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I just wanna dance with you
Let the whole world melt away
And dance with you
-Prom The Musical

Penelope Featherington and Eloise Bridgerton were sitting in morning homeroom when a special announcement came over the school’s speakers. “Just a reminder to all you seniors, prom tickets will go on sale the first week of April!”

Penelope grinned while Eloise scowled. “I can’t believe it’s finally here, El! We have to go look for our dresses! Do you know who you want to ask? Do you want to go solo? Are we going to take a limo? Ooh, what about a horse and carriage?”

“Pen, breathe.”

Penelope laughed. “Sorry. It’s just so exciting! I can’t believe it’s finally our time to go!”

“Or yours,” Eloise mumbled.

“What do you mean ‘mine’? What are you talking about?”

Eloise sighed. “I wasn’t planning on going.”

“You’re not going to go? Why not? It’s a rite of passage!”

Eloise chuckled. “First off, no it’s not.  Second, it’s not exactly my idea of a good time. The last thing I want to do is dress up and look like a princess.” Eloise saw the joy on Penelope's face disappear and she reached for her hand. “Please don’t let my decision to stay home stop you from going.”

“We were supposed to do this together,” Penelope whispered. “It’s how I always pictured it.”

“I really am sorry, Pen. I should’ve told you sooner. But hey, I can still be part of your prom night even if I don’t go.”

“How?”

“I can help you pick out your dress or I could come over and help you get ready, if you want. And after prom is over, you can come over for a sleepover and tell me all about it!”

“Yeah, that would be cool, but it still won’t be any fun without you. Who am I supposed to hang out with?”

“I would hope you would hang out with your date, otherwise he’s going to be mopey and he’s insufferable when he gets mopey.”

“My da—Colin?” Penelope asked, surprise evident in her voice when she realized who Eloise was talking about.

“Yeah. He would love to be your date, you have to ask him!”

“I can’t just ask him, El! God, that would be so embarrassing. What if he says no?”

“Oh please, you know he can never say no to you, he likes you too much. And it would give him a way he can see prom for himself. I know he said he was fine with not going to his own prom, but I think he wanted to be swept away in the magic of it all. He’s such a girl, sometimes.”

Penelope giggled. “Everyone deserves a bit of magic, El. But okay, I’ll ask him.”

“Good! Now can we please change the subject? How do you think you did on the Frankenstein test yesterday?”

The bell rang before Penelope could answer, and her and Eloise parted ways as they headed to their first class. Prom wasn’t mentioned again the remainder of the day, but Penelope couldn’t stop thinking about what Eloise had said. She wanted to give Colin a chance to attend prom and if she was being honest, she really wanted him to be her date.

As Penelope lay in bed that evening, she thought back to the night of Colin’s prom. She smiled as she closed her eyes, letting herself drift into the memory.

Penelope was doing what she typically did by herself on a Friday night; reading her latest novel on her bed.  She had just changed positions when she saw a light in the Bridgerton house turn on.

Colin’s bedroom, to be exact.  Penelope sat up and could see him on his bed, staring at the ceiling.  She wondered what he was doing, why he was home on a Friday night.

And then she remembered.  It was the night of Colin’s Senior Prom.  What was he doing at home? She started flicking her light on and off, trying to get his attention.  After a few seconds, he rolled toward her bedroom window and smiled.

When he sat up, she grabbed her notepad and sharpie and wrote a message.

U OK?

He picked up his own notepad and wrote back.

YEAH.   COME OVER?

Penelope nodded through her window and changed out of her pajamas, throwing the dress she had been wearing earlier back on.  She threw on a touch of makeup and five minutes later, she was at Colin’s front door.

Penelope knocked on the door before opening it and was stunned.  The entire house was quiet.  “Hello? Colin?”

“Hey, Pen!” he called as he ran down the stairs adjusting the collar on his shirt.  He grinned when he saw her and said, “Wow.  You look great!”

She blushed and replied, “Thanks.  So do you.”  Her blush only deepened when he opened his arms and embraced her, resting his chin on top of her head.

“Hi,” he said after a second.  “I’m happy you’re here.”

“Me too,” she whispered into his chest, barely loud enough for him to hear.  He hugged her tighter before releasing her.

“Where is everyone?” Penelope asked as they made their way to the kitchen.

“They went out to dinner and to see a movie.”

“Ah.  Must be nice to have the house by yourself! But shouldn’t you also not be here?”

Colin turned to face her as he put a bowl on the counter.  “What do you mean? I’m not alone, you’re here.  And technically no, tonight is my prom.  Can you get the popcorn from the cabinet?”

She handed him the popcorn as she asked, “So why aren’t you there? I thought you were going with that girl.”

“Marina? We were going to go together, but honestly, there’s really only one girl who would’ve made prom fun, and I’m looking at her.  Plus, Marina and I were only going as friends.  Then her crush Phillip asked her, and I told her I didn’t mind not going.  I might go to an after-party, though.”  

Penelope stared at him, her cheeks pinkening once more.  “I-I make things fun?” she stammered.

Colin walked toward her and put his arms around her again.  “Penelope, you make everything fun.”

She smiled against his chest for the second time that evening.  “Thanks.  What movie did you want to watch tonight?”

“I thought we could watch Back to the Future , unless you want to watch something else?”

“Sounds good to me.  But not the third one,” Penelope said, humor in her voice.

Colin laughed.  “No, not the third one.  Because—”

“—we don’t talk about the third one!” she finished for him, giggling at his grin.

“I knew I always liked you, Penelope Featherington.”

She smiled back at him.  “I like you too, Colin Bridgerton.  Want me to grab some drinks?”

“I think there’s some in the refrigerator downstairs, but maybe, just in case.”

“Okay.  What do you want?”

“Whatever you’re having is fine,” Colin said as he turned his attention back to the popcorn.  “Want to get everything set up and I’ll meet you downstairs in a few minutes?”

“Okay.”

Penelope grabbed their drinks and had just sat down on the couch when Colin came down with the popcorn.  She took the bowl from him as he sat down next to her, covering them with the blanket.

“Thanks.”  He put the bowl on his lap and his arm around the back of the couch behind her.  She snuggled into him, and after a while, she felt his fingers playing with the ends of her curls.

She nestled further into him, putting her head on his shoulder.  “Pen,” she heard him whisper.

“Hmm?”

“This is nice.  You were always my first choice, you know.”

She pulled back slightly.  “First choice for what?”

“My prom date.  I mean, it’s not like I was upset about going with Marina, but she deserved to have her own happy prom.”

“So do you,” she said quietly.

“I am, don’t worry.  And besides, there was just no connection between me and her.  Nothing like the one I have with you,” he said softly.

He saw Penelope’s face light up, and he smiled, giving her the smile he reserved just for her.

Penelope brought her head back to his shoulder, and Colin took her hand in his, lacing their fingers together for the rest of the movie.

When it ended, Colin stood up and stretched, excusing himself to go to the bathroom.  That was when Penelope got the idea.  She looked through the vast collection of DVDs, and found what she was looking for.

Taking out the DVD, she put the new one in and had just gotten to the scene she wanted when Colin came back down.

“Whatcha doing?”

“Well, you said I was your first choice for your prom date, and even though we’re just in your basement, you still deserve to have a prom moment.  So, Colin Bridgerton, can I have this dance?” She hit play, and the familiar ballroom scene from Beauty and the Beast came on the screen.

“Wait!” Colin cried as he paused the movie.  “I’ll be right back!”

Colin ran from the room, coming back a few minutes later, wearing a suit jacket and carrying a vase of flowers.  “Sorry, Pen.  It was the best I could do on such short notice.  Here,” he said as he handed her the vase, “these are for you.  Just pretend it’s a corsage, okay?” 

Penelope’s eyes filled with tears as she nodded, unable to say anything.  She bent to put the vase on the end table, and as she stood up, she felt Colin’s hand on her waist.

He turned her around and tightened his hold around her while taking her other hand in his.  “To answer your earlier question, Miss Feathington, I would be honored.”

He brought her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles before letting go.  He hit play on the remote, then immediately took her hand back into his.  They danced to “Tale as Old as Time”, each completely lost in the moment.

The song was coming to an end, and Penelope wasn’t sure who made the first move, but soon their heads were only inches apart.  He moved his head even closer as Penelope closed her eyes, parting her lips.

Colin was just about to close the distance between them when the door opened upstairs and the voices of Violet and his younger siblings were heard.  “Colin, we’re home!”

Colin rested his forehead against hers and closed his eyes, sighing.  He kissed her cheek before taking a step back and smiled apologetically before answering his mother.  “Okay, we’ll be right up.”

They walked hand-in-hand to the basement stairs and were about to go up when Colin tugged her arm and pulled her toward him. “Thank you for the dance and for being my date.  It was the perfect prom night.”

A few days later, Eloise and Penelope were sitting at Eloise’s kitchen table when Eloise finally asked.  “So did you ask my brother yet?”

Penelope looked up from her English homework.  “Ask who what?”

“Colin.  Did you ask him?” Penelope stared at her blankly.  Eloise sighed.  “Oh my God.  Did you ask my brother to the prom yet or not?”

“Oh.  No, not yet.  I was going to call him tonight,” she said, her cheeks turning pink.

“You should call him now!”

“Eh, I don’t know.  I’m hanging out with you now.  And besides, I want to finish this paper.  I’ll just call him when I get home.  I was going to call him later anyway, it’s time for our weekly phone call.”

“Okay, but call me after! And really? You two are so cute it’s actually gross.”

“Shut up,” Penelope laughed.  “We are not.  But don’t worry, I’ll call you the second I get off the phone with him,” Penelope promised.

Penelope had no sooner gotten to her bedroom when her phone rang.  Reaching into her back pocket, she pulled out her phone and grinned at the name.  Her bag landed with a thud as she answered.

“Hey, Col! Perfect timing, I just got back from your house.”

“Hi, Pen! What was that noise?”

“Oh, nothing.  Just my backpack.”

“What do you have in there? Rocks?”

“Nah, just homework.”

“Oh man, I don’t miss those days at all,” he said.  Penelope could almost see him shudder and she laughed.

“Yeah, tell me about it.  Good thing I’m almost done with this kind of work load!”

“Believe me, Pen, it’s not much easier in college.  But at least you don’t need to carry your books to every class.  My shoulders are grateful for that!”

“I’m sure they are!” She paused after that before continuing.  “Anyway…”

“Yes?”

Penelope took a deep breath.  “I have a question.”

“Okay, shoot.”

“Are you doing anything on May 20?”

”I don’t know, let me check.”

“Okay,” she said.  She was nervous but excited at the same time, trying hard to not get her hopes up but failing miserably.

She could hear some papers shuffling around on his desk.  “Why? What’s May 20?”

“It’s the night of my prom and I wanted to know if you wanted to be my date.  I mean, it’s totally okay if you don’t want to, but you’re my best friend and I thought we would have a good time because Eloise isn’t going and—”

“No,” he whispered.  “No, no, no.”  Colin’s heart sank as he looked at the paper in his hands.

SUMMER SESSION 1

May 16, 2022 - June 24, 2022

“Oh,” Penelope said in a small voice.  She was trying not to cry, so she bit her lip, her eyes filling with tears anyway.

“What? Oh, Pen.  Not ‘no’ like I don’t want to be your date.  ‘No’ because I just signed up for a 6-week summer class and I don’t think I’ll be able to make it home.  Are you sure prom is May 20?”

