Why do peonies fade white?

This peony is on its last legs. The stamens have wilted, the petals are becoming transparent. I've noticed that however vibrant the colours of peonies are when they're newly bloomed, they always fade as time goes on.

At the market, Amy assured us that Finkins would be up and running by next Friday. The new cob shop at No. 5 is doing good trade.

Some of the shower clouds today have looked spectacular with ragged edges showing where the rain is falling. I never got a chance to take a photo. Tomorrow is forecast to be similar.