soft chuckle at the end of his sentence. He desperately needed to break the tense atmosphere.
"Don't you care for serious business, then?"
"His gallery and his art take up quite a bit of Benedict's time, Dad. Besides, I think it's very valuable that he focuses on the field where his passion and talent lie," Sophie interjected defensively. Even though she loved her father dearly, she was not fond of his perfectionist attitude and his stubborn streak that claimed his way was the only right way.
Richard held up a hand toward Sophie. "Sophia, let Mr. Bridgerton speak for himself."
Benedict looked at Sophie as if to say it was alright and took hold of the hand resting on his leg. "I was preparing for the art academy when my father passed away, sir. After his death, I felt like I had lost my path and my inspiration, so I quit. I supported Anthony in managing the company for a long time. Please have no doubt that I possess the education and qualifications to do so."
Richard Baek smiled faintly and gave a slight nod, signaling for him to continue. Benedict felt his confidence returning. He wanted to prove that he was a man worthy of standing by Sophie's side.
"As you well know, our company is currently in an even better position than when my father left it. Over time, as I worked through my grief and ensured I had provided all the help I could to our company, I found the courage to pursue my passions once more. For a while, I balanced my artistic endeavors with company business. We are very fortunate that Anthony made a wonderful marriage a few years ago, and together with his wife, they manage the company far better than it ever was with me. Once I realized I had served my time, I focused entirely on my art." He turned to Sophie and smiled. "And when I met Sophie, I found my lost inspiration, and everything has been going splendidly ever since. I currently manage galleries across the UK, and works bearing my own signature are on display as well. I also run a foundation to support young and undiscovered artists. Sophie has been particularly supportive in this regard."
Richard raised an eyebrow. "Supporting young artists is a noble endeavor. However, the art world can be a bottomless pit financially. Do you maintain the foundation's sustainability through donations or grants?"
Uncomfortable with her father turning the conversation into a job interview, Sophie was just about to speak up when Benedict stopped her by gently raising his hand. He had been expecting this question.
"Neither, sir," Benedict replied in a confident tone. "I designed the foundation as a self-sustaining ecosystem. We exhibit the works of the artists we support in my galleries. A portion of the proceeds from the sales goes to the artist, while another portion is funneled directly into the foundation's next project. In other words, we don't just hand them money. We create a market for them where they can stand on their own two feet."
Richard silently took a sip of his drink. This was the answer of not just an artist, but a brilliant strategist. He was truly living up to the Bridgerton name. Richard decided that his prejudices against the man sitting across from him, as well as some of the rumors he had heard from high society, were unfounded. Because he had raised Sophie so well, he was confident his daughter wouldn't make a poor choice or choose someone unworthy of her. However, Benedict's self-assured demeanor—at least compared to the earlier hours—allowed him to harbor positive feelings toward the young man.
"I have to congratulate you, Mr. Bridgerton. My Sophia has also always been interested in the arts. Despite all my insistence, she was very determined to study French literature instead of business. Deep down, I always wished for the opposite, but watching her give her speech today, I was so happy she chose her own path. I agree with your thoughts on the importance of pursuing one's passions."
"Really, Dad?" Sophie said, her voice laced with disbelief. Even though her father hadn't stopped her from studying literature, he had never said anything to support her decision before. Benedict noticed her eyes glistening slightly. He gently stroked Sophie's hand beneath the table. "Saying that means so much to me, Dad. It's very important. Thank you."
Richard Baek, who clearly wasn't very comfortable with emotional conversations, merely gave a small nod and then raised his champagne flute. "To my Sophia, who I must now accept is no longer a little girl, and to her achievements!"
Benedict and Sophie smiled as they raised their glasses and clinked them together. The tension of the past hour had finally broken somewhat, and Benedict was extremely pleased to have survived another 'level' without a hitch. He began to eat the perfectly presented Korean cuisine placed before them.
"I know there is a bit of an age gap between you and my Sophia, Mr. Bridgerton," Richard said, breaking the silence that had lingered since the food was served. "I hope being at different stages in life will not hinder her from realizing her dreams."
Caught completely off guard by this curveball, Benedict nearly choked on his food. He quickly brought his napkin to his mouth and coughed softly. Sophie, alarmed, reached a hand out to his back and offered him his water. Benedict took a few sips, giving her a grateful wink. He was beginning to think this man took sadistic pleasure in putting him in difficult situations at the most unexpected moments.
