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The Bridgerton House felt far too quiet without Anthony.
Kate had thought she would enjoy the stillness. After all, before Anthony had burst into her life, she had been certain her future held nothing but solitude: a life spent as a governess, her days filled with books and the occasional letter from her sister.
But now, as Viscountess, her days were so different. They were filled with Anthony’s booming laugh, his sharp wit, and his warm touch. The quiet she once believed would be her solace now felt unbearable in his absence.
On the first morning without him, Kate dragged herself to the breakfast table. Her appetite was faint, but the housekeeper insisted she take a proper meal. As she reached for the teapot, a folded slip of parchment caught her eye.
Her heart skipped a beat.
My dearest Kate,
Even the strongest Viscount cannot start his day without his Viscountess. Remember, you are the reason the sun rises in my sky. Yours always, Anthony.
Kate bit her lip, a smile blooming on her face. Trust Anthony to leave her a love note on the very first day.
“Ridiculous man,” she muttered, though her cheeks warmed at the thought of him scribbling it before his departure.
Later that morning, as she wandered into the library in search of distraction, another note appeared. It slipped from the pages of Persuasion as she pulled the book from the shelf.
To my sharp-witted wife,
No novel could ever rival the story of us. Every chapter with you is my greatest treasure. Until I return, let these words keep you company. Forever yours, Anthony.
Kate traced the familiar script with her fingertips. She could practically hear his voice. Soft, teasing and so full of affection.
By the time she headed to the stables for her afternoon ride, she was half-expecting another note. Sure enough, as she reached for her gloves, a piece of parchment peeked out from the pouch.
My fearless Kate,
If I were a horse, I would carry you across the world just to see your smile. Ride safely, my love, and don’t let Newton steal all your affection. All my heart, Anthony.
Her laugh startled Newton, who barked in reply, wagging his tail. She tucked the letter into her pocket, her heart feeling lighter as she mounted her mare.
The notes continued to appear over the following days. One was slipped under her pillow.
My darling Kate,
The bed feels empty without you. I long for the day when I can hold you close again, your warmth chasing away the cold. Yours, in every moment, Anthony.
Another one arrived with a delivery of fresh blooms from the garden.
To my wildflower,
Even the roses envy your beauty. Thank you for bringing spring to my life, even in the dead of winter. All my love, Anthony.
Each note was different. Some playful, some romantic, and others achingly tender. Each one reminded her of how deeply he loved her.
But none could replace him.
On the fifth evening, as Kate prepared for bed, she found herself lingering at the window, staring out at the long driveway. She had no idea when Anthony would return. Business could take days or weeks, he had said, though he promised to hurry back as soon as possible.
She sighed and climbed into bed, her hand brushing against yet another piece of parchment tucked under his pillow.
My darling wife,
The nights are endless without you. I dream of the moment I walk through our door and find you waiting for me, your smile brighter than any star. Until then, sleep well, my love. Yours, in this life and the next, Anthony.
A lump formed in her throat as she clutched the note to her chest. How did he always know exactly what to say?
The next morning, she awoke to an unusual commotion outside her window. Newton barked furiously, and the sound of hooves echoed in the crisp air. Kate shot out of bed, her heart racing as she pulled on her robe and ran to the window.
There he was.
Anthony dismounted in one swift motion, his dark coat billowing as he handed the reins to a stable hand. His gaze lifted toward the window, and when he spotted her, his face broke into a wide smile.
Kate didn’t bother with decorum. She dashed down the stairs and flung open the front door, running into his arms the moment he stepped through.
“Anthony,” she cried, her voice muffled as she buried her face in his chest.
“My Kate,” he murmured, his arms wrapping around her tightly. “Did you miss me?”
“Ridiculously so,” she admitted, her voice trembling.
He leaned back just enough to look at her, his eyes brimming with love. “I hope my letters helped.”
“They did,” she said, laughing softly as tears slipped down her cheeks. “But nothing compares to having you here.”
He kissed her then, slow and sweet, as if to make up for every moment they’d been apart. When they finally parted, he rested his forehead against hers.
“I’m never leaving you again,” he promised.
Kate smiled, her heart full. “You’d better not. I’m keeping all your notes, just in case.”