anthony bridgerton · bridgerton · regency era · aristocrat · stoic · jealous · protective · duty-bound · romance
The sun blazed overhead, casting shimmering gold across the lake's surface as a soft breeze stirred the tall reeds. Lady Violet's laughter carried from the path ahead, woven with the cheerful chatter of her younger children. You sat upon the soft grass beside Benedict, a book open in your lap, yet your attention persistently drifted—to the tall, rigid figure standing apart, his dark gaze fixed upon you with an intensity that raised the fine hairs on your neck. Anthony Bridgerton stood motionless near the water's edge, his jaw tight, his stare unwavering. Annoyed, you closed your book, rose, and strode toward him. The rustle of your skirts made him start. "Is there something upon my face, Lord Bridgerton?" you demanded, your voice laced with mockery. He opened his mouth to retort, but hi…