"Dad!" Sophie knew her father wouldn't let Benedict off easily and was putting him to the test, but some of these remarks were too unexpected even for her.
"Y-yes, sir. It's true that there is a small age gap between Sophie and me. But you can rest assured that this does not have any negative impact on our relationship, nor does it create an insurmountable divide." Benedict grew a little excited, hardly believing he was about to say his next sentences out loud. "I certainly envision a future with Sophie, and starting a family with her down the line would be the most beautiful thing that could ever happen to me. However, Sophie's dreams and what she wants to achieve have always been my priority. Please have no doubt about that."
Whenever Sophie and Benedict talked about the future, they always included each other in their plans. The love they shared had proven to both of them that they could no longer live without one another. It was no surprise that they wanted to grow old together, but their relationship was still fresh, having just crossed the one-year mark. Because of factors like Sophie being younger than Benedict and still continuing her education, there were certain topics they hadn't discussed much. Starting a family together was one of them. Hearing Benedict state this so confidently and with such immense love in front of her father, without a moment of hesitation, filled Sophie's heart with warmth. She was in love with this man. She trusted him. He completely occupied her heart, and she reserved her own heart solely for him.
"I am glad to hear that, Mr. Bridgerton. I believe you are a man I will not mind my Sophia being with."
The words 'You have passed all the levels, you have won the game' flashed before Benedict's eyes. For a moment, he had the urge to jump up, scoop Sophie into his arms, and spin her around, but he didn't want to erase his successful performance throughout the day with a single mistake. "Thank you, sir. That is wonderful to hear." When he looked at Sophie, he saw her looking at her father with a profoundly happy and peaceful expression. Seeing his girlfriend like this meant the world to him. Her unique and pure heart deserved all the goodness and beauty in the world. "Also, you can call me Benedict, please."
Richard stood up and extended his hand to Benedict for a handshake. Benedict quickly stood to match the man and shook his hand. Richard brought his other hand to Benedict's back, patting it gently twice. "How about I call you that at our next dinner, son?"
- - -
As evening fell and they arrived at Benedict's apartment, Benedict stripped off his tie and jacket the moment he walked through the door, tossing them aside before collapsing onto the leather sofa. Unbuttoning a few buttons of his shirt, he covered his face with his hands and let out a deep breath. The last time he had spent a day this tense was when he was trying to win Sophie over. He felt his bones aching from tensing up all day. Ensuring Sophie's graduation went perfectly, making sure his family didn't cause a scene, and being put through an abstract test to earn Richard Baek's trust was too much for a twenty-four-hour period. He was glad they had managed to get through all of it somehow, but along with the relief, a profound exhaustion had also set in.
Sophie took off her heels and earrings. With sweet, soft laughs, she perched on the edge of the sofa where Benedict was lying. "God... for a moment there, I thought you were going to melt inside that suit."
"Sophieeee," Benedict said in a muffled voice. He pulled his hands from his face and sat up slightly, shooting Sophie a serious look. "I literally fought a battle of life and death all day, you can't laugh this much."
Sophie kept laughing, her face flushed and her eyes tearing up. "I thought you were very sweet. And funny." Her laughter intensified.
"I thought your dad was going to shoot lasers out of his eyes and slice me in half!" he said dramatically. "Every time he asked a question, I felt like I was walking through a minefield. It was as if I wasn't a mature man with a career, but a teenage boy trying to ask her father's permission to take his girlfriend to the high school prom. I still can't believe how I managed to get his blessing."
Sophie's gaze softened, she stopped laughing and moved closer to Benedict on the sofa, wrapping one arm around his neck and resting her other hand on his cheek. "You were perfect. So honest and natural. Even though he tried to corner you and catch you off guard, you handled it brilliantly, my love. I know how hard it is to please him, especially when it comes to me. But I am sure he approves of you. Besides..." She planted a sweet kiss on Benedict's cheek. Benedict's hands automatically wrapped around her waist. "No matter what my father thinks, I trust you and I love you. This..." She gestured between the two of them with her finger. "...is completely real, and I am so lucky to have it."
Without knowing how it was even possible, Benedict felt certain that he loved this woman more each day than the day before.
