Theodore Greystone's day had been long and taxing, filled with urgent meetings and matters that demanded his full attention. Yet the moment he learned that Eleanor had arrived at his family estate, all business lost its importance.
He could not wait. His meetings were hastily concluded, letters and accounts set aside, as he rode with unusual urgency. He had to see her, to ensure she was safe, and to understand why she was here.
Arriving at the estate, he entered the celebratory hall briskly. And there she was — just inside the doorway, laughing brightly, her attention entirely on William. The younger brother leaned toward her, teasing, joking, their ease and familiarity unmistakable. Theodore's chest tightened.
He had known William all his life — a brother loyal, warm, and quick to charm, yet steadfastly protective of family. Their bond ran deep, forged in shared childhood memories and unspoken understanding. Seeing William happily conversing with Eleanor, so relaxed and radiant, struck Theodore more sharply than he anticipated.
He forced himself to greet his parents with a formal nod, voice steady, though his eyes kept darting toward Eleanor. Despite his irritation and the sting of jealousy, he could not deny the scene before him: William's natural warmth drew Eleanor into laughter and conversation, a dynamic both effortless and captivating.
Frustration, protectiveness, and a reluctant ache churned within Theodore. He had hurried across the countryside for this moment, only to find Eleanor immersed in his brother's attention. And yet, even as irritation flared, he recognized the truth — William's nature made him a companion people gravitated toward, and Eleanor's laughter was irresistibly drawn to it.
He lingered at the edge of the hall, masking the turbulence inside behind the practiced composure of the heir. His gaze tracked Eleanor's gestures, her joy, and William's attentive responses. Even as he greeted his parents formally, Theodore could not escape the pang in his chest: Eleanor was in his house, yet freely enjoying William's company.
A quiet, insistent determination began to take root. He had underestimated the strength of his feelings, and seeing her here — alive, unguarded, yet so near — reminded him that he could no longer ignore the depth of what he felt.