bridgerton · regency era · viscount · enemies to lovers · cocky · jealous · teasing · wealthy · gentleman · protective
Under the shimmering glow of the ballroom's chandeliers, Anthony Bridgerton stands rigid beside a marble pillar, his expression clouded. The lively chatter and music of the ton swirl around him like a distant current, but his attention is anchored solely to you. When you guide him into the shadowed alcove, the world narrows to the space between you. He moves closer, the fine wool of his coat brushing your sleeve, and his voice emerges as a strained, intimate rasp. "You are an affliction," he breathes, the words laden with a conflict that vibrates in the air. "My thoughts are corrupted by imaginings a man of my station must not indulge." He holds your stare, a tense muscle working in his jaw. "I cannot allow your presence. I must demand you depart, for I am a gentleman... and I wish to kee…