Chapter Nineteen: A Ride Through Town

The morning sun streamed through the grand windows of Kensington Manor, illuminating the polished floors of the foyer. Theodore Blackwood stood with the Duke and Duchess of Kensington, his hands clasped behind his back as they exchanged pleasantries. His tall, poised figure exuded confidence, yet his thoughts were elsewhere. Today, he would take Eleanor into town, a gesture not only to court her but also to spend time beyond the strict confines of aristocratic dinners and garden walks. 

“She is nearly ready,” the Duchess said, her voice calm and composed. “I hope you’ll pardon her slight delay; Eleanor has always taken her time to prepare, especially when it comes to outings of importance.” 

“I assure you, Duchess,” Theodore replied smoothly, a faint smile tugging at his lips, “perfection often demands patience. Lady Kensington never fails to embody it.” 

The Duke chuckled lightly. “A true gentleman, Lord Blackwood. It is a relief to see you both enjoying each other’s company. Your intentions are becoming clear to everyone present.” 

Before Theodore could respond, the sound of footsteps echoed down the grand staircase. He turned his head just in time to see Eleanor descending, her gown a soft shade of lavender that complemented her delicate features. Her hair was elegantly pinned up, a few loose curls framing her face. She carried herself with the grace of her station, but her sharp eyes hinted at a fiery independence that never failed to captivate him. 

“Lady Kensington,” Theodore greeted her, bowing slightly. As she reached the last step, he extended his hand, which she accepted with practiced ease. He brought her gloved fingers to his lips, placing a gentle kiss that lingered just a moment longer than propriety demanded. 

“You’re prompt as always, Lord Blackwood,” Eleanor remarked, her tone polite but edged with a hint of teasing. 

“And you are as enchanting as ever,” he replied, offering his arm. “Shall we?” 

The Duchess and Duke exchanged satisfied smiles as they watched their daughter and Theodore step out of the house. The waiting horse-drawn carriage gleamed under the morning light, its polished brass fittings catching the sun. Theodore helped Eleanor into the carriage with a practiced hand before climbing in beside her. 

As the carriage rolled down the gravel path leading from the Kensington estate, Theodore glanced at her. “I hope you do not mind a simple outing, Lady Kensington. I thought it fitting to explore town life together.” 

“I find simplicity refreshing,” she replied, her gaze steady. “Too often, we’re confined to ballrooms and parlors. A change of scenery is most welcome.” 

Theodore smiled, pleased by her response. “You surprise me, Lady Kensington. I had expected a more… traditional answer.” 

Eleanor raised a brow, a small smile playing on her lips. “I have no intention of being predictable, Lord Blackwood. It would make life dreadfully dull.” 

He chuckled, leaning slightly back in his seat. “A sentiment I find myself agreeing with.” 

As the carriage made its way into town, the conversation shifted naturally. Theodore began discussing recent developments in Parliament, his voice steady and authoritative. He spoke of trade policies, alliances, and the state of the monarchy, expecting Eleanor to listen politely, as most women of her rank would. 

Instead, she surprised him. 

“I must say,” Eleanor interjected, “the current stance on trade seems rather short-sighted. The world is evolving, and clinging to outdated practices will only hinder progress.” 

Theodore’s brow arched, his interest piqued. “An interesting perspective, Lady Kensington. Not one I often hear from…” He hesitated, choosing his words carefully. “From women of our standing.” 

She met his gaze, unflinching. “Perhaps that is because too many women of our standing are taught to keep their thoughts to themselves. But I see no harm in expressing mine, especially when the matter concerns our future as a nation.” 

He regarded her for a moment, his sharp eyes taking in her determined expression. “I must admit, Lady Kensington, I am impressed. You do not shy away from challenging convention.” 

“Convention has its place,” she replied, her tone measured. “But it should not be a cage.” 

Theodore was silent for a moment, his thoughts racing. He had always sought a woman who could stand beside him as an equal, someone unafraid to challenge the norms of their rigid society. Eleanor was proving to be just that—and more. 

“Your opinions are refreshing,” he said finally. “Though I suspect not everyone in our circles would agree.” 

“Perhaps not,” she admitted. “But I have no intention of shaping myself to fit their expectations.” 

He smiled, a genuine warmth in his expression. “Then you and I may have more in common than I initially thought.” 

The carriage slowed as they entered the bustling heart of town. Eleanor leaned slightly forward, peering out the window at the rows of shops and the lively crowds. Market stalls lined the cobblestone streets, their vendors calling out to passersby. Aristocrats strolled arm in arm, their finely tailored attire setting them apart from the merchants and townsfolk. 

Theodore gestured toward a small café with a charming terrace. “Shall we stop here for a moment? I’ve heard their tea is unparalleled.” 

“Lead the way, Lord Blackwood,” Eleanor replied, her tone light. 

He stepped out first, offering his hand to help her down. Once they were seated at a table overlooking the street, Theodore ordered tea and pastries, the finest the establishment had to offer. 

As they sipped their tea, their conversation grew lighter, interspersed with playful banter. Theodore found himself drawn to her wit and intelligence, the way she carried herself with confidence yet remained approachable. Eleanor, in turn, was intrigued by his sharp mind and subtle charm, the way he seemed genuinely interested in her thoughts and opinions. 

“You know,” Theodore said, leaning slightly forward, “I cannot help but wonder if you’ve been deliberately hiding this side of yourself, Lady Kensington. You are far more intriguing than I had anticipated.” 

She smiled, a glint of mischief in her eyes. “Perhaps I have. But then, it seems you’ve been hiding a part of yourself as well, Lord Blackwood.” 

He tilted his head, a smirk playing on his lips. “Touché.” 

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over the town, Theodore signaled for the carriage to be brought around. He helped Eleanor back into the carriage, his touch lingering for a moment longer than necessary. 

On the ride back to Kensington Manor, their conversation shifted once again to politics, literature, and their shared experiences as members of Britain’s elite. Theodore found himself more captivated by her with each passing moment. She was unlike anyone he had ever known—a woman who could challenge him intellectually while maintaining an air of grace and poise. 

When they arrived at the estate, Theodore stepped out first, extending his hand to Eleanor. As she took it, he bent slightly, pressing another kiss to her gloved fingers. 

“Thank you for a most enlightening day, Lady Kensington,” he said, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. 

“The pleasure was mine, Lord Blackwood,” she replied, her eyes meeting his. 

As he climbed back into the carriage, Theodore couldn’t help but glance back at her one last time. Lady Kensington stood on the steps of her family’s grand estate, her figure framed by the golden light of the setting sun. She was a vision of elegance and strength, a woman who had managed to challenge every preconceived notion he had held about the role of women in their society. 

As the carriage pulled away, Theodore leaned back in his seat, a thoughtful expression on his face. Lady Kensington was no ordinary woman, and he knew, without a doubt, that his life would never be the same again.