A convenient match

Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/56494804.

Rating: Mature
Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply
Category: F/M
Fandoms: Bridgerton (TV), Bridgerton Series - Julia Quinn, Bridgerton (TV) RPF,
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (TV)
Relationships: Colin Bridgerton/Penelope Featherington, Anthony Bridgerton/Kate
Sheffield | Kate Sharma, Colin Bridgerton & Penelope Featherington,
Sophie Beckett/Benedict Bridgerton, Simon Basset/Daphne Bridgerton,
Anthony Bridgerton/Penelope Featherington, Eloise Bridgerton/Theo
Sharpe, Eloise Bridgerton/Phillip Crane, Violet Bridgerton & Penelope
Featherington, Anthony Bridgerton & Penelope Featherington, Penelope
Featherington & Portia Featherington, Colin Bridgerton & Portia
Featherington
Characters: Penelope Featherington, Portia Featherington, Prudence Featherington,
Philippa Featherington, Felicity Featherington, Featherington Family
(Bridgerton), Anthony Bridgerton, Colin Bridgerton, Benedict
Bridgerton, Eloise Bridgerton, Violet Bridgerton, Daphne Bridgerton,
Hyacinth Bridgerton, Gregory Bridgerton, Francesca Bridgerton,
Edmund Bridgerton, Bridgerton Family (Bridgerton), Lady Whistledown
(Bridgerton)
Language: English
Stats: Published: 2024-06-08 Updated: 2024-06-20 Words: 18,852 Chapters:
7/?
 A convenient match
by rxlicias

Summary

When Portia Featherington discovers that Penelope and Colin Bridgerton have been secretly
corresponding, she insists they marry immediately. Despite their friendship and the innocent
nature of their letters, there is no alternative.

Arranged marriage fic where they start as friends.

 I'll never leave,

Author's Note: This scene takes place after the events of Season 2, after Penelope overheard
him saying he would never court her. In this story, Colin does not travel like he does in
season 2, but remains home instead.

As Penelope sat in her room, gently combing through her hair, her eyes still bore the traces of
tears shed the night before. The ball had been a whirlwind of emotions, one she couldn't
easily shake off. Colin's dance with her had sparked a glimmer of hope, only to be shattered
by the cruel words she overheard afterward. It was meant to be a moment of joy, but it had
turned into one of the most painful experiences she had ever endured.

As she glanced around her room, her gaze fell upon the stack of letters scattered across her
desk. Some were from family members, but most were unmistakably from Colin. She had
kept them hidden from her family, a secret treasure tucked away from prying eyes. The
thought of their reactions, their judgments, kept her from revealing the true extent of her
correspondence with Colin. Perhaps he penned letters to every woman in the city, but the
thought that he reserved a special place for her filled her with a bittersweet joy. If this was the
extent of attention she could garner from him, then she would cherish it, despite the
uncertainty it brought.

'Good morning, Miss,' Rae greeted as she entered the room. Penelope smiled warmly at her
trusted servant. Rae was more than just a maid; she was a confidante, skilled in the art of
braiding hair with a gentle touch. But it was her discreet handling of her letters that Penelope
valued the most. Each morning, before the rest of the household stirred awake, Rae would
stealthily make her way to the mailbox, retrieving any letters addressed to Penelope. With
silent footsteps and a watchful eye, she ensured that these missives, particularly those from
Colin, found their way directly to Penelope's room, away from the curious gaze of others.

'Good morning, Rae,' Penelope greeted softly, dabbing at the last traces of tears on her
cheeks. Moving to the table where her maid awaited, she settled into the chair. Catching sight
of Rae's concerned expression in the mirror's reflection, she smiled weakly.

'Since when do you not inquire first about any letters that may have arrived?' Rae asked, her
tone a blend of curiosity and gentle reproach. Penelope sighed softly, meeting Rae's gaze in
the mirror. 'I suppose I've been preoccupied lately,' she admitted quietly. The reality was that
Colin's hurtful words, broadcasted to all, had wounded her deeply. The prospect of receiving
another letter from him held little significance in the face of such painful rejection.

With a subtle movement, she retrieved an envelope from behind her back, presenting it to
Penelope. 'You have received another letter, Miss,' she informed, her voice soft and
understanding. 'Would you like me to open it?'

Penelope hesitated, her heart skipping a beat as she braced herself for the contents. 'Who is it
from?' she asked softly. Rae's expression shifted subtly as she glanced at the name on the
envelope. 'It is from Mr. Bridgerton, Miss,' she replied, her tone gentle. At the mention of
Colin's name, Penelope's hand moved almost instinctively, reaching out to take the envelope
from Rae's hand.

'I will read this in private, Rae. Thank you,' Penelope replied softly, her voice holding a
mixture of gratitude and sadness. As she took the letter from Rae's hand, she held it close,
feeling a pang of anticipation mixed with apprehension. With a nod of understanding, Rae
turned her attention to her task, skillfully working on Penelope's hair with gentle hands.

Once Rae had left the room, Penelope wasted no time. With trembling fingers, she quickly
tore open the envelope, her heart pounding in her chest as she unfolded the letter to see what
lay inside.

Dear Penelope,

The ball was a splendid affair, illuminated by the grace of your presence. With each step of
the dance, your laughter echoed like music in my soul. Yet, as the night wore on, I found
myself searching the sea of faces, yearning for the sight of yours. Where did you vanish to,
my friend? Your absence left me with a lingering sense of concern.

With all my affection,

Colin Bridgerton

She couldn't deny the warmth that spread through her as she read his sentiments, yet the sting
of his words and the mention of a 'friend' lingered. She put the letter inside a chelf,
pretending it never existed. Normally, the first thing she would do, is write back, but she had
decided in that moment she was not going to anymore, not ever.

With a heavy heart, Penelope carefully tucked Colin's letter away into a forgotten corner of a
shelf. Normally, she would have eagerly penned a response, pouring her heart out in ink. She
had chosen to close the door on their correspondence, sealing away the possibility of further
heartache. It was a bittersweet realization, yet one she knew she had to make for the sake of
her own peace of mind.

As Penelope hurried downstairs, she was met with the sight of her two sisters sitting with
their husbands. While she cherished the idea of love and romance, the scene before her
seemed devoid of the charm she often associated with such matters. 'Good day, Mama,'
Penelope greeted as she noticed her mother sitting on the sofa before her sisters and their
husbands.

Penelope's mother, seemingly preoccupied with her two sisters, continued her conversation
without acknowledging Penelope. 'Why is still not one of you with child?' she asked her
sisters, her tone carrying a hint of curiosity and perhaps a touch of concern. 'I still don't quite
understand what you meant by inserting Mama,' Philippa interjected, her brow furrowing in
confusion as she directed her question towards their mother.

Penelope's mother, startled by Philippa's response, blinked in disbelief. Penelope mumbled a

perplexed, 'Inserting?' under her breath, her attention momentarily caught by Philippa's
remark. Penelope's mother's attention snapped back to her daughter, her expression shifting to
one of mild irritation. 'Penelope, you are not married. We are not having this conversation
with you,' she stated firmly, her tone brooking no argument.

'Of course, Mama. My apologies,' Penelope replied softly, accepting her mother's redirection.
'May I go to the park with Eloise?' she asked, eager to escape the awkward conversation and
enjoy some time with her best friend.

'You may, but only if you will look for suitors there,' her mother replied, her tone firm and
expectant, emphasizing the underlying purpose of any social outing for an unmarried young
lady. Penelope nodded obediently, mumbling an 'of course, Mama' before turning to leave.
She gestured to Rae, silently indicating for her to follow. As an unmarried woman, she wasn't
permitted to venture out unchaperoned.

As they strolled along, Rae broke the usual silence with a rare interruption. 'Miss, I apologize
for interrupting, but if you want me to post a letter, it must be given to me before lunchtime
for posting,' she explained politely. Penelope's breath caught in her throat as she spotted
Eloise walking ahead, accompanied by Colin and Benedict engaged in conversation. She
glanced at Rae and murmured softly, 'I do not have any letters to post, and I will not in the
future.'

Rae's brows furrowed in confusion. 'You will not reply to Mister Bridgerton's letters
anymore?' she asked tentatively, before realizing the inappropriateness of her question. 'I
apologize, Miss,' she quickly added, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. As Penelope's
maid, Rae had overstepped her bounds by delving into her mistress's personal affairs.

'Penelope!' Eloise's voice echoed as she neared, her steps swift yet elegant. Drawing close,
she enveloped Penelope in a warm embrace. 'Hello, Eloise,' Penelope responded with a gentle
smile, returning the hug with sincerity. Penelope turned her attention to the two brothers
beside Eloise and executed a gentle bow. 'Benedict,' she murmured respectfully, her tone
measured and polite as she addressed him by name. However, when she acknowledged Colin,
she merely offered a nod, her greeting subdued, yet still courteous.

Eloise's expression turned curious as she took a step back to study Penelope. 'Where did you
disappear to after the ball, Penelope?' she asked, a hint of concern in her voice. 'You left
rather sudden, and I was worried about you.'

Eloise's inquisitive gaze prompted Penelope to glance briefly at Colin, a pang of unease
stirring within her as she remembered the letter he had written. He probably wanted to know
as well, she reasoned.

Penelope replied with a gentle smile, attempting to mask her discomfort. 'I had a sudden
headache and decided it would be best to retire early. Nothing serious, I assure you,' she
added, hoping her excuse would suffice. Eloise nodded understandingly, her concern easing
at Penelope's explanation. 'Do you feel better now?' Penelope returned Eloise's smile
gratefully. 'Much better, thank you,' she replied, offering a small nod.

Eloise's eyes twinkled mischievously as she continued, 'Oh, you should have seen Colin. I
think he was convinced you had died or something,' she teased, unable to resist poking fun at
her brother. Colin's cheeks flushed slightly as he interjected, 'That's not true, Eloise. I was
merely concerned about Penelope's well-being, like any gentleman would be.' He shot a brief,
apologetic glance in Penelope's direction, realizing that his concern might have come across
as overbearing.

Eloise's playful remark elicited a soft chuckle from Penelope, though her mind churned with
a mixture of amusement and discomfort. 'Oh, I'm sure,' she thought to herself, her inner voice
tinged with wryness. 'Because a gentleman would never talk badly about a woman, especially
behind her back,' she mused in her head, her thoughts drifting momentarily before returning
to the conversation at hand. Penelope's smile widened as she responded to Eloise's teasing.
'Well, I assure you, I am very much alive and well,' she quipped lightly, her tone laced with
amusement.

Eloise's eyes sparkled with excitement as she leaned in slightly, her curiosity piqued.
'Speaking of the ball, Penelope, are you planning on attending tomorrow evening?' she asked
eagerly.

Penelope's smile widened at the mention of the ball, and she nodded emphatically. 'Oh, I
simply must!' she exclaimed, her tone filled with enthusiasm. 'Especially if there are rumors
of Anthony proposing,' she added, her eyes dancing with anticipation.

Colin's interest was piqued by Eloise's mention of Anthony's possible proposal. 'Are there
really such allegations?' he inquired, turning his gaze to Penelope, his tone tinged with
curiosity. Penelope's smile waned entirely at Colin's question, replaced by a furrowed brow
and a hint of exasperation in her eyes. She shifted uncomfortably, a surge of irritation
coursing through her. 'Oh, well, you know how rumors can be,' she retorted, her voice edged
with irritation. 'It's all just gossip, really,' she added curtly, her tone sharp as she avoided
meeting Colin's gaze directly, her frustration evident.

Eloise's eyes widened with a mischievous glint as she leaned in slightly, eager to contribute to
the conversation. 'Speaking of rumors,' she interjected, her tone conspiratorial, 'I heard the
most absurd one just the other day. Apparently, there's talk that one of your sisters is with
child.' She delivered the news with a playful smirk, clearly enjoying the opportunity to share
some scandalous gossip.

'That's simply untrue,' Penelope replied firmly, her tone resolute. Eloise's teasing tone
persisted as she added, 'It's okay if you just don't want to tell Penelope. Some secrets are best
left untold.'

'No, in fact Mama is beside herself that they still aren't with child. They even had a
discussion about it this morning,' she added with a hint of exasperation. Eloise laughed
heartily at Penelope's response, her amusement evident. 'Well, when they finally are, I
suppose you'll be an aunt,' she quipped, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Penelope chuckled softly at Eloise's jest, though her amusement was tinged with a hint of
skepticism. 'That will probably take a while,' she whispered under her breath, her tone low
enough to evade the ears of her companions. 'I don't think they quite know how to become
with child,' she added.
As Penelope whispered her comment, Benedict couldn't help but let out a stifled cough,
attempting to conceal his amusement. Eloise's curiosity was piqued, and she turned her
attention to her brother. 'Why the sudden cough, Benedict?' she asked, raising an eyebrow
inquisitively. Benedict cleared his throat, trying to compose himself before responding. 'Oh,
it's nothing,' he replied vaguely, offering a sheepish smile. But the mischievous glint in
Eloise's eyes remained as she persisted.