A tear had rolled down her cheek anyway, and she wiped it away before answering, hoping her voice would sound normal.  “Yeah, I’m positive.  But let me double check, hang on.”

Colin heard her unzip her bag, holding his breath that she had gotten the date wrong.  He heard her sigh of defeat as she said sadly, “No, prom is May 20.”

Colin let out his own sigh before he mumbled, “Of all the dates.  I’m so, so sorry, Penelope.  I would love to be your date, but I don’t want to tell you yes and not be able to go.  I would feel awful if I did that to you.  Because you’re my best friend, too.”

She nodded, even though he couldn’t see it.  “I understand.  I guess I’ll just have to find someone else.”

Colin’s heart clenched at how sad she sounded.  “If I could change the date of my session, I would.  You deserve to have the perfect prom.  And for the record, any guy would be lucky to have you on his arm.”  I just wish it was me , he thought to himself.

After more of their normal Friday night conversation revolving around his family, her family, and school, Penelope yawned.  “Sorry, Colin, I’m tired.  I also promised Eloise I would call her after I hung up with you.  I’ll talk to you later?”

“Sounds good.  And Pen? I really am sorry about prom.  If there was anything I could do—”

“I know.  And thanks.  I’ll figure it out.  I still have two weeks before tickets go on sale.  Goodnight, Col.”

“Night, Pen.”

Penelope called Eloise a few minutes later, and she answered immediately.  “Well?”

Penelope exhaled deeply before answering.  “He said no.  But before you go all Chuck Norris on him, he actually has a genuine reason.  His summer class starts that week, and he didn’t want to tell me yes and then not be able to take me.  I appreciate that.  And for what it’s worth, he did say he would have loved to be my date.”

“Ugh, fine.  I can’t be mad about that, I guess.  But I am sorry, Pen.  What are you going to do?”

“I don’t know.  I guess maybe I can ask Reggie.”

“Reggie? As in Reggie Fife?” Eloise asked while trying to hold back laughter.

“Yes.  Why are you laughing? He’s always been really nice to me.”

“Nothing’s funny, I just didn’t really think the two of you were friends.”

“We’ve done school projects together.  He’s a really good partner.  I’m sure he would be a good prom date.  Anyway, I’m gonna go.  I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“It’s a Saturday night, of course you will!”

“Okay cool! Night!”

At school on Monday, Penelope approached Reggie before class.  “Hi, Reggie.”

“Hi, Penelope.  How was your weekend?”

“It was nice.  I hung out with Eloise, same as always.  How was yours?”

“It was good.  Spent most of it at the library working on the paper for my history class.”

“Oh, ew.  I hate doing homework on the weekend.”

“Yeah.”

They stood there in silence, Penelope looking at her shoes when Reggie cleared his throat.  “Was there anything else?”

Penelope looked up at him, swallowed, and turned to look at Eloise, who was motioning for her to keep going.

“Oh, um, yeah.”

“Yes?”

“Would you like to go to prom with me?”

Reggie smiled before he answered.  “Okay.”

Penelope smiled back at him.  “Okay."

Later that week during their Friday night phone call, Colin asked Penelope the question that had been weighing on his mind all week.  “So.  Did you find another date for prom?”

“Umm, yeah.  Reggie Fife.”

“Ah.”  A moment of quiet passed between them before Colin said, “I’m glad you found someone else.”

“Yeah,” she said, sadness evident in her voice.  “Do you want to hear what I was thinking for my dress?”

“Sure, okay.”

Penelope started talking animatedly, and Colin couldn’t help the pang he got inside his chest.  He knew she was excited, and he was happy she was.  But he also felt slightly emptier after they hung up, knowing that she would be having the time of her life with someone else.  

Colin tossed and turned all night after his phone call with Penelope.  He kept thinking about her and her prom and her date.  The following day, he decided to call his sister after lunch, making sure it was before Penelope arrived for their weekly sleepover.

“Hello, Colin.”

“What’s up with Reggie or Ronnie or whatever his name is?”

“What?”

“Penelope’s prom date.  What’s up with him?”

“What do you mean?”

“Like what’s his story? Do you know him? How well does Pen know him? How old is he? Does he drive? Does he drink? Is he nice?”

“Alright, calm it down there, Brotato Chip.”

“Brotato what?”

“Never mind.  What’s with the third degree, Colin?”

“Can you just answer the questions, please?” He asked in an annoyed tone.

“Fine,” she huffed.  “Not that well, they’ve done projects together, 18, I think so, I don’t think so, yes.  Happy?”

“Not really,” he said as he rolled his eyes.

“Stop rolling your eyes,” she said.  

He tried to deny it, when she interrupted him with, “Yes, you are.”  Colin rolled his eyes again just as Eloise continued with, “I’m surprised you didn’t ask for his address,” she said under her breath.

“Oh! That’s a good point! What is it? Do you have it?”

“ COLIN.  Oh my god.  Are you her father?”

“So you don’t have it then?”

“Of course I don’t have it! I was kidding! I really don’t know what the big deal is.  It’s not like they’re dating.  Unless…”

“Unless what?” he demanded.

“Colin, do you like Penelope?”

“D-do I what?”

“Do. You. Like. Penelope.”

“Yes, of course I like her! Look at her! She’s gorgeous!” he practically yelled into the phone, his voice full of emotion.  “She’s also smart, funny, nice, and she makes me laugh.”

“I thought so.  It explains your many questions about Reggie and your jealousy.”

“I’m trying not to be, but it’s hard when she’s so excited.  I don’t want her to feel bad, you know?”

“Yeah, I know. But Reggie is just doing her a favor.”

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing, just that I meant Reggie is just taking her to prom.  Or she’s taking him, whatever.”

“Yeah, I know.  It’s just…” he sighed.  “I want to make sure she’s going to be safe.  Is that so bad?”

“No, I get it.  But she’s going to be okay.  I promise.”

“How do you know?”

“I don’t.  But I trust her.  You need to trust her, too.”

“I do, I do.  It’s that Reggie kid I don’t trust.  And I really wanted to be the one to take her.”

“I know.  I’m sorry, Colin.”

“Me too.”

“Look, it’s probably not my place to tell you this, but she really wanted you to be the one to take her, too.  You were her first choice.”

“I was?”

“Yeah.  Probably her only choice, if I’m being honest.  She likes you, Colin.”

His face broke into a huge smile and his heart started to race.  “Really?”

Now it was Eloise’s turn to roll her eyes.  “Yes.  Now is that all? Because I need to go.  Penelope will be here soon.”

“Yeah, that’s it.  And El? Not a word.”

“I still can’t believe your mom won’t be around on prom night,” Eloise said as she drove Penelope to look for prom dresses.

“Yeah, but she had this cruise planned for months before we found out the date for prom.  And besides, you know how my mom is.”

“Yeah, she can be a bit much.  No offense.”

“None taken.  Reggie would probably run off screaming,” Penelope said with a grin, causing Eloise to laugh.  “And your mom told me that she could come over and play the mom role if I wanted, but I told her she didn’t have to.  It’s not like I’m going with Colin or anything,” she said quietly.

Eloise reached over and squeezed Penelope’s hand.  “I know, but just think about it, okay? My mom loves you! And your mom will probably want a picture of you coming down the stairs.  All moms do.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.  But there won’t be any pictures at all if I can’t find a dress,” she said with a laugh.

They arrived at the store, both looking at the pictures of the dresses Penelope had picked out.  After 10 minutes of browsing, Penelope squealed.  “El! I found it!”

Eloise ran over and looked at the dress in Penelope’s hands.  It was sage green, had a high neckline, and tulle with flowers embroidered on it.  “Oh, wow, Pen.  That’s gorgeous.  You’re going to look beautiful.  Go try it on!”

Penelope ran her fingers over the tulle and smiled.  “Okay.  I really hope I like it, this was my favorite of the ones I picked out.”

Eloise pushed her toward the fitting room.  “Only one way to find out!”

Five minutes later, Penelope came out in the dress, looking dejected.  “It doesn’t fit.”

“I think you look great!”

“I can’t breathe.  The waist is fine and the gown would have to be trimmed, but the girls? They’re so squished.  I don’t think it’s going to work,” she sighed.  I guess we can try to find the other two dresses I picked out.”

Eloise smirked.  “Come on, then.  Get changed and we’ll start looking again.”

They found the other dresses, but the result was the same.  Penelope either didn’t like them on her, or they didn’t fit.  She was discouraged as she went back in to change into her regular clothes.  That was when Eloise remembered.

“Pen, wait a second! I saw this dress on the rack and I know it’s not like the other ones you picked out, but I think you’ll love it and look stunning.  Can I go grab it?”

“Sure, I’ve got nothing else to lose.  Same price range as the others?”

“I think so.  I’ll be right back!” Eloise scurried off, returning a minute later.  She handed the dress to Penelope, and she smiled.  “Isn’t it stunning?”

Penelope nodded and replied, “Yes.  Maybe it’s new, because I definitely did not see this on their site! Thanks, El.”  Penelope went back into the stall, crossing her fingers and toes that the dress worked in her favor.

Penelope pulled back the curtain with a grin and asked, “What do you think, El?”

Eloise looked up and gasped.  “Penelope, my god.  Yes! Absolutely yes.  You are a goddess. Reggie is going to eat his heart out!”

“I’m glad you think so! Because this is definitely the one!” Penelope twirled around, arms spread out, and smiled wide.  Eloise captured the moment of Penelope’s bliss, and grinned.

Later that day, Penelope looked up hairstyles that would best work with her curls, and later that week, Penelope booked her hair appointment, as well as her nail appointment.  

Prom was only two weeks away, and Penelope got more excited as the days went by.  But at night, when she was alone with her thoughts, Eloise’s words rang in her head.  “ Reggie is going to eat his heart out!”  

Her heart would hurt for a moment, only to be comforted when she slipped into slumber.  Because in her dreams, she was being spun around and held by the man she truly wanted.

The morning of May 20, Penelope woke up grinning.  It was finally the night of her prom.  She had been waiting for this night her entire life.  She got ready for school, and made sure everything was ready for that night before leaving for Eloise’s.

Despite not going to prom, Eloise was still going to go with Penelope to get her hair and nails done.  Mainly because she was Penelope’s ride, but also because Penelope was leaving after seventh period and Eloise didn’t like her last class.

However, Penelope’s good mood soon went away after arriving at school.  At first, when Reggie wasn’t in their first class, Penelope thought he was opting to skip that one.  Those going to prom had to be in seven out of eight classes that day.

But by fourth period and there still wasn’t a sign of him, she began to worry.  She finally sent him a text before fifth period.

Penelope: Hi, Reggie! I haven’t seen you at school yet, but I’m excited for tonight!

Penelope kept checking her phone after that, with no response.  She texted Eloise after her fifth period class when her phone had stayed silent.

Penelope: Reggie still hasn’t texted me back, El.

Eloise: Maybe he forgot his phone at home?

Penelope: Maybe, but I haven’t even seen him today, have you? I’m worried.

Eloise: No… If he doesn’t respond by the time we leave school, u need to call him

Penelope went from worry to full-blown panic mode by the time she got out of her last class and met with Eloise in the lobby.  Seeing the look on her best friend’s face, Eloise immediately embraced her.  “Oh, Pen.  He still hasn’t answered you?” She could feel Penelope shake her head no.  “Okay.  Time to call him.  Let’s go to my car.”

