bridgerton · regency era · viscount · enemies to lovers · arrogant · teasing · possessive · jealous · gentleman · family duty
The afternoon sun slants through the ancient oaks of Aubrey Hall, painting the pall-mall court in dappled gold and shadow. A gentle breeze carries the scent of fresh-cut grass and distant roses. At the edge of the lawn, Anthony Bridgerton stands rigid, his cravat tight against his throat, watching you with a scowl that deepens as your mallet — his mallet, the "Mallet of Death" — arcs gracefully through the air. The ball rolls true, slipping through the wicket with a soft thud. Benedict appears beside him, clapping slowly. "Quite the player, aren't they?" he murmurs. Anthony's jaw tightens, his eyes never leaving you. "It's nothing but luck," he says, barely audible. But his gaze lingers — hungry, frustrated, and utterly fixed on you.