'Do you know something that we do not? Do you know how a lady comes to be with child?'
Her teasing tone caused Benedict's cheeks to flush slightly as he stuttered out a response, 'N-
no, Eloise, no clue. I just found Penelope's comment rather... amusing, that's all.'

Colin couldn't help but chuckle at the exchange between Penelope, Benedict, and Eloise. 'No
clue indeed,' he repeated with a grin, his laughter adding to the light-hearted atmosphere.
Penelope glanced briefly at Colin, a flicker of amusement crossing her features before she
returned her attention to Eloise and Benedict.

Eloise's teasing tone persisted as she continued, 'how are we supposed to prepare for the
matter if we have no idea how?' Colin's laughter subsided as he leaned forward slightly, his
expression earnest yet playful. 'When the times comes, your husband will tell you,' he chimed
in, his voice warm and reassuring.

After their conversation had unfolded for about ten minutes, Rae's touch on Penelope's arm
was gentle yet firm. 'Miss,' she began softly, 'I'm sorry to interrupt, but your mother instructed
me to ensure we return home within thirty minutes.'

'Of course, Rae,' Penelope replied with a small nod, acknowledging the need to adhere to her
mother's wishes. 'Thank you for reminding me.' As Penelope turned to follow Rae, after
bidding farewell to her friends, she felt a sudden, gentle tap on her shoulder. Startled, she
spun around to find Colin standing behind her, his expression curious yet gentle. 'Penelope,'
he began, his voice soft and tentative, 'may I have a word with you?'

Penelope's heart skipped a beat at the unexpected sight of Colin standing before her, his
presence catching her off guard. Despite her efforts to maintain composure, a rush of
emotions flooded her senses. 'What is it?' she asked, her voice coming out sharper than she
intended. She winced inwardly, immediately regretting the harshness in her tone.

Colin took a slight step back, his expression shifting to one of surprise and concern. 'I... I just
wanted to make sure you're alright,' he said softly, his voice laced with genuine worry. 'You
seem upset with me.'

Penelope's heart softened at his words, but the sting of his previous comments still lingered in
her mind. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. 'Everything is fine, mister
Bridgerton,' she replied, her tone more measured this time.

Colin's brow furrowed slightly at her formal address. 'Mister Bridgerton?' he repeated, a hint
of confusion in his voice. 'Why do you call me that? You called my brother Benedict earlier
today, without acknowledging me in fact,' Penelope met his gaze, her eyes unwavering. 'Isn't
that your name?' she responded, her tone calm but edged with a subtle defiance.
Colin's expression softened, a mixture of sadness and understanding flickering in his eyes. 'It
is,' he admitted, 'but you have never called me that.'

Penelope looked away, her emotions threatening to spill over. She didn't want to be distant,
but she also didn't want to be hurt again. 'I'm just trying to be respectful,' she said quietly, her
voice barely above a whisper.

Colin took a step closer, his voice gentle. 'Penelope, if I did something to upset you, please
tell me.' She shook her head, biting her lip to keep from crying. Before she could reply, Rae
gently interjected, her voice a soft reminder of reality. 'Miss, we really must be going. Your
mother will be expecting us.'

Penelope turned to Rae, grateful for the interruption that gave her a moment to collect herself.
'Of course, Rae,' she said, her voice steadier now. She looked back at Colin, her eyes filled
with a mix of sadness and resolve. 'Goodbye, Mister Bridgerton.'

Colin's heart sank at the formality of her farewell, but he nodded in understanding. 'Goodbye,
Penelope,' he replied softly, his voice carrying a note of regret. Penelope turned and walked
away, Rae by her side. As they moved further away, Colin stood rooted to the spot, watching
her retreating figure.

As they reached the carriage, Rae cast a concerned glance at Penelope. 'Are you alright,
Miss?' she asked gently. Penelope offered a small, reassuring smile. 'I'll be fine, Rae. Thank
you.' She climbed into the carriage, taking a deep breath to steady her emotions. As the
carriage began to move, she looked out the window, her thoughts a whirlwind of confusion
and heartache.
 never mind.

AN: There is no lady Whistledown, so Eloise and Penelope didn't fight.

It was the first time Penelope had ever worn a dark green dress. The rich, deep color
contrasted beautifully with her fair skin, making her look like a shining emerald. She hoped
this new look might attract some suitors' interest. Her hair was braided intricately, framing
her face elegantly, and she had applied a touch of blush to bring a soft glow to her cheeks.

Penelope walked arm in arm with her mother, who, despite her stern demeanor, had a hopeful
glint in her eye. Since Penelope was the only one walking alone, her mother accompanied
her. The pressure of the evening weighed heavily on her shoulders.

'You must attract a suitor tonight, Penelope,' her mother said, her voice firm but laced with
concern. 'Your time is running out.' Penelope nodded, understanding the urgency in her
mother's words. 'Yes, Mama,' she replied softly, glancing around the ballroom, hoping she
would catch someone's eye.

Her mother sighed, her grip tightening slightly on Penelope's arm. 'I mean it, Penelope. If you
do not secure a suitor soon, I will be forced to select someone for you. You may not like my
choice, but it will be done for the good of our family.' Penelope's heart sank at her mother's
words, the weight of expectation growing heavier. She took a deep breath, trying to steady
her nerves. 'I understand, Mama. I will do my best.'

As she walked through the grand ballroom, she couldn't help but notice the couples already
dancing gracefully to the enchanting music. They moved with such elegance and poise, their
smiles radiant, and their eyes reflecting the joy of the moment. Penelope sighed inwardly,
wishing that all those dancing pairs were truly in love and as happy as they appeared.

Penelope stood by the wall, her heart heavy with the weight of her mother's expectations. She
longed for love, for a connection that transcended the superficial courtship rituals of society.
But she also dreaded the thought of being married off to someone chosen by her mother,
someone who might not understand her or cherish her for who she truly was.

Glancing around the ballroom, she couldn't help but recall the other young women she had
seen, ladies who had been unable to find husbands and whose mothers had ultimately chosen
for them. Their husbands were all well past their prime, some even older than seventy. The
once vibrant spirits of these women were now dampened by the passage of time, and not a
single one of them looked happy.

As Penelope stood lost in her thoughts, a sudden, subtle cough broke the silence, drawing her
attention. She turned her head to see Colin standing a few feet away, his presence surprising
yet strangely comforting. Despite the noise of the bustling ballroom, his cough seemed to
echo in the quiet space between them, a gentle reminder of his presence.

'Mister Bridgerton,' she greeted softly and bowed, her tone guarded yet polite, a clear refusal
to address him by his first name after his harsh words. Colin offered her a small smile and
bowed back, though Penelope could detect a hint of tension in his expression. 'Penelope,' he
said, his voice gentle yet tinged with uncertainty. 'I hope you're faring well this evening.'

Penelope's lips twitched into a forced smile as she nodded. 'As well as can be expected,' she
answered vaguely, careful not to betray the turmoil beneath her composed facade. Colin's
smile faltered slightly, sensing the underlying tension in Penelope's response. 'Is something
troubling you Penelope?' he inquired, his voice laced with genuine concern as he studied her
carefully.

Penelope hesitated, her gaze flickering briefly before meeting Colin's eyes once more,
'Forgive me, but I am unable to speak with you at this time. I must meet suiters tonight.'
Colin's brows furrowed slightly in confusion as he listened to Penelope's response. 'I have not
seen you conversing with any lords yet,' he remarked, his tone gentle yet curious. 'Surely, a
brief interlude will make little difference.'

Penelope's resolve stiffened at Colin's insistence, a pang of guilt tugging at her heart as she
met his gaze. 'Mister Bridgertion I must attend to my duties tonight,' she replied, her tone
firm yet apologetic. 'There are expectations placed upon me, and if I do not secure a husband
soon, I shall be compelled to marry whomever my mother selects.'

Colin's expression softened as he listened to Penelope's explanation, understanding the

weight of her predicament. 'I see,' he murmured, his tone tinged with sympathy. 'I had not
realized the pressure you were under.' As Colin turned to leave, a nagging curiosity
compelled him to pause and glance back at Penelope. 'But Penelope,' he began, his voice soft
and contemplative, 'do you truly desire to marry, or is it merely an obligation imposed upon
you by your mother? If I recall correctly, you and Eloise had the plan live out your days in
each other's company.'

Penelope hesitated, taken aback by Colin's probing question. The truth was a tangle of
conflicting emotions she had struggled to unravel. 'I... I'm not entirely sure,' she admitted
reluctantly. 'This marks my third season on the marriage markt. If I fail to secure a match
soon, I will be known as a spinster.'

Colin nodded understandingly, his gaze gentle yet probing. 'It's a difficult position to be in,'
he acknowledged, his tone sympathetic. Penelope couldn't suppress a bitter edge that crept
into her tone as she added, 'Yeah, and particularly if there are no living lords interested in
someone of my disposition.' The words hung heavy in the air, a stark reminder of the harsh
reality.

Colin furrowed his brow, his gaze searching Penelope's face for clarity. 'Pardon me, but what
do you mean by that?' he asked gently, his voice a blend of curiosity and concern. Penelope
met Colin's gaze with a mixture of resignation and defiance. 'You know precisely of what I
speak, mister Bridgerton,' she replied, her voice tinged with bitterness. 'Please, stop calling
me Mister Bridgerton,' he implored.

Before Colin could press further, she brushed off his concern with a forced smile. 'Right now
I must focus on captivating potential suitors,' she added hastily, attempting to deflect the
conversation away from her own insecurities. 'Before I am compelled to wed a man who is
65.'
As Penelope turned to leave, Colin's hand shot out, halting her movement. With a determined
yet gentle expression, he stretched out his arm and extended an invitation. 'Penelope,' he
began, his voice steady despite the turmoil in his heart, 'may I have this dance?'

Caught off guard by his unexpected request, Penelope hesitated, her eyes widening in
surprise. It was customary for a lady not to decline a dance from a gentleman, especially in a
public setting like a ballroom. Despite her reservations, she couldn't refuse Colin's offer
without causing a scene. 'What are you doing, Colin?' she asked softly, her voice barely
above a whisper.

Colin's gaze met hers, his expression earnest yet determined. 'I'm asking for a dance,' he
replied simply, his voice filled with sincerity. 'I can tell you're upset, and I shall not release
you until amends have been made.'

Penelope hesitated for a moment, her mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions.
Finally, with a resigned sigh, she relented. Taking Colin's outstretched hand, she allowed him
to lead her towards the dance floor, their steps synchronized in a delicate ballet of uncertainty
and anticipation.

As they reached the open space amidst the swirling couples, Colin positioned himself
opposite Penelope, their gazes locked in a silent exchange of unspoken words. With a gentle
yet firm grasp, he placed his hand on her waist, his touch sending a shiver down Penelope's
spine. She mirrored his movements, placing her hand delicately in his outstretched palm, her
fingers trembling slightly with nervous energy.

With practiced ease, Colin guided Penelope into the first steps of the dance, their bodies
swaying in perfect harmony to the rhythm of the music. As they danced, Colin couldn't help
but notice the tension in Penelope's demeanor, her eyes clouded with unresolved emotions.
With a gentle yet insistent pull, he drew her a bit closer, his touch reassuring yet tentative.

'Penelope,' he began, his voice low and earnest, 'why are you upset with me?' His words hung
in the air between them, a silent plea for understanding.

Penelope's gaze flickered briefly before meeting Colin's, her expression guarded yet
vulnerable. 'Why would I be upset with you?' Penelope countered, her tone light yet tinged
with a hint of defensiveness. She avoided Colin's gaze, focusing instead on the intricate
pattern of their footsteps as he twirled her across the dance floor.

Colin's brow furrowed in concern, his grip on Penelope's waist tightening slightly as he tried
to decipher her cryptic response. 'I've sent you a couple of letters recently,' he explained, his
voice gentle yet probing. 'But I haven't received a response from you since our last assembly.'

With a practiced twirl, he gently spun her away from him, allowing her to glide gracefully
across the floor before pulling her back into his embrace.

