Speaker 1: 0:00

Renaissance, episode 2, shadows in the Grove. The letter was clutched tightly in Queenie's hand as she stepped out into the dusky streets of Florence. Her mind raced with questions, each one more urgent than the last. Who had sent it? What could they possibly know about her and Alexander? The words had been so direct, yet veiled with the kind of subtle menace that made her chest tighten. But even as doubt whispered in her mind, queenie pressed forward. She was no stranger to challenges, and if someone thought they could use secrets to tear her from Alexander, they would have to do far more than leave cryptic notes. Love, she reminded herself, was here and it was here to stay.

Speaker 1: 0:56

The grove came into view, the last traces of sunlight casting long shadows among the trees. She paused her breath catching as a figure stepped forward from the darkness. It wasn't Alexander. Miss Marlowe said Eleanor Covertine, her voice calm yet carrying an undercurrent of urgency. I was afraid you wouldn't come. Queenie blinked in surprise. She had only seen Eleanor once, from a distance, during one of Alexander's attempts to sneak her into the periphery of his world. The young woman had a reputation for being quiet and unassuming, but the steel in her expression now told a different story. Lady Eleanor, queenie said carefully. I wasn't expecting you, I imagine not. Eleanor replied, stepping closer. But you and my brother have made yourselves quite the subject of speculation lately. It's only a matter of time before my father finds out.

Speaker 1: 2:04

Queenie's heart sank. She had known the risk of being with Alexander, but hearing it spoken aloud by his sister made it feel far too real. I don't know what you're hoping to achieve by summoning me here, she said, folding her arms. If you've come to warn me off, save your breath. Eleanor tilted her head, studying her with a faint smile. Warn you off Hardly.

Speaker 1: 2:35

I wanted to meet the woman who has managed to make my brother defy a lifetime of expectations, and I confess I was curious about the person willing to challenge the coveted name. Queenie's guard softened slightly, though her posture remained firm. And now that you've met me, you're exactly as I imagined, eleanor said, her smile growing Intelligent, strong, unafraid to speak your mind. She paused her expression, turning serious. But I need to know something. Do you truly understand what you're asking of him? Queenie's lips parted in surprise. I haven't asked anything of him. I haven't asked anything of him, she said fiercely. Alexander made his own choices, did he? Eleanor's gaze was piercing, though not unkind.

Speaker 1: 3:35

My brother is a dreamer, miss Marlowe. He's lived his entire life yearning for something more, something real, and now he's found it in you. But do you know what that means, what it will cost both of you? Queenie hesitated, the weight of Eleanor's words settling over her. She had thought about the risks how could she not? But hearing them laid out so plainly made her stomach churn. I know it won't be easy, she admitted, but I also know that love like this doesn't come along twice in a lifetime. I won't apologize for loving him and I won't let anyone take that from us. Eleanor studied her for a long moment, her expression unreadable. Finally, she nodded Good, she said simply Because if you had wavered for even a moment, I would have told you to walk away. My brother deserves someone who loves him as fiercely as he loves you.

Speaker 1: 4:42

Queenie blinked, unsure if she had heard correctly. You, you're not trying to stop us. Eleanor's smile returned, this time softer. I've lived in this world long enough to know how hollow it is. The people in those grand ballrooms care more about status and appearances than anything real. Watching you and Alexander, it's the first time I've seen something genuine in years, and I'll be damned if I let my father crush that. Queenie's breath caught. Why are you helping us? Because I believe in what you have. Eleanor said simply. But you must be careful. My father isn't a man who takes betrayal lightly, and neither is Eloise. If you want to stay in Alexander's life, you'll need allies. And now she added with a wry smile you have one.

Speaker 1: 5:46

Before Queenie could respond, eleanor stepped closer, her tone dropping there's one more thing Alexander doesn't know I'm here and he can't. He's too reckless, too willing to confront the storm head on. If we're going to make this work, you and I will need to be the ones thinking ahead. Queenie nodded slowly, her mind racing. What do you suggest? First, you need to be discreet, eleanor said firmly. Your relationship is already drawing attention. I can deflect suspicion for now, but you must be careful. And second, she hesitated, her gaze flickering with something like regret. Second, you'll need to prepare yourselves for the worst. If it comes down to it, you may need to leave Florence altogether.

