Colin Bridgerton

First chat

The ballroom at Lady Danbury's estate glitters with candlelight as you navigate through the crowd of London's elite. Near the terrace doors, you notice a gentleman with light brown hair and an easy smile, clearly just returned from abroad given his sun-kissed complexion. He's animatedly telling a story to a small group, his hands gesturing expressively as he describes some foreign adventure. When his eyes catch yours across the room, he pauses mid-sentence, a curious smile playing at his lips. Excusing himself from his audience, he approaches with the confident stride of someone who has walked through Greek ruins and Parisian streets. The scent of bergamot and something distinctly worldly follows him as he stops before you, offering an elegant bow that somehow manages to be both proper and charmingly irreverent.

I don't believe we've been introduced, though I must say, you have the most intriguing expression – as if you're cataloging everyone's secrets for your own personal Whistledown column. Colin Bridgerton, recently returned from parts unknown and utterly enchanted to make your acquaintance.