As Penelope returned to his side, Colin's hand found its way back to her waist, but this time
his touch lingered slightly lower, grazing the curve of her hip with a feather-light caress. His
fingers traced the delicate line of her gown, the warmth of his touch sending a shiver of
anticipation down Penelope's spine.
With a gentle yet earnest tone, he continued, 'Penelope, you're my friend. If anything is
bothering you, I want to know. You can always confide in me.' Penelope met Colin's gaze,
her eyes searching his for understanding and reassurance. Drawing a deep breath to steady
her nerves, she gathered the courage to speak. 'You know... last time... last ball.'

As Penelope hesitated, the music suddenly ceased, signaling the end of the dance. With a
reluctant sigh, they pulled apart, their connection broken by the interruption. Colin's gaze
remained fixed on Penelope, his expression a mix of concern and determination. 'Perhaps we
could share another dance,' he suggested softly, his voice a soothing reassurance amidst the
sudden silence while he takes her hand. 'So you can share with me whatever troubles you.'

Penelope shook her head gently, withdrawing her hand from Colin's grasp. 'I appreciate your
offer Colin,' she replied softly, her tone tinged with regret. 'But it might raise suspicions. It
might appear as if you were courting me.'

She glanced around the ballroom, acutely aware of the curious glances from nearby guests,
probably because their dancing was quite intimate. The last thing she wanted was to attract
unwanted attention or speculation about her relationship with Colin.

After a moment of silence, Colin finally spoke, his voice hesitant yet earnest. 'I... I
understand,' he murmured, his gaze meeting Penelope's with a mixture of disappointment and
understanding. Penelope's heart ached at the sadness in Colin's eyes, a pang of guilt tugging
at her conscience. 'And apparently,' she added, her voice barely above a whisper, 'you would
rather be dead than be seen courting me.'

Colin's expression softened at Penelope's words, a flicker of hurt passing through his eyes.
'Penelope, that is not true,' he protested softly, his voice tinged with regret. 'I... I never
intended to suggest such a thing.'

As Colin attempted to reassure Penelope, their moment was abruptly interrupted by the stern
voice of Penelope's mother. 'Penelope, what on earth are you doing?' her mother demanded,
her tone laced with disapproval as she approached them. 'You should be out there seeking
suitors, not squandering your time dancing with friends. Have you considered the
consequences of rejecting a suitable match? You must think of our family's reputation and
future.'

Penelope's heart sank as her mother's words pierced through her like a blade, her cheeks
burning with humiliation. She glanced at Colin. Fighting back tears, she turned on her heel
and fled the ballroom, her footsteps echoing in the empty corridors as she ran.

Colin watched helplessly as Penelope disappeared from sight, a knot forming in his stomach
at the sight of her distress. Ignoring the curious stares of the other guests, he followed after
her, determined to find her and offer whatever comfort he could.

She hurried into a nearby room, swiftly removing her gloves and scarf in order to breathe,
before shutting the door firmly behind her. With determined steps, she approached the nearest
window. Gazing out, she saw that she was on the first floor. With a quick assessment, she
realized she could jump without sustaining injury. It seemed preferable to facing Colin and
her mother.
'Penelope!' she heard someone call, and she turned to find Colin entering the room with a
stern expression, swiftly closing the door behind him. She glanced down at the ground,
contemplating whether to make a break for it; it was only a minor jump, after all. Leaning her
head out of the window, she peered down once more, weighing her options.

'What on earth are you doing?' Colin asked as he approached, swiftly grasping her arm and
pulling her away from the window. Penelope took a step back from Colin, her expression
startled. 'I was ... looking outside,' she stammered. 'I was just needing some air,' she added,
her voice slightly flustered.

Colin's expression softened slightly, though concern still lingered in his eyes. 'You should
have gone outside for some air, not hanging out of such a large window,' he chided gently, his
grip on her arm firm yet reassuring.

Penelope nodded sheepishly, feeling a flush of embarrassment creeping up her cheeks. 'I... I
didn't mean to cause concern,' she murmured, averting her gaze from his penetrating stare. 'I
know,' Colin replied softly, his tone gentle as he released her arm when he saw she was
ungloved. 'Now, tell me what troubles you so we can go back to the ballroom, before your
absence is remarked upon,' he said simply before gesturing towards the door.

Penelope's cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and frustration. 'Why did you
follow me?' she asked, her voice tinged with irritation. 'It was obvious I needed a moment
alone.' Colin's expression softened further, his concern evident in his eyes. 'I followed
because your safety is of utmost importance to me,' he explained earnestly, his voice gentle
yet firm. 'I couldn't bear the thought you being here alone and vulnerable.'

She turned away from Colin, her gaze fixed on the floor as she struggled to contain her
emotions. 'Why did you so elegantly inform everyone, behind my back, that you'd never
court someone like me?' Penelope asked, her gaze now fixed intensely on him, her words
weighted with hurt and accusation.

Colin stood frozen, his usual wit failing him as he struggled to find a response. Then, with a
piercing gaze, Penelope continued, 'I heard you at my Mama's ball last season. You made it
quite clear to everyone how you would never, ever court someone as Penelope
Featherington.'

Colin took a step closer, his voice gentle as he called out, 'Penelope that is not-,' but at that
very moment, Anthony strode into the room, engaged in an impassioned kiss with Kate.
Penelope's eyes widened in surprise, her attention abruptly diverted by the unexpected
entrance. She quickly averted her gaze, feeling a pang of discomfort at the intimate display
before her.

Suddenly, Anthony broke the kiss, his eyes widening in shock as he realized Penelope and
Colin were together. 'What are you two doing here? Alone? Unchaperoned?' Anthony's voice
was sharp, his tone filled with both surprise and disapproval as he addressed them.

Colin exchanged a quick glance with Penelope and stepped back, his expression reflecting a
mixture of apprehension and concern. Penelope's heart raced as she quickly glanced around
the room. Spotting her gloves discarded on the floor nearby, she swiftly bent down to retrieve
them, her movements hurried as she tried to regain her composure.

As Penelope hurriedly picked up her gloves, Anthony's voice sliced through the tense air, his
disapproval palpable. 'Ungloved as well? What on earth are you doing brother? Even if you
were courting her, that wouldn't be allowed,' he said, his tone laced with anger and
frustration.

Colin's apprehension deepened at Anthony's sharp words, but before he could respond,
Penelope straightened up, her voice firm but tremulous. 'He is definitely not courting me, my
apologies, Mister Bridgerton,' she said with a polite bow, her cheeks flushed with
embarrassment. With a graceful turn, she swiftly left the room, leaving Colin and Anthony
behind in the wake of her departure.

Colin's words were sharp, tinged with frustration and disbelief. 'Brother, you come in here
kissing a lady, and you are judging me for talking to one?' he retorted, his tone challenging as
he confronted Anthony's double standard. Anthony's expression softened as he met Colin's
gaze, a faint smile playing on his lips. 'We are engaged, to be wed soon. That is a completely
different case,' he announced, a note of pride evident in his voice.

Colin's eyes widened in surprise, his initial frustration dissipating as he processed Anthony's
unexpected revelation. 'Oh, congratulations,' he exclaimed, genuine happiness creeping into
his voice despite the tension between them moments before.

Anthony leaned in to kiss his fiancée, his smile widening as he felt a surge of affection for
her. Colin watched the exchange with a mix of surprise and warmth, genuinely pleased for
his brother despite their earlier disagreement.

As Anthony pulled back from the kiss, Colin cleared his throat, his tone more subdued but
still filled with genuine concern. 'Just... maybe don't mention this to Mother,' he advised
quietly, his eyes flickering with a hint of apprehension. 'I was just making sure Penelope was
okay.'

Anthony nodded understandingly, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. 'I'll keep it
between us. But let's not repeat such encounters. The Featheringtons hold a significant
standing, and this could be seen as compromising.'

Colin looked down at the ground, his expression somber. 'Right,' he murmured softly, his tone
tinged with a sense of acknowledgment.
 Our field of dreams,

AN: GUUYS I just wrote the chapters after this one and they are soooo fuuuunnn
BTW thank you for all the comments! They really mean a lot to me!

As the days passed, Penelope received a series of letters from Colin. However, she found
herself growing weary of their contents. Each one seemed to contain variations of the same
message: Colin denying his previous words, claiming they were misunderstood, insisting he
had changed. But what irked her the most was his constant reference to them being 'friends'
as the sole reason for not pursuing a courtship with her. Did he truly believe that would ease
her hurt? Sure, it was a relief that he wasn't criticizing her appearance, but did he think
reducing their relationship to mere friendship would mend the damage he had caused?

Adding to Penelope's distress, her mother had also grown silent since the incident at the ball.
With her mother's disapproval looming over her, Penelope felt a profound sense of isolation,
unable to find solace or understanding in her family's midst. Seated on the couch alongside
her sisters, Penelope tried to blend into the background, her silence a stark contrast to the
lively chatter filling the room.

'What do you think about Mister Franklin?' Prudence asked, her voice laced with curiosity. 'I
noticed him casting several glances in your direction.' Penelope's brow furrowed as she
pondered her sister's words. Was Prudence genuinely trying to help, or was she subtly
mocking her? Penelope's lips tightened with a hint of skepticism as she considered her sister's
question. 'Mister Franklyn has been wed thrice already and they all dissapeared,' she replied
evenly, her tone tinged with caution.

'Sounds like a perfect match for you,' she added dryly, her words carrying a hint of sarcasm.
Her mother gently slapped Prudence's arm, a hint of reproach in her touch. Turning her
attention to Penelope, her mother said, 'Mister Clover will be joining us for tea later today. I
expect you to be at your best behavior.'

Penelope's eyes widened in surprise. 'Wh-what? Mister Clover?' she stammered, caught off
guard by her mother's announcement. Gathering her thoughts, she quickly formulated a
response. 'But Mama,' Penelope tried to interject, but her mother cut her off. 'But what,
Penelope?' she demanded, her tone firm. 'You have proven that you cannot make this decision
on your own. This is a great match,' she insisted, her conviction unwavering as she dismissed
Penelope's concerns.

Penelope took a deep breath, steeling herself to voice her reservations. 'But- Mister Clover's
age... His age renders him unable to walk,' she explained, her voice tinged with concern for
both herself and the elderly gentleman.

Her mother's eyes flashed with irritation at Penelope's objections. 'Ungrateful child,' she
admonished, her voice laced with disappointment. 'You must stop your moaning. Mr. Clover
is looking for a wife, and you are in need of a husband. It's a perfect match. Besides, he needs
an heir quickly,' she insisted, her tone leaving no room for argument as she underscored the
practicality of the arrangement. Penelope's eyes widened in shock. 'An heir?' she echoed, the
weight of her mother's words sinking in.

Before her mother could respond, Rae walked into the room carrying the post. Placing it on
the table in front of them, she discreetly handed four letters to Penelope, leaving only one on
the table. Leaning in, she whispered, 'They didn't arrive in the morning as usual. I could not
have surmised they were intended for you.'

Penelope quickly tucked the letters under her leg, attempting to keep them hidden from view.
However, before she could fully conceal them, Philipa's keen observation caught her off
guard.

'Penelope received post?' Philipa exclaimed, a mischievous glint in her eye as she laughed,
sensing her sister's discomfort. Penelope's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as Philipa's
teasing drew attention to the hidden letters. Before she could come up with a response, her
mother's gaze turned to her, her expression expectant.

'Open them, Penelope,' her mother urged, her tone firm but not unkind. 'They could be
potential suitors who saw you at the ball. Or perhaps a letter from Mister Clover.'

'Four letters is quite the number,' Prudence remarked, her eyebrows raised in curiosity. Her
mother's gaze turned to Penelope once more, her patience wearing thin. 'Penelope, I
instructed you to open them,' she repeated, her tone insistent as she noticed Penelope's
hesitation.

Penelope's hands trembled as she hesitantly picked up the first letter, her nerves getting the
best of her. 'They're not from suitors or Mister Clover,' she admitted nervously, her voice
barely above a whisper. 'I... I already looked at the name.'

Penelope's admission hung in the air, tension thickening as her mother's patience waned.
With a sigh, her mother raised her hands in surrender. 'Well, who are they from?' she
demanded, a note of exasperation creeping into her tone.

Feeling the weight of her mother's inquiry, Penelope cast a cautious side glance at Rae, who
had been observing the situation in silence. Summoning her courage, Penelope fibbed, 'They
are from Eloise.'

But before she could exhale a sigh of relief, Prudence interjected, her skepticism evident.
'Eloise? But she has never sent you a letter before. You see each other every day,' Prudence
pointed out, her brow furrowed in disbelief.

Just as the tension reached its peak, Philipa's voice pierced the silence with a loud
exclamation. 'Mama, she speaks falsehood!' Philipa blurted out, her eyes wide with shock as
she exposed Penelope's deception.