They had no sooner walked out of the building when Penelope’s phone rang.  “Wait, El! My phone is ringing! That could be Reggie!” She pulled out her phone and her heart started racing while a look of disappointment crossed her face.  Colin.   She had hoped it was Reggie finally getting back to her.

Eloise peered at Penelope’s screen.  “Do not answer that.”

“But it could be important!”

“You have more important things to do, like calling Reggie.  You can call my brother back later.”  She reached over and hit ignore.

“Yeah.  Hopefully he answers,” Penelope said.  “Because maybe he did forget his phone at home and maybe he’s just getting to class now, and…”

“Penelope.  Just call him.  Do you want some privacy?”

Penelope gave a slight nod.  “Yeah.”

“Okay.  I’ll be by my car.  Come find me when you’re done.”

“Thanks, El.  I won’t be long.”

Penelope dialed Reggie’s number and after a few rings, someone picked up, but all Penelope could hear was heavy breathing.  “Hello? Reggie?”

“Hi, Penelope,” a voice croaked out, followed by a coughing fit.

Penelope’s heart sank.  She knew what his next words were going to be before he even said them.  “I’m so sorry, Penelope…” He stopped talking to blow his nose.

“Reggie, it’s okay,” Penelope said sadly.  “Even if you miraculously feel better by tonight, you weren’t in school.”  She heard a ding in her ear, indicating an incoming text message.

Reggie coughed again before answering.  “I know.  I hoped it was allergies and I really started feeling bad last night.  I took a nap after school and woke up this morning, feeling even worse.  I’m sorry I didn’t text you.”

Penelope could feel her eyes well up with tears at his next words.  “I was really looking forward to tonight.”

“Me too.”  She took a breath to steady her voice.  “I have to go, but I hope you feel better soon.”

“Thank you.  And I really am sorry.  Of all the days for me to get sick,” he said with a half-laugh, half-cough.  “I hope you still have a good time tonight.”

Penelope didn’t have the heart to tell him she wasn’t going to go anymore, so she just said, “I will,” before ending the call.

She was gripping her backpack straps and walking slowly toward Eloise’s car when she heard Eloise coming toward her.  “Penelope? What did he say?”

Penelope looked up at her and a tear rolled down her cheek.  “He’s so sick, Eloise.  He’s not going.  And neither am I.  I’m not going to prom by myself.”

“Oh, Pen.” Eloise threw her arms around Penelope.  “I’m so sorry.  Are you sure you don’t want to go?”

“Yeah.  I just want to go home.”

They got into Eloise’s car before Eloise asked, “But what about your hair appointment? What about your dress?”

“I guess I was just destined to not go,” she said sadly.  “First Colin and now Reggie.  I know it’s not either of their faults, but I was looking forward to tonight.  It’s just not fair.”

Eloise reached over and squeezed her hand.  “Okay.  So you’ll just come over earlier for the sleepover.  We’ll have a lot of fun to help take your mind off things, okay?”

“No.  I’m just gonna stay home.  I’ll just come over tomorrow.”  Penelope looked at her phone and saw the notification for a text message.  Opening it, she saw it was from Colin.  As soon as she saw his words, she broke down crying.

Colin: I hope you have a wonderful time at prom tonight! You are going to look beautiful, as always

“Pen? What is it?” Penelope handed Eloise her phone as the tears continued down her face.  Eloise read the text and hugged Penelope as best she could.  “Are you sure you don’t want to come over?”

All Penelope did was shake her head no, unable to speak.  She reached into her bag for a tissue before she finally said, “Just take me home.  Please.”

“Okay.”  They rode home in silence, Penelope sniffling the whole way, every once in a while wiping away a stray tear.  As soon as Eloise dropped her off, she looked at the clock in her car.  1:30.  She pulled out her phone and called the only person that could make Penelope’s dream of prom come true.  “Colin?”

“Hey, El.  Is—” 

“Reggie bailed on her, Col.”

“I’m on my way.”

“What about your class?”

“Forget it.  Penelope is too important.  I won’t let this night be ruined for her.  I’m coming.”

Penelope dropped her backpack inside the front door and ran up to her room.  As soon as she got there, she threw herself onto her bed.  Sobs racked her body as she grieved over a night that was no longer happening.

Penelope didn’t know how long she laid there crying, but eventually her tears stopped.  Her phone had gone off a few times, and she guessed they were all texts from Eloise.  Maybe even one from Colin again, since she hadn’t responded to his text.

She got up and went to the bathroom for a drink of water and to look at the state of her face.  She grimaced at the splotches on her cheeks and at her puffy eyes.  She splashed cold water on a washcloth and patted her face before putting in a few eye drops to relieve her dry eyes before going back into her bedroom to look at her phone.

Eloise: Pen, I know ur prob crying right now.  Don’t try to deny it.  I wish u would come over tonight.

Eloise: I know u said you wanted to be alone tonight, but I’m worried about u 🥺

Eloise: Plz text me back.  Ilu ❤️🫂

Penelope was about to respond back when another text came in.

Eloise: If u don’t respond in 5 min, I’m calling the cops

Penelope: Omg stop being so dramatic.  I’m all cried out.  I just want to be alone tonight.  I’m going to order pizza and watch a movie.

Eloise: So u don’t want to come bash Reggie and vent about him?

Penelope: No! It’s not his fault.

Eloise: And u don’t wanna come over?  What if I came over?

Penelope: El, I really just want to wallow by myself, okay? I’ll come over tomorrow.  And thanks.  If I change my mind, I’ll text you.

She put her phone down and went into her closet to grab her sweats, when she immediately started crying again.  There was her prom dress, ready and waiting.  She crumpled down to the floor and put her head on her knees.  

After a few minutes, she wiped away her tears, grabbed her sweats, and did her best to ignore the dress before slamming her closet shut, ready to start her evening at home.

It was going to be a long night, so she ordered a pizza and started on her homework while she waited for it.  After it arrived, she put on Beauty and the Beast and she curled under the blanket.

Penelope paused the movie halfway through, before the ballroom scene.  It was only going to make her cry again.  She got up to put her dish in the sink and grab tissues when there was a knock on the door.  She looked at the clock and saw that it was 6:15.  It could only be one person.

As Penelope opened her door, she started to say, “Eloise, I told you I’m…” Her words were cut off as she gasped, her eyes filling with tears again.

Because there, on her doorstep in a suit and holding a bouquet of sunflowers, was Colin.  

The tears were already rolling down her cheeks by the time he put the flowers on the ground and embraced her.  He kissed the top of her head and rubbed her back as he made shushing noises.  “It’s okay, Pen, I’m here.  I’m here.  I got you.”

Penelope stepped back and Colin’s hands immediately cupped her face.  His thumbs wiped away the last of her tears.  “It is too late to be your date for prom?”

Penelope gazed up at him, still not believing he was there.  She put her own hands over his and squeezed before she smiled.  “No.”  

Colin let out a breath he didn’t even know he was holding before he kissed her forehead.  “I was hoping you would say that.”  They went inside and Penelope, finally realizing Colin was not a figment of her imagination, turned to him.

“How did you know?”

“Eloise.”  Penelope’s eyes welled up again, but she was determined not to cry.  One stubborn tear managed to slide down her cheek when Colin took her hand in his and led her over to the couch.

“Speaking of my sister,” he continued, “she’ll be over in a few minutes with my mom.  They were putting the finishing touches on the corsage and boutonnière for us.  I figured you wouldn’t want to hold a bouquet the entire time.”

She laughed.  “Yeah, that would probably get annoying.  Thank you, by the way.  They’re beautiful.  I should probably put them in some water.”

She started to get up, but Colin pulled her back down.  “Not yet.  I want to enjoy this moment until they get here.”  

“Okay.”  She smiled and leaned into him, squeezing his hand tighter and resting her head on his shoulder.

The moment was short-lived, however.  As if right on cue, a few minutes later Eloise burst through Penelope’s front door carrying her makeup bag, followed by Violet, who was carrying the corsage and boutonnière.

“Penelope Anne Featherington, your Fairy Godmother has arrived! Now stop canoodling my brother and get upstairs, there’s work to be done!”

Penelope and Colin looked at each other and smiled, blushes appearing on both their faces.  Eloise made her way up the stairs and yelled down for her.  “Pen! Now!”

As soon as Penelope went upstairs, Violet took her spot on the couch next to Colin.  He looked at her and said, “Thanks, Mama.  For the flowers and doing everything last minute and for being here.  It means a lot.”

“My sweet boy,” she said as she placed her hand on his cheek.  “You’re welcome.  I’m glad it worked out how it was supposed to.  And that I’ll get my picture, of course.”

“Picture?”

“Yeah.  Of my two kids on prom night.”

“Mom.  Penelope is not your child.”

Not yet, she’s not , Violet thought to herself.  “You’re right, she’s not.  But she fits in so well, she may as well be.  And she’s such a joy to be around.”  She looked at her son’s expression and her heart warmed.  “She’s lovely, isn’t she, Colin?”

“Yes, Mama.  She’s wonderful,” he said with a smile.  “She…”

“I know.  She makes you happy.”

“She really does.”

Upstairs, Eloise was attempting to tame Penelope’s curls into a loose bun, but Penelope’s hair was coming out victorious.  “You will not win!” Eloise said through clenched teeth.

“Ow! Eloise!” Penelope tried to rub the spot where the pin had been jammed into her head, but Eloise swatted her hand away.

“Sorry, Pen.  It might come loose again if you touch it.  I think we’re almost done.  Well, sort of.  Maybe? I honestly don’t know how you do this every day!”

Penelope smirked.  “I don’t do this everyday?”

Eloise glared at her.  “You know what I meant.  This would be awful.”

Penelope winced as another pin got jammed into her head.  “I appreciate what you’re doing, though.  And what you did already.  How did you get Colin here?”

“I called him.  Pen, you were so heartbroken this afternoon, I hated seeing you like that.  I wanted to at least try to get Colin here for you.  I didn’t even finish my sentence before he said he was on his way.”

Penelope’s heart skipped a beat at the scene that played out in her head, and she smiled softly.  She was brought back to the present when Eloise jammed the final two pins in her hair.  Penelope yelped at the pain, but when Eloise stepped back, a look of relief appeared on Penelope’s face.

“My masterpiece is complete!”

“It looks incredible, El.  Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.  Now don’t touch it! It needs to stay like that for a couple hours! And don’t lean your head back in my brother’s car.  In fact, don’t lean your head against my brother, either.”

“What?”

“You’re always doing it.  And while it’s disgustingly cute any other time, I don’t know how long these pins are gonna hold.”

“You jammed them into my head hard enough, I’m sure it’ll be fine.  Now, what about my makeup? Here’s what I was thinking…” Penelope showed Eloise her ideas, and together they came up with a look that would work for her.

After her makeup was applied, Eloise helped Penelope into her dress and her heels.  Penelope grabbed her clutch from the closet, and asked, “How do I look?”

“Stunning! You will be the belle of the ball, Pen.  My brother is going to have the hottest date there!”

“Mom, get your camera ready! Colin, stop eating!” Eloise called as she came down the stairs.

“How…” Colin said as he wiped his mouth with a napkin.

“You’re always eating,” she replied.  “And I know you haven’t eaten in hours,” she said with surprising sympathy.

“El?” Penelope called from the top of the stairs.  “Should I come down now?”

“Yes.  Mom, Colin, may I present to you Miss Penelope Featherington.”

