Reflections of the choices

Сhapter six

"Just 'cause I said it, it don't mean that I meant it.

Rumour has it, he's the one I'm leaving you for."

Rumor has it

"Rumour Has It" by Adele

Marina felt a wave of nausea as dizziness overcame her, weakening her legs. She clutched her stomach, trying to steady herself, but it seemed like the room was closing in on her. She began to whisper George's name, her voice barely audible. Daphne, standing nearby, caught the faint whisper and suddenly understood what was happening. The realization hit her with unexpected force, and she quickly moved to Marina, signaling the other Bridgertons to help. Together, they carefully escorted Marina out of the room, trying not to draw attention.

But George noticed. He saw Marina being led away just as he was dancing with Penelope. His heart stopped, and without thinking, he abruptly halted the dance.

"Forgive me," he muttered, tension in his voice, as he gave Penelope an intense look. Without waiting for a response, he hurried in Marina's direction.

Penelope, already skilled at concealing her feelings, pretended not to understand what was happening. Her composed mask was so convincing that soon whispers started circulating that Marina Bridgerton was somehow acquainted with Penelope's new suitor.

Benedict, realizing that the tension in the room was rising and eager to divert attention from the situation, approached Penelope with a charming smile.

"May I continue this dance, Miss Featherington?" he asked, extending his hand.

Penelope smiled gratefully and placed her hand in his.

"Of course, Mr. Bridgerton."

They began to dance again, and the gazes that had been fixed on Marina now returned to Penelope. Benedict, who usually avoided dancing at balls, had invited Miss Featherington to dance—this gesture did not go unnoticed, and he hoped it would distract the guests from the recent incident. But the rumors had already started to spread.

Lady Whistledown: The Latest News of London Society

Dear Gentle Readers,

If, like me, you are tired of the endless discussions about dull balls and predictable unions, prepare yourselves for a true sensation that has already begun to shake our refined world. It seems that even the most carefully guarded secrets eventually become public knowledge, especially when such prominent figures are involved.

We all remember the recent happy events in the Bridgerton family when their third son, Colin, tied the knot with the charming Miss Marina Thompson. However, behind the glittering facade of this union lies something far more dramatic.

Although the details remain unclear, your devoted servant has discovered that there is a connection between Mrs. Colin Bridgerton and the newly arrived Mr. Crane that is far closer than anyone could have imagined. If this is true, our esteemed Mr. Colin faces a heavy trial ahead.

London society has already fallen silent in anticipation of what will happen next. But one thing is certain: this season will not be forgotten. After all, in London, there is no better entertainment than watching illusions crumble.

Yours truly,

Lady Whistledown

The next morning in the Bridgerton household, a heavy atmosphere hung over the family, as if the air itself had thickened with unspoken words and suppressed emotions. The usually lively and noisy house seemed to be engulfed in anxious anticipation. The curtains were drawn tight, creating a dim light in the rooms, which only intensified the feeling of impending doom.