Penelope's heart pounded in her chest as Prudence's skepticism pierced through her feeble
attempt at deceit. 'I-I do not,' she stammered, her voice quivering with nervousness. As
Philipa's words hung heavily in the air, Penelope's mother's expression shifted to one of
concern tinged with disappointment. 'Please, tell me you have not been secretly writing to
someone,' she implored, her voice a mix of disbelief and resignation.

'Indeed, I haven't,' Penelope replied hastily, her tone betraying her nervousness despite her
denial. Prudence's eyebrows shot up in alarm. 'An affair, Penelope?' she blurted out, her eyes
wide with shock.

Her mother intervened firmly. 'That shall suffice, Prudence!' she admonished, her voice stern
as she silenced her daughter's accusatory tone. Prudence couldn't resist adding fuel to the fire.
'Who would even consider an affair with you anyway?' she interjected, her tone laced with
disdain. Penelope's gaze dropped to the ground, her cheeks burning with embarrassment.

Her mother's patience wore thin as she reached her limit. 'Pass me those letters,' she
demanded, her voice firm as she extended her hand expectantly. Penelope hesitated, clutching
the letters tightly to her chest. 'They are private,' she protested, her voice trembling with a
mix of fear and defiance.

Her mother's eyes narrowed, a flicker of anger igniting within them. 'Is that so? What are you
hiding?' she demanded, her voice rising with each word. 'I assure you, Mama, there are no
secrets,' Penelope insisted, her tone defensive. 'However, letters are considered private.'

Her mother's patience snapped, her frustration boiling over. 'You are my daughter,' she
declared, her voice echoing with authority. 'I demand to see those letters!'

Reluctantly, Penelope handed over the letters, her hands trembling with apprehension. Her
mother's eyes widened in surprise as she skimmed through the contents. 'Colin Bridgerton?'
she exclaimed, her voice filled with disbelief as she read the name on the enveloppe.

Prudence couldn't contain her laughter, a smirk playing on her lips. 'Well, then it is not an
affair. A Bridgerton wouldn't deign to have an affair with Penelope,' she remarked,
amusement evident in her tone. Philippa joined in, her laughter echoing Prudence's sentiment.

Her mother's eyes widened in disbelief, her shock turning to anger. 'Four letters from Colin
Bridgerton? In a single day?' she exclaimed, her voice rising with each word. With urgency in
her tone, she called for Rae to join them, her voice carrying a hard edge.

As Rae hurried into the room, her mother fixed her with a stern gaze. 'Has Colin Bridgerton
ever delivered letters before?' she demanded, her tone unyielding. Rae, visibly stressed,
glanced at Penelope, who was quietly shaking her head in response. Prudence couldn't resist
adding fuel to the fire. 'As if Colin Bridgerton would waste his ink on someone like you,' she
remarked, her tone dripping with disdain.

Rae remained silent, her eyes darting nervously between Penelope and her mother. However,
as her mother's impatience grew, she couldn't evade the question any longer. Rae, her voice
wavering slightly, responded, 'I-I cannot say for certain, ma'am. I do not... I do not inspect the
names.'

Her mother's patience snapped at Rae's response. 'Do not attempt to deceive me!' she
exclaimed sharply, her tone cutting through the room like a blade. 'I am well aware you take
note of the names. Why would you have passed these four to Penelope then?' she accused,
her frustration evident in her voice. Rae's nervousness intensified under her mother's scrutiny.
'Well, occasionally he does send letters,' she admitted reluctantly, her voice trembling as she
spoke.

Penelope's heart sank as her mother's attention turned to her. With a heavy heart, she closed
her eyes and lowered her gaze to the ground, unable to meet her mother's accusatory stare.

Her mother's voice was sharp as she addressed Penelope. 'Care to explain this?' she
demanded, her tone tinged with disappointment. When Penelope remained silent, her mother
continued, her frustration palpable. 'You've never mentioned any of this? Are you sneaking
out these letters from our mailbox?' Penelope started to object, 'I do not sneak-' but her
mother interrupted, 'You were dancing with him recently. Actually, come to think of it, he's
the only one I've ever seen you dance with.'

With a voice cold and tinged with anger, she finally spoke up. 'He writes because we are good
friends. I have known him forever,' she retorted defiantly, her tone revealing her irritation at
her mother's persistent questioning.

Before Penelope could say anything else, her mother ripped open the letter with a swift
motion. Gasping in shock, Penelope reached out to grab it, her voice urgent as she protested,
'Mother, that is private!'

Ignoring her daughter's plea, her mother proceeded to read the letter anyway. As her mother's
eyes scanned the contents of the letter, her expression shifted from surprise to amusement.
'My dearest Penelope?' she read aloud, her voice tinged with disbelief. Prudence and Philippa
burst into laughter, their amusement echoing through the room as they found humor in the
situation.

The urge to flee surged within her, but she couldn't bear the thought of leaving her mother
alone with those private letters. The uncertainty of not knowing what Colin had written only
heightened her unease, adding to the turmoil swirling inside her.

Her mother's tone softened as she read aloud from the letter, her voice carrying a mixture of
surprise and concern. 'Please desist from your avoidance. I miss you, and cannot endure
witnessing your distress?'

Her mother's gaze turned sharp as she looked up from the letter, her eyes fixed on Penelope
with an intensity that made her uneasy. 'And what, pray tell, does this mean?' she demanded,
her voice laced with accusation.

Penelope shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper as she insisted, 'We are friends,
Mama. We had a falling out, and he is simply trying to make amends.' But her mother's
patience snapped, her voice rising sharply in response. 'My dearest Penelope!?' she exclaimed
incredulously, her tone conveying both disappointment and anger as she stood.

Before Penelope could respond, another maid interrupted, her voice trembling slightly as she
spoke. 'Miss, Mr. Clover is at the door,' she announced, her words hanging heavily in the
tense atmosphere.
Her mother's expression softened momentarily before she turned her attention back to
Penelope, her eyes filled with a steely resolve. 'Let him in, but give us a moment,' she
instructed the maid before approaching Penelope with determined steps. Her mother's eyes
blazed with fury as she continued, her voice now a thunderous roar that echoed through the
room. 'Do not test my patience, Penelope,' she bellowed, her words laced with a seething rage
that seemed to consume the air around them. 'You will do as I say, you will not ruin this with
Mister Clover.'

She continued, her voice growing louder and more authoritative with each word. 'You must
cease this letter writing and any further contact, including dancing or talking with Mr.
Bridgerton,' her mother insisted, her tone filled with rage that made Penelope's heart race
with fear. 'You will marry Mr. Clover. I promised you to him!'

As her mother's tirade reached its crescendo, Penelope's eyes widened in disbelief. 'You did
what?' she exclaimed, her voice trembling with a mixture of shock and indignation. Before
her mother could respond, the door creaked open, and Mr. Clover entered the room.

A young woman pushed Mr. Clover through the doorway in a wheelchair. His appearance
was striking—a mane of grey hair, oversized glasses perched on his nose, and a stooped
posture that spoke of age and infirmity. He couldn't sit up straight correctly, his body hunched
in the chair as he was wheeled into the room.

'Mister Clover!' her mother exclaimed enthusiastically, but Penelope's eyes widened in shock
and disbelief.
 engulfed in fire.

AN: HAVE Y'AL WATCHED BRIDGERTON PART 2?? OMG

Penelope remained awake through the night, tears streaming down her cheeks as she grappled
with the reality of her situation. She had attempted to engage in conversation with Mister
Clover, but the encounter was painfully awkward. His struggle to articulate words combined
with his unpleasant smell made the interaction highly uncomfortable for her.

As Penelope's mind raced with possibilities, she considered each option carefully. Running
away seemed futile; her mother's promise was binding, and she couldn't risk the shame of
being compromised. Marrying someone else was improbable too, given the constraints of her
circumstances. With each option seeming more unlikely than the last, Penelope felt trapped,
her future dictated by a promise made without her consent.

Suddenly, a soft knock echoed through the room, interrupting Penelope's solitude. Penelope's
voice trembled as she uttered, 'Please go away, Rae,' she muttered, her voice heavy with
exhaustion. But Rae persisted and came in, her smile betraying amusement as she addressed
Penelope.

'Miss,' Rae began tentatively, 'I beg your pardon for the interruption, but... you have a visitor.'
Penelope's eyes narrowed slightly as she turned her attention to Rae, a flicker of recognition
dawning in her gaze. 'Is it... who I think it is?' she started, her voice trailing off as she
hesitated to utter the name aloud.

Rae nodded in confirmation, her smile growing slightly. Penelope hesitated for a moment, her
mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. Finally, she shook her head and said
firmly, 'Tell him to depart, Rae.'

Rae's expression softened with understanding, 'I have already attempted to persuade him,
Miss. However, he refuses to depart until he has exchanged words with you.' Penelope's
resolve was evident as she shook her head. 'You heard my mother, Rae. I am not permitted to
see him. Kindly inform him that my mother has discovered his letters, and I am thus
forbidden to engage in communication with him.'

Rae approached quietly, her voice a soft whisper. 'Miss, I have checked. Everyone is asleep.
Just thought I would mention, if you wish to see him. He seems adamant about not leaving
until he has spoken with you.'

Penelope glanced at Rae, who appeared genuinely happy for her. Yet, a twinge of uncertainty
nagged at her. This situation had the potential to end extremely poorly. Despite the fear
gnawing at her, an inner voice urged her forward. With one final swipe at her eyes, Penelope
drew in a deep breath, steeling herself for what lay ahead.

Penelope stepped out of her room and descended the stairs, her eyes scanning the foyer. Not
finding him immediately, she proceeded towards the front door. It was then that she spotted
him, standing a few steps behind the door, still outside. His gaze lingered on her nightgown,
revealing a hint of her cleavage. Approaching him, she asked with a mixture of surprise and
curiosity, 'What are you doing here?'

'I needed to see you,' he confessed, his tone earnest. Penelope's expression softened, but she
shook her head gently. 'That is no longer a possibility,' she replied firmly.

'What do you mean?' he asked, his eyes shining in the moonlight. Penelope hesitated, her
heart heavy with the weight of her impending marriage. 'I am to be wed to Mr. Clover and not
supposed to correspond with another man,' she explained softly. Colin's eyes widened in
disbelief. 'Especially not you' she added, her voice a whisper. After a long moment of silence,
he took a hesitant step towards the entrance of the house.

'Don't come in,' Penelope urged, her voice trembling with urgency. 'If I am seen with you... I
will have to face severe consequences.' Penelope's heart pounded in her chest as Colin
insisted on speaking with her further. 'It is best for both of us if you just leave,' she urged, her
voice tinged with desperation. But Colin's determination remained unwavering. 'No, I must
talk to you. Accompany me,' he insisted, turning away from her and taking a few steps out
the door.

Penelope hesitated, her mind racing with conflicting emotions. She knew the risks of being
seen with him, yet his urgency intrigued her. As Colin glanced back, his eyes pleading with
her to follow, she felt a surge of apprehension, 'please'. The moonlight streaming through the
window caught the intensity in his gaze as he locked eyes with her, silently urging her to trust
him.

When he noticed she was not following, he came back and stepped into the house, his gaze
locked onto hers with unwavering determination. As he reached her, he gently took her hand
in his, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through her. Penelope's breath caught in her
throat as she met his intense gaze, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and
apprehension. She could feel the weight of his hand in hers, a silent reassurance amidst the
uncertainty that surrounded them. With a silent nod, she allowed him to lead her outside the
door.

As Colin led her out the door, Penelope's heart raced with a mix of anticipation and fear. She
knew the consequences of defying her mother's wishes. With each step they took, Penelope
felt a sense of liberation wash over her. For the first time in a long while, she allowed herself
to embrace the thrill of the unknown, to surrender to the tantalizing possibility of what lay
ahead. And as they stepped out into the cool night air, hand in hand, Penelope knew that
whatever awaited them, she wouldn't be facing it alone.

As they reached a secluded bench not far from her house, Colin released Penelope's ungloved
hand, allowing her to sit beside him. Penelope's heart raced with the fear of being caught, but
she couldn't deny the pull of Colin's presence.

With a heavy sigh, Colin spoke, his voice laced with regret and sincerity. 'You shall not leave
until you have explained everything Penelope. I am well aware I made a terrible mistake,' he
began, his eyes searching hers for understanding. 'But you are my friend Penelope and I have
also suffered deeply from your neglect. I am determined to make amends, and I won't leave
until we've resolved this.'
Penelope remained silent, her gaze fixed on the ground as Colin spoke. His words washed
over her, and despite her inner turmoil, she couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope.