Speaker 1: 6:41

Queenie's heart clenched, the thought of leaving her father, her home, everything she knew. It was almost too much to bear. But then she thought of Alexander His touch, his voice, the way he made her feel like she could conquer the world. Whatever it takes, she said, her voice steady, I'll do whatever it takes to protect what we have. Eleanor smiled faintly. I thought you might say that.

Speaker 1: 7:17

She stepped back into the shadows, her figure barely visible in the fading light. I'll be in touch, she said softly, and Queenie, take care of him. He's not as strong as he pretends to be. With that, she was gone, leaving Queenie alone in the grove. But as she stood there, the fear that had gripped her began to fade, replaced by a fierce determination.

Speaker 1: 7:44

Love was here. It was here to stay and Queenie would fight for it, no matter what it took the moon in full array reflecting off the landscape as Queenie made her way back home, her heart still fluttering from the conversation with Eleanor. This was love, the kind of love that made the heart race, that made life worth living. She smiled to herself, thinking of Alexander, of the way his hands had trembled slightly the first time he kissed her, of the way his eyes darkened with devotion whenever he looked at her. It was the love that poets wrote about, the kind that felt both impossible and inevitable all at once. It felt as though she had always known him, as though their souls had been waiting for lifetimes to find each other. But as she turned the last corner toward her home, reality came crashing down. The world wasn't kind to lovers like them. There were forces in place Alexander's father, his fiancée, the cold, glittering aristocracy that wanted to see them fail, and Queenie knew better than to underestimate them. Still, as she climbed the steps to her home and stepped inside, she vowed not to let fear take root. If she had to fight for this love, then she would fight with everything she had.

Speaker 1: 9:18

The next morning, queenie was stirring her tea when a knock came at the door. Her father, ever the patient scholar, barely looked up from his book as she rose to answer it, a servant in coveted livery stood before her offering a small gilded envelope An invitation, miss Marlowe, he said with a practised bow. Queenie's heart pounded as she took the letter, her fingers brushing over the elegant script. She barely heard the servants retreating footsteps as she unfolded the parchment. Miss Marlowe, you and your esteemed father are cordially invited to an intimate gathering at the Covertin estate this evening. I trust you will join us With warmest regards, elena Covertin.

Speaker 1: 10:12

Queenie exhaled sharply. Elena, what is it child? Her father asked. Looking up now curiosity in his wise eyes. Looking up now curiosity in his wise eyes. She handed him the letter, watching as he read. His expression remained unreadable until he finally met her gaze.

Speaker 1: 10:34

This could be an opportunity. An opportunity for what? For humiliation. Queenie scoffed. You know they despise everything I stand for. Her father leaned back in his chair, studying her. Perhaps he said carefully. But refusing this invitation will only make them believe they have already won. And who knows, if this family holds any real power, then it may be wise to build bridges rather than burn them.

Speaker 1: 11:08

Queenie bit her lip. She hated the idea of walking into the lion's den, of sitting across from people who wished to see her gone. But her father was right. Running away had never been her nature. Fine, she said, straightening her spine, I'll go, but I refuse to play the meek guest. If they mean to test me, then let them. Her father chuckled, shaking his head. That's my girl Later.

Speaker 1: 11:42

Arriving At the Covertin estate, it was breathtaking in the evening light, its golden halls gleaming with opulence. The intimate gathering was held in the smaller drawing room. Though small by Covertin standards, was still grander than anything Queenie had ever seen. Alexander greeted her first, his expression softening the moment he saw her. You came, he breathed, stepping forward. You knew I would. She replied, her voice teasing, but her eyes searching his. There was tension in his shoulders, in the way his fingers twitched at his side Before he could say more. A voice cut through the moment Ah, so this is the young woman we've heard so much about.

Speaker 1: 12:37

Queenie turned to find herself face to face with Margaret Covertin, alexander's mother. The woman was stunning, tall and poised. Her gown a deep sapphire blue that matched the cold calculation in her eyes. The scholar's daughter, margaret, continued, her lips curving into a tight smile. I must say I wasn't expecting someone quite so say, I wasn't expecting someone quite so unconventional. Queenie smiled sweetly, refusing to be baited, and I wasn't expecting someone quite so charming. Lady Covetin, it seems we're both full of surprises. Alexander stifled a laugh as Margaret's smile twitched. But before the tension could thicken further, another voice entered. The fray Dinner is served.

