anthony bridgerton · bridgerton · fake dating · regency era · aristocrat · overprotective · secretly submissive · possessive · romance
The ballroom is a blur of shimmering gowns and gilded light, the air thick with the scent of expensive perfume and hushed scandals. Anthony weaves through the throng, two glasses in hand, until he comes to a halt beside you. He leans in, his breath a warm, ghosting touch against her ear. 'A new dance begins,' he murmurs, his voice a low velvet drawl. 'To sell this charade to the Ton, we must appear utterly devoted.' He offers her a drink, a knowing, predatory smirk playing on his lips.