Chapter 14 - A VISITOR WITH LIGHT IN HER EYES
Two months after they settled into the new home on the hill, a light traveling coach bearing the crest of the Royal Historical Society arrived at the driveway.
A young woman in a tailored dark green walking dress stepped out, holding a leather satchel and a roll of heavy parchment maps. She had warm, intelligent brown eyes, dark hair neatly pinned in a bun, and a bright, genuine smile that instantly illuminated her face.
Julian stepped down from the porch steps to greet her. "Good morning, miss. May I assist you?"
"Good morning," the young woman replied politely, offering a gentle bow. "I am Clara Vance—no relation, though perhaps by some distant branch of the lineage. I am a lead archivist sent by the Royal Historical Society in the capital. The Crown has commissioned an official biographical volume on the life, techniques, and heroic sacrifice of your father, Thomas Vance."
Julian’s heart warmed instantly at her words. "A royal biography for my father?"
"Yes," Clara smiled, her brown eyes shining with deep sincerity. "His land surveying methods saved the Crown millions, but more importantly, his integrity is being taught as an ethical standard for all future state surveyors. I was hoping to interview his family."
Eleanor walked out onto the wooden porch, wiping her hands on a white linen apron. "You are more than welcome here, child. Please, come inside out of the noon heat. We have cold lemonade and fresh berry pie."
May you like
Clara stepped onto the porch, looking at Eleanor with immense respect. "It is an absolute honor to meet you, Mrs. Vance. Your story of endurance is known throughout the capital."
As Clara stepped past Julian into the hallway, her shoulder lightly brushed his. Julian caught a subtle scent of dried lavender and old paper. When Clara turned to hand him her cloak, their eyes met for a long, quiet second—a spark of deep, mutual understanding passing between them that did not escape Eleanor’s watchful, affectionate gaze.