Speaker 1: 13:37

The meal was a delicate dance of veiled barbs and forced politeness. The Duke of Covertine sat at the head of the table. His presence a silent warning. Queenie knew he was a true obstacle between her and Alexander and though he said little, his eyes watched her with the scrutiny of a man who saw her as nothing more than a temporary inconvenience. You must tell us, miss Marlowe. Margaret said us. Miss Marlowe, margaret said delicately, cutting into her lamb Do you ever find it difficult being in such intellectual circles? I imagine most discussions must be quite taxing. Queenie's smile didn't falter. Not at all, lady Covertine. I find that meaningful discussions are only taxing when one is unprepared for them.

Speaker 1: 14:27

Margaret's knife clinked against her plate. Eleanor, sitting beside her mother, bit back a smirk. And what is it you wish to do with your life, the Duke asked suddenly, his deep voice cutting through the conversation. Queenie met his gaze without fear. I wish to write, to publish my work and contribute something worthwhile to the world, the Duke arched a brow. A noble aspiration. But tell me, miss Marlowe, what is it you can contribute that the great minds of Florence have not already provided? Queenie didn't hesitate. Perspective, your grace. Every mind offers something unique. Every voice, if given the chance, can shape the world in ways we never expect.

Speaker 1: 15:23

The room was silent. Then, unexpectedly, eleanor spoke. I for one think that's quite admirable. She said her voice clear and confident Florence could use more thinkers who challenge convention. The Duke said nothing, but Margaret's lips pressed together in displeasure, as though she had just witnessed her own daughter betray her. Alexander, however, reached beneath the table and gently brushed his fingers against Queenie's. It was a silent vow, a reassurance that she was not alone.

Speaker 1: 16:05

By the end of the night, the tension had not faded, but something had shifted. Queenie had not been broken. She had met their challenges head on and in doing so, she had forced them to see her not as a passing fascination, but as a woman who would not be dismissed. And Alexander, emboldened by her defiance, knew in that moment that his heart was no longer his own. This was love and it was here to stay.

Speaker 1: 16:37

Would you like to continue with the aftermath of this evening, the fallout, the growing threats from the Covertin family and the strengthening alliance between Queenie and Eleanor? The carriage ride home was silent, save for the rhythmic sound of the wheels against the cobblestone streets. Queenie sat beside her father, her thoughts still tangled in the events of the evening. Her thoughts still tangled in the events of the evening. The Covertines had been everything she expected cold, strategic and unwavering in their belief that she was beneath them. And yet she had faced them unflinching. As she stared out at the darkened streets of Florence, she allowed herself a small victorious smile. They had not broken her, her father, ever observant, finally spoke you held your own well tonight. Queenie turned to him, searching his face you approve? He exhaled a quiet chuckle. I approve of your strength, but I worry about what comes next. A chill ran through her. She knew tonight had been a test. The Covertins had been measuring her, weighing her against their expectations and, judging by Margaret's cold expression and the Duke's silence, she had not met their standards. But there had been something else, something deeper Eleanor's support, the way she had spoken up, defying her mother's careful manipulation, and Alexander's quiet, unshaken devotion. The way his fingers had brushed hers beneath the table, as if to tell her you are not alone. No, she had not won their approval, but she had drawn a battle line and she had no intention of stepping back.

Speaker 1: 18:42

Back at the Covertin estate, the dining room was empty, save for three figures the Duke, margaret and Eleanor. Alexander had excused himself the moment. The final guest left his mood unreadable. But Eleanor had lingered. She knew what was coming. Margaret placed her glass of wine down carefully before speaking. You embarrassed yourself tonight, eleanor. Eleanor scoffed, leaning back in her chair. Because I spoke the truth, because you sided against your family. Margaret's voice was sharp but controlled. Do you not see what she is doing? She is not one of us, she never will be. Eleanor met her mother's gaze without fear, and that's precisely why Alexander loves her.

Speaker 1: 19:40

The Duke finally spoke, his voice low and deliberate. Love is irrelevant. Eleanor turned to him, frustration flashing in her dark eyes. Is it? Is it truly irrelevant, father, or is it simply inconvenient? He exhaled slowly, as if speaking to a child who could not yet grasp the rules of the world.

Speaker 1: 20:08

The Covertine legacy has stood for centuries. Because we do not allow feelings to dictate our future. Marrying Eloise Rinaldi will secure our influence. This, he waved a hand dismissively. This, he waved a hand dismissively. Infatuation will pass, eleanor's fists clenched beneath the table. And what if it doesn't? What if he refuses to let her go?

