Chapter Forty-Six: Dreams Beyond Expectations

The late afternoon sunlight filtered through the expansive windows of their private sitting room, casting a golden glow across the warm wooden tones of the furniture. Theo sat by the fireplace, a glass of scotch in his hand, his thoughts distant. Eleanor entered quietly, her steps light as she carried a tray of tea and biscuits. She had noticed his pensive mood and knew better than to interrupt him outright. 

She set the tray down on the small table beside him, her gaze resting on his furrowed brow. “Theo?” she said softly, her voice gentle yet inquisitive. 

He glanced up, offering her a faint smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Eleanor.” 

Taking a seat across from him, she poured herself a cup of tea, her movements deliberate as she gave him space to collect his thoughts. When he remained quiet, she leaned forward, her eyes full of curiosity and concern. “What’s troubling you?” 

He swirled the amber liquid in his glass, his gaze fixed on the swirling patterns. “Do you ever feel,” he began slowly, “like there’s more to life than this? Than following the path laid out for us?” 

Eleanor tilted her head, intrigued. “Go on.” 

Theo set the glass down, leaning back in his chair. “When I was younger, before all this talk of estates and family responsibilities, I had a dream. I wanted to start a company—a business that was truly mine, something built from the ground up. It would be innovative, bold, and… completely different from the traditional ventures of the Blackwood family.” 

Her lips curved into a soft smile. “What kind of company?” 

“A luxury goods company,” he said, his voice gaining a touch of enthusiasm. “Clothing, accessories, even fragrances—things that combine timeless elegance with modern sophistication. I’ve always thought that our aristocratic traditions could inspire something fresh, something that speaks to the present without losing the essence of the past.” 

Eleanor’s smile widened. “That sounds remarkable, Theo. Why haven’t you pursued it?” 

His expression darkened slightly. “Because my father believes it’s beneath us. He’s always said such endeavors are for merchants, not for a family of our standing. ‘The Blackwoods manage estates and hold influence in Parliament,’ he told me. ‘Leave commerce to the commoners.’” 

Eleanor frowned, her fingers curling around her teacup. “That’s absurd. Innovation and ambition are not beneath anyone, least of all you.” 

Theo sighed, running a hand through his hair. “It’s not just his words. The weight of tradition, of expectations—it’s stifling. Every time I think of pursuing it, I hear his voice in my head, telling me it’s far out of our league.” 

Eleanor set her cup down, leaning forward with determination. “Theo, listen to me. If this is your dream, then it’s worth fighting for. The world is changing, and so must we. You’re intelligent, creative, and resourceful. If anyone can bridge tradition with innovation, it’s you.” 

Her unwavering support made his heart swell, and for the first time in hours, a genuine smile spread across his face. “You really think so?” 

“I know so,” she said firmly. “And you’re not alone in this. I’ll support you every step of the way, no matter what challenges come our way.” 

He reached across the table, taking her hand in his. “Eleanor, you have no idea how much that means to me.” 

She squeezed his hand, her eyes sparkling with determination. “Then let’s make it happen. What’s the first step?” 

Theo chuckled, a flicker of excitement returning to his eyes. “Well, I’ve had a few ideas sketched out for years, but they’re outdated now. I’ll need to revisit them, refine the concepts, and start building connections outside our usual circles.” 

Eleanor nodded. “And the funding? Have you thought about how you’ll approach it?” 

He hesitated, then admitted, “I have some savings, but it won’t be enough. I may need to pitch the idea to potential investors—discreetly, of course.” 

“I can help with that,” Eleanor offered. “I may not have the business expertise, but I know how to navigate social circles. Together, we can find people who believe in your vision.” 

Theo’s gaze softened as he looked at her, admiration evident in his expression. “You’re incredible, Eleanor.” 

She laughed lightly. “No, I’m just your wife. And as your wife, it’s my duty to ensure your dreams become reality.” 

They spent the next hour discussing his ideas, her enthusiasm reigniting his passion. For the first time in years, Theo allowed himself to dream freely, unburdened by his father’s disapproval or societal expectations. 

As the evening wore on, Eleanor excused herself to fetch dinner. When she returned, she found Theo at his desk, poring over old notes with a newfound energy. She stood quietly for a moment, watching him work. This was the man she had fallen in love with—ambitious, driven, and full of untapped potential. 

“Dinner can wait,” she said softly, placing the tray down. “This… this is more important.” 

Theo looked up, his gratitude shining in his eyes. “Thank you, Eleanor. For everything.” 

She smiled, leaning down to kiss his cheek. “No thanks needed, Theo. Just promise me one thing.” 

“Anything,” he said without hesitation. 

“When you achieve this dream, remember that it started with your courage to defy the odds. And never let anyone—your father, society, or even yourself—convince you that it’s out of your league.” 

Theo stood, pulling her into his arms. “I promise,” he murmured, his voice filled with conviction. “With you by my side, I feel like anything is possible.” 

Eleanor rested her head against his chest, a contented smile on her lips. Together, they were unstoppable, a force to be reckoned with. And as Theo’s dream began to take shape, Eleanor knew this was only the beginning of their journey—one where tradition and ambition would collide to create something extraordinary.