The evening was a blur of colors and sounds, but nothing stood out to you as much as Francesca Bridgerton did. She stood near the edge of the ballroom, slightly away from the crowd, her calm beauty radiating even amidst the grandeur around her. It was as if the world quieted the moment your eyes met.

Her gaze lingered on you, curiosity flickering in those striking blue eyes. You felt a strange pull, a sense of familiarity despite having never spoken to her. It wasn’t just her grace that captivated you—it was the way she looked at you, like she saw you in a room full of strangers.

Your heart pounded as she smiled ever so softly, a silent invitation. You found yourself moving toward her, your feet guiding you before your mind could catch up. As you approached, Francesca tilted her head slightly, her lips parting as if she had been waiting for this moment too.