Victoria carefully took the notes and leafed through them, fascinated by the clarity and precision with which Arthur had outlined every idea, every project, every possible choice for his future. Each sheet displayed a balance of method, creativity, and pragmatism: a young man who did not rely on luck, but on his own will and ingenuity.
"It's incredible," Victoria murmured, her blue eyes full of excitement. "I never thought… someone could plan so thoroughly. Every detail… every step. And… your handwriting is so beautiful! So neat and harmonious… it makes everything clearer."
Arthur smiled, slightly pleased. "Thank you, Princess. I have always believed that a well-expressed thought should be accompanied by clear writing. It also helps the reader to understand the ideas better."
Victoria felt a shiver of admiration, and at the same time, a desire to understand how she could apply these lessons in her own life. These were not just notes about an entrepreneurial future: they were strategies, insights, tools for facing the world with confidence and independence.
"Arthur," she said in a quiet voice, "I would like to learn. Not to sell soap or build a business… but to think this way. Like you do."
Arthur looked at her intently. His calm, sincere blue eyes conveyed a contagious confidence. "If you wish, I can teach you. Not as a formal lesson, but by sharing what truly works in life, step by step. Every choice has consequences. Every mistake is a lesson. And if you ever need advice when I cannot be present, we can stay in contact through letters. Simply send me a message via a trusted merchant in the Eastern district of the city, and I will reply in the same way."
Victoria nodded, her heart beating faster. This was no longer a simple secret meeting in the garden: she was beginning a path of trust and knowledge that would change her perception of the world.
The sun was nearly gone behind the trees of Kensington Gardens, painting the sky red and gold. Arthur stood, extending his hand in a simple yet meaningful gesture.
"If you ever need guidance or help," he said, "you don't have to face it alone. Even though my life is complicated, I can guide you discreetly. Consider me an ally."
Victoria hesitated for a moment, then shook Arthur's hand, with a mix of timidity and gratitude. "Thank you, Arthur… truly. I've never met anyone like you. Not only for what you do… but for how you think. And for how you write!" she added with a smile, admiring once again the elegant handwriting of his notes.
Frances, a short distance away, watched the scene with a subtle smile. She understood that this was no longer a mere encounter: a bond of mutual trust was forming that no intrigue or imposition could break.
As Victoria slowly walked away with Frances, Arthur remained standing, watching the princess disappear among the tree-lined paths. A new chapter of his life had just begun. Not only was he building his future as an entrepreneur, but he was also planting the first seeds of a subtle yet profound influence on a young woman destined for great responsibilities.
"The work begins now," Arthur murmured to himself, picking up his notes and observing the darkening sky over London. "Every step counts. Every idea must become action… and every letter will be a bridge between us, if necessary."
With that quiet determination, he moved into the streets of the city, ready to turn his plans into reality, aware that this newly forged bond could shape the destiny of both of them.