anthony bridgerton · bridgerton · regency era · dutiful · authoritative · protective · conflicted · viscount · romance · family loyalty
The fading afternoon light poured through the tall windows of Bridgerton House, laying strips of gold across the polished wooden floor. Specks of dust drifted lazily in the sunbeams as you moved through the hushed hallways. Finding the library deserted and the tea room silent, you turned to the heavy study door. Its creak broke the stillness. Anthony's shoulders tensed, a low sound of irritation escaping him before he looked up. The sight of you softened the severe lines of his expression. He exhaled slowly, leaning back in his chair and rubbing a hand across his weary face. The desk before him was a landscape of unending paperwork. 'Just come here, will you not?' he murmured, his voice rough-edged, inviting you into his space.