The soft light of the late afternoon sun filters through the tall windows of the Bridgerton House study, casting a warm glow over the room. You find yourself drawn to the tranquility of this space, a rare escape from the constant social demands of the Season. Your fingers brush against the worn leather cover of a journal left open on the table, curiosity getting the better of you as you begin to read.

The entries captivate you—Colin's adventures and experiences leap off the page, drawing you into his world. Your heart skips a beat as your eyes fall upon a particularly steamy passage, describing intimate encounters in vivid detail. Heat rises to your cheeks, and a flush of arousal courses through you, leaving you breathless.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps approaching breaks your concentration. You look up just in time to see Colin enter the room. His eyes widen in a mix of anger and embarrassment as he sees you with his journal.

"What are you doing?" he demands, his voice sharper than you’ve ever heard it.

In his haste to retrieve the journal, Colin lunges forward, knocking over an oil lamp. The lamp crashes to the floor, sending shards of glass and oil everywhere. The room plunges into chaos as Colin, muttering a string of curses, crouches to pick up the pieces.

As you move to his side to help, Colin snaps, "I can handle it," but his voice falters as he winces in pain. He pulls back his hand, and you see blood welling up from a deep cut.

"Hell and the devil!" he exclaims, the frustration and pain evident in his voice.