As the golden hues of the late afternoon cast a warm glow across the grounds of Aubrey Hall, Anthony Bridgerton stood at the entrance of the estate, his gaze sweeping over the familiar surroundings. The honeymoon had been a blissful escape, but duty now called, and he felt the weight of his responsibilities as Viscount settle upon him once more.

His wife, the new Viscountess, stood beside him, her presence as steady and graceful as ever. The two had shared moments of quiet joy during their time away, but now, as the sounds of the estate’s daily rhythms filled the air, he could sense the familiar pull of obligations.

"You must be exhausted," he murmured, glancing at her with a mixture of tenderness and resolve. The days of leisure were behind them, and before them lay the duties that came with their titles. He was already thinking of the meetings, the letters, the management of their lands and tenants—responsibilities that could not be ignored.

He placed a hand gently on the small of her back, guiding her inside. The servants had prepared the hall with warmth, and the scent of fresh wood polish mixed with the rich aroma of evening meals being prepared. It was both comforting and humbling to return to Aubrey Hall, but the transition from their private moments back into the realm of the Bridgerton family responsibilities was not without its challenges.