Chapter Forty-Eight: Lines Drawn

The atmosphere at Blackwood Estate had shifted since the announcement of Theo’s new venture. For days, hushed conversations and tense glances followed him and Eleanor wherever they went. The Duke of Islington, along with Adrian and Nicholas, had made their disapproval known in subtle but pointed ways. 

This evening, however, the tension bubbled over. 

The family gathered in the grand drawing room, the flickering light of the fireplace casting long shadows across the ornate walls. Theo sat beside Eleanor, his posture relaxed but his eyes watchful. Adrian paced near the window, his jaw clenched, while Nicholas leaned against the mantel, arms crossed. The Duke sat in his usual armchair, his expression dark. 

Adrian was the first to speak, his voice sharp. “This venture of yours, Theo, it’s reckless. You’re risking the family’s reputation and resources on a childish dream.” 

Nicholas nodded in agreement. “The Blackwood name carries weight, Theo. We don’t dabble in business like common merchants. It’s beneath us.” 

Theo’s eyes narrowed. “It’s not reckless. It’s calculated and planned. And it’s not just for me—it’s for the future of this family.” 

The Duke scoffed. “This family has thrived for generations without needing to ‘modernize.’ We adhere to tradition because it works. Your little project threatens to tear us apart.” 

Eleanor, who had been silent until now, couldn’t hold back any longer. “With all due respect, Your Grace, Theo’s venture is precisely what this family needs. Times are changing, and if we don’t adapt, we’ll be left behind.” 

Adrian turned on her, his voice icy. “This is your doing, isn’t it? Ever since you arrived, you’ve been planting these ideas in his head, encouraging him to defy the family.” 

Theo shot to his feet, his voice thunderous. “That’s enough, Adrian! Eleanor is my wife, and she has supported me unconditionally. If you’re looking for someone to blame, blame me.” 

Nicholas shook his head. “You don’t see it, do you? She’s driving a wedge between us. Look at how we’re at each other’s throats now.” 

Eleanor stood, her head held high. “I’m not driving a wedge. I’m standing by my husband, as any loyal wife would. If that bothers you, perhaps you should reflect on why a simple dream of progress threatens you so much.” 

The room fell silent, the weight of her words hanging in the air. 

The Duke finally spoke, his tone heavy with disappointment. “I see now that this cannot continue. If you are so determined to go down this path, Theo, then perhaps it’s time we reassess what it means to be a Blackwood.” 

Theo’s jaw tightened. “What do you mean by that?” 

The Duke gestured to a servant standing in the corner. “Bring the documents,” he ordered. 

Moments later, the servant returned with a heavy ledger bound in worn leather. The Duke opened it, his expression grim. 

“This is your grandfather’s will,” he said. “It outlines the division of the Blackwood properties and assets. If this family is to remain intact, we must follow his wishes. And if there are disagreements, the properties shall be divided accordingly.” 

Adrian looked alarmed. “You can’t be serious, Father. Dividing the estate? It’s unthinkable!” 

The Duke’s gaze remained fixed on Theo. “Your actions have left me no choice. If you wish to pursue your dreams independently, you may do so—but it will be without the full support of the Blackwood estate.” 

Eleanor stepped forward, her voice calm but resolute. “If that’s the price for following one’s dreams, then so be it. Theo and I are prepared to stand on our own.” 

Adrian scoffed. “Prepared to stand on your own? Do you even realize the burden you’re taking on? The Blackwood name carries power and influence—without it, you’re nothing.” 

Theo’s voice cut through the room like a blade. “We’re more than a name. Eleanor and I are building something new, something meaningful. And we’ll succeed, with or without your approval.” 

The Duke sighed heavily, his shoulders sagging. “Very well. If this is your decision, then the estate will be divided. Each of you will receive your share, and we will go our separate ways.” 

The room erupted into chaos as Adrian and Nicholas protested loudly. Theo remained calm, his hand resting lightly on Eleanor’s back as she stood beside him. 

The Duke raised his hand for silence. “This is not a decision I take lightly, but it is necessary. Theo, you may take your share of the properties and funds to support your venture. The rest will remain under the stewardship of the Blackwood estate.” 

Theo nodded. “Thank you, Father. I’ll make good use of it.” 

The meeting ended on a tense note, the family members dispersing with varying degrees of anger and frustration. As Theo and Eleanor walked back to their chambers, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders. 

“Are you all right?” he asked, his voice soft. 

She leaned into him. “I’m fine. Are you?” 

He smiled faintly. “I’m better than fine. For the first time, I feel free.” 

Eleanor looked up at him, her eyes filled with pride. “We’ll build something incredible, Theo. Together.” 

He kissed her forehead, his voice filled with determination. “Yes, we will.” 

As they closed the door to their chambers, they left behind the weight of tradition and family expectations. Ahead of them lay a future of possibilities, one they were ready to face side by side.