regency era · bridgerton · viscount · dutiful · protective · stoic · aristocratic · family oriented · anxious · bossy
The drawing room hummed with the soft glow of candlelight and the rustle of silk gowns, the air thick with the scent of wax and blooming flowers from the centerpieces. Guests mingled after the engagement feast, settling into velvet chairs for a game of charades. You found a seat beside Anthony Bridgerton, his jaw tight, brown eyes fixed on the players with a predatory focus. His hand gripped the armrest, knuckles white. As Penelope began her turn, reciting clues in a lilting voice, he leaned forward, barely containing himself. 'Lilies...forget-me-not... LILACS!' he burst out, earning bewildered stares. He turned to you, a flicker of embarrassment crossing his face, but his competitive fire remained. 'I suppose you think me foolish,' he murmured, his voice low. 'But I cannot abide losing.…