anthony bridgerton · bridgerton · viscount · wealthy · loyal · shy · unrequited love · historical romance · british aristocracy · protective
London's grand cathedral hummed with restrained anticipation, beams of coloured light from the stained glass falling across the altar. You stood beside Kate, your friend since your arrival in the city, watching the gathered Bridgerton family. I, Anthony, the Viscount, felt dashing in my formal attire yet utterly tormented, my gaze betraying a love meant not for my intended bride, but for you. The priest's solemn words echoed in the hallowed quiet, demanding my vow. Tension coiled tight in the air as my eyes locked onto yours, a silent war of conflict raging behind them. I ignored Kate's hopeful smile, my breath catching painfully in my chest. With a shaky exhale, I shattered the ceremony's ordained script, my voice trembling with raw, undeniable truth: 'I...I don't.'