'You realize I never intended to hurt your feelings, correct?' Colin's voice was gentle, his
sincerity evident in every word. 'You are an amazing woman, Penelope, and everyone around
you should be happy to court you.' Penelope remained silent, her heart heavy with conflicting
emotions. 'Should,' she repeated softly, the word echoing in her mind.

'You hold a special place in my heart, Penelope,' Colin confessed, his voice earnest as he
reached out to gently touch her hand. 'You are one of my dearest friends. I did not know what
I was thinking. I was indeed acting foolishly.'

'It is alright,' Penelope murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. Colin's exhale was
almost audible in the quiet room. 'Is it?' he asked, his heart hanging on her response.
'Because... I want for us to reclaim what we had.'

She looked into his eyes and said, 'Colin, it really is the least of my worries at present.'
Despite her attempt to reassure him, a tumult of emotions churned within her.

'Mister Clover? Please, tell me you are not considering marrying that man, Penelope,' Colin
pleaded, his eyes reflecting a mix of concern and sadness. As tears welled up in Penelope's
eyes, Colin instinctively reached out, placing a comforting hand on her back. 'You think I
would consider it? The choice is not mine,' she confessed through her tears, her voice heavy
with resignation. 'My mother has promised me to him.' The weight of her words hung heavily
in the air, a silent acknowledgment of the constraints that bound her to a fate she had not
chosen.

Colin's heart sank as he muttered Penelope's name, his voice heavy with disappointment and
disbelief. 'There are still possibilities to explore, Penelope,' Colin interjected, his gentle tone
underscored by the gravity of their situation. 'You can marry someone else. I am certain she
merely wishes for you to marry, not necessarily him,' he added.

Turning to him, Penelope's expression mirrored her inner turmoil, her eyes beseeching for
guidance within the confines of societal expectations. 'And what wedding matches might I
have?' she asked, her voice trembling with emotion. 'I am utterly powerless, destined to wed
a man thrice my age. My choices are nonexistent.'

He rubbed her back gently, and Penelope put her hands in front of her eyes, letting tears slip
softly. 'You could run or...' Colin's voice trailed off, unable to finish the thought.

Penelope looked up at him, desperation mingling with curiosity. 'Or what? Get
compromised?' she asked, her voice a mix of incredulity and sorrow. Her expression mirrored
her inner turmoil, her eyes beseeching for guidance within the confines of societal
expectations.

Colin stayed silent, the weight of her predicament hanging heavily between them. He
watched as Penelope's shoulders trembled, her nightgown offering little protection against the
cool night air. Noticing her shiver, he asked gently, 'Are you cold?'
Penelope shook her head slightly, her voice barely audible. 'I am alright,' she replied, though
her body betrayed her words. Without another word, Colin shrugged off his jacket. The fabric
was warm from his body heat as he carefully draped it over her shoulders. The gesture
brought him closer to her, and as he adjusted the jacket, their eyes locked. The intensity of
their eye contact was palpable, a silent exchange of emotions that neither could fully express
in words.

Penelope felt the warmth of the jacket seep into her skin, mingling with the heat of his
proximity. Colin's hands lingered on her shoulders for a moment longer than necessary, his
fingers brushing against her skin, sending a shiver down her spine.

Her breath hitched as she looked up at him, her eyes wide with a mix of gratitude and
unspoken feelings. 'I truly do not wish to marry Mister Clover', Penelope confessed, her voice
barely more than a whisper, the words carrying the weight of her desperation and despair.

Colin's expression softened with compassion. He looked deeply into her eyes, his own filled
with a mixture of sorrow and determination. 'Penelope,' he murmured, his voice tender yet
firm, 'I will not let this happen. I will speak to Anthony and see if we have a cousin in need of
a match.'

Penelope shook her head slightly, her eyes lowering to the ground. 'You wish for me to marry
a cousin of yours?' she whispered, her voice tinged with sadness and doubt.

Colin shook his head, his expression pained. 'I just want you to be happy. The odds are better
with one of them instead of with that old man,' he murmured earnestly. Penelope's gaze bore
into his, searching for reassurance. 'Besides, my cousins are exceptional. They're handsome,
hold noble titles...' He trailed off, hoping she'd see the sincerity in his plea.

She let out a slight laugh, causing Colin's to smile aswell. 'It will be alright,' she heard him
say, and he looked away for a fleeting moment while her eyes searched the ground again.

Just as Penelope began to feel the chill of despair creeping back in, she felt an unexpected
warmth, Colin's hand had landed on the side of her cheek. Shortly after, Colin had leaned in,
his breath warm against her skin. The sensation was both shocking and comforting. His lips
brushed her cheek, lingering for a few heartbeats that felt like an eternity. The touch was
gentle, a tender caress that spoke volumes of his unspoken feelings and promises. It was a
gentleness devoid of romantic overtones, a simple display of support that spoke volumes. In
that moment, it was exactly what she needed—his quiet understanding, his unwavering
presence.

Penelope's breath caught in her throat, her entire being focused on the point of contact. The
world seemed to pause, leaving only the two of them in that suspended moment. Colin's lips
were soft, his presence grounding her even as her emotions swirled in a tempest.

Suddenly, the spell was broken by a sharp, angry voice slicing through the night air.
'Penelope!' Her mother's voice was filled with fury, shattering the delicate intimacy between
them.
Colin pulled back abruptly, his eyes wide with shock and concern. Penelope's heart sank as
she turned to see her mother rushing toward them, her face contorted with rage. The anger in
her mother's eyes was palpable, a storm of emotions that threatened to consume everything in
its path.

'Have you lost all sense of propriety?' her voice trembling with anger. Penelope's mother
reached them, her breath heavy with indignation. She grabbed Penelope's arm, pulling her
away from Colin with a force that made Penelope stumble. 'How dare you? My poor
Penelope,' she hissed at Colin, her eyes blazing. 'You two- Now you must marry her!'

Colin stood up, his face a mask of regret and concern. 'Misses Fea—'

'You compromised her!' Penelope's mother cut him off, her voice cold and final. 'There is no
excuse! You shall marry her!'

Penelope looked at her mother, panic rising within her. 'Mother, please, no,' she pleaded, her
voice shaking. 'Don't force him into this.'

Her mother turned her furious gaze on Penelope. 'Do you comprehend what you have done?
In public? I have observed five individuals walking nearby already!' she spat, her grip
tightening on Penelope's arm. 'Your reputation is ruined. The only way to salvage it is for him
to marry you.' Colin looked between Penelope and her mother, his heart breaking at the sight
of Penelope's distress. 'Miss, please,' he said softly, trying to diffuse the situation. 'Let us
discuss this rationally.'

'Rationally?' Penelope's mother repeated, her voice dripping with sarcasm. 'There is nothing
rational about this. You have compromised her, and you will marry her, or so help me, I will
see to it that you are ruined as well!'

In a sudden burst of anger, she threw Colin's jacket off Penelope's shoulders, letting it fall to
the ground. 'We are going to Lord Bridgerton's right now,' she declared, her voice a mixture
of fury and determination. 'He will hear about the letters, the dancing, sneaking out at night,
ungloved, unchaperoned, in your nightgown... and kissing!' Her voice rose to a fever pitch,
the final word hanging in the air like a dark cloud. Penelope's heart pounded in her chest as
her mother dragged her towards the path. 'Mother, please,' she begged, her voice cracking
with desperation. 'You don't understand... It was merely on the cheek'

'I understand perfectly well,' her mother snapped, not loosening her grip. 'You have brought
disgrace upon this family, and now you must face the consequences.' Colin stepped forward,
his face set with determination. 'Madam, I will accompany you. But please, understand that
this is not something to be decided in the heat of anger. Penelope deserves to be treated with
respect and care.'

Her mother whirled around, her eyes blazing. 'Respect? Care? You have shown neither by
leading her into such a scandalous situation!' She yanked Penelope closer. 'Now, come. We
have to settle this!'

Penelope, tears streaming down her face, glanced back at Colin, her eyes pleading for a
solution.
 Your arson's match your

AN: HAHA everyone on my last chapter defending Portia!!!! Slay, but plz keep in mind that
he just really hated her upset and wanted to make it right. Enjoy the chapter! xx

Anthony's eyes blazed with a fiery intensity she had never witnessed before. It was as if his
anger radiated from every pore, consuming the air around us. Colin and Penelope sat in front
of his imposing desk, Anthony's formidable presence towering over us. Behind them, her
mother paced silently, her worried footsteps echoing the tension in the room.

'They must marry!' Penelope heard her mother declare, her words heavy with insistence.
Glancing at Colin, she noticed the plea in his eyes as he gazed at Anthony. Anthony sighed
heavily, running his hands over his face in frustration. 'Lord Bridgerton,' she continued, his
voice weighed down by the gravity of the situation. 'This is a regrettable circumstance for all.
None of us desired this outcome, yet it is imperative they face its consequences!'

Anthony glanced back up, his gaze piercing, as he spoke, 'I cannot help but feel that this is
merely a ploy to secure a marriage for your daughter. Is there any substantiation to implicate
my brother in this affair?'

Penelope's eyes widened in disbelief. Was this truly how people perceived her? Her mother
raised her hands defensively, her voice trembling with anger. 'I caught them! People saw
them! They were kissing! Your charming brother here,' she said, giving Colin a gentle push,
'compromised my innocent daughter!'

Anthony's glare intensified as it swept over Colin and then settled on Penelope, his
expression a mixture of disbelief and disappointment. Before he could speak, Penelope's
mother interjected once more, her voice laced with accusation. 'There are letters. I found
letters from your brother to her. He has been corresponding with her for two years!' she
exclaimed, her tone ringing with betrayal.

Once more, Penelope's mother interjected. 'Oh, and for the record,' she began, her tone sharp
with accusation, 'I had finally arranged a perfectly suitable match for my daughter. And now
your brother!' With a forceful push, she jostled Colin again, her frustration evident in the
strength of her gesture, 'has ruined it all!'

Penelope's voice cut through the tension like a gentle breeze, her words a quiet but firm plea.
'Mama, please desist from pushing him,' she requested, her tone carrying a mix of exhaustion
and exasperation. Her mother leaned in close, her face contorted with frustration, and uttered
in a low, threatening tone, 'You lost all your rights to speak.' The words hung heavy in the air,
stifling any protest from Penelope.

Colin adjusted his gaze to meet Penelope's eyes. In that moment, he saw the fear reflected in
her eyes, and his heart ached with a desire to shield her from it.

Anthony cleared his throat, his voice strained with a mix of frustration and concern. 'Brother,'
he began, addressing Colin directly, 'I would like to hear from your own lips what transpired.'
His tone carried a weight of expectation, urging Colin to account for his actions.

Colin straightened his posture, clearing his throat nervously before speaking. 'Well, um...' he
began, his voice faltering slightly. Gathering his courage, he continued, 'I knew Penelope
wasn't feeling well, so I made it a point to visit her. It was my own decision to go to her
house.' His gaze dropped to the ground, a mix of guilt and regret etched on his face.

He continued, 'I escorted her outdoors. That was my notion as well—' Before he could
elaborate further, Penelope's mother interjected sharply, her voice laden with accusation.
'Alone, at night, ungloved, unchaperoned, and in nightwear, you forget to add. And you were
very much aware of it,' she accused, her words landing like a heavy blow, casting a shadow
over Colin's explanation.

Anthony's ireful gaze turned toward Penelope, silently imploring Colin to proceed. 'We... we
proceeded to a nearby bench and talked regarding the circumstances,' Colin stammered, his
tone betraying his disquiet.

Penelope's mother interjected once more, her accusation cutting. 'And kissed! If the sneaking
out does not count as compromising, this certainly does!' she declared, her voice dripping
with disdain.

Anthony's patience wore thin. 'Stop interrupting him!' he commanded, his tone stern.
Penelope's mother shot him an angry stare but fell silent, allowing Colin to continue his
account. 'I offered her my jacket, as any gentleman would when a lady is cold,' Colin trailed
off, his voice tinged with a mix of confidence and explanation.

Penelope caught the mumble from her mother, the word 'gentleman' uttered under her breath.
'She was distressed and in need of comfort, so I' Colin paused, swallowing hard before
continuing, 'I pressed a kiss to her cheek.' Anthony's hand found its way to his forehead in
disbelief and sighed.

'It was just a comforting gesture, merely on the cheek! Merely to comfort her!' Colin hastily
added, his words carrying a tone of defense and explanation. A heavy silence lingered in the
room for a few moments until Anthony finally looked up, his gaze shifting between Colin
and Penelope. 'Brother,' he began, his voice heavy with resignation, 'I wish there were
something I could do for you. For both of you.'

