A Duke's Lesson in Love

Chapter 25 - A Journey to the Unknown

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a soft golden glow across Eleanor's room. As she stirred from her slumber, a newfound sense of purpose coursed through her veins. The weight of her past and shattered dreams seemed to scatter, replaced by a steely resolve to forge her own path.

Eleanor sat up in bed, excited that she was given a new chance in life and did not have to go back to Hamish and seek for his help. She was going to teach, yes to children of a more unfortunate background but these children have been given the chance to learn and she will ensure that happens.

The journey from England to Scotland was one that Eleanor embarked upon with a heavy heart, each mile travelled feeling like a step further away from a life she had known. She had left behind the opulent halls of Blackwood Manor, with all its whispered secrets and stolen moments, for a future that was shrouded in uncertainty.

The wagon rattled along the winding roads, its wheels clattering over uneven stones as it made its way. The landscape unfolded before her, a patchwork of green fields, rolling hills, and meandering rivers. It was a stark contrast to the grandeur of the manor, a reminder of the simplicity that awaited her in Scotland.

As the miles passed, Eleanor's thoughts were a tumultuous whirlwind. She couldn't help but reflect on the choices that had led her to this point, the decisions made in the throes of passion and the consequences she now faced. Regret gnawed at her, a relentless companion on this solitary journey.

The air began to chill, it caused Eleanor to look up and take in her surroundings. The day has seemingly gone, the moon the only guidance of this journey.

"Are we not to take any rest, it will be another day maybe more before we reach" Eleanor said in the direction of the rider.

"I am to change soon, someone else will take over this ride. We are on strict rules, by Her Grace, to get you to Scotland as quickly as we can."

Eleanor did not know how she can possibly survive the cold in such a wagon, she was exposed. So she curled to herself as best as she could, there were stray pieces of hay attaching itself to her dress, to which for her entertainment she plucked off.

The hours blending into one another as the wagon pressed on, it starting to stutter alongst the ground. They were now travelling off the road, she noticed a man standing with a lantern, this must be the new rider. The exchange was quiet, not one word was passed by these men. Getting into his seat, the new rider turned to look at her before tossing a blanket. He nodded his at it and resumed the journey.

Eleanor's shaky hands quickly grasped at it, unravelling mud coloured blanket and encased herself in it. The ruggedness of the journey, soon became a lullaby and soothed Eleanor unknowingly to sleep.

The harsh sunlight, once something warm and comforting in her room, now glared waking her. Sitting up, she watched the changing landscape through the window. The scenery gradually evolving from the lush greenery of England to the rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands.

Eleanor's emotions were a complex tapestry. She felt a sense of loss for the life she had left behind, the warmth of the Duke's presence, and the laughter of his daughters. Yet, there was also a glimmer of hope, a belief that perhaps in this new place, she could find a measure of redemption.

The journey continued, the miles stretching out further and further away before her. Eleanor's heart was heavy, but there was a flicker of determination within her. she had faced scandal, disgrace, and lost innocence, but she would not be defined by her mistakes. She would carve a new path, one marked by resilience and the pursuit of a better future. And so the wagon stumbled ever onward.

***

The wagon came to halt in front of a charming stone cottage nestled amidst the Scottish fields. It was a far cry from the grandeur of the Duke's manor, but there was a quiet serenity about the place that offered a balm to her weary soul.

As she stepped out of the carriage, a tall, kindly-looking man approached. He introduced himself as Vicar Paul, the overseer of the school where Eleanor would be teaching. His warm smile and gentle demeanour eased some of the tension that had gripped her during the journey.

"Welcome to our humble corner of Scotland, Miss Campbell," he greeted her warmly. "I trust you journey was not to arduous."

Eleanor offered a polite nod, her voice tinged with a hint of gratitude. "Thank you, Vicar. It was a long journey, but I am grateful to be here. It's nice to be home."

The vicar guided her on a brief tour of the surrounding area, pointing out the quaint village nestled nearby and the rolling hills that stretched as far as the eye could see. He spoke of the simple, close-knit people that resided here and the eager young minds that awaited her guidance at the school.

They arrived back at the cottage, and Vicar Paul unlocked the door. It was a cosy space, with a small sitting room warmed by a crackling fireplace and a modest kitchen that held the promise of hearty meals. Eleanor's belongings, which had been transported separately, awaited her in the bedroom, neatly stacked in the corner.

"Your quarters, Miss Campbell," the vicar announced, holding the door open for her.

Eleanor stepped inside and surveyed the room. It was spartan but comfortable, with a bed adorned with a simple but clean linen. The window offered a view of the rolling hills, and the soft sunlight streamed in, bathing the room in a warm, inviting glow.

"Thank you," Eleanor said softly.

The vicar gave her a reassuring smile. "You will find the people here to be warm and welcoming, Miss Campbell. The children are eager to learn, and I have no doubt that your presence will be a blessing to them."

Eleanor nodded, her resolve to make the best of this new beginning strengthening. She knew that she could not change the past, but she could shape the future.

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Thank you soo much for 700 reads!!! I am trying to update at least once a week, there's not going to be a specific date of the week. Just do know that there will be at least 1 chapter per week.

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