Chapter Twenty-Six
17 October 1822
T he soft murmur of conversation filled Harriet’s sitting room as guests settled into their seats. The lace-covered table, with delicate porcelain teacups and an assortment of pastries, was ready to be enjoyed. The scent of jasmine and fresh roses added to the elegance and warmth of the room.
“Thank you for hosting this, Harriet.” Lora smoothed the folds of her gown. She couldn’t help but feel a flutter of nerves.
“It’s my pleasure,” Harriet replied with a reassuring smile. “Today is about friendship and harmony.”
As the guests arrived, Lora greeted each with heartfelt warmth, noting the surprise and cautious friendliness of their responses.
“Lady Lora,” Lady Weatherby began hesitantly, “it’s so lovely to see you. We’ve missed your presence at our gatherings.”
Lora’s eyes softened. “I’ve been quite occupied with the clinic project, but I’ve realized how much I’ve missed spending time with all of you.”
Over tea, the conversation flowed from fashion to the latest novels. Gently, Lora steered the discussion.
“I must admit, I’ve been so focused on the clinic that I’ve fallen behind on the latest happenings. Have I missed any noteworthy events?”
Lady Davenport exchanged a glance with Mrs. Fielding before replying, “Well, there’s been quite a bit of talk lately. Mr. Hastings seems to be very… active.”
Harriet tilted her head thoughtfully as she stirred her tea. “Active? In what way?”
Mrs. Fielding leaned in slightly, her teacup delicately balanced in her gloved hands. “He’s been visiting several households,” she began, her tone casual yet edged with curiosity. “Including mine. He’s been sharing some rather… concerning observations.”
Lora felt a subtle tension ripple through the room, but she maintained her composure. “Oh? What kind of observations?”
Mrs. Fielding hesitated. “He mentioned rumors about financial irregularities concerning the clinic’s funds and suggested that the Duke of Rockford might be facing financial difficulties himself.”
A murmur swept through the gathering. Before Lora could respond, Lady Davenport interjected with a scrutinizing gaze. “Mr. Hastings, you say? I’ve heard he’s relatively new to our circles. It’s curious that he’s so informed about the affairs of our esteemed members.”
Lady Weatherby nodded thoughtfully. “Indeed. One must consider the source of such rumors.”
Lora offered a grateful glance toward Lady Davenport. “I assure you all, every donation to the clinic has been carefully accounted for. The Duke’s support has been both generous and clear.”
Lady Davenport smiled kindly at Lora. “My dear, those of us who have known you and the Duke for years can certainly attest to your integrity. It’s unfortunate that an outsider like Mr. Hastings feels the need to spread unfounded gossip.”
Mrs. Fielding shifted in her seat, a hint of embarrassment coloring her cheeks. “Perhaps I was too quick to lend an ear. It’s just that he seemed so certain…”
Harriet seized the moment. “Confidence does not equate to truth. We must be cautious about entertaining claims from those who haven’t earned our trust.”
The other ladies murmured in agreement. “It’s rather improper for Mr. Hastings to involve himself in matters that don’t concern him,” Lady Davenport added. “Especially when it involves casting aspersions on a peer of the realm.”
Lora felt a warm surge of relief and took a moment to reinforce the connection. “I appreciate your faith in us. The Duke and I are committed to the welfare of the community, and it’s heartening to know we have your support.”
“Between us,” Lady Davenport leaned in conspiratorially. “I find Mr. Hastings’ motivations rather suspect. He seems overly eager to ingratiate himself, perhaps hoping to elevate his own standing.”
Mrs. Fielding sighed. “You may be right. It’s been so long since we’ve had any real intrigue. Perhaps I was drawn in by the allure of it.”
Harriet laughed lightly. “Well, let’s not give him the satisfaction of causing discord among us. After all, we’ve weathered far more significant storms together.”
The atmosphere in the room lightened considerably. Lora exhaled slowly, the weight of uncertainty easing. For the first time in days, she felt the foundation beneath her steady. Lady Davenport turned to her with a sincere expression. “If there’s any assistance we can offer, my dear, please don’t hesitate to ask. The ton looks after its own.”
Lora’s eyes softened with gratitude. “Thank you. Your support means more to me than words can express.”
Lady Weatherby hesitated before speaking. “Since we’re on the subject, there’s also been some chatter about the highwayman and… connections to certain families.”
Lady Davenport raised an eyebrow. “Surely you’re not suggesting any link between our esteemed members and a common criminal?”
Lady Weatherby quickly shook her head. “No, of course not. But Mr. Hastings implied that perhaps some recent troubles are not entirely coincidental.”
Lora took a steady breath. “I assure you, any misfortune I’ve encountered is purely coincidental.” She should have known her incident with the highwayman would be fodder for the gossip mill. “The idea that the Duke or anyone in our circle is connected to such activities is unfounded.”
Lady Davenport gave a faint, dismissive wave. “It’s hardly appropriate for someone of Mr. Hastings’ standing to comment on affairs that are beyond his ken. Perhaps he would be better served tending to matters within his own sphere.”
“Quite so,” Lady Weatherby chimed in. “One must remember one’s place in society. Overreaching rarely ends well.”
There were murmurs of agreement around the table.
Lora smiled gently. “I appreciate your candor. If any of you have concerns or questions, please feel free to discuss them with me. Our shared goals are too important to let uncertainty divide us.”
The atmosphere shifted subtly as the ladies warmed to Lora’s sincerity. Conversations flowed more freely, and snippets of information about Hastings’ visits and comments surfaced, providing valuable leads. Lora listened attentively, her heart buoyed by the support she felt growing around her.
As the afternoon tea ended, Lady Davenport rose from her seat. “Thank you for your delightful hospitality, Harriet. I always enjoy our gatherings. It’s refreshing to spend time in such pleasant company.”