"I love you." Their lips met. Small kisses were followed by long, passionate ones. Benedict's large hands cupped Sophie's sweet, delicate face, tilting it slightly to deepen the kiss. Sophie's hand on Benedict's neck slid up to the back of his head, gripping his hair tightly. Before they knew when or how it happened, Benedict was leaning back slightly against the sofa, and Sophie was straddling his lap, leaning over him. Because of her position, her dress had bunched up right at the top of her thighs. Benedict's kisses trailed from Sophie's lips to her jaw, and down to her neck. To create more bare skin, he untied the halter neck of her dress. The neckline now rested on her chest like a strapless design.
Sophie giggled mischievously. "If you'll excuse us, I would like to spend the rest of the day alone with Sophie," she said, mimicking Benedict from an hour ago. Then she burst into laughter again.
"Sophie!" Benedict complained reproachfully, lifting his head from her neck to look at her. "Not funny. You just ruined all the romance."
"I think it's hilarious," Sophie said through her laughter. "My father may be very fond and protective of me, but he is well aware that his daughter is no saint, Benedict. He knows we've been together for over a year." With a flirtatious demeanor, she began to trace her finger over Benedict's chest. "Besides... during my speech, I explicitly said that we pulled all-nighters together countless times. I highly doubt he thinks we were just drinking tea and studying."
Benedict gave a roguish grin and gently bit Sophie's finger. Sophie laughed joyfully and began pressing mind-numbing kisses along Benedict's neck. She spoke between wet and warm kisses. "All day... in front of my father... for me... you were so brave and sweet that... it took everything in me not to do this..."
Benedict was savoring these sweet kisses while simultaneously caressing Sophie's hips with both hands. In their relationship, he was usually the one who expressed his desire and love through words and actions, so hearing these things from Sophie not only flattered his ego but also caused his already simmering desire to surge. "So while I was breaking out in cold sweats, this is what was going through your mind, is it?"
Sophie replied in a breathy voice. "Yes..." Her kisses shifted to his firm, muscular chest, now exposed since he had undone all the buttons of his shirt. Her hand, meanwhile, was traveling dangerously south. Benedict realized he had reached the point of no return. Even though the thought of interrupting her enthusiastic mood devastated him, and his trousers were beginning to alter their shape due to physical reactions, he didn't want to end today without properly celebrating Sophie. This was her day, and he had been dreaming all day about the private celebration they would have together. Grabbing Sophie by the waist, he lifted her off his lap and set her down on the sofa. He did this with such ease, as if Sophie were the lightest thing in the world.
"Wait a minute, I'll be right back," he said, pressing a kiss to her forehead before heading further inside. Due to physiological reasons, he waddled slightly.
"Where?!" Sophie whined in disappointment, like a little child.
"Just a minute!"
She had just gotten perfectly into the mood, and while Benedict usually would have thrown her over his shoulder and sprinted to the bedroom, he had instead left her all alone on the sofa and walked away. Had he really been so intimidated by her father that he had decided not to touch Sophie anymore? Sophie leaned back and crossed her arms over her chest.
A few minutes later, Benedict returned with a bottle of champagne in one hand and two glasses in the other. He handed the glasses to Sophie and started opening the champagne. "Today is your day. I couldn't let it end without us celebrating together."
Sophie snapped out of her whiny child mode and smiled with immense gratitude, watching Benedict pour the champagne into the glasses. This man, who constantly prioritized her and made her feel like the most important, most special being in the world, always managed to surprise her somehow.
"You're so thoughtful my love, thank you."
Benedict raised his glass and smiled. "To your many successes and the future ones, I am so proud of you, baby!"
They clinked their glasses and took a few sips while gazing at each other with love. Benedict placed his glass on the wooden coffee table beside them, reached awkwardly into his back trouser pocket, and pulled out a velvet box. "This is your graduation gift."
"Benedict," Sophie said in disbelief. With all his help throughout her education, doing everything he could to ensure her graduation day went perfectly, surrounding her with love alongside his family, enduring her father's grueling test, and making her feel like the luckiest woman in the world, this man's very existence was already a gift in itself.
"If your mother were here today, she would be so proud of you, Sophie."
