A Pledge of Survival

XI

"I want to assure you, Eleanor, that your presence, as well as your sibling's, is an absolute blessing. Our home hasn't seen such lively days in quite a while. Just look at the joy Nathaniel and Hope radiate as they have young ones to play with," Paige expressed warmly while casting an affectionate gaze upon her children.

Eleanor peered into Paige's eyes and thought she detected traces of sorrow, though she swiftly dismissed the notion as Paige clasped her hand, offering a heartfelt smile.

"Elle," Abigail's voice rang out with excitement, "Do you see how much Hope adores me? Can I please have a niece or nephew?" She implored with her eyes.

A sudden burst of laughter filled the room as Thomas entered, followed by Noah. Eleanor blushed deeply and avoided making eye contact with anyone.

"There, there, Abbie, it's not quite as simple as that. Let's not put any undue pressure on Ellie," Thomas advised.

Abigail curiously inquired, "How did I pressure her? I simply desire a niece or nephew. Is that too much to ask for?"

Eleanor wished she could vanish into thin air. It appeared that everyone was relishing this moment of embarrassment, with Paige laughing quietly and Eleanor catching a subtle smirk from Noah.

"Abbie, dear, we will discuss this matter later. For now, go and enjoy your time with Nathaniel and Hope before we depart."

Eleanor's response seemed to prompt a swift reaction, as two heads turned sharply in her direction. Thomas was seated in a nearby chair.

"Eleanor," Paige began, only to be interrupted by Noah's firm voice, "You will not be leaving today, Miss Osborne."

"What was wrong with this man?" she wondered. He had the audacity to issue orders, yet he seemed genuinely concerned about her well-being. She found herself lost, and Thomas's inquisitive gaze only added to her confusion.

"Paige, forgive my directness, but have you ever been told that your brother possesses rather domineering habits, expecting people to comply with his commands?" She kept her focus on Noah while addressing Paige.

"Oh dear, you've noticed as well. I apologize, Eleanor; it appears he has yet to learn proper behavior in the presence of a lady," Paige responded.

It was now Thomas's turn to chuckle. "Tommy, let's not ignite a quarrel here." Elanor interjected.

"Now, please prepare the girls; it's getting late, and we must return home before nightfall," Eleanor asserted with determination in her voice.

"Paige, Lord Hayward, I am genuinely grateful for your gracious hospitality. Please convey my heartfelt apologies to the Duke and her Grace for my unexpected stay. However, I cannot impose our presence any longer."

Noah was at a loss for words to convince her to stay. He turned to his sister, silently pleading for her support. It seemed that Paige and Eleanor had formed a strong friendship during their time together.

Paige regarded him with curiosity before smiling warmly. "Eleanor, if it doesn't disrupt your plans, I'd love to continue our conversation a while longer. It's been such a rare opportunity."

"God, I am truly blessed to have such a sister," Noah thought, watching as Eleanor began to contemplate the idea.

"We shall depart tomorrow morning, then," she declared, her tone carrying a hint of resignation. A broad smile broke across Noah's face, and he struggled to conceal his joy. She may not have been addressing him for reasons he chose to ignore, but at least she was safe.

******

Noah had spent the late afternoon at his father's side, attempting to concentrate on his work without much success.

"Son, would you care to share the cause of your distraction, or should I attempt to deduce it myself?" his father inquired.

Noah hesitated, uncertain of how to respond. He longed to leave the room.

"Could it possibly be related to a certain young lady currently residing under our roof?" his father prodded.

"Dad, you're well aware of it, stop teasing me," Noah replied, his voice tinged with embarrassment, as his father chuckled at his reaction.

"I never thought this day would come, Noah, but I am more than delighted that you have found what you deserve."

"Dad, don't jump to conclusions; she doesn't hold me in such high regard. In fact, she despises me."

"You still have much to learn, Noah. This young lady has faced difficulties and hardships. You cannot expect her to readily embrace you without demonstrating that you are a true gentleman. Remember, son, the privileged life we lead is not universal. Some people struggle to put food on their tables, and it is our duty to assist and respect them."

"What can I do to prove myself to her, then?"

"Your answer, my son, lies in your own discovery. However, I must tell you that when I met your mother, she was the most beautiful and determined woman I had ever encountered," he recalled fondly. "She needed to feel safe, Noah. So, I provided her with security, not only through material possessions but also through my actions."

His father's words struck a chord with him. He needed to demonstrate to Eleanor that he was a man she could trust.

******

Eleanor sat alone on the balcony, shivering in the cold winter air, but she needed the solitude.

"I won't mince words, Miss Osborne, but it appears you have an uncanny ability to worry me incessantly."

Eleanor abruptly turned her head at the sound of Noah's approaching shadow, stopping beside her chair. She hardly had time to react before he draped a warm woolen blanket over her cold form.

"I... umm..." She struggled for words, her nervousness causing him to break into a broad smile. He had a captivating smile.

Maintaining a respectful distance, he continued, "I'm unaware of the cause of your resentment towards me, Eleanor, but I must assure you that the accusations you've leveled against me are unfounded."

His voice exuded warmth and composure, and the use of her name made her heart skip a beat. She felt the need to compose herself, but no words came, and Noah took it as an invitation to continue.

"I'm a simple man, Eleanor. At times, I may appear stern, but I value honesty and would never break a promise. It seems that the entire world is aware of my feelings for a certain someone, except the lady in question." He paused as if gathering his thoughts.

Eleanor felt bewildered. Why was Noah confiding in her about his feelings for another woman?

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The wait was worth it .... but it seems their story will bit more complicated than expected !! 

Hope you enjoyed it !!