“We know who…” Colin’s words caught in his throat as he heard Penelope’s shoes on the stairs.  He looked up and his heart stopped while simultaneously starting to race.  He let out a gasp and just stared at his date.  Penelope was breathtaking.

Her curls were pinned up low at her neck, her eyes were bluer than usual thanks to her makeup, there were diamond studs in her ears and she wore a sage green gemstone necklace.  But what Colin really noticed was her dress.

Her dress, like her necklace, was sage green.  It had spaghetti straps, a fitted bodice, and a full skirt.  It hugged her curves in all the right places and flattered her chest nicely.  There was a layer of lace over top of the green silk that had patterns of ivy going down the entire bodice and onto the skirt.  Colin had never seen anything more beautiful in his entire life.

Penelope stopped on the stairs when she was eye-level with him and looked him up and down.  She had seen his suit earlier, but she didn’t register what he was wearing or how good he looked until that moment.  He had on a black suit, white shirt, and a tie that matched her dress perfectly.  “Wow,” she whispered.  “Just…wow.”

He stood there and continued to stare at her, unable to say anything.  His brain was going a million miles a minute, and because of it, he could only get out, “Gor…gor…”

A flash of hurt appeared in her eyes when he didn’t say anything other than a random noise, and she looked down until she heard Violet’s voice.  “You look absolutely beautiful, Penelope.”

“Thank you,” she said, giving Violet a sad smile.

Violet noticed her son was still staring, so she prompted him with, “Doesn’t she look beautiful, Colin?”

Penelope looked at him, anticipation and worry on her face.  He finally managed to sputter, “Gorgeous.  You.  Pretty.”

Penelope blushed as Eloise snickered.  Penelope shot her a glare before she turned back to Colin.  “Thank you,” she said quietly, a slow smile appearing on her face.  “I’m glad you like it.”  He could only nod his approval, his smile matching hers.

“Colin?” Violet said.  “Can you move so Penelope can come down? I want a few more pictures of the two of you before you leave.”

When they kept smiling at each other, neither seeming to hear her, Eloise pushed Colin closer to the stairs.  “Give her your hand.”

“What?” he asked, a dazed look on his face.

“Oh my god.  Give Penelope your hand.  Help her down the stairs.  Turn and face Mom.  It’s not that hard.”

Penelope couldn’t help but giggle.  She started to put her hand on the railing when Colin cried, “No! Let me!” He took her hand and when she got to the bottom, he didn’t let go.

“Eloise, can you get the flowers?” Violet asked.

She handed Colin’s boutonnière to Penelope and Penelope’s corsage to Colin.  “Colin,” Penelope whispered, “They’re absolutely beautiful!”

“They’re almost as beautiful as you,” he said softly.  “And I couldn’t let you go without a corsage for your prom.”

She looked down at them and still couldn’t believe that Violet had time to make them.  They each had white and lavender roses, dark green leaves, and sage green accents.

“Thank you, Mrs. Bridgerton!  They are perfect!” she called as she stepped to Colin’s side to give Violet a smile.

“You are very welcome, my dear.  Penelope, it might be easier to have you pin Colin’s flowers before he ties your corsage.  Daphne had an awful time pinning Simon’s because her corsage kept getting in the way,” Violet said with a warm smile.

Penelope nodded, suddenly very nervous.  Her hands were shaking a little as she grabbed the lapel of his suit jacket.  She placed her left arm against his chest to steady her hand and she could feel how fast his heart was beating.

Colin shifted slightly, and she stared at him.  “Colin, stop moving.  I’m trying to not poke myself or you.”

“Sorry,” he said sheepishly.  A second later, he shifted again, this time causing Penelope to hiss.

“Ouch,” she said.  “Colin.  Please.”  Half-joking, she murmured, “Put your hands on my waist or something, just stand still.”  He was more than happy to comply, and he immediately felt a wave of calm wash over him when he touched her waist.

After she finally got his boutonnière pinned, Colin took her corsage in one hand and her hand in his other.  He gently turned her wrist so he could tie on her corsage.  He bent over and when he finished tying it, his hands lingered.  He tilted his head up so they were eye-level and he asked, “Is that too tight?”

“N-no,” she replied as he continued to look into her eyes, a smile on his face.

“Good,” he replied softly.  He straightened up and looked to his mother for how she wanted them to stand now that they were wearing the flowers.

“Colin, can you stand behind her at an angle and put your arms around her?”

Colin did as he was told, but instead of looking at his mother, he kept his eyes locked on Penelope’s profile.  Both were smiling, and Violet snapped the picture.  “Oh wait, Colin, you weren’t looking.”

The same thing happened, with Colin just looking at Penelope.  And it kept happening, picture after picture.  Penelope would turn and look at him every few pictures, and she would blush whenever they locked eyes.

At one point, Penelope heard Eloise ask, “Colin, where are your keys? I need something shiny to hold up.”  Penelope rolled her eyes at her and Eloise grinned.

Eventually Violet had Penelope turn so she was facing Colin.  His hand was on her waist and hers was on his chest.  She looked up into his emerald eyes, and felt the heat in her cheeks spread.  He tightened his grip on her waist and brought her slightly closer.

“Not you, too! Penelope! Look at my mother!” Penelope beamed up at Colin, her smile infectious.  When neither looked at Violet, Eloise groaned.  “You two really are impossible, you know that?”

When Penelope looked back toward Violet a few seconds later, she saw that Eloise really did have Colin’s keys in her hand.  “Look over here! Look at the shiny! Yes, just like that!” Eloise teased.

“Eloise!” Violet scolded.  “Put the keys down! Please go clean up the pizza.  And put Penelope’s bouquet in some water!”  Violet shook her head as her daughter left the room, grumbling that Colin had already cleaned up the pizza with his mouth.

After a few more poses, Violet snapped the final picture and looked at the clock.  “7:30! You two better get going! Colin, please drive safely.”  She kissed her son on the cheek and hugged Penelope before they walked outside.

Eloise walked them both to Colin’s car.  She hugged her brother, whispering, “Thank you for doing this for her.  Take care of my girl tonight.”

“I would do anything for her,” he whispered back.  “And your girl? I don’t think so.  She's mine.  But I will, I promise.”

She told him to shut up before she made her way over to Penelope.  “Have fun tonight, Princess Penelope.  And don’t forget to tell me any juicy details! And don’t mess up your hair!”

Penelope laughed.  “Thanks, Fairy Godmother.  I will, I won’t, and we’ll see.”

Colin opened the passenger door for Penelope and helped her in.  He also helped her with her skirt so it didn’t get caught in the door when he closed it.  He slipped around the front of his car, and they were off.

“Prom!” Penelope squealed once they were on the road.

Colin laughed at her excitement.  He was excited, too.  He gave her control of the music and they were nodding and singing along when Colin heard Penelope groan.  Her hands immediately went to the back of her head and she began fussing with her hair.  “Penelope? What’s wrong?”

“A pin fell out.  Your sister is going to kill me.”

“It’s a good thing she’s not here, then.  I would protect you anyway, even if she was.”

She giggled.  “Thanks.  At least she would be happy to know that I didn’t lean my head against your headrest or you!”

“Me?”

She brought her hands to her face, trying to hide her embarrassment.  “Nothing,” she said as she shook her head, her voice muffled.  Unfortunately, three more pins came loose from the movement and a section of her hair cascaded down, landing across her back.

Penelope removed her hands from her face and grabbed the offending pins from her hair so they wouldn’t get lost.  She looked down at the pins in her hand and could feel her emotions starting to build.  What else was going to go wrong?

Colin could hear her breath start to hitch and knew she was close to tears.  He reached over and took her hand, bringing it to his lips.  He kissed the back of it and said, “It’s okay, Penelope.  Deep breaths.  Everything will be fine.  I’ll fix it when we get there.”

She did as he said, and took a deep breath.  She knew he was right.  There was nothing she could do in the car, and having help would make it easier.  “Okay.”

“Now what was that comment back there about leaning your head against me?”

“Are you really going to make me say it?”

He thought for a moment.  “Yup,” he said with her favorite lopsided smile.

“Ugh, you’re the worst! Fine.  She said I was always doing it and that it’s usually ‘disgustingly cute’ but tonight I wasn’t allowed.  There, happy?”

“Very.  Because it’s true, we are disgustingly cute.  And what she won’t know won’t hurt her.  Lean on me all you want.  In fact, as your date, I’m requiring it.”

Her heart raced at his words and she felt his hand grip hers tighter.  “Whatever you say, Colin,” she replied, a huge grin on her face.

Colin held her hand for the rest of the drive, occasionally running his thumb over her knuckles.  He only let go of her hand when they finally arrived at prom and he had to walk around his car to open her door for her.

He held out his hand for her, and once she was out of his car, Colin walked around her and helped her fluff up her skirt.  After they were done, he held out his hand again and said, “Now let me see those pins.”

Five minutes later, it was Colin’s turn to groan.  “Why is your hair?” he asked, frustrated.  “I’ve only gotten two of the four pins in!”

Penelope gave him a confused look.  “Why is my hair what?”

“Just why is your hair?”

“Oh.  Umm, I don’t know, genetics?” she answered with a small laugh.  She winced a little as he got another pin back in her hair.

“I’m sorry, did that hurt?”

“No, it’s fine.  My scalp is just sensitive still from the abuse from your sister earlier.  How many more?”

“Just one.”  Colin’s fingers ran over the back of her neck as he picked up the last strand of hair.  She shivered at his touch and he smiled.  He curled the hair around his fingers and finally managed to secure the last pin.

“There! That should do it!” he said as he brought his hands to her shoulders. “But just to make sure, I’m going to spin you.”  He stepped around her to her front and took her fingers lightly in his own while making sure her arm was bent.

“Spin away from me,” he commanded softly.  She spun away from him until her arm was fully extended, and he told her to spin back to him.  Once she was in his arms, he whispered, “Once more, but faster.  There will be lots of dancing tonight.”

She spun away from him and back to him quickly, laughing as he settled his arms around her waist.  “And now for the true test,” he whispered in her ear.  “Lean your head against me.”

Penelope happily leaned into him, her head just below his shoulder.  He rested his cheek lightly on her curls and felt her arms tighten around him.  “Thank you for fixing my hair,” she said into his chest.  “You’re the best date ever.”

“You’re not so bad yourself.  And you’re welcome.  And as much as I would love to stay out here, we didn’t drive all the way to prom to hang out in the parking lot.  Are you ready to go in?”

She nodded against him before stepping out of his embrace and placing her hand in the crook of his elbow.  “Yeah, let’s go.”

When they got inside, they could hear the music coming from the ballroom.  Penelope’s eyes scanned the entrance hall, excited to finally be there when she cried, “Colin! Look!”

He saw where she was pointing.  “The suit of armor? Nice touch!”

“No! The photographers!”

Colin saw what she was talking about and told her, “I’ll take care of it, promise.”

Colin ran over to them, calling out, “Hey! Please don’t pack up.  It’s my fault we’re so late and my girlfriend has been looking forward to this night for as long as I can remember.  Can you please take our picture?”

The photographer looked at Colin’s pleading expression.  “Fine, but you’re the absolute last couple.”

“Thank you.  Thank you so much.”  He walked back to Penelope and grinned.

“Are they going to take it?”

“Yes, but we have to hurry.  Come on!”

“Wait! Do I look okay?”

“No.  Your eyes are still a little puffy, your nose is a little red, and your dress is wrinkled from the car.”

Penelope frowned.  “Oh.  Maybe we shouldn’t get our picture taken.”