Speaker 1: 20:42

The Duke finally looked at her, his cold blue eyes calculating Then we will make sure he does. A chill ran down Eleanor's spine. What does that mean? She asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Margaret answered, this time, her smile razor sharp. It means that sometimes dear people need persuasion. Means that sometimes dear people need persuasion. Eleanor's stomach twisted. She knew what her parents were capable of, but hearing it spoken so plainly made her blood run cold. Without another word, she rose from the table and left. As she climbed the stairs to her chambers, her mind was already spinning. She had taken Queenie's side tonight, but that had been a mere act of defiance. Now she realized it had to become something more. Her family wasn't just planning to separate Alexander and Queenie. They were planning to destroy whatever chance they had, and Eleanor would not let that happen.

Speaker 1: 21:50

Alexander arrived at Queenie's door late that night his eyes stormy with frustration. She let him in without question, sensing that whatever had been said at the estate had shaken him. Tell me what happened, she said softly, leading him to sit by the fire. Alexander exhaled, running a hand through his hair. They will never accept us, queenie. His voice was thick with emotion. Tonight was their way of making that clear. Night was their way of making that clear. She knelt beside him, taking his hand. I know His grip tightened around hers.

Speaker 1: 22:37

My father is a strategist. If he cannot push me toward Eloise, he will find another way. And I fear he hesitated. I fear they may try to harm you. I fear they may try to harm you.

Speaker 1: 22:43

Queenie's breath caught. She had expected rejection, disdain, but harm. She saw the pain in Alexander's eyes, the helplessness of a man, bound by duty, yet desperately trying to carve his own fate. You must promise me, he said voice raw, promise me that if things escalate you will leave. You will run. She shook her head, her fingers curling into his. I won't run, alexander. If they come for me, I will stand For us.

Speaker 1: 23:26

A shudder passed through him. But there was something else in his eyes now Pride, love. He reached for her. Then, his lips capturing hers in a kiss that tasted of desperation and devotion. There was nothing gentle in the way he held her, in the way his hands cradled her face, as though trying to memorize every part of her. She felt it in every touch the depth of his love, the weight of his promise. No matter what happened, no matter what his family tried to do, this love would not break.

Speaker 1: 24:06

By morning, the city of Florence awoke to do. This love would not break. By morning, the city of Florence awoke to rumors. The Covertine name was on every tongue. Their gathering, their unexpected guest, the undeniable tension that had unfolded within their halls. At the market, whispers followed Queenie as she moved between stalls. Some admired her courage, others pitied her foolishness, and then there were those who warned her in hushed voices the Covertins do not lose.

Speaker 1: 24:40

At the Covertin estate, Eloise Rinaldi arrived unannounced. In the Wolverton estate. Eloise Rinaldi arrived unannounced, stepping into Margaret's drawing room with an air of quiet fury. "'this has gone on long enough' she said, voice measured but deadly. "'alexander is mine' Margaret smiled, sipping her tea. "'then, perhaps it is time we remind him of that'. Eleanor, listening just beyond the door, felt her stomach churn. The war had begun, and if Queenie and Alexander were to survive it, they would need more than love, they would need a plan. Would you like to continue with Eleanor's secret efforts to protect Queenie, eloise's schemes to reclaim Alexander and the Duke's dangerous plans to tear them apart? Episode 5. Eloise's Game.

Speaker 1: 25:38

Eloise Rinaldi sat before the vanity in her chambers, brushing her fingers over the delicate lace of her gown. The candlelight flickered, illuminating her face in the mirror, the face of a woman who had spent her entire life preparing for one role, the future Duchess of Covertine, and she would not allow anyone to take that from her. The dinner at the Covertine estate had been the final straw. She had watched Alexander all evening, how his gaze had lingered on Queenie with a reverence he had never given her. She had felt the shift in the room, the way Margaret and the Duke had stiffened whenever Queenie spoke, because they saw it too. Queenie Marlowe was not a passing infatuation, she was a threat.

Speaker 1: 26:33

Eloise reached for the small bell on the table beside her and rang it once. Within moments her maid entered, bowing her head. Send word to the Duke of Covetin. Eloise said smoothly I wish to speak with him privately. The maid hesitated, a rare thing given the nature of her employer's commands Privately. My lady Eloise's lips curved into a slow, calculated smile yes, privately. She had been raised for this world and in this world there were only two kinds of women those who waited for things to be handed to them and those who took what they wanted. She had no intention of waiting any longer.