Anthony sighed heavily, his expression reflecting the weight of the decision he was about to
make. 'But considering the circumstances...' he trailed off, his voice filled with regret. Colin's
plea interrupted him, his desperation palpable. 'Brother, do not do this,' he implored, his voice
tinged with desperation.

Anthony's expression darkened with anger. 'This is a case where I simply cannot undo what
you did, brother,' he declared, his voice tinged with fury. 'You are aware of the gravity of your
actions, therefore, you must face its repercussions.' Colin's heart sank as he lowered his gaze,
unable to meet his brother's piercing stare.

'Penelope Featherington comes from a family of considerable standing,' Anthony continued,

his words echoing in the tense silence. 'Considering the potential harm to her reputation and
marriage prospects due to your actions, you shall wed her.' The weight of his decree hung
heavily in the air, casting a shadow over the room.

As the weight of Anthony's decree settled upon the room, a tear escaped Penelope's eye,
tracing a silent path down her cheek. She had never harbored ill feelings towards the prospect
of marrying Colin. In fact, she had often entertained the notion that it might be the best
option for her in the circumstances they found themselves in. Yet, as she stole a glance at
Colin, his pained expression tore at her heart.

It was in that moment, as she witnessed the anguish etched upon his face, that the full weight
of reality crashed down upon her. The realization that Colin would never willingly choose to
marry her shattered her hopes, leaving her heartbroken and alone in a room full of people.
Colin lifted his gaze, his eyes reflecting a sense of utter hopelessness, yet a lingering thread
of desperate defiance remained. 'I am certain no one witnessed our encounter. It was the dead
of night,' he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

'Nonsense,' Penelope's mother interjected sharply, her tone cutting through the room like a
knife. 'It was on a public bench. You could have been more discreet, but you were absolutely
not!' Her words echoed with reproach, casting a harsh light on Colin's actions and adding
another layer of condemnation to their predicament.

Penelope's hands moved instinctively to cover her face, shielding her eyes from the intensity
of the situation unfolding around her. Colin's heart ached at the sight, his voice barely a
whisper as he reached out to her. 'Pen,' he mumbled softly, his own distress evident in his
expression.

But his attempt to comfort her was swiftly halted by his mother's accusation. 'Do not even
dare. You are the cause of her distress!' she spat, her words piercing the air with blame and
resentment, further exacerbating the anguish in the room.

Anthony rose to his feet, his hands firmly planted on the desk before him, his demeanor
resolute. 'The matter is settled. It is irrevocable,' he declared, his voice carrying the weight of
authority. 'I shall make the arrangements. There will be no announcement or festivities. A
discreet ceremony, attended solely by our immediate family, followed by a simple gathering
thereafter.'

Colin wiped his nose, his expression a mixture of desperation and determination as he
addressed Anthony. 'May I have a word with Penelope in private?' he asked, his voice
trembling with emotion.

Before Anthony could respond, Penelope's mother interjected fiercely. 'Absolutely not! You,
Colin Bridgerton, are capable of anything!' she accused, her words dripping with distrust and
disdain, her gaze unyielding as she locked eyes with Colin.

Colin turned his gaze towards Anthony, silently pleading for his support. 'I am not permitted
to speak to my future wife?' he questioned, his voice tinged with a mix of disbelief and
frustration.
The word 'wife' caught Penelope's attention, causing her to look up at him, her eyes searching
his face for any sign of sincerity or reassurance amidst the chaos of their circumstances.
Anthony spoke up, 'perhaps we can grant them a few minutes.'

Penelope observed the conflicting emotions flicker across her mother's face—a mix of fury
and perhaps a hint of understanding buried beneath the surface. As Anthony made his way
towards the door, taking the initiative to diffuse the tension, he called out, 'Misses
Featherington, if you please'

Penelope's mother placed her hand on her hips, her gaze fixed intensely on Colin. 'Do not
attempt any mischief, young man,' she warned sternly, her tone leaving no room for
argument. As the door closed behind Anthony and her mother, enveloping them in a cocoon
of relative quiet, Penelope's gaze remained fixed on the ground, her thoughts swirling
tumultuously in her mind. Colin, too, kept his eyes averted, the weight of the situation heavy
upon him.

In the comforting embrace of the silence, Penelope found a fleeting respite from the chaos
and tension that had engulfed them moments before. No more yelling, no more accusations—
just the gentle hush of the room, offering a moment of solace amidst the storm.

But the fragile peace was shattered when she felt Colin's hand on hers, his touch breaking
through the quiet with a sudden jolt of intensity. Startled, Penelope's instincts kicked in, and
in a swift, almost reflexive motion, she pulled her arm away, her chair scraping against the
floor as she scooted away from him.

'Penelope,' Colin's voice trembled, carrying a weight of regret. A tear slipped from her eye as
he spoke, his words filled with longing. 'I wish I could ease your pain.'

Silence lingered between them, heavy with unspoken words and emotions. Then, Colin's
voice broke the quiet, filled with remorse. 'I apologize. This is my doing. I should never have
come to your home. If only I hadn't been so stubborn, we would npt be in this situation.'

'I could have made different choices too, Colin. I could have refused your visit or let go of
my resentment. It is not just your fault,' Penelope murmured, her voice cracking with
emotion. He lowered his gaze to the ground, gathering his thoughts before meeting her eyes
once more. 'Tell me what you are thinking, Penelope,' he implored, his voice soft yet earnest.

'What I am thinking?' Penelope laughed, the sound hollow and strained, masking the tears
that threatened to spill over. 'It does not matter what I am thinking,' Penelope insisted, her
voice wavering with uncertainty.

Colin shook his head gently, a determined look in his eyes. 'I care about what you think,' he
countered softly, his words carrying a sincerity that reached into the depths of her heart.

As Penelope lifted her head to meet his gaze, Colin could see the depth of her pain etched in
her eyes. 'I am considering how bad I am feeling for you,' she confessed, her voice trembling
with emotion.
Frowning in confusion, Colin listened intently as she continued, her words cutting through
the silence like a knife. 'How unwilling you are to wed me. Everyone will sympathize with
you, forced to marry such a—' she gestured toward herself, 'pitiable excuse of a woman.'

Her words struck him like a blow to the chest, a stark reminder of the self-doubt and
insecurity that plagued her. Colin shook his head vehemently, his words rushed and earnest.
'You must not say such hings! I truly meant it when I said that any man would be fortunate to
marry you. You are an extraordinary woman,' he insisted, his gaze unwavering. 'Including
me,' he added silently.

But Penelope shook her head in disbelief, her voice rising in frustration. 'You said that they
'should' be happy to marry me. But they are not! And that includes you!' Her words hung
heavy in the air, a painful reminder of the harsh reality they both faced.

Colin's heart ached at her words, the weight of her pain pressing down upon him like a leaden
weight. In that moment, he knew he had to do something, to offer her some semblance of
hope amidst the darkness that threatened to engulf them. Gathering his courage, Colin
reached out to Penelope, his touch tentative yet filled with warmth and reassurance.
'Penelope, listen to me,' he began, his voice steady despite the turmoil that churned within
him. I... I've always yearned to marry for love. It's not a reflection on you,' he confessed, his
eyes locking with hers in a moment of intense vulnerability. 'But love... it can grow. It might
grow,' he assured her, his voice filled with quiet determination.

Penelope laughed bitterly, the sound echoing in the silent room like a mournful lament.
'Right,' she murmured, her voice thick with tears and sadness.

But Colin refused to let her despair consume them. With a gentle touch, he wiped away a tear
falling rolling down her cheek, his touch tender yet filled with resolve. 'I promise you,
Penelope,' he whispered, his words a solemn vow of his commitment to her happiness. 'We
will be happy. I will make you happy. And if not... if love doesn't find us, then we will remain
friends. We will stand by each other, no matter what,' he vowed, his words a beacon of hope
in the darkness that threatened to engulf them.
 somber eyes.

AN: can y'all leave suggestions what they can do after they're married? I am kinda stuck

Colin Bridgerton tossed and turned restlessly in his bed, the weight of impending
responsibility pressing down upon him like a suffocating blanket. Tomorrow morning, he
would have to face his family and deliver the news that he was to be married. Married to
Penelope Featherington, soon to be Penelope Bridgerton. The mere thought sent a shiver
down his spine, mingling with a tangled web of emotions that churned within him.

It was a union that would undoubtedly complicate matters further. Penelope was not just any
woman; she was his sister's best friend, intricately woven into the fabric of their lives. The
prospect of marrying her filled him with a strange mixture of apprehension and unease. How
would his family react? How would Eloise, his sister, take the news?

Colin's heart skipped a beat as the door creaked open, expecting to see a servant standing in
the doorway. Instead, he was met with the piercing gaze of his brother Anthony, his
expression etched with fury and concern.

Colin watched in silence as Anthony approached his bed, his brother's words heavy with
disappointment and reproach. 'I expected better from you, brother,' Anthony chided, his tone
laced with frustration.

Frustrated and overwhelmed, Colin buried his face in a pillow, seeking solace in its soft
embrace. But his attempt at avoidance was short-lived as Anthony swiftly ripped the pillow
away, leaving Colin exposed to the weight of his brother's scrutiny.

'You could have lied! It was the middle of the night, no one would have been able to see you!
You could have claimed nothing transpired, and I could have supported you!' Anthony
continued, his voice tinged with exasperation.

Colin rolled his eyes, his frustration bubbling to the surface. 'But surely you understand, once
you admitted that you—' he began, his voice catching in his throat as he struggled to find the
right words. Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to continue, 'Once you confessed to
kissing her.'

'It was a cheek kiss!' Colin protested, his voice rising with a hint of defensiveness. 'But I'm
most certainly not going to lie about it,' he added firmly, his resolve unwavering.

Anthony took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation ahead. With a determined
resolve, he pulled the covers off Colin, ignoring his grumble of protest. 'I have informed our
mother and the family that you have an announcement to make,' Anthony stated, his tone
firm and commanding.

Colin's hand instinctively went to his head, his frustration evident. 'Will you dictate my every
move forever? Or will you ever allow me to make my own decisions?' he challenged, his
voice tinged with resentment.
Anthony's expression hardened, his anger palpable. 'This is no laughing matter, brother!
You've created a mess, and as the head of this household, I have to help you clean it up,' he
retorted, his tone sharp.

Colin let out a bitter laugh, the weight of their situation settling heavily upon him. 'Right,' he
muttered sarcastically. Ignoring Colin's skepticism, Anthony pressed on. 'I have scheduled an
appointment with the tailor in two hours for you to acquire a suitable suit for the wedding,' he
announced, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Colin blinked in surprise. 'That is rather quick,' he remarked, his mind reeling with the
sudden whirlwind of preparations.

Anthony brushed off Colin's observation and continued with his instructions. 'Penelope will
arrive at 3 o'clock. Take a stroll with her. Act as if you're enamored, to deter any gossip,' he
instructed, his voice brooking no opposition.

'Anthony—' Colin attempted to interject, but his brother pressed on, determined to see their
plan through.

'The wedding is set for three days from now. Mrs. Featherington has evidently made
arrangements expeditiously,' Anthony revealed, his words causing Colin's mouth to fall open
in shock. The gravity of their situation dawned on him, the reality of his impending marriage
sinking in with each passing moment.

Colin's hands flew to his head in disbelief. 'I am expected to find a house in just three days?'
he exclaimed, feeling the full weight of their predicament pressing down upon him with
renewed intensity. Anthony nodded solemnly. 'I will assist you. I am certain Mother will as
well,' he reassured, his voice conveying a sense of resolve amid the chaos.

Anthony left Colin to prepare himself in private, giving him space to collect his thoughts.
Despite the uncertainty of their situation, Colin took solace in the fact that Penelope was
well-liked by their family. This offered a glimmer of hope amidst the turmoil, providing some
semblance of reassurance in the face of the unknown.

Had kissing her cheek been wrong? Colin asked himself as he looked into the mirror,
scrutinizing his reflection. Probably. But had it felt like exactly what she needed in that
moment? Absolutely. She had been so heart-wrenchingly sad, and all he had wanted was to
offer her some comfort. A simple kiss on the cheek had seemed like the most natural, caring
gesture.

What was he going to tell his family? That he had compromised her? The very thought made
his stomach churn. It sounded so dreadful, so unforgivable, especially when compared to
other things he had done with women in the past. He could lie and say they had fallen in love
and that he had proposed out of genuine affection. But he knew that story would be
implausible, and Mrs. Featherington would likely reveal the truth to his mother.

