Months drifted by as Fred continued his studies abroad, his correspondence with Victoria a highlight among the rigors of academic life. Though an ocean separated their bodies, their hearts and souls grew ever nearer through candid letters sharing hopes, dreams and memories of fleeting moments spent in each other's arms.
As winter released its icy hold on the English countryside, Fred received joyous news – Victoria's indenture was finished and she was preparing to strike out on her own. Through frugal saving and David's generosity, a small shopfront in the village was secured where Victoria intended opening a hair salon, finally gaining the independence she'd long craved.
It was then that a precious envelope arrived, containing several handwritten pages and a tightly folded note. Hands trembling with anticipation, Fred broke the seal to read Victoria's eloquent words:
_My dearest Fred,_
_Your steadfast support and affection have carried me through these long months of toil. At last, a new chapter is unfolding which I hope may bring us closer to the joyous reunion we have envisioned so many times before the fire._
_As you know, my service has drawn to a close with the turning of spring. David has been to loyal a friend, providing funds to establish my own business venturing into hairdressing – a trade some village women have taught me possesses both dignity and demand. It brings me humble pride to have the means at last to stand on my own and shape my own future, thanks to the kindness of those who believed in me when I could not._
_And so I write with a request, and a heart overflowing with hope. The shop is nearly prepared to open its doors. However, a few supplies and furnishings still require funding to complete the venture. I know not how to repay such a debt, but beg that you might provide a loan so small it would be but a trifle to your means, which to me would represent the world. With your faith and backing, I know that success is within my grasp to earn an honest living and contribute to society through honest labour of my own accord. It would mean more than any words can express to have your faith in this new chapter._
_I close with a promise, that if you grant this favor I shall work tirelessly each day not only to repay your generosity in full, but also to prove myself worthy of a place by your side, should you wish to make an honest woman of me some joyous morn. For it is you, my dear Fred, who have lit the way and rekindled hope in my heart where once was None._
_All my love,_
_Victoria_
A second enclosures contained Victoria's business proposal and accounts of projected earnings, meticulously outlined in her neat hand. Fred's eyes misted as he held aloft the fragile note containing the purest words of devotion and gratitude he could imagine. Her affirmation of feeling warmed him to the core, striking a spark that swelled into a grand plan taking shape in his entrepreneurial mind.
Snatching pen and paper, Fred set furiously to drafting a reply expressing his wholehearted belief in and support of Victoria's dreams. Funds would be made available at modest interest to purchase essential supplies; however, he proposed an alternative which could lift her prospects even higher with minimal risk.
If she accepted, it would mean Victoria rising to heights she never dared imagine – and bring them irrevocably closer to the life they both longed to build.,