“Penelope, no.  We should, because that’s what makes it perfect.  Because it’s us.  And because you are absolutely beautiful, just like this.  I mean, look at me.  I ran as soon as I got the call with no time to shower, my suit is wrinkled, and I think there are stains on this shirt.”  

She giggled at his words.  Colin stepped closer to kiss her forehead.  “Better?”

“Better.”  As they walked over, she added, “You really are, though.”

“I’m really what?”

“Beautiful.”

He laughed.  “I’m beautiful with my wrinkled suit and shirt? And the fact that I need to shower?”

“Yes.  And you’re right, it is perfect.”

After they each thanked the photographers again for squeezing them in, Colin and Penelope did the signature prom pose and got two quick pictures before heading to the ballroom doors.

Colin opened the door for her as she stepped in the room and gasped.  She was standing under an arch that had roses and lights all around it, some that twinkled.

Each table had a mixture of votive candles and candlesticks, with silver glitter tablecloths and more flowers in teapots as the centerpieces.

A platform to the left of the DJ held two thrones for the Prom King and Prom Queen, a suit of armor between them.  There were other suits of armor around the room as well, each holding a tray that held different snacks or drinks.

A chandelier was above the dance floor, strands of purple lace tied at the top and ballooned their way out above the dance floor.  More twinkle lights were above the dance floor as well as on the fake ivy that adorned the walls.

As Penelope took in the atmosphere, she was beaming and her smile melted Colin’s heart.  She truly was so beautiful in the lighting from the room, and he thought again how happy he was that he could help make her dream a reality.

She suddenly squealed and reached for his hand.  “Colin! A photo booth! Can we please do it? Please?”

He couldn’t help but laugh at her excitement.  “Sure, Pen.  Now?”

“Yes!” she cried before she practically dragged him over.

There were props in a bin outside the photo booth, and after digging through and coming out with a crown, a feather boa, and signs that said “Best Night Ever!” , “My Queen ➡️” , and “Prom 2022”, they were ready.

Penelope slid into the booth and Colin closed the curtain as he sat next to her.  They took a normal picture first, their faces smashed next to each other as they smiled.

For the next photo, Penelope put on the feather boa and held up the “Best Night Ever!” sign while Colin wore the crown and held the “Prom 2022” sign.

The third picture had Penelope put the boa around Colin’s neck, laughing.  Colin tried to be annoyed, but the crinkles around his eyes gave him away, and Penelope stuck her tongue out just as the picture snapped.

But still keeping up the charade of annoyance, he yanked the boa off and placed his crown on her head before grabbing their signs again.  He discreetly switched his sign while handing Penelope hers.  When she saw his sign and felt him put his arm around her, her eyes welled up.

“Oh, Colin.  You really think I’m a queen?”

“Not just a queen, Penelope.  My queen.  The sign even says so.”

Penelope blushed, suddenly aware of their close proximity in the tiny booth.  She leaned toward him, her head angled slightly to the right, seemingly forgetting about the timer on the final picture.

She also forgot about the fact that other people would be waiting for the booth, until everything happened at once.  Penelope had just closed her eyes as the curtain was yanked open and the camera snapped, capturing everything.

After an apology from the girl who opened the curtain, Penelope and Colin grabbed the pictures and walked over to find their table to look at the pictures.

They both laughed at the boa and crown pictures, especially the one where Colin was wearing the boa.  “Your face here!” she said with a laugh.  “You’re trying so hard not to laugh!”

He looked at the photo and shook his head.  “Does that look like a face that’s trying to laugh?”

“No, it looks like the face of a bad liar!” she said, laughing again.  A grin spread across Colin’s face, knowing she was right.

Penelope groaned at the last one, the one that took them by surprise.  “Oh my god, this is so bad!”

“What? Why? I think it’s great!”

“Are we looking at the same picture? It’s just…I don’t know, bad!”

Colin looked at the photo.  It captured the look of surprise on both their faces, her eyes wide and her mouth in a perfect little “O”, her hand gripping the arm he had slipped behind her.  His eyes were on her lips, and a flush was on his cheeks, his other hand in motion, reaching for her.

“Yes, and it’s my favorite.”  And to prove his point, he ripped it off the strip.

“Colin! What are you doing? Give me that!”

“This?” he asked in a teasing voice as he stood and raised his arm.

“Yes!” Even in her heels, Penelope had no chance of reaching the picture as he held it above her head.  Even jumping, she was only able to touch his wrist.  Colin stepped closer and tickled her side, causing Penelope to stop.

“Nope! It’s mine now!” He turned his back to her and whipped out his wallet, putting the picture inside.  He grinned when he faced her again, quite proud of himself.

“I hate you,” she said, pouting and crossing her arms.

“You love me and you know it,” he said, still grinning.

Damn him and his charismatic smile , she thought as she sighed and smiled.  And damn my traitorous mouth for not being able to not smile back .

When her mouth went back to a slight pout and she didn’t say anything for a few minutes, Colin pulled his chair closer to hers.

“Pen? Are you really that upset about the picture?”

She shook her head.  “No.  Why?”

“Because you’ve been quiet ever since I took it.  But here, you can have it back,” he said as he reached for his wallet again.

She reached out and touched his hand to stop him.  “You keep it.”

“Are you sure? I really can give it back.”

“No, I want you to have it.  You said it was your favorite.”

“It is.  And thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” she said as she gazed out at her classmates on the dance floor, falling back into a comfortable silence.  Colin leaned closer to her, whispering, “I really am sorry, Penelope.”

She looked at him with a confused look.  “Sorry for what?”

“Sorry that we were so late, I guess.  We missed the meal and we just caught the photographer and barely made it in and…I’m sorry.  I know you wanted the perfect prom night.  And that you wanted tonight to be special,” Colin said, looking down at his lap.

Penelope reached for his hands and when she grabbed them, Colin looked up.  He saw her lean forward, tears in her eyes.  “Colin.  Tonight is still special.  You made it that way just by being here.  And the night is still young,” she said.  

“Besides,” she continued, “I wouldn’t have cared if we would have gotten here with only five minutes left.  I just wanted to dance with you.  That is my definition of a perfect prom.” 

Colin smiled happily and felt her squeeze his hands before she stood up.  She reached out her hand and he took it as she asked him the same question she had asked two years prior.  “Colin Bridgerton, can I have this dance?”

“I’d be honored, Miss Featherington.”  He stood, and put her hand in the crook of his arm as he led them to the dance floor.

They turned and faced each other as the DJ got on the mic.  “Time for another slow one for all the couples out there.  Here’s Perfect .”  Penelope put her hands on Colin’s shoulders as he put his hands on her waist and they began swaying to the music.

The song was halfway through when Colin looked up and saw Cressida Cowper moving with her date, Jack,  straight toward them.  “Pen, hang on!” He moved his hands lower and picked her up, bringing her closer and turning them in the process.

“Whoa!” she cried as she put her hands around his neck when she felt him turn them.

“I hate her,” Colin whispered angrily after he put her back down.  He didn’t let go, though, and held her just as close.

“Who?” she asked, readjusting her hands around his neck, playing with the hair at the nape.

Colin felt his skin grow hot at her touch and he shivered slightly before glaring across the room.  “Cressida.  She purposely led her date toward you.  Like she was going to plow into us or something.”

“Oh.  Yeah, she does stuff like that to me all the time.  But I think she’s just jealous that my date is hotter than hers.”  She looked up at him and grinned, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red.

He lowered his head and her pulse quickened as she felt his breath on her ear.  “Or she’s jealous of me.  I have the hottest date tonight.”  He looked into her eyes as he stepped back, and her breath caught.

“Colin…I….” The moment was broken as the song ended, and she stepped back, whispering, “Thank you.”

“And now, a fast one! Let’s see those bodies move to this throwback!” Colin groaned as the DJ put the Macarena on.

“No.  Absolutely not,” he said as he dragged her from the floor and back to their table.  She almost landed in his lap as he quickly sat down, their hands still locked together.

“Not a fan?” she asked while catching her breath.

“Of you? Yes.  Of the song? No.”

“What about now?” She started doing the moves in her chair as she sang along to the words.  She saw him watch her appreciatively and she smirked.  “Come on, Colin! Do it with me!”

A smirk of his own appeared and he stared her down, a devilish look in his eye.  “Make me.”

“Was that a challenge, Colin? Because,” she said as she stood up, “you should know that I never back down from a challenge.”  She walked behind him and leaned over his shoulder, putting her hands on his arms.

He could feel her pressed against him and felt his heart start to race.  He jerked forward, and she pressed further into him.  He shifted in his seat then, suddenly feeling very uncomfortable and very warm.  When Penelope didn’t let go of his arms, he started moving them in every direction other than the direction she wanted him to move them.

He felt her body shake and her voice filled with laughter.  “Colin! Stop!” He loved the sound of her laugh, and he felt himself start to laugh, too.

“Isn’t this how I’m supposed to do it?” he asked with a grin.

“No!” she cried.  “I hate you so much,” she said, more laughter escaping.  She gripped his arms tighter and he gave in, allowing her to move his arms to the song.  

When the song ended, she let go and sat down in her chair again.  She grinned at him and teased, “That wasn’t so bad, was it?”

“Worst teacher ever,” he teased back.  “And for the record, I hate you more,” he said as he leaned back and gave her his Penelope-Only Smile.

“Shut up,” she said with a laugh.

Make me , he thought, laughing back.

A little while later, Colin and Penelope were standing on the edge of the dance floor when she groaned quietly.  Colin was about to ask her what was wrong when he saw Cressida walking over, Jack trailing behind.

“Penelope,”  Cressida said curtly.

“Hi, Cressida,” Penelope said.

“I’m surprised to see you here!”

“It’s prom.  Where else would I be?”

“I just figured you wouldn’t be able to get a real date,” she said with a sneer.  Looking at Colin, she asked, “That is your date, right?”

Colin took Penelope’s hand in his.  “Yes, I’m her date,” he said proudly.

Penelope smiled warmly until Cressida said, “At least I don’t have a pity date from my best friend’s brother.  You are Eloise’s brother, right?”

Colin stared at her and Penelope could feel him gripping her hand tighter.  Unable to contain himself, he said, “For the record, Penelope could never be a pity date.  If anyone is pitied here, Cressida, it’s you.”

“Excuse me?” Cressida asked, anger in her voice.

“Colin! Stop!”

“What?”

“Sorry, Cressida.”  She glanced at Colin and saw his eyes in narrow slits as he glared at the girl in front of them.  “If you’ll excuse us…” She squeezed his hand and pulled on his arm as she turned on her heel and dragged him toward the drink table.

He kept trying to turn to glare at Cressida some more, mumbling the entire time how much he hated her and how he thought she was such a bitch.

Penelope finally got to the drink table and pulled him aside.  “Colin, why did you say that?” He wasn’t paying any attention to her.  “Colin.”  She finally put her hand on his cheek, making sure she got his attention.  “Colin, look at me.  Why did you say that?”

“Why did you apologize?” he countered back.

“Because! I feel like if I didn’t, school would be hell for me on Monday,” she said with a sad sigh.

Colin looked at her sad expression.  “The reason I said that was because of how she talked to you back there.  That was awful.  She’s awful.  I can’t believe she thought I was your pity date! Which, by the way, I am not.  There’s nowhere else I would rather be than right here with you.”