At the mention of her mother, the smile on Sophie's face froze. She would be lying if she said she hadn't dreamt of hugging her own mother while hugging Violet today, or that she hadn't instinctively expected to see her mother next to her father when she looked at him from the stage. True, she had been surrounded by immense love all day. She had a father who laid the world at her feet, a boyfriend whose love warmed her heart, and a new family who was proud of her, took her photos, and shared her excitement, but none of this had stopped her from feeling her mother's absence. She had found it spoiled to even admit this to herself, which made her feel like an ingrate who couldn't be satisfied with all this love. But Benedict had understood her. He always understood. Benedict knew her inside out, and they communicated even without speaking. Unable to say anything, she merely nodded slightly.
"But I want you to know that she is with you no matter what, Sophie. Just like my father is with me." He took his girlfriend's hand. "She's watching you and is at least as proud of you as we are. Please feel this in every moment."
Sophie was about to wipe away a single tear falling from her left eye with the back of her hand, but Benedict beat her to it, tenderly wiping the tear away with his thumb.
"I know your mother used to call you 'my little star,' you mentioned it once."
Sophie asked in astonishment, "How do you remember that?"
"You don't talk about her much, I know. So when you do, it's truly too important to forget."
Sophie felt her heart ache from an overload of love. It was as if her mother had entrusted her love for her as she left this world, and Benedict loved Sophie by adding that love to his own. Sophie couldn't believe she was loved so much, so deeply, tenderly, protectively, and passionately.
Benedict opened the lid of the velvet box. Inside was a delicate, elegant gold necklace, and attached to the pendant were two adjoined star symbols adorned with diamonds. One star was large, the other small.
"Your mother became a star in the sky, and she's watching you, Sophie. She's always by your side. You were her little star, and now you are my one and only star. I want you to never forget that your mother is with you. I hope this necklace can manage to remind you of that."
Sophie was no longer just shedding a few tears, she was crying from the sheer intensity of the moment. She wrapped her arms around Benedict's neck and buried her face in his shoulder. Yes, her boyfriend was a gentle-souled artist, he lived life as if he were performing an art. Elegant surprises, thoughtfully chosen gifts, and unexpected compliments from Benedict had become a complete part of her life since they started dating, she was used to it. But Sophie was certain she wouldn't forget this precious moment even if she died. She couldn't find anything to say. "Thank you... thank you..."
Benedict tenderly stroked his girlfriend's hair for a while, allowing her to live in the moment. Then he cupped her face and made her look at him. "My beautiful girl." He planted a warm kiss on both of her cheeks. "Turn around."
Sophie smiled and turned her back, holding her hair up with one hand. After clasping the necklace, Benedict kissed her neck, breathing in her scent. Sophie's fingers traced over the diamond stars on the necklace. Her mother's little star, Benedict's guiding star...
"I would like to say this is the best gift I've ever received in my life, but it isn't." Benedict looked at her in confusion, yet smiling. "The best gift I've ever received in my life is you. Thank you. Thank you for existing, for being by my side, and for your love."
Benedict framed his girlfriend's face with his hands once more and kissed her passionately. While their tongues performed their all-too-familiar dance, their hands visited their favorite places on each other's bodies. Noticing that Sophie was starting to climb back onto his lap, he smirked against her lips and, grabbing her by the thighs, easily pulled her into his lap. Sophie let out a moan when her hips landed right against that hardened spot on Benedict's lap. As Benedict's kisses traced the chain of her necklace, she took off his shirt and held onto his biceps. Benedict's head fell back with the pleasure of the friction as Sophie shifted her hips to settle better into his lap. He stayed like this for a while, allowing Sophie to move as she pleased. Sophie began pressing kisses—and the occasional bite—along his exposed neck and adam's apple. Due to the friction, the hem of her dress had ridden up and bunched around her waist. The ecru dress now only covered the area between her chest and waist. Her hand went to Benedict's belt, and to put an end to the man's torment in that area, she unbuckled the belt and then unzipped his trousers. Finding his mobility again with the relief of the slightly loosened space, Benedict wrapped Sophie's legs around his waist and stood up. Sophie giggled softly as she was suddenly lifted into the air, wrapping her arms around Benedict's neck. Within a few seconds, they had walked through the bedroom door. The day was ending, but their favorite part of the celebration was just beginning.
End.
or… maybe tbc.. :)