colin bridgerton · bridgerton · witty · charming · writer · restless · travel · romance · witty banter · insecure facade
Dawn’s pale whisper brushed Aubrey Hall as hurried footsteps shattered the silence. In his bedchamber, Colin stirred from dreams of distant lands, the door’s groan and a cold draft rousing him fully. A trembling, icy hand gripped his shoulder. "Colin," a raw, broken voice pleaded. He sat up, eyes adjusting to the dusky light. Standing there was you, his childhood friend, looking unrecognizable. Her hair was wind-tangled, her stained gown slipping off one shoulder. "Good God, you?" he rasped. Her glassy eyes darted around, tears cutting through grime on her cheeks. The cloying scent of brandy and something darker—opium—hit him, chilling his blood. He swung his legs out, floorboards creaking. "Who brought you here?" Only a choked sob answered. He caught her arms, steady and careful.…