She stepped closer to him and wrapped her arms around him.  “I know.  And you’re right, she is awful.  But she’s always been that way.  That was nothing compared to other things.  But I don’t want to think about her.  And I don’t want you to think about her, either.  She cannot say anything or do anything to me tonight that will ruin my evening.  I can tell you more tomorrow, but right now, I want to have some punch and enjoy the rest of our evening, okay?”

He hugged her back and rested his chin on her head.  “Okay.”

After they had their punch and danced to a few more songs, they were relaxing at their table when the DJ made another announcement.  “It is now time for the crowning of your Prom King and Queen!”

Penelope and Colin walked to the edge of the dance floor along with everyone else as they watched the event take place.  “Ladies and Gentlemen, your Prom King is…Ronald Lumley!” 

After Ron got his crown, the DJ continued.  “And your Prom Queen is…Cressida Cowper!”

Colin leaned down as Penelope clapped lightly.  “How did she win?”

“She’s the most popular girl in school, it was going to happen.”

“But she’s awful!”

She sighed.  “I know.  But it’s how it is.  High school hasn’t changed in the two years you’ve been out, you know,” she said with a smirk.

“Shush,” he said with a smile as he put his arm around her lower back.  “Want to step outside? I could use some fresh air.  And I’d rather not see her crowning moment.”

“That would be great, actually.”

They found a bench on the terrace and sat, staring out at the grounds.

“Are you having a good time?” Colin asked quietly, breaking the silence.

“I am.  I couldn’t have dreamed of a better night.  Even after everything that happened today, it’s just…perfect.”

“I’m so glad, Penelope.  You deserve to have all your dreams come true.”

She smiled, her cheeks taking on that familiar shade of pink.  “A-are you having a good time?”

He laced their fingers together and answered honestly.  “Penelope, I always have a good time whenever I’m with you.”

Her heart skipped a beat and she leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder.  “I’m really glad you’re here,” she whispered, so quiet that Colin barely heard her.

“Penelope?”

She looked up at him, pure happiness on her face.  “Yeah?”

He leaned slightly closer to her and touched her chin.  “Can I—”

Laughter suddenly filled the patio, and Colin’s words died.  

“Can you what?”

“N-nothing.  I’ll ask you later, okay?”

“Sure,” she replied.

As more of her classmates came outside, Colin dipped his head toward hers.  “So what’s the plan for after prom?”

“I was going to go back to your house.  Eloise wants all the details.”

Colin chuckled.  “Of course she does.”

“I told her that if she just came to prom, she wouldn’t need me to tell her.”

“Well I’m glad she didn’t, because that means I got you all to myself tonight.”

She felt the heat in her cheeks and she smiled.  “Yeah.”  And I’m glad you did.   “Should we head back in? I think they’re doing the final dance soon and I don’t want to miss it.”

“Lead the way.”

Penelope and Colin stopped by their table on the way to the dance floor so he could drop his jacket off, the ballroom suddenly warmer than before.  He didn’t know if he felt warm from the woman standing next to him or because he had just been in the night air.  Just to be safe, he undid the top button of his shirt and loosened his tie as well.

Penelope kicked off her shoes, Colin giving her a quizzical look.  “These shoes are new and my feet hurt,” she said with a shrug.  “I’ve gone barefoot in worse places, believe me.”

Once they got back on the dance floor, they danced and laughed with each other to two more songs before the DJ got on the mic for a final time.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, it is time for the final dance of the evening.”  Penelope’s classmates booed at that, her and Colin joining in.  “I hope you all had the time of your lives tonight.  It has been an honor spinning for you, please get home safely.”

Colin took Penelope in his arms, his right arm going around her upper back, his left hand taking her right hand, while her left arm hooked around his back.  The familiar chords of (I’ve Had) The Time of my Life started to play and Penelope leaned her head on his shoulder.

They didn’t say anything, just moved in time to the music, Colin humming softly.  Penelope could feel the vibrations in his chest and she wrapped her left arm around him more securely, bringing her closer to him.

He moved his hand higher on her back and started rubbing his thumb lightly over her bare skin, and she shivered.  He smiled and kept doing it, causing more shivers.  She eventually pulled away and glared at him.  “What?” he asked, giving her an innocent look, lowering his hand over her dress again.

She rested her head on his shoulder again, deciding to get her own subtle revenge.  She began running her nails across his back, his movement stuttering and he squeezed her tighter as she laughed quietly.  “Not so fun, is it?”

Colin was about to move his hand again when there was a commotion on the dance floor.  Cressida was forcing everyone to move to the perimeter of the floor and had Jack stand at one end.

“Oh my god,” Penelope said after they had moved.

“What?” Colin asked, looking down at her.

“She’s going to attempt the lift.”

Colin watched Cressida as she waited for the cue in the music.  “I hope she falls,” he whispered, just loud enough for Penelope to hear.

“I guess we’ll find out, here she goes.”  Cressida took a running start and her jump looked promising until it wasn’t.  Jack grabbed her waist, but her dress was too heavy, and as soon as Cressida’s feet left the floor, they fell.

The entire room laughed, some of the people even taking pictures.  Cressida sat up and started yelling at Jack.  “How could you drop me?”

Jack rubbed the back of his head and shrugged.  “You were heavy.”

“I am not heavy!” she shrieked before storming off, her cluster of minions following behind her.

“Wow.  I didn’t think she could get any worse,” Colin murmured.  “I can’t believe she didn’t even make sure he was okay.”

“I didn’t think she could, either,” Penelope agreed.  “I mean, they’ve been dating for months.  She really is a bitch.  And,” she added with a grin, “I couldn’t have pictured a better ending to prom.”

Colin laughed at Penelope’s response and he nodded.  “For sure.”  He noticed the rest of the room start to go back to the tables, and Colin put his hand on her lower back.  “Come on, let’s get our stuff and get out of here.”

“Okay,” she replied as he guided her back to the table.  They grabbed their things and Colin draped his jacket over Penelope’s shoulders.  He grabbed her shoes with one hand and took her hand in his other.

“Thanks,” she said as she blushed for the hundredth time that evening.

“You’re welcome.”  They got back to his car and Penelope tried to hand Colin his jacket back.

“No, wear it.  It’s cooler outside.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah.  And I have this shirt on.  I’ll be fine.  If anything, I’m still kind of warm.”  And you look so hot right now wearing it.   Colin cleared his throat at that last thought and rolled up his shirt sleeves, watching Penelope the entire time.  “See? Told you I was warm.”

She swallowed, staring back at him.  She barely nodded, running her tongue over her lips.  “Y-yes.”

Colin grabbed her by the shoulders and crushed his mouth to hers, kissing her with everything he had .

“Colin?” Penelope stepped toward him, and he realized he was still staring at her.  “Are you ready? Eloise just texted and asked what time we would be back.”

He shook his head and gave her an embarrassed smile.  “Yeah, let’s go.”  Colin helped her into his car again, and as soon as they got on the road, Penelope immediately reached for his hand.

She brought their connected hands into her lap, and she traced circles on the back of his hand with her other hand.  She started tracing circles up his forearm, leaving a trail of goosebumps behind.

“Penelope,” he warned.  If you don’t want me to pull over and ravish you on the side of the road…

“Yes?” she asked sweetly, batting her eyelashes.

He didn’t respond, but instead brought their hands to his lips, kissing her hand.  He dropped her hand then and reached for his phone that was in the cupholder.  “Here, why don’t you put some music on?”

She was busy looking through his phone when Colin got his revenge.  He slowly lowered his right hand and gently placed it on her upper thigh, squeezing softly.  She gasped, and he grinned.

He stilled his hand while she glanced over at him with a look on her face that said, “Really?” He smirked and when she finally picked a song, she tried handing him his phone back.

“Just put it down,” he said as he started to move the hand on her leg in time to the music.  She gasped again as he moved up and down her thigh, from her knee to her hip.

His face was concentrating on the road, but he seemed to know exactly when she tried to stop his hand, because he would always move it out of the way.  He could hear her breathing start to shallow and he decided he had tortured her enough.

He finally allowed her to catch his hand and she grasped it firmly.  He smirked again, and she let out a frustrated sigh, grumbling about how she was going to kill him.

They sat like that for the rest of the trip, both extremely tense, each sneaking glances at the other, their hearts about to beat out of their chests.

After the longest car ride in the history of automobile travel, they finally arrived back at the Bridgertons’ house.  He had never unbuckled and gotten out of the car so fast in his entire life.

He took a few deep breaths as he shut his door before walking around his car to open hers.  Forget my sister, we’re going to my room to finish what we started.   He stared at her hungrily, and started to voice that thought.  “Forget my sister, we’re…”

The front door flew open and they heard Eloise.  “There you are! How was it? Tell me everything!”

“We’ll be right in, El.  Just gotta grab our stuff.”

“Okay.  But hurry! I’m dying to know what happened!” Eloise called before closing the door.

“You know she won’t leave us alone until we talk to her,” Penelope said with a frustrated tone.  Colin groaned and put his hands on her waist, resting his forehead against hers.

Penelope closed her eyes and put her hand on the back of his neck, inhaling deeply before she reluctantly let go of him and pushed him away.  “Come on.  We better go in before she comes looking for us.”

Colin grabbed their stuff from his car and as she started to walk away, Colin couldn’t move.  She turned and saw he was still standing by his car.  “Colin? Are you coming?”  He still couldn’t bring himself to move away from his car.  She took a step toward him.  “Are you okay?” she asked, concerned.

He took a deep breath.  “Yes and no.  Penelope, I need to do something before we go in.”  

“Alright.  Should I wait or what?”

“Please,” he managed to choke out.  He walked toward her with a purposeful stride and didn’t stop until he was right in front of her.  

“Colin?” He threw their stuff on the ground, leaned in and finally kissed her.  Her lips were just as plump and as soft as he imagined they would be, and he hummed against them in approval.

The kiss lasted only a few seconds, but when Colin pulled away, he was breathless.  He knew his face was probably as red as her hair, but all he could think about was wanting to kiss her again.

He looked into her eyes and before she could say anything, he said, “I know I should’ve asked first, and I’m sorry for that, but was that okay?” Please say yes.

“Yes,” she whispered, quiet enough that he didn’t hear her.

“Because I’ve been wanting to do that all night,” he admitted quietly.  Please say yes.

“Colin,” she whispered louder.

“I promise we can talk about it later, but I couldn't wait another—”

She smiled up at him, and ran her thumb over his bottom lip, silencing him.  “COLIN.  Of course it was okay.  I’ve been wanting to kiss you, too.”

He placed a kiss on her thumb and he smiled.  “Really?”  She gave him a big nod.  “Okay,” he said.  He picked up the things on the ground and when they got to the door, Eloise was right there.

“I was just coming out to look for you! What took you so long?”

“We, uh, had to take care of something real quick,” Colin said, as Penelope practically shouted, “Shoes!” 

“What?” Eloise asked.

Colin couldn’t wait to hear her answer, so his eyes darted to Penelope’s face , and he smirked.

“I, ugh, dropped my shoes.”  

“Into my brother’s hand?”

Penelope’s face turned a deep shade of red.  She had forgotten that Colin was holding them, and he coughed to cover up a grin.  “Oh, um…I tripped and they flew out of my hands and he bent down and picked them up.”

“You know, I would ask why you had them off in the first place, but I don’t want to know.  At least not now.  Tell me about prom!” Eloise said as she walked toward the living room.

“Nice save,” Colin whispered in her ear as she closed the front door.

“Shut up,” she said, embarrassment still in her voice.  She gasped when she turned and saw how close he was standing to her.  

