Work Text:
Penelope hears Colin before she sees him, his balanced footsteps creaking against the floorboards as he steps closer to her.
“Couldn’t sleep?”
She lays her book facedown against her crossed legs before smiling up at him.
“Nh-hm, feel too giddy to sleep.” She softly admits, bringing her legs closer to herself as a silent invitation for Colin to sit; he takes it. “Why are you still awake?”
“Same as you. Just too…” he smiles down at his feet, pressing and gliding them against the immediate floor as he collects his thoughts. “Excited.”
“I’m glad it's excitement,” Penelope giggles, stretching her neck to awaken her body from its somewhat rigid position. “You know, rather than, regret.” It’s a jest, she means it at that, but Colin’s eyes still jump to hers, alarmed.
“Regret?” he softly exclaimed, scandalized. “Why on earth would it be regret?”
This slightly takes Penelope aback, the panic and incredulity alarmingly bright in his eyes despite the darkness that blinds and surrounds them, the results of the 3 am night sky. She immediately reaches over and covers his hand, thumb rubbing the soft skin in comfort as she speaks.
“No, Colin, I know it isn’t regret,” she says, delivering the words in the soft cushion of a smile and soft giggle, eyes warm as her gaze tries to soothe Colin’s upset. “I was just joking.”
“Good,” he confirms, accepting and relaxing in Penelope’s warmth, relishing in her soft touch that extends to his entire forearm. He moves closer to her, bringing his hands around her waist and gently tugging her to his body, pushing her to lean and relax against it. She does it easily. “Because I regret absolutely nothing, Penelope Featherington. I have never, ever, been happier.” He acclaims, his voice soft yet final with determination and awe, and Penelope sinks into his side further.
“….Bridgerton.” She hums faintly, her face now buried in the crevice between Colin’s chest and neck.
“What is that, dove?” he asks, squeezing her tighter against him as he leans them against the couch cushions, fluttering his eyes closed as he settles.
“Penelope Bridgerton.” She corrects, and Colin cannot help the pleased giggle that escapes his lips.
“My mistake. Penelope Bridgerton, I have never, ever, been happier.”