She turned to the others, her eyes twinkling. “Shall we, ladies? We wouldn’t want to overstay our welcome.”
The group exchanged farewells, soft murmurings of appreciation, and promises to meet again soon. The delicate rustle of skirts and the gentle tapping of heels echoed softly as they made their way toward the door.
Once the last guest had departed, the house settled into a comfortable quiet. Harriet turned to Lora, her eyes shining with admiration. “You handled that brilliantly.” She reached over to squeeze Lora’s hand. “I could see the tides turning in your favor.”
Lora exhaled slowly, relief and lingering concern etched on her features. “Thank you, Harriet. But I can’t help but wonder, what is Hastings truly up to? Why would he seek to damage my reputation?” She paused, her gaze distant. “He will only rile Rockford, and no one wants to witness that.”
Harriet gave a gentle nod, her expression thoughtful. “Perhaps he believes sowing discord will weaken your position. But today’s gathering proved that you have strong allies.”
Lora looked down, her fingers tracing the delicate pattern on the teacup before her. “I just don’t understand what he wants to accomplish. Undermining the clinic, spreading rumors… It’s as if he’s attacking me.”
“Whatever his motives,” Harriet said firmly, “we won’t let him succeed.” She leaned forward slightly, her gaze thoughtful. “But have you considered that it’s not just you Hastings is targeting?”
Lora blinked. “What do you mean?”
Harriet’s eyes sparkled with determination. “Hastings underestimates the strength of your character and the loyalty of those who believe in you. I think Hastings’ attacks on the clinic and you are a way of antagonizing Rockford, forcing him to take action.”
“Me?” Lora’s hand flew to her throat. “But why would he…” She paused, realization dawning. “You think he’s using me to get to Rockford?”
Harriet shook her head. “You’ve known Rockford for years. Do you think he would stand for anyone harming you? You told me how angry he was when he found you in the horrid lodge.”
Lora stared at Harriet, her mind racing. “I see what you mean. Hastings must have realized that Rockford and I have a history and a connection.”
Harriet put her arm around her and hugged her. “Exactly. Hastings knows that attacking you is a way to provoke Rockford. You don’t see it, do you? The way he looks at you, the way he stands at your side without hesitation. He loves you, Lora. Almost as much as you love him.”
Lora reached out and squeezed Harriet’s hand in return. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“Fortunately, you won’t have to find out,” Harriet replied with a light laugh. “Now, let’s consider our next steps. There’s much to be done, and I have a few ideas that might help us counter Hastings’ schemes. I think we should turn his schemes to our advantage.”
*
“Viscount Wesley, Your Grace.” Mr. Turner stood at the study door as Adam entered.
“Come in, Adam.” Rockford stood and gestured to a chair by the fireplace. “Thank you, Mr. Turner.” The butler left as quietly as he had entered.
Rockford stood at the cellarette and poured cognac into two snifters. “I hope it tastes as good as it did when we were boys. I remember those stolen sips being the best I’ve ever had.” He handed a half-full snifter to Adam, his gaze steady.
They both chuckled and sipped the golden liquid.
“No, Rockford. This,” Adam held up the glass. “Is superior. Now I can appreciate the taste and not liberating the bottle from the cabinet.”
Rockford took a seat in the armchair next to his guest. “What is it you’d like to discuss in private? Is there news about Hastings?”
Adam shook his head slightly, then paused, his expression serious. “Lora.” Adam held the glass at his knee. “I’ve noticed a closeness between you two. As her brother, I want to ensure that your intentions are honorable.”
Rockford was taken aback, a rare moment of surprise flickering in his eyes before he regained his composure. He met Adam’s gaze with sincerity, though unease coiled tightly in his chest. “Adam, I care for Lora deeply. My intentions are entirely honorable. Her happiness and well-being are my foremost concerns.”
It wasn’t a lie. But it wasn’t the full truth, either. His honor demanded that he protect her, yet his actions risked destroying the fragile trust between them. And if Adam ever discovered the truth behind why he started to court her…He’d rather not dwell on it at the moment. The weight of it pressed down on him, but he forced himself to maintain his steady exterior.
Adam studied him for a moment before nodding. “I believe you. She seems happier than I’ve seen her in some time.”
“She brings out the best in me.” His voice was soft, almost as if the revelation surprised him. But god help him, beneath his calm exterior, the knowledge of his deception gnawed at him.
Adam took a deep breath. “She’s been through so much lately. Hastings’ rumors, the pressure of the clinic… I’m worried about her.”
Rockford’s expression softened. “I share your concerns, Adam.” He brought the glass to his lips. “She certainly has a mind of her own.” He sipped the cognac, hoping to find some solace.
Adam nodded, his gaze steady. “Yes, I am well aware. Hastings is dangerous, and he’s targeting both of you. I know you can handle him.”
Rockford’s jaw tightened with conviction. “I won’t let Hastings harm her. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.” He paused. “Did you doubt that I would?”
The question hung in the air, and for a moment, Rockford’s composure wavered. Was Adam subtly implying he knew more? The thought gnawed at him, a flicker of fear that his loyalty and honor were being questioned, or worse, Adam had discovered his plan.
“No. Not at all. If Father were in Sommer-by-the-Sea, he would be here asking you these questions. He and Mother left after our gala for London. I knew your answer, but I could not speak for you.” Adam emptied his glass and held it up. “This is really fine. We never would have appreciated it when we were younger.” He put the glass on the small table between the two chairs and stood. “I can’t wait to welcome you to the family.”
Rockford stood, the realization of his deception making it difficult for him to breathe. Adam’s unwavering trust should have been a comfort. Instead, it felt like a noose was tightening around his throat.