“Why don’t you make me?” he asked, desire in his voice.

“Like this?”  She stood on her toes and kissed him, and he put his fingers in her hair.  She looked up at him, biting her lip when she was done.

“Exactly like that,” he whispered.  

She saw how distracted he was, so she decided to take that opportunity to win a race they had been having since they were kids.  “Race you to the couch!” she suddenly cried, laughing as she ran down the hall.

“Hey! Get back here!” He chased her down the hall and jumped over the back of the couch just before she plopped down on it, almost landing in his lap.

“I won!” he yelled triumphantly.

“I can’t believe you two still race for the couch,” Eloise said, just as Penelope picked up a pillow and hit him with it, laughing at his expression.  

Colin started tickling her and she tried to scramble away, but he dragged her back.  “Guys! What happened at prom?” Eloise asked, but neither heard her.

Penelope reached for the pillow in his lap and smacked him again with it, this time escaping his reach and jumping up.  “I’m gonna get you for that, Featherington!”

“I’d like to see you try, Bridgerton!” she said, laughing loudly.

“ GUYS! ” Eloise cried out, just as Colin started to get up, ready to chase Penelope around the room.  

They stopped and looked at her, sheepish looks on their faces.  “Sorry,” they said quietly before sitting next to each other on the couch.

“What happened tonight? And Pen! I’m glad your hair survived the night!”

“It almost didn’t,” Colin said under his breath.  He gave Penelope a knowing glance as her face turned pink.

She elbowed him and hissed, “Shut up!”  Answering Eloise, she said, “Yeah, it did!”

“Make me,” he whispered, just low enough for her to hear.  Penelope’s face turned a darker shade of red, and he had to bite back a laugh.

“Later,” she promised.

Eloise just stared at them.  “Later what? I swear, if the two of you don’t stop being weird and don’t start talking, I’m gonna scream!”

“Just something Penelope promised me,” Colin answered nonchalantly.  “And didn’t you see? She hit me with a pillow!”

Penelope snickered next to him.  “She means at prom.”

“Oh.”  She squeezed his hand, discreetly rubbing her thumb across his knuckles.  He moved closer to her then, and she could feel his body heat radiating through his shirt.

“Anyway, El, Cressida fell because Jack dropped her!”

Eloise started laughing.  “Oh my god! How? Why?”

They explained everything about the lift, and Eloise was doubled over in laughter by the time they were done.

“It was the best!” Colin said, laughing along with his sister.

“Did anyone record it?” Eloise asked after she stopped laughing.

“I’m sure it’s recorded, a lot of people had their phones out,” Penelope said.  Colin hummed in agreement and pressed his leg into Penelope’s.  She smiled at the pressure and slid her right hand closer to where their legs were touching until it was resting on top of both their thighs.  She started stroking his leg and she heard him exhale through his nose.

Eloise, completely oblivious to the movement, continued to ask for more details.  Penelope told her about the decorations while Colin shifted his body again.  He briefly moved farther away from her so he didn’t hit her in the head as he put his arm behind her.

He ran his fingers across her neck as his arm continued its path along the back of the couch and she shivered, causing her to stutter.  Eloise gave her a quizzical look before she asked more questions, like what songs they played, if there was any more Cressida drama, and most importantly, if she had fun.

Penelope answered every question, with help from Colin.  She had started to lean into him as she answered, and by the time she was done talking, she was fully pressed into his side.  Her hand was no longer on her leg either, it was just on his.

Colin had brought his right leg over top of his left one so his right ankle was on his left knee as they were talking, which hid her hand from Eloise’s view.  As Penelope got quiet, Eloise suddenly sat up, startling them both.

“I almost forgot! Who won Prom King and Queen?” 

“Ron Lumley won Prom King, and who do you think won Prom Queen?” Penelope asked.

Eloise rolled her eyes.  “I should’ve known she would win.  Please tell me there was a Carrie moment!”

“I wish! She’s the worst.  Why didn’t I think of that?” Colin said in a disappointed tone.

“You’re slipping, bro.  It would’ve been awesome! For Cressida, not Ron, that is,” Eloise clarified.

“Colin, do you normally carry around a bucket of pig’s blood?” Penelope asked, humor in her voice.

“No, but maybe I should!”

“I’m all for it!” Eloise agreed.

Penelope looked between the two of them and rolled her eyes.  “You two are such idiots,” she said with affection.  “No one carries around a bucket of pig’s blood.”

“Let’s start a trend!” Eloise cried.

“Oh my god.  That’s disgusting,” Penelope said as she leaned her head against Colin’s arm that was draped along the back of the couch.  The Bridgerton siblings laughed and Penelope couldn’t help but grin as she felt Colin’s chest rumble against her.

Penelope settled further into Colin as he and Eloise discussed the benefits of carrying a bucket of blood around with them.  Penelope kept stealing glances at Colin’s mouth, replaying their kisses from earlier.  She was lost in her memories when Eloise asked her, “Did anything else happen during the last dance?”

Colin caught her looking at him and he smirked when she didn’t respond right away.  She blushed at being caught and turned to look at her friend.  “Sorry, El.  What did you just say?”

Eloise chuckled.  “I asked if anything else happened during the last dance other than Cressida’s fall, but you can tell me later.  I know it’s been a long day.”

“You’re telling me!” Looking at Colin, she added, “But a much better night.”

He smiled at her before saying to Eloise, “Why don’t you go to bed? I should get Penelope home anyway.”

“You sure? Is that okay with you, Pen?”

Penelope didn’t answer, and Colin knew it was because she was too busy trying not to react to him removing his arm from behind her as it ran over the back of her neck again.  His fingers also lingered on her neck as he repeated the movement from earlier, but in reverse.

“Pen? Is that okay?” Eloise asked again.

“Huh?” She asked, a dazed look on her eyes.

Colin laughed again.  “Yeah, I got it from here.  Her date should be the one to take her home, after all.”

“Thanks, Col.”  Eloise stood up and stretched, then bent down to give Penelope and Colin each a hug.  “Goodnight, Pen.  I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Goodnight.  And yeah, I’ll see you tomorrow.  Thanks again for everything.  You’re the best!”

“I know,” she said with a grin.  “And you’re welcome.”

Eloise went upstairs, and Penelope sighed happily.  “It really was a wonderful evening,” she said.

Colin listened for Eloise’s door before saying, “So, about that promise…”

“What promise?” she asked, feigning innocence.

“You know exactly what promise,” he said, his breath suddenly tickling her ear.

“No, I think you need to give me another hint.”

He peppered kisses across her cheek.  “Ring any bells yet?”

“N-no.”

“How about now?” he asked, kissing the corner of her mouth.

“Ohhh, yes.  I think I remember now.  The one where you promised to shut me up.”

“Penelope,” Colin said, that same warning tone in his voice from before.

“Yes, Colin?”

“Just shut me up already,” he said in a pleading tone.

She gave him a teasing smile before saying, “Oh wait, I got it wrong.  I did promise to shut you up, didn’t I?” 

“Yes, you did.  Please just do it.”  He no longer cared that he was practically begging.  He just needed her to make good on her promise.

“How did I do it last time?”

“ Penelope. ”

“Was it like this?” Penelope asked as she twisted to kneel on the couch, bringing her lips to his.

“ Yes ,” he whispered, before adding, “Minx.”  He gave her a heated stare and said, “Now do it again.”  She complied, and after they broke apart, she put her forehead against his.

“Now who’s the minx?” she asked with a smirk.

“Still you,” he said, kissing her nose.  “But seriously, about that kiss outside…”

“What about it?” she asked as she sat back down, leaning against him.

“We should talk about it,” he said as she tried to hide a yawn.  “But maybe later, we should get you home.”

“No,” she said as she turned her body and threw her arm across his chest.  His arm instinctively went around her as she curled into a ball and snuggled closer to him.  “I’m comfy right here.”

He beamed at her answer before replying.  “Penelope? I…”

“Colin, can I stay with you?” she whispered, interrupting him.  “I don’t want to be alone.”

“O-Of course.  Do you want to go upstairs?”  Penelope nodded and sat up so Colin could move and he stood, helping her off the couch.  He threw his suit jacket back on and shoved his tie in his pocket before hitting the lights in the living room.

Penelope could feel her heart rate increase as Colin walked to where she was waiting at the bottom of the stairs.  He put his hand on the small of her back and she began to climb the stairs.  However, she had only climbed three or four steps when she stepped on the front of her dress and stumbled.  She felt Colin’s arm around her waist, steadying her immediately and she placed her hand on his.

She looked over and his face was right there, his green eyes staring into her blue ones.  “Are you okay?” he asked.

She couldn’t say anything, the words caught in her throat, so she nodded.

“Okay good.  Can’t have my girl falling apart on me.”

“Your girl? I like the sound of that,” she said as her cheeks turned Colin’s favorite shade of pink.

“So do I,” he said, kissing her temple.

They made it to the top of the stairs without another stumble and instead of Colin walking her to the guest room, he led her to his bedroom.

Penelope’s heart was beating so loud when Colin closed the door, she was surprised he didn’t comment on it.  After the door clicked shut, Colin walked away from her and took off his jacket, throwing it on the bed.

He was trying to gather his thoughts so he wouldn’t sound like a complete idiot in front of her, and when he didn’t turn around, Penelope walked over to him.

“Thank you for taking care of me tonight,” she said softly, hugging him from behind and placing a kiss between his shoulder blades.

He stilled for a moment, trying to calm his nerves.  He turned in her arms before he whispered, “I will always take care of you, Penelope.”

“My knight in shining armor,” she replied with a smile.

“My princess,” he answered back, as he tucked one of her loose curls behind her ear with one hand.  With his other hand, Colin took her small hand in his large one.

She looked down at their joined hands and smiled.  Even though they had been holding hands all night, this was different.  Colin’s fingers moved from her ear to her jaw, where they lingered before sliding them down to her chin.  He tilted her face up toward his, her breath catching in her throat as she gazed up at him.

The look on his face made her insides ignite with desire; it was the same look that had been on his face all night.  Like he couldn’t get his fill of her, that he needed her more than he needed air.

A shiver went down her spine as he moved his hands to her back, pulling her closer to him.  “Penelope.” He whispered her name as he leaned his head closer to hers before he stopped.

They were truly alone now, and flashes of their almost-kiss from his private prom gave them each a sense of déjà vu.  They each smiled at the memory and soon realized the only difference between then and now was that there was no one to interrupt them this time.  

As far as Eloise knew, neither one of them were there, and Colin almost laughed as he cherished the new moment.  He must’ve had a huge grin on his face, because Penelope giggled.  “What are you thinking about?”

“Just that no one knows we’re in here,” he whispered.

“Oh.  Oh .  You’re right,” she said, matching his grin.

“And also that I know we’ve already done it tonight, but I still want to ask.  I am a gentleman, after all.”

Penelope giggled.  “Ask what?”

“That thing I was going to ask earlier at prom,” he said as he leaned even closer.  “On the terrace?”

“Oh.  Yes?” she asked, breathless.

“Can I kiss you?”

He saw her nod before she moved her own hands on his upper arms, gripping his shirt lightly. She closed her eyes, feeling his breath on her lips as he closed the distance between them.

His lips were soft but firm against hers, and she already knew this kiss was going to be different from the others.  He pressed further into her, increasing the pressure of his lips against hers.  He moved away from her lips, leaving kisses all over her face before moving back to her lips again.

