Chapter Fifty-Five: Eleanor’s Two Titles

The fire crackled softly in the hearth of the drawing room, casting a warm glow over the room as Theo and Eleanor sat in front of it. The vast windows of the Earlsfield estate allowed the moonlight to spill into the room, adding to the soft, serene atmosphere. It was their first night at the estate, and while the excitement of the wine venture and the future of the company were still fresh in Theo’s mind, there was something else that had been weighing on Eleanor’s heart. 

She stretched her arms above her head, letting out a small sigh of frustration as she sank deeper into the plush armchair. 

“It’s getting increasingly difficult,” she muttered, half to herself, as she glanced at Theo, who had been silently watching her. 

Theo raised an eyebrow in amusement. “Difficult? What do you mean?” 

Eleanor leaned back in the chair, glancing at her fingers, as though trying to gather her thoughts. “This whole Duchess of Kensington and Lady Earlsfield business,” she said with a playful frown. “I feel as though I have more titles than I can manage.” 

Theo chuckled softly at her words. “I suppose it must be quite the burden, having the weight of two titles.” 

Eleanor couldn’t help but laugh at the way he said it. She shook her head. “You have no idea. Between overseeing Kensington duties, managing the estate at Earlsfield, attending events, and handling all the paperwork—there’s hardly any time left to breathe, let alone enjoy a quiet evening.” 

Theo leaned back in his own chair, looking at her with a thoughtful gaze. “Well, that’s why I’m here,” he said, his voice filled with tenderness. “You don’t have to carry all that weight alone. You have me, Eleanor.” 

Eleanor’s heart fluttered at the mention of her name. She turned to face him, her lips curling into a playful smile. “Ah yes, my ever-dutiful husband,” she teased, her tone lighthearted. “Between you and the titles, I feel like I’ve got an army behind me.” 

Theo’s expression softened, and he set his drink aside before rising to his feet. “Perhaps I can help with the titles,” he said, walking over to where she sat. He extended his hand toward her. “Or rather, just call you my wife. No titles, no duties. Just Eleanor.” 

Eleanor placed her hand in his, feeling the warmth of his touch. He pulled her gently to her feet, his hands wrapping around her waist as he held her close. His breath brushed against her cheek as he spoke, his voice low and intimate. 

“Between all your titles, Eleanor, for me, you’ll always just be Eleanor—my wife. No Duchess, no Lady. Just you.” 

Her heart swelled at his words, and for a moment, all the pressures of their world seemed to fade away. In his arms, it was as if the titles didn’t matter, only their love did. 

Eleanor leaned her head against his chest, breathing in the comforting scent of him. “That sounds perfect,” she whispered, her voice soft. “I don’t need titles to feel like your wife. I just need you.” 

Theo kissed the top of her head, his hands gently resting on her back. “And you have me, Eleanor. Always.” 

For a few moments, they stood there, savoring the peace of the moment. But soon, the weight of their responsibilities began to return. Eleanor pulled away slightly, looking up at him. 

“I’ve been thinking,” she began, her tone shifting to one of quiet determination. “I know the duties of a Duchess can be overwhelming, but there’s something I want to do. Something for my parents.” 

Theo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “What is it?” 

Eleanor’s eyes darkened with a mix of sadness and resolve. “I want to host a charity ball in their honor.” She took a deep breath, collecting her thoughts. “My parents did so much for the community. They helped countless people in need, and they believed in making the world a better place. I want to continue that legacy.” 

Theo, always supportive, nodded encouragingly. “I think that’s a wonderful idea, Eleanor. But how do you want to go about it?” 

Eleanor bit her lip, her gaze distant as she formulated her plan. “I’d like to hold it here, at Earlsfield. It’s large enough to accommodate the people I want to invite, and it will feel right to host something like this in such a beautiful place.” She paused for a moment before continuing. “The proceeds from the event would go to a shelter I’ve been working with, one that helps women and children escape from abusive situations. My parents were always involved with causes like this, and I think this would be the perfect tribute to them.” 

Theo’s heart swelled with pride. He admired her strength, her compassion, and the way she always thought about others, even when she was carrying so much herself. “You’ve always been remarkable, Eleanor,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “Your parents would be proud of you, and I’ll support you every step of the way. Whatever you need, I’m here.” 

Eleanor smiled, feeling the weight of his support. She had always been certain of his love, but hearing him express it so freely filled her with even more gratitude. “I want to make sure the event is perfect. I want it to honor them the way they deserve. And with your help, I know we can make it happen.” 

Theo kissed her forehead, his touch gentle and reassuring. “We’ll make it happen, Eleanor. And I’ll be right there with you.” 

For the rest of the evening, they discussed the plans for the ball. Theo agreed to help with the organization, handling the more logistical aspects of the event. Eleanor, with her natural charm and organizational skills, would focus on the invitations, the guests, and ensuring the event had the right atmosphere. They talked about who they would invite—family, friends, prominent figures from the community, and anyone who could help support the cause. 

As the night wore on, Eleanor found herself overwhelmed with emotion. The weight of her parents’ passing still lingered, but she had found a way to channel her grief into something positive, something that would help others. And with Theo by her side, she felt empowered to take on whatever challenges came her way. 

Theo, for his part, could see the determination in her eyes. He knew she wasn’t just doing this for her parents. She was doing it because it was who she was—a woman who cared deeply for others, who wanted to make the world a better place. And he admired her for it more than words could express. 

As they retired to their chambers that night, Theo pulled Eleanor close, holding her as though she were the most precious thing in the world. “You’re incredible, Eleanor,” he whispered, his voice filled with love. 

She smiled, her fingers gently brushing his chest. “And you’re my everything, Theo.” 

Together, they drifted off to sleep, their hearts full of hope for the future and the charity ball that would honor the memory of Eleanor’s parents, a fitting tribute to the legacy they had left behind.