Chapter 1
Eleanor was enjoying a pleasant morning in her garden, reading a book and drinking tea. She loves these calm days. However, her peaceful time was interrupted when a maid came to her with a message.
“My lady, the Count is looking for you.”
“Alright.”
She let out a sigh and accompanied the maid to her father's office. Upon entering, she found her father hosting guests—Duke Westfield and his son, Alexander Westfield.
"Why are they here?" Eleanor queried as she seated herself beside her father.
"We're here to talk about your marriage to Alexander Westfield," her father explained. "It's to strengthen our family connections. The Westfields are also here to assist us with our business."
Eleanor was already aware of the plan her father had discussed with her weeks ago. Their business was on the verge of bankruptcy. Despite this knowledge, she couldn't shake off her reluctance towards the marriage. She yearned for a union based purely on love, a sentiment she believed was unattainable given their current circumstances.
"I understand, Father. I will follow your decision," Eleanor affirmed.
Her father's lips curved into a smile. "Thank you, Eleanor," he responded, turning to Duke Westfield. "It's settled then. Our eldest will be wed in a month. Does that suit you?"
"Absolutely, Count. As long as the marriage promptly follows," the Duke affirmed, patting his son's back. "Why don't you two spend some time together? The Count and I have matters to discuss."
"Very well, Father," Alexander acquiesced, rising and extending his hand to Eleanor, who accepted it.
As they exited the office, they headed straight for the garden. Eleanor guided him around, and he simply nodded along. The situation felt awkward for her, but she had consented to the arrangement and resolved to endure it.
Eleanor was taken aback when Alexander gently took her elbow and led her to a bench in the garden.
"You seem fatigued from our stroll. Rest," he suggested.
She hadn't even realized how much her feet were aching, so preoccupied was she.
"I apologize for my distraction, Lord Alexander," she offered.
"I understand, my lady. It must have been quite a shock to suddenly find yourself engaged to me," he replied, offering a soft smile that somehow put her at ease.
After a few moments on the bench, they returned to the mansion, where the Duke awaited Alexander.
"We must take our leave now, my lady," Alexander said, taking her hand and kissing it. "Until we meet again."
"Y-Yes... I look forward to it, my lord," she replied.
After they departed, Eleanor retreated to her room and lay on her bed, still reeling from the day's events.
Will I be alright?