He started to pull away and Penelope moved a hand to his neck and brought his mouth back to hers.  He smiled just before she captured his lips in another kiss.

“That,” he whispered against her mouth, “is how our first kiss should’ve been.”  He kissed her lips once more before finally stepping away.  “But like I said earlier, I just couldn’t wait any longer.”

Colin rubbed the apples of her cheeks with the pads of his thumbs, right over her natural blush.  Looking into her eyes, he saw happiness and desire.

“I still can’t believe our first kiss was outside in the front yard an hour ago,” she said as she blushed, biting her lip.

“What?”

“What do you mean, what? I just said I couldn’t—”

“I heard you, but I’m a little confused because it wasn’t our first kiss.  I wish it was, though! The first one happened so fast, and I was half-asleep.”

Penelope crossed her arms, confusion on her face.  “I’m not counting the ones from earlier tonight.  I know the one outside technically counts as it, but it was quick and I know you weren’t half-asleep! I’m telling you, the one we just shared a few seconds ago was our first kiss!”

“And I’m telling you it wasn’t!”

“So when was it?” she asked.  “Because like I said, I’m not counting the ones from earlier tonight.”

“You really don’t remember?” He looked hurt that she didn’t remember the night that had meant so much to him.  The night that everything changed.

She shook her head no, but stepped toward him again and took his hand in hers.  Rubbing her thumb over the back of his hand, she asked, “When was it?”

He let out a small sigh.  “It was the night you sprained your ankle.  When we watched the movies in the fort.  And you leaned over and kissed me.  It was the best night of my life, up until tonight.”

Penelope stepped even closer and put her hand on his cheek.  “Oh, Colin.  Of course I remember that.  I could never forget that moment.  But I was only fourteen.  I was so young.  We both were.  If you never moved your head, I would’ve gotten your cheek.  That’s why I don’t think of it that way.  Because it was an accident.”

“That night changed everything for me.  I didn’t know it at the time, but it did.  So even though you may not think of it as our first kiss, I do.  And I agree that tonight was far from an accident.  Tonight is on purpose.  Shall I prove it?”

She grinned as she wrapped her arms around his neck.  “Absolutely.”

Colin led her to his bed and pulled her onto his lap, and from that point on, Penelope lost all track of time.  The kisses started gently before turning more passionate.  His tongue traced the seam of her lips, prompting her to open her mouth to him.  He moaned at the taste of her and she ran her fingers through his hair, gripping it tightly.

Eventually she pulled away, placing her hands on his chest.  Her eyes were shining, her cheeks were flushed, her lips were swollen, and Colin’s heart expanded at the sight of her.  “One more?” he asked greedily.

“Yes,” she said as she moved her head toward his again.  He dodged her mouth and attacked her neck, lightly biting and kissing the place where her neck met her shoulder.  She leaned back as his torture continued and she started to squirm in his lap.

“This part,” he said as he licked where his teeth had grazed her porcelain skin, “has been driving me insane.  All.  Damn.  Night.”

Penelope moaned and held onto him tighter as she leaned back even further, his strong arms wrapped around her.  He finally lifted his head, a satisfied grin on his face.

Two can play that game , she thought.  She forced herself into a more upright position and moved her hands from his arms to his chest.  She let her fingers skim over his skin where he had unbuttoned the top of his shirt.  She bit her lip, suddenly looking nervous, but that moment passed the second he asked, “You okay?” 

She nodded and leaned forward to plant a kiss where her fingers had just been, eliciting a moan of approval from Colin.  He tilted his head to give her easier access and gripped her tighter as she did it over and over.  “You’re never wearing a tie again,” she whispered against his skin as she nibbled and tasted her way up his neck to his jawline.

“I think I can work something out,” he whispered huskily as he felt her trace his stubble with her tongue.  He threaded his fingers through her hair and lifted her head so he could kiss her again, a moan escaping her lips.

Colin felt her hands on his chest, playing with the buttons on his shirt.  She managed to get another two undone before she pulled away from his mouth.  He swore her eyes got wider and a grin appeared on her face.  He blushed as she ogled him, and he felt behind her for the zipper on her dress.  He unzipped it a few inches before she shifted into a better position to kiss down his chest when she yawned again.

She gave him an apologetic smile, her cheeks flushing in embarrassment.  “I’m sorry.”

Colin lifted her up and placed his hands on her face.  He kissed her forehead before saying, “It’s okay, Penelope.  Maybe we should go to bed.”

“Do we have to?”

He chuckled at her enthusiasm.  “We probably should, you’re starting to yawn.”  He guided her off his lap and he stood, making quick work of his shirt.  His back was to her, and when he turned around again, he saw she hadn’t moved.  “What’s wrong?”

“It’s just…”

“Yes?”

“I don’t have anything to wear.”

“I got you, Penelope.”  He walked over to his dresser and pulled out his favorite shirt and comfiest pair of sweats. “Will this work?”

“Yeah, thank you.”

He bent down to peck her on the lips as he handed her his clothes.  “Now, how about we get you out of that dress?”

“Okay.”  After he finished unzipping her dress and she went to the bathroom to change, she paused outside his door.  She wasn’t sure if she should go back in or go to the guest room.  She was still debating what to do when Colin opened his door, startling her.

Penelope jumped and let out a quiet yelp.  “Sorry, Penelope,” he whispered.

She shook her head as if to say don’t worry about it, but he knew there was more to it than that.  He opened his door wider and stepped into the hall with her.  He pulled her into a hug and held her tight against him.

“Hey,” he said as he felt how rigid she was.  His hand rubbed up and down her back as he asked, “Are you nervous?”  He felt her head move up and down and he held her tighter.

“It’s okay, Penelope.  I’m nervous, too.  I don’t want to ruin this,” he admitted.

“You are? Ruin what?”

“Yeah.  This.  Us.  I don’t know.  Can we go back into my room to talk? Or if you would rather, we can talk tomorrow and go our separate ways for tonight.  Entirely up to you, there’s no pressure.  I know how tired you are.”

She was torn on where to go, because she didn’t want to ruin what had just happened between them, but she also needed him to know how she felt.  She took a step toward the guest room when she stopped and turned to look back at him.

He had a look of sadness and disappointment on his face when she moved away from him, and she felt a wave of emotion engulf her.  She knew that whatever happened next would start a new chapter for them.

He had said there was no pressure, and she believed him.  But something in his expression tugged at her heart and she knew that this was the moment.  She took a deep breath and walked back over to him.  She wrapped her arms around his waist once more and said, “Colin?”

“Hmm?”

“You’re right, I am tired, but I…I think we should talk.”

“Now? Or tomorrow?”

“Now.  Tonight.  Please.”

He smiled.  “Okay.  In here? Or…?”

She moved her arms from his waist to the back of his neck and stood on her tiptoes to kiss his jaw.  “Where do you think?” She let go of him and walked back into his room and over to his bed.

She pulled back his covers and climbed in as if it was the most natural thing in the world.  He stood there watching her, and when he didn’t come over right away, she patted the spot next to her.  “Colin, come here.”

He turned off his light and cautiously made his way over to his bed.  He turned on his bedside lamp and after he got himself situated, he immediately reached for her hand.  A moment of awkward silence fell over them, neither knowing how to start the conversation until they both spoke at once.

“I like you.”

“I love you.”

They both started giggling, glad the tension was finally over until Penelope realized what he had said.

“Wait, what did you just say?”

“I love you.  In my clothes?  Wait.  I-I mean, I love you in my bed.  No wait, that didn’t come out right either.  Hang on.  I love…”

Penelope bit her lip, trying to stop more giggles from erupting as Colin sat there, words spewing from his mouth.  She decided to let him off the hook and scooted closer to him, placing her hand on his arm.

He stopped talking briefly, which gave Penelope enough time to say his name before moving her hands to his face and kissing him.

After breaking apart, she smiled.  “I know.  Me too.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”  She curled into his side and draped her arm across him.  She started playing lightly with his shirt as he drew circles on her arm.

She was quiet for a moment as she listened to his heartbeat.  “I just wanted you to know that I think you’re amazing.  And that I appreciate you and everything you’ve ever done for me.  I will never be able to repay you.”

“Penelope.  You don’t have to ever worry about that.  I’m always going to be here for you.  I just want to know that you’re happy.”

“Colin, I am happy.  Because of you.  You make me happy.  More than I can express.”

“You make me happy, too.”

She smiled against his chest.  “Really?”

“Really.  You’re special, Penelope.  Not everyone sees it, but I do.  I always have.”

Penelope leaned up on her elbow and put her hand on the side of his face.  “You’re pretty special, too,” she said with a smile before she kissed him again.  She returned to her original position and resumed playing with his shirt.

They were silent for a few moments before she said, “As bad as it sounds, I’m glad Reggie got sick.  Because otherwise I wouldn’t be here with you.”

“Glad I’m not the only one who was happy he cancelled,” Colin said with a laugh.  “This is a much better way to spend my Friday night.  And we wouldn’t be having this conversation right now.  I’m not the type of guy who asks someone to be my girlfriend over the phone,” he said, the tips of his ears turning red.

“Your girlfriend?”

“I’m getting there, hang on,” he said as he took her hand in his.  “Penelope, you’re the only person I would  ever drop everything for.”

“Not even your mother?” she asked, giggling.

“Okay, you got me there.”

“What about your siblings?”

“Yes, them too.  Now stop interrupting,” he scolded teasingly.  “I’m trying to tell you that I like you.  A lot.  As more than a friend.  And I want more with you.”

“Okay.  Yes.”

“Yes?” He tilted her chin up to make sure he heard her correctly.

Penelope was beaming now.  “Yes, because I like you, too.  So much.  As everything.  As a person, as my friend, as more.”

“Penelope Featherington,” he whispered as he ran his thumb over her cheek.  “Will you be my girlfriend?”

She giggled.  “I thought I made that apparent a few seconds ago.”

“Penelope,” Colin said as he pulled her closer to him, “I need your official answer.”

“Yes,” she said.  “I will absolutely be your girlfriend, Colin Bridgerton.”

“I was hoping that would be your answer,” he said right before he kissed her.  After he broke away, he smiled and leaned back against his headboard.  A second later, he laughed.

“What’s so funny?” 

“Nothing, just thought of Cressida being covered in pigs’ blood again.”

“You’re insane,” she said with a laugh.  “Here I thought the smile and laughter were for me.”

“What? They are! I promise!” She laughed at his panicked expression.  “I was just going to say that I couldn’t believe you were here with me.  In my bed, holding my hand.”  Kissing me.  Saying yes to being mine.

“I am, too,” she said as she snuggled against his arm, kissing his shoulder.  “So very happy.  But I do admit, it would’ve been perfect for her to get doused in blood,” she said with an evil smirk.

“Welcome to the dark side, Pen!”

“Shut up,” she said as she laughed again, silenced only by his lips on hers.  She yawned once more and leaned more heavily against him.

“Let’s go to sleep,” he whispered.

Penelope nodded her approval at his suggestion and he reached over and turned off his light as she burrowed herself under the covers.  He reached over her shoulders and tucked her in before laying down himself.  He stared at the ceiling, too happy to sleep.

After several minutes of listening to Penelope’s deep breathing, Colin faced his girlfriend and he gently caressed her face.  She stirred into his touch and he kissed the top of her head, whispering, “Goodnight, my love.”  He wrapped her in his arms and sighed happily as he drifted off to sleep, a permanent smile on his face.

It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
-High School Musical 3: Senior Year