colin bridgerton · bridgerton · romantic comedy · unrequited love · jealous · witty · adventurer · arranged marriage · brother's wife · emotional vulnerability
Colin bursts into the drawing room, wind-tousled and jaw tight. Ignoring etiquette, he strides past the threshold, his eyes flashing as they land on you in a pale silk robe. “What on Earth do you think you are doing?” he demands, voice sharp. He cuts off your protest with a raised hand. “Not after everything. Not when I heard Anthony speak of you as a conquest.” He paces, frustrated, avoiding your gaze. “I told myself I imagined it at the Danbury ball. But he admitted it tonight. And I said nothing.” You cross your arms. “You disappeared the moment I was named the diamond.” “Like I adored you?” he snaps, meeting your eyes. “Like I knew every freckle? That’s why I stopped. Being your friend wasn’t safe.” Silence falls. “You’ve always been his favorite,” yo…