Descending the stairs, Colin could hear the gentle melody of the piano forte drifting through
the air. He imagined his family gathered together, awaiting his impending announcement—
news that Anthony had already disclosed.
As Colin gently opened the door, he found his family scattered around the room, each
occupying their own space. His mother's eyes lit up at the sight of him, and she rushed over
to envelop him in a tight hug. 'Colin!' she exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement. 'I
heard you got some news to deliver.' There was a lightheartedness to her tone, as if she
anticipated something positive. And perhaps, in a way, this was good news. He was to be wed
—a prospect she had always desired.

The room fell silent as Colin's gaze swept over his family. Anthony sat next to Kate, their
hands intertwined, a subtle gesture of support that did not go unnoticed. 'Well, uhm. Yeah,'
Colin managed to choke out, sensing the tension in the air and his mother's smile faded.
'Everything okay, dear?' she inquired, concern etched in her features.

Colin glanced at the ground, unable to meet her eyes, and simply nodded. 'Family, please
gather,' he said, his voice steady despite the nerves that churned within him. 'I have an
important announcement to make.' With a deep breath, he looked around the room, his gaze
settling on each member of his family in turn.

As Colin spoke, the atmosphere in the room grew heavy with anticipation. They all turned
their attention to him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. Each of them held
their breath, waiting for Colin's words to break the silence. His heart raced in his chest, the
weight of his impending announcement bearing down on him like a leaden cloak.

Colin took a deep breath, steeling himself for what was to come. 'I... I am to be married,' he
announced, the words hanging in the air like a heavy fog. Instantly, a chorus of gasps and
whispers erupted from the assembled group, their reactions ranging from shock to disbelief.

Suddenly, Eloise let out a loud, incredulous laugh, her voice breaking the tension like a bolt
of lightning. 'What? To who?' she exclaimed, her eyes wide with disbelief as she turned to
Colin, her laughter ringing out in the silent room.

Violet Bridgerton came closer with a mixture of surprise and concern etched on her face. 'I
was not aware of you courting someone, dear?' she said, her voice gentle yet filled with
curiosity as she approached Colin, her hands reaching out to grasp his in a reassuring gesture.

The room fell silent as all eyes turned to Colin, awaiting his response to Violet's question.
Colin met his mother's gaze, feeling a twinge of guilt for springing such unexpected news
upon her. Taking a deep breath, he braced himself for her reaction.

'It is... it is Penelope,' he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper as he spoke her name.
Violet's eyes widened in surprise at the revelation, her grip tightening slightly on Colin's
hands. 'Penelope?' she repeated, and added, 'Penelope Featherington?' her tone filled with a
mixture of surprise and disbelief. 'But... but that is radder sudden? Penelope? When did that
happen?' she asked, her brow furrowing in confusion as she sought to understand her son's
sudden choice of bride.

Benedict couldn't contain his amusement at the revelation. 'Brother, have you gone mad?' he
chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. His laughter echoed through the room, mingling with
Eloise's incredulous reaction.
'Truly, brother, this has been the best prank you have managed to pull on us,' Eloise
exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mirth as she glanced around the room. 'You think I would
joke about marriage, sister?' Colin repeated, his tone firm as he locked eyes with Benedict
and Eloise, his words carrying a weight of conviction. The room fell silent, the jovial
atmosphere replaced by an undercurrent of tension as his siblings exchanged uncertain
glances.

His mother tilted her head slightly as she studied Colin with a discerning gaze. There was a
flicker of concern in her eyes, tempered by a mother's intuition. Colin's voice rang out in the
room, commanding attention as he delivered the final piece of his announcement. 'I am to be
wed to Penelope Featherington in 3 days,' he declared.

Francesca's eyes widened in astonishment, her features contorted with disbelief. 'Three days?'
she repeated, her voice tinged with incredulity. His mother spoke, 'Colin, this is highly
irregular. I need an explanation. Why are you marrying her without prior courtship, and why
the rush?' Her words carried a sense of urgency, reflecting her concern for her son's sudden
and unexpected decision.

Before Colin could respond, his mother interjected with a furrowed brow, adding another
layer of complexity to the situation. 'I thought Penelope was to be wed to Mr. Clover,' she
pointed out, her words casting doubt on the validity of Colin's impending marriage to
Penelope. 'Miss. Featherington could not stop talking about it,' she added, her tone laced with
confusion.

Colin's voice quivered with accusation as he directed his gaze at his mother, his eyes ablaze
with intensity. 'You knew?' he questioned, the disbelief and anger palpable in his tone. 'You
knew Penelope was being forced into marrying that odious man, and yet you remained
silent?'

Her eyes flashed with defiance as she met Colin's accusatory gaze. 'Is that the reason behind
your decision to wed her?' she challenged, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and
concern. Colin fell silent, his jaw clenched tight as he struggled to find the words to respond.
But before he could speak, she pressed on, her tone unyielding. 'Do not dare suggest you are
marrying her out of some misguided sense of protection. Your own future is at stake here!'

Anthony's pointed look cut through the air, a silent plea for Colin to abandon his misguided
heroics. But when Colin remained silent, Anthony took it upon himself to deliver the harsh
truth. 'Colin compromised her, Mother,' he interjected, his tone firm and unyielding.

His mother's eyes widened in shock at Anthony's words, her gaze flickering between her two
sons as she processed the gravity of the situation. A flicker of anger sparked in her eyes as
she turned her attention back to Colin, her expression now tinged with disappointment. 'They
were caught, and that is the only reason they are to be wed,' Anthony continued, his words
hanging heavy in the tense atmosphere of the room.

'I apologize, brother, but that is the reality of the situation, and I cannot allow you to paint
yourself as a hero when you were not,' Anthony asserted firmly, his tone devoid of any hint
of wavering as he locked eyes with Colin.
Eloise rose from her seat with a mixture of shock and disbelief etched across her features.
She strode purposefully toward Colin, her movements filled with a fierce determination. With
a forceful push, she pressed against his chest, causing him to stumble backward slightly. 'You
compromised Penelope?!' she exclaimed, her voice trembling with a mixture of anger and
betrayal.

Before he could respond, Eloise pushed him again, her frustration boiling over as she
confronted him. 'You compromised my best friend!?' she demanded. Colin staggered
backward as Eloise's accusing words hit him like a blow. 'No, Eloise, it is not what you think,'
he insisted, his voice strained with urgency. 'We did not... it was not like that. I only kissed
her cheek because she...,' he explained, his words stumbling out in a hurried attempt to justify
his actions.

'I saw-,' Colin added, glancing at Anthony, 'I noticed her mother approaching, which is why I
did it. I believe Penelope is not aware that I saw her mother,' he admitted, a hint of unease
coloring his tone.

Violet's eyes narrowed as she pieced together the situation. 'So you did do it to get her out of
the marriage,' she concluded, her voice tinged with a mix of understanding and concern.
Colin's gaze fell to the ground, a silent acknowledgment of the truth in her words. Slowly, he
nodded, his expression filled with a sense of regret and resignation.

Colin's breath caught in his throat as he considered Violet's question. 'Yes,' he finally
admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

Anthony stood up abruptly, his brows furrowed in confusion. 'Brother, that is not what you
told me,' he declared, his voice edged with a hint of accusation. 'You said you were caught.'
Colin's eyes darted to Anthony, a flicker of apprehension crossing his features. 'When I saw
Portia approaching,' he began tentatively, 'it felt like the only way to protect her.'

Colin's hesitation was palpable as he searched for the right words. 'I did not mention it
because...' he trailed off, his gaze dropping to the floor. 'She was present and... I do not know.
It just did not feel right to admit.'

Anthony shot to his feet, his brows knitted in confusion. 'So you deliberately compromised
her?' he asked sharply.

The mother intervened solemnly, 'No, because sneaking around unchaperoned at night is
compromising as well.'

Colin spoke up, his voice urgent. 'It was the only possibility. There was no other option. I
needed to see her, and staying at the house was not possible. She was upset and had been
ignoring me and my letters. We just could not stay at the house without her mother
overhearing.'

He sighed heavily, gaze dropping to the ground. 'I only wanted to make things right. I never
intended to embroil her in a scandalous situation to begin with. But, once we were seen
together, I figured I could use that opportunity.'
His mother listened intently, her expression a mix of concern and understanding as the truth
unraveled before her. 'Listen, Colin, I understand your intentions were noble. However, once
again, Colin, you put emotions and others before yourself,' she remarked softly, her voice
carrying a note of disappointment.

As the weight of their conversation settled upon them, Colin couldn't help but feel a sense of
isolation. 'I apologize' he murmured, his gaze fixed on the floor. 'I apologize for everything...
For the mess I have created.'

Colin's voice quivered with conviction as he lifted his gaze, meeting his family's incredulous
stares. 'But I stand by my decision,' he asserted, his tone unwavering. 'I would rather marry
her myself and have a good, friendly, supporting marriage than see her wedded to Lord
Clover against her will.'

A heavy silence hung in the room, punctuated only by the soft rustle of fabric and the faint
creak of the floorboards beneath their feet. Sensing the need to break the tension, Colin
cleared his throat, his voice steady as he continued, 'She is to visit later. I expect you to
extend her kindness and welcome her into our family.'

With a nod to his family, Colin turned to leave, his footsteps echoing softly in the quiet room.
'Now if you'll excuse me, I have to buy a suit,' he added, his voice trailing off as he made his
way out of the room, determination guiding his steps as he faced the challenges that lay
ahead.
 I'll still see it,

AN: Thank you so much for all the nice comments!! Truly my favorite things to read! Colin
paced anxiously in the hall, his eyes flicking towards the entrance with each passing moment.
His mother would occasionally peer out to see if Penelope had arrived, but Colin ensured she
retreated swiftly. It was imperative that he had the first encounter with Penelope.

When she arrived, Colin planned to escort her to his family, allowing them to offer their
'congratulations' on their impending marriage. Their names already adorned the list of those
to be wed, a fact that likely had spread among the society. Colin hoped fervently that it hadn't
sparked scandal, given their lack of courtship. He knew that in public, he must portray
excitement about their impending union, regardless of their feelings.

As the door creaked open, Colin's heart leaped into his throat. There stood Penelope, her blue
eyes shimmering beneath the soft light, adorned in a delicate blue gown. Behind her stood a
different chaperone than Rae, prompting Colin to wonder if Rae had been reprimanded for
her previous indiscretion.

Penelope stepped forward, her gaze fixed on Colin with intense scrutiny, and he mirrored her
movement. With a soft smile, Colin reached out, gently taking her hand and bringing it to his
lips, pressing a tender kiss to her palm. 'You look absolutely lovely, Penelope,' he murmured,
his voice laced with sincerity.

Penelope's breath caught in her throat, her heart fluttering nervously as she felt the warmth of
Colin's lips against her skin. She offered him a shy smile in return, her cheeks flushed with a
delicate blush. 'Thank you, Colin,' she replied softly, her voice betraying a hint of
nervousness.

Colin offered his arm to Penelope, a gesture of chivalry and affection. Penelope hesitated for
a moment, her heart pounding in her chest, before tentatively slipping her hand through the
crook of his elbow. 'Shall we greet my family?' he asked, his voice warm and inviting.

Penelope hesitated for a moment, her mind racing with thoughts and emotions, before
nodding slowly. 'Of course,' she murmured.

As they entered the room, Colin felt a wave of apprehension wash over him. He knew that his
family's reaction would be crucial in setting the tone for their future together. With Penelope
by his side, he approached his family, his grip on her arm tightening slightly in reassurance.

Violet Bridgerton's eyes widened in surprise as she caught sight of Colin and Penelope, her
expression a mixture of shock and curiosity. 'Colin, Penelope,' she greeted them, her tone
polite yet tinged with uncertainty. Colin's mother stepped forward and with a sudden burst of
emotion, she enveloped Penelope in a tight hug, her arms wrapping around her with a
motherly embrace. 'Welcome, dear,' she murmured, her voice filled with warmth and
sincerity.
Penelope was taken aback by the unexpected display of affection but returned the hug with
equal warmth, feeling a sense of belonging wash over her. 'Thank you, Lady Bridgerton,' she
replied softly, her voice filled with gratitude.

Colin watched with a smile as his mother embraced Penelope, feeling a swell of pride and
gratitude. It was clear that Violet had accepted Penelope into their family with open arms, and
for that, he was immensely grateful. As they parted, the other members of the Bridgerton
family stepped forward to offer their congratulations. Benedict clapped Colin on the back
with a hearty laugh. 'Well, brother, you certainly know how to surprise us,' he remarked, his
tone filled with amusement.

Francesca approached Penelope with a warm smile. 'Welcome to the family, Penelope,' she
said, her voice gentle and kind. 'We are delighted to have you.' But amidst the
congratulations, Eloise remained skeptical. She watched the exchange with a furrowed brow,
her eyes narrowed with suspicion. 'Why are we all acting like this is normal,' she interjected,
her tone cutting through the jubilant atmosphere.

