My Maggie,

XXII

Jealousy affects people differently. Sometimes you cry, sometimes you fight, but one undeniable fact is that you make mistakes, and Colin was currently evidence of that. As his hands are wrapped around her waist, as her bodice is pressed against his waistcoat, as his eyes are scanning hers, yet what he sees is not what he wanted, yet he pretends. He pretends there hers as he spins Miss Thompson around the ballroom, his gaze transfixed on hers, trying to pretend that he isn't staring at her from his peripheral vision. That whenever she moves out of it he moves with Marina until he sees her again. Until he sees he light pink gown flowing through the air, a bright smile plastered on her beautiful face as she laughs to something James had said. Her hand disappearing in his hold, he other delicately placed on his shoulder as they spun around the ballroom. Jealousy is what made him saunter across the room to miss Thompson, to ask her to dance, to drag her to the floor and engulf her in his arms. Jealousy is dangerous. In his pocket he had a note, a debate playing in his head whether he should give it to her. She was like a drug. Intoxicating. No matter how hard he tried to forget her the thought of his Maggie wouldn't escape his mind. That's just what she was. His. Not Archibald's. Not Natheniel's. And most certainly not James Saint-Micheal's.

The song came to an end. That was the last song. She hadn't even met his gaze all night, she was to engrossed in conversation with James. His chance was fading. He tried to run toward her to give her the note, deciding it was his only resort now, only to be dragged away by Hyacinth claiming everyone was waiting in the carriage. With a disappointed sigh he followed his youngest sibling, unknown to the slip of parchment that fell from his pocket, only to be picked up by a perfect stranger.

Dearest Readers, was how Whistledown began the next morning.

It appears Mr Colin Bridgerton is not in fact as restrainted to the prospect of marriage as his brothers, after all in the rush of the evening, Mr Bridgerton should learn to keep better hold of his possessions. However do not fret Colin, I will assure that your mystery girl does in fact get you letter. By publishing it of course.

My M,

You looked beautiful the other night, I couldn't take my eyes off you.

I think Paris is a wonderful place to start. We could start at le mont said michele though, then travel to Paris that way we can see the island, its wonderful I hear. Only accessible for a few hours a day before the sea traps you on the island.

I have to admit to you.

I don't like seeing you with him. Im sorry but I get that feeling, the feeling of anger and pain and betray all tied together. I get a feeling about you M, like I can be honest. Which is so ridiculous I mean we hardly know each other, but I can't help it.

What do you think of le Mont Saint Michele?

Yours,

Colin.

Right. Whistledown commented, who in the world is Colin referring to by M? Perhaps Miss Marina Thompson?

Yours sincerely,

Lady Whistledown.