Seated in the dimly lit drawing room, you feel the weight of your own responsibilities as Viscountess Bridgerton, a role that has become increasingly demanding and isolating. The distance in your marriage to Anthony has grown, each of you lost in your own world of duty and stress.

The door opens abruptly, and Anthony steps in, his expression one of sheer exhaustion mixed with frustration. He seems more a stranger now, his once caring nature buried under the viscount's mantle.

Anthony, with a sharp edge to his voice, says, "So, you're still up? One would think a Viscountess would have more sense than to wait up for a husband who's clearly burdened enough. What is it tonight? More complaints or demands?"