A Duke's Lesson in Love

Chapter 28 - A Gentle Hand in Sickness

The morning light seeped through the curtains, exposing Eleaner as she lay restless and fevered. A sudden wave of nausea overcame her, she rushed to the small washbasin, exhausted from her waves of nausea.

Nichole, hearing the commotion, hurried into the room in her nightdress, concern etched over her face. "Eleanor, what's happened?"

Eleanor shakily raised her head, revealing her paled face. Wiping her mouth with the back of her hand, she uttered weakly, "I don't know, I just felt so, suddenly dizzy, and then..."

Nichole wasted no time and rushed to help Eleanor sit up and wrap her blanket around Eleanor. After doing so, she hurried out calling muttering something.

Eleanor's head began feeling heavy and rested it her bed. Just as she was to close her eyes, Nichole ran in. To Eleanor's surprise, the Vicar was next to her, in a sweat as if he ran. His eyes widened with concern at the sight of Eleanor's weakened state.

"What happened?" he asked, his tone gentle.

"I think I'm just feeling a bit under the weather," Eleanor replied, her voice frail.

Paul, ever the caring person, felt Eleanor's forehead with the back of his hand. "You're feeling a little warm, nothing serious. We need to take care of you. Nichole, some water and a damp towel?"

Nichole nodded, rushing to fill the vicar's request. As she hurried about, Paul stayed close to Eleanor, a silent reassurance in his eyes. The warmth of his hand on her forehead offered her a comforting contrast to the unsettling feeling in her stomach.

When Nichole returned with the cloth and a jug of water, Paul took hold of the damp cloth and wiped Eleanor's face. "You need to rest, Eleanor. I'll make sure you have everything you need."

Eleanor managed a weak smile. "Thank you, Vicar. I don't know what could have brought this on."

Paul exchanged a glance with Nichole, both of them sharing a silent concern. Nichole spoke up, "Perhaps it's just a passing illness. You've been working so hard, Eleanor. Your body might be telling you to take a break."

The vicar nodded in agreement. "Nichole is right. Rest is what you need now. We'll be here if you need anything. If things seem to worsen, we than shall call for a doctor."

Eleanor feeling overwhelmed by the kindness, nodded. "Thank you, I appreciate your kindness."

As Eleanor settled back into her bed, the vicar and Nichole took turns checking on her throughout the day. The small, simple room became a haven of care and concern, a testament to the makeshift family that had formed in this quaint Scottish village.

In the quiet moments between bouts of sickness and fevered dream, Eleanor couldn't help but be grateful for the unexpected support that had surrounded her. Ans as Paul sat by her bedside, offering soothing words and a comforting presence, the subtle whispers of care and affection resonated through the small room, painting the air with a warmth that transcended the confines of duty and friendship.

***

Once again the sun rose, casting a soft glow through the windows of the cottage. Eleanor, though still weakened, felt a slight improvement after a night of rest. Vicar Paul, true to his caring nature, had been constant presence by her side, ensuring her comfort and offering gentle words of encouragement.

As Eleanor sipped on a cup of herbal tea, the vicar seated beside her, a newfound camaraderie blossomed between them. The walls of formality began to crumble, revealing the vulnerability that hid behind their respective roles.

"Eleanor," Vicar began, his voice a warm murmur, "I have caught a feeling of discomfort within you, you've seemed to have gone through a lot. If there's anything troubling you, please know that you can share it with me."

Eleanor looked into his eyes, a flicker of uncertainty dancing in her gaze. "Paul, I... It's just that... well, I never excepted my life to take such a turn. I was a governess in England, and now here I am, in Scotland, under your care."

The vicar nodded understandingly. "Life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths. Sometimes, we find ourselves in places we never imagined."

Encourage by his empathetic demeanour, Eleanor took a deep breath, took hold of his hand and decided to share the burden that weighed on her heart. "I must confess, Vicar, that I've been intimate with a man, back in England. I worry that such actions have distanced me from the grace of God."

Paul's expression remained calm, devoid of judgement. "We all carry burdens, and seeking forgiveness or even guidance is a step forward . Your honesty is commendable."

As the vicar spoke, unaware of the presence lingering outside the door, Nichole stood in the hallway, her eyes wide with astonishment. The revelation of Eleanor's past was an unexpected shock, and she grappled with the weight of the information she had unintentionally uncovered.

Inside the room, Vicar Paul continued, "In God's eyes, we are all flawed beings striving for redemption. Your sincerity in seeking forgiveness is a testament to the strength of your character."

Eleanor, comforted by his words, offered a small smile. "Thank you Paul, I feel a sense of peace know that I have you and your vast knowledge at hand."

As their conversation deepened, the vicar and Eleanor forged a bond built on shared confidences and mutual understanding. Unbeknownst to them, the overhearing Nichole grappled with the revelation, contemplating whether to confront Eleanor or keep this newfound knowledge a secret.

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