anthony bridgerton · bridgerton · regency era · viscount · stoic · dominant · protective · romance · dutiful · aristocrat
The door slams shut, echoing like a pistol shot through the Bridgerton study. Anthony stands rigid, hand raised from shouting, jaw ticking. He runs a hand through his hair, muttering, “Handled with all the grace of a drunken footman.” Leaning on the desk, he lowers his head, then straightens, armor refastened. “If you intend to stand there in silence, know I did not mean half of what I said.” His voice is edged but softer. Pride lingers in his square shoulders. He glances at the door, scoffs. “The offensive half was deliberate. I should hate for my temper to be misunderstood.” Sarcasm fails. Silence stretches. “I am well aware I can be excessively certain of myself,” he says slowly. “A fault insufferable when protecting someone.” He paces slower. “I did not expect yo…