Who does Simon fall in love with?

Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, falls in love with Daphne Bridgerton.

The Duke and His Duchess

Initially, Simon and Daphne enter into a fake courtship. This arrangement was a strategic move designed to elevate Daphne's standing in the marriage market and to deter other potential suitors from pursuing Simon. However, despite the deceptive premise of their alliance, genuine romantic feelings began to blossom between them as they spent more time together. Their initial pretense gradually evolved into an authentic affection and deep connection.

A Fateful Courtship

The development of their feelings was punctuated by significant events that solidified their bond and ultimately led to their inevitable union:

• Mutual Affection: During their elaborate charade, both Daphne and Simon started to develop sincere feelings for one another, moving beyond the mere performative aspects of their courtship.
• The Garden Kiss: At a pivotal ball, Daphne, acting on her growing feelings and a desire to understand the depth of their connection, lured Simon to the garden. There, they shared a passionate kiss that revealed the undeniable chemistry and burgeoning love between them.
• Compromising Discovery: Their clandestine moment in the garden was unfortunately witnessed by Daphne's elder brother, Anthony Bridgerton. Discovering his sister in such a compromising position with the Duke, Anthony, upholding the strict societal rules of the time, immediately demanded that Simon marry Daphne to preserve her honor and reputation.

Their love story, central to the narrative, is prominently featured in The Duke and I, the first novel in the Bridgerton series, which details their tumultuous yet passionate journey from a fake courtship to a real and enduring love.