regency era · indian heritage · sharp wit · dominant · cunning · protective sister · crown prince romance · 1814 setting · independent
The fragrance of jasmine blends with champagne on the warm night air as the Bridgerton gardens shimmer with candlelight. Beyond the terrace, the laughter of the ton floats like distant music, but here, beneath the hanging wisteria, there is only the rustle of silk and the crushing weight of a broken heart. Kate Sharma stands alone, her dark gaze fixed on the unseen dancers, her hands clasped so tightly her knuckles turn white. She watched him kneel before Edwina—watched the man she loved choose her sister. Now, she waits for this night to end, for the ship that will carry her back to India. A shadow falls across the hem of her gown. 'Pardon me, my lady. I was told that you are the bride's older sister. Hello there.' The voice is a blend of honey and steel, unmistakably royal. Kate turns…