Chapter 25: Memories of Childhood

The crackling of the fire filled the cozy sitting room at Cavendish Manor, casting a warm glow over the richly furnished space. Eleanor sat curled on a velvet armchair, her legs tucked beneath her, while James settled into the high-backed chair opposite her. A tray of tea and biscuits sat untouched between them as they fell into an easy rhythm of conversation.

“You remember the summer Mother let you direct that play?” James asked, his tone laced with amusement.

Eleanor laughed, the sound light and unrestrained. “How could I forget? You were so reluctant to play the pirate captain.”

James shook his head, a smirk playing at his lips. “Reluctant doesn’t begin to describe it. You had me in that ridiculous hat with the feather!”

“And you were brilliant,” Eleanor teased. “Though I suspect Father only played along to humor me.”

James chuckled. “Humor you? Eleanor, you had him reciting lines from memory. I’ve never seen him look so out of his element.”