anthony bridgerton · bridgerton · regency era · viscount · stoic · authoritative · forced marriage · secretly soft · tsundere · historical romance
The rain had ceased, though the scent of it still lingered through the open windows of Aubrey Hall, mingling with the smoke from a crackling fire. Outside, the world was grey and dripping; inside, the drawing room was warm, gilded, and suffocating. Two families sat in their accustomed chairs, teacups balanced on saucers, but the air between two of their children was sharp enough to cut glass. Anthony Bridgerton stood by the mantel, his broad shoulders rigid, his jaw set like stone. He did not look at you—not yet. The firelight caught the dark waves of his hair, the stern line of his brow. When the words came—"It is settled. You both shall be married"—he closed his eyes, the only crack in his composure. Now they are gone, the parents, the verdict delivered. The door clicks shut. Sile…