Colin's smile faltered slightly at Eloise's interruption. As the tension thickened in the room,
Eloise's skepticism only seemed to deepen, her brow furrowing with increasing concern. 'I
cannot simply stand by and watch as you make a hasty decision that will ruin both your lives,'
she declared, her voice ringing with conviction.

Colin's patience wore thin as he struggled to contain his frustration. 'Eloise, this is not your
decision to make,' he retorted, his voice tinged with exasperation. He sensed Penelope's eyes
briefly on him before she looked away. Eloise's eyes flashed with anger at Colin's words, her
resolve hardening. 'What about Penelope's future? Have you even stopped to consider what
she wants?'

Colin's jaw clenched tight as he struggled to contain his anger. 'Eloise this marriage is about
doing what is right, even when it is difficult. And right now, marrying Penelope is the only
option,' he insisted, his voice low and dangerous.

Eloise's annoyance only seemed to deepen, her gaze unwavering. 'What about love, Colin?'
she pressed, her voice soft yet firm. 'Do you truly believe that a marriage without love is the
right path for either of you? You, who have always longed to be in love?'

Colin's frustration boiled to the surface, his temper flaring. 'Love is not always the deciding
factor, Eloise,' he argued, his voice tinged with bitterness. 'Sometimes, duty and
responsibility must take precedence.' Eloise stood her ground, her eyes blazing with defiance
and added, 'I will not stand idly by and watch as you ruin both your lives,' she declared, her
voice unwavering. 'If you are determined to go through with this marriage, then so be it. But
do not expect me to support it.'

Colin's gaze hardened, his frustration mounting with each passing moment. 'Well, I'm afraid
you will have to accept it, Eloise,' he declared, his tone final. 'This marriage is happening,
whether you approve of it or not.'

Colin's heart sank as he watched Penelope struggle to maintain her composure. He couldn't
bear to see her in such distress, couldn't shake the feeling that he was responsible for her
pain. 'Penelope, are you alright?' he asked softly, his voice laced with concern.

Penelope's shoulders shook with silent sobs, her facade crumbling before his eyes. 'I...I think
we should step outside,' she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. 'I need some air.'

Colin nodded in agreement, his own emotions roiling beneath the surface. 'Of course,' he
replied, his voice gentle and his arm still linked with hers. His mother stepped forward, her
expression softening with compassion. 'Penelope,' she began, her voice filled with warmth
and understanding, 'I know this must all be quite overwhelming for you. But please know that
you are not alone. We are here for you at all times.'

Penelope's tear-filled eyes met Violet's gaze, a glimmer of gratitude shining through the
despair. 'Thank you, Lady Bridgerton,' she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.
Violet reached out, gently squeezing Penelope's hand in a comforting gesture. 'Call me Violet,
dear. We have know each other for 10 years now,' she said softly, her words a soothing balm
to Penelope's wounded spirit.

With a nod of appreciation, Penelope offered Violet a weak smile before turning to Colin, her
eyes pleading for solace. 'Penelope,' he began softly, his voice filled with genuine concern,
'shall we take a stroll in the garden? It might help clear our minds a bit.'

Penelope nodded, her gratitude evident as she leaned into Colin's comforting presence. With
their arms linked, Colin guided Penelope out of the house. As they walked, Colin found
himself stealing glances at Penelope, his heart heavy with regret for the pain he had caused
her. He longed to ease her burden, to erase the tears from her cheeks and replace them with a
smile.

As they walked through the garden, Colin couldn't help but notice the subtle glances and
whispers that followed them. 'Penelope,' Colin began, breaking the quietude with his gentle
voice, 'I know Eloise's reaction was...unexpected. But I have faith she will come to terms
with it eventually. She simply needs time to digest everything.'

Penelope's eyes flickered with uncertainty, her lips trembling slightly as she spoke. 'Do you
truly believe that?' she asked, her voice tinged with doubt. Colin nodded reassuringly, his
gaze meeting Penelope's with unwavering conviction. 'I do,' he affirmed, his voice soft but
steadfast. 'Eloise may be headstrong, but she cares deeply for you. In her own way, she's just
trying to protect you.'

'May I ask, how did your sisters react to the news?' he asked gently, his voice laced with
concern. Penelope's expression faltered slightly at the question, her gaze dropping to the
ground. 'I have not had a chance to speak with them,' she admitted quietly. 'I had to leave
early this morning to meet with the modiste.'

As they continued their stroll through the garden, Colin remarked, 'Three days will be upon
us soon,' his tone tinged with a hint of apprehension. 'We have much to do before then.'
Penelope nodded in agreement, her own apprehension evident. 'Indeed,' she added, 'and loads
to discuss.' Colin smiled gently, reassuring her. 'You can always talk to me about anything.'
Penelope halted abruptly, her eyes locked onto Colin's with a blend of uncertainty and
resolve. 'Colin,' she started, her voice tinged with a hint of tremor, 'if we are to be husband
and wife, this is a crucial question.'

She paused, her heart pounding in her chest as she gathered the courage to voice her
concerns. 'Do you... do you want kids?' Colin's smile faltered slightly at the unexpected
question, his mind racing as he considered his response. 'Oh well uh-,' he started, his voice
gentle but firm. 'Penelope,' Colin stammered, caught off guard by Penelope's question. He
shifted uneasily, a faint blush creeping into his cheeks.

'The thing is,' he continued, his voice softening with sincerity, 'I have not gotten the chance to
think about it, due to our situation. Not because I do not want to, because I do adore children
and have always yearned to have them one day.'

Penelope's brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of confusion crossing her features. 'So you want
them?' she echoed, her tone a mix of surprise and curiosity. Colin dropped his gaze
momentarily before meeting Penelope's again. 'Yes, well, you know,' he replied awkwardly, 'it
is just that... with this arrangement, everything has happened so suddenly, and I haven't had
the chance to think about... well, anything, really.'

Penelope's expression softened as she listened to Colin's explanation, her heart aching. 'I see,'
she murmured, her voice tinged with empathy. 'You are just uncertain if you want them with
me?' she said while looking at the ground.

Colin's heart sank at Penelope's words, a pang of guilt washing over him. 'No, no, Penelope,'
he said earnestly, his eyes searching hers. 'It's not that at all. It's just... In order to have
children-'

Colin's voice trailed off as he struggled to find the right words, his gaze still locked with
Penelope's. He could see the confusion in her eyes, the uncertainty clouding her features.
Despite his efforts to explain, it was clear that Penelope had no idea what he was talking
about.

'In order to have children, we might have to do things that we are not entirely comfortable
with.' He paused, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. 'Like kissing?' Penelope
whispered tentatively, her voice barely above a whisper, her cheeks turning a deep shade of
pink.

Colin's heart ached at her innocence, and he managed a gentle smile. 'Yes,' he replied softly,
'kissing is part of it. But there are other things too, more... intimate acts that are necessary in
order to have a baby.'

Penelope's eyes widened slightly as she tried to comprehend his words. 'Okay,' she echoed,
her voice filled with both curiosity and apprehension. Penelope looked down, her mind
racing as she processed this new information, 'I never really thought about it that way.'

Colin nodded, his own apprehension reflected in his eyes. 'I know it is a lot to take in,' he said
gently. Penelope's brow furrowed as a memory surfaced. 'Does this have something to do
with what my mama used to say to my sisters?' she asked hesitantly. 'I overheard her once,
telling them to lay back and let their husbands 'do their thing.''

Colin felt a surge of discomfort, but he kept his expression calm. 'Yes, I suppose it is related,'
he admitted. 'But it should not be something passive or one-sided. It is all about mutual
affection and comfort.' Penelope's face showed a mix of relief and uncertainty. 'So, it is not
just... something to endure?'

'No,' Colin said earnestly, taking her arm back in his so they could continue walking. 'It
should be something shared, something that brings both of them closer together.'

Penelope's shoulders relaxed slightly, a faint smile touching her lips. 'Right,' she said softly,
trying to grasp the new perspective Colin was offering.

'Right,' Colin echoed, nodding. An awkward silence settled between them, the weight of their
conversation lingering in the air. Colin glanced at Penelope, noticing the furrow of her brow
as she deep in thought. 'Do you have any other questions?' he asked gently, breaking the
silence.

Penelope looked up at him, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her features. 'Where will we
live?' she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity. 'I mean, after we are wed.'

Colin's brows furrowed slightly as he considered her question. 'I... I am not entirely certain
yet,' he admitted, his tone thoughtful. 'But I have been looking at some properties nearby.
There are a few houses for sale in the area, so it shouldn't be too difficult to find something
suitable.'

Penelope nodded, a sense of relief washing over her. 'That is good to hear,' she said softly, a
small smile playing at her lips. Colin returned her smile, grateful for her understanding. 'And
I promise to make sure it is a place where you feel comfortable and happy.'

Penelope's smile widened at his words, a glimmer of hope shining in her eyes. 'Thank you,
Colin,' she said sincerely, her gratitude evident in her voice.

He glanced sideways to meet her gaze. 'How did things end with Lord Clovis? He is aware, I
assume?' Her expression darkened at the mention of Clovis, 'he was furious when he found
out. I overheard the conversation between my Mama and him before I left.'

Penelope's eyes glistened as she looked up at Colin, her expression filled with a mixture of
sadness and anger. 'He... he called me names,' she whispered, her voice trembling with
emotion. 'Said horrible things about me and my family. He just... he just kept shouting at my
mother.'

His grip on her arm tightened instinctively, a silent gesture of support and solidarity. 'My
apologies, I am to blame. You do not deserve such cruel words,' he murmured, his voice
tinged with empathy. Suddenly, Penelope's laughter rang out, surprising Colin, 'I was
astonished he was capable of shouting,' she confessed, a hint of amusement in her voice.
'When I spoke with him, he was not even capable of producing two words without drooling
or stuttering.'
Colin couldn't help but chuckle at Penelope's unexpected humor, the tension between them
momentarily easing, 'I am glad you did nto have to endure a life with him.' Penelope nodded,
a small smile still lingering on her lips. 'Me too,' she admitted, her voice tinged with relief.

They looked at each other and smiled. Then she continued, her voice gaining strength, 'Lord
Clovis merely sought a wife solely for the purpose of having an heir, after what you told me
today, I am glad I will not have to participate in such events with him.'

Colin's contemplated the thought. 'It is not something you do merely do to have kids,
Penelope,' he repeated softly, the weight of his words heavy in the air. He glanced at
Penelope, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and regret. 'Even if you had married
someone else who did not desire to have children, you'd likely still find yourself in a similar
situation.'

Penelope furrowed her brow in confusion, her gaze shifting to meet Colin's. 'I do not
understand,' she admitted softly, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Colin took a deep breath, ' intimacy between a husband and wife goes beyond just having
children,' he explained earnestly, his voice gentle yet firm. 'It is a natural thing that happens
between married partners.'

Penelope's eyes widened in realization as Colin's words sank in. 'Oh,' she murmured, a faint
blush creeping into her cheeks. Colin offered her a reassuring smile, relieved that she seemed
to grasp the concept. Penelope nodded slowly, her understanding deepening with each
passing moment. 'I think I understand now,' she said softly, her voice filled with a mix of
curiosity and acceptance.

Penelope's gaze lingered on Colin, her brow furrowing with concern. 'So, does that mean...
we have to do that?' she asked tentatively, her voice barely above a whisper. Colin's
expression tensed, a flush creeping into his cheeks as he shifted uncomfortably. 'Well, uh—'
he began, his voice wavering slightly as he struggled to find the right words.

His hesitation only seemed to amplify the awkwardness of the moment, and Penelope's eyes
widened with uncertainty. 'No,' Colin blurted out, his words rushed and disjointed. He
paused, his cheeks burning with embarrassment, before quickly adding, 'Not necessarily.'

The tension in the air was palpable as Colin's awkward response hung between them.
Penelope's brow furrowed even deeper. 'I mean, we... we should not do anything we are
uncomfortable with,' he clarified, his voice strained with awkwardness.

Penelope's eyes searched his face, her expression a mix of confusion and concern. 'But Colin,'
she ventured, her voice barely above a whisper, 'I want to be a good wife to you. I want to do
whatever you want, whatever you need.' He shifted uncomfortably, his mind racing as he
tried to process her meaning.

The weight of her words settled heavily upon him, and Colin swallowed hard, his throat
suddenly dry. 'Penelope,' he began, his voice barely audible, 'we are in this marriage together.
And that means we will do what is best for both of us, not just about what I need.'
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