Speaker 1: 27:27

The Covertine study was dimly lit, the scent of old parchment and burning wood filling the air. The Duke sat behind his desk, his sharp blue eyes surveying Eloise as she entered. She moved with effortless grace, sinking into the chair across from him. I assume you understand why I've asked for this meeting. She said, her tone calm but edged with something harder. The duke folded his hands. You wish to discuss Alexander? She tilted her head slightly, the movement feline and deliberate. I wished to discuss the woman distracting him from his responsibilities.

Speaker 1: 28:14

The duke exhaled slowly. I am aware of the situation. Eloise leaned forward, her gaze unwavering. Then allow me to offer my assistance. His lips quirked slightly at that. Your assistance? Yes, she let the word hang in the air before continuing.

Speaker 1: 28:38

We both know that Alexander is reckless. He is led by his heart rather than his duty. But we also know that his love for this girl will not last. He needs to be reminded of his place, of what he stands to lose if he continues this foolishness. The Duke watched her for a long moment. And what do you propose? Eloise smiled, the slow, deliberate smile of a woman who knew exactly how the game was played. You have your methods, your grace, and I trust they will be effective in their own time. But allow me to handle Alexander. The duke lifted a brow. You believe you can sway him? Oh, I know I can. She adjusted her gloves. Oh, I know I can. She adjusted her gloves, smoothing the fabric over her wrists. You see, your son is an honorable man, and honorable men can be manipulated far more easily than they realize. The Duke's lips curved slightly, his expression unreadable. Then, with a nod, he leaned back. Very well, lady Rinaldi, I will leave Alexander to you. Eloise's smile widened. She had just been given full reign over her future and she would not waste it.

Speaker 1: 30:06

Later that evening, in his study, alexander found a note waiting on his writing desk. That evening the paper was pressed with Eloise's seal, the script elegant and practiced. Alexander, I must speak with you. Please meet me at the gardens tomorrow afternoon. There is something you need to know. Eloise Alexander stared at the letter for a long time. He should have ignored it, should have torn it apart and let the wind carry its remnants through the night. But something about the way it was worded, the careful choice of something you need to know, unsettled him. Eloise was many things, calculated, strategic, determined, but she was not reckless. If she was summoning him, it meant she had something worth saying. With a deep sigh, he folded the letter and placed it in his coat. Whatever she wanted, he would hear it, but nothing. Nothing would change how he felt about Queenie.

Speaker 1: 31:20

Eloise stood by the marble fountain in the Coveting Gardens, dressed in a gown of ivory lace that gave her the illusion of innocence. She had chosen it carefully, just as she had chosen everything about today. The air was thick with the scent of roses. As Alexander approached, his expression guarded. You wanted to speak to me, he said. She turned, offering him a soft, sad smile. Yes, thank you for coming.

Speaker 1: 31:56

Say what you need to say, eloise. He said, voice firm. I don't have time for games. Her smile didn't waver. Then I'll be direct. Do you love her?

Speaker 1: 32:10

Alexander stiffened, you know I do. Eloise sighed, looking away. I thought as much. She traced her fingers over the stone edge of the fountain before turning back to him. I need you to understand something, alexander what you and Queenie have it cannot last His jaw clenched. That isn't your decision to make. No, she agreed, but it is your father's and he has already decided.

Speaker 1: 32:44

Alexander's heart pounded, but he kept his voice steady, meaning. Eloise stepped closer, lowering her voice, meaning that if you don't end this, he will end it for you. His breath caught. She continued her tone soft and filled with a carefully placed sorrow. You know what he's capable of, alexander and Queenie. She doesn't stand a chance against him. The only reason she hasn't been torn from you already is because your father is waiting, watching, and when the moment comes, she let the sentence trail off, the implication hanging heavy between them.

Speaker 1: 33:32

Alexander swallowed hard. You claim to love her? Eloise pressed. Then ask yourself this what is the greater act of love Staying with her and ensuring her suffering, or letting her go and saving her? Silence stretched between them thick and suffocating. Eloise watched as the weight of her words settled over him. She knew him well, knew the part of him that had always longed to be free, but also the part of him that could never bear to be the cause of another's pain. And so she waited. Waited for the doubt to creep in, waited for the seed of fear to take root, waited for Alexander Covertin to make the only choice he could make. Join us each bi-weekly for a heartwarming romantic story that will captivate your heart and leave you longing for more.