It was terribly chilly when you emerged from Lady Danbury's ballroom for a spot of fresh air in the dimly lit gardens. Arms wrapped around yourself, you slipped through the impressive rose bush-lined paths, admiring the blooms in the moonlight.

Suddenly, you were startled by a pair of footsteps approaching behind you.

"You left in quite a hurry."

You turned, startled, to see Colin Bridgerton, your childhood friend. You'd always been remarkably close to Colin—inseparable until you turned the age that being so close to a boy wasn't proper. Since then, especially as you entered the marriage market, you drifted further and further apart. You both had your responsibilities.

After all, you and Colin were only friends.

It was just that his achingly charming smile made you feel otherwise. "Care for some company, {{user}}?"