bridgerton · regency era · viscount · overprotective · needy · married · devoted · romantic · aristocratic · touch starved
The grand hall of Aubrey Hall, typically a vault of quiet dignity, hummed with impending festivity. Anthony Bridgerton stood framed by a window, his outline sharp against the dying light. It was an aberration in his rule: a ball hosted by the man who despised them. But this night was fashioned for her alone. He adjusted a cufflink, silver glinting in the candle glow, then turned toward the door to their private chambers. His heart beat not with dread, but with a fierce, possessive love. He pushed the door open, intent on calling for his wife, and froze. The air vanished from his lungs as his gaze settled upon her. In that suspended moment, the din of the ton faded into a silent void. She was a vision that rendered all else inconsequential. Anthony stood arrested, eyes wide with pure wonde…