Chapter Thirty-Two
H astings sat behind the desk in his room at Stonefield Inn. The brightness of the day contrasted with the darkness of his intentions. Before him lay a spread of forged documents, each a carefully crafted piece in his game of destruction.
A knock at the door interrupted his contemplation. He straightened, calling out, “Enter.”
The door creaked open to reveal his associate, a thin man with a thick, greying beard, calculating eyes, and an air of perpetual alertness. He stepped into the room, the tension between them palpable.
“James? What are you doing here? Where is Greene?” Hastings’ voice was sharp, his eyes narrowing with skepticism.
“Sleeping one off,” the associate replied with a smirk. “We were up late last night enjoying the brandy you sent. But don’t worry. Everything is proceeding as planned. Rockford’s assets are inaccessible by now, and whispers of his ‘fraud’ are spreading like wildfire.”
Hastings leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile curling his lips. “And Lady Lora?”
His associate’s expression turned serious. “She’s received your letter.”
A glint of triumph sparkled in Hastings’ eyes. “Good,” he purred. “She’ll soon realize that I am her only option.”
The associate hesitated. Then leaned closer to Hastings. “You do know there are those close to her who may advise against you.”
“Lady Harriet and her ilk are inconsequential,” Hastings dismissed with a wave of his hand. “Lora is smart, but emotions cloud her judgment. We’ll use that to our advantage.”
Hastings leaned in, his voice low and insidious. “You know, your brother’s situation is more precarious than ever. Those debts won’t just disappear. I’ve been able to keep the wolves at bay.”
James swallowed hard, his eyes flicking nervously to the ground. “I thank you for that, Mr. Hastings.”
Hastings’ smile widened, a cold gleam in his eye. “Remember, his safety is in your hands.”
Rising from his chair, he moved to the window. The mist clung to the landscape, a fitting backdrop to his plans. “By the time they uncover any truth, it will be too late. Their reputations will be shattered, their futures gone. And I will be the one standing amidst the wreckage, victorious.” He glanced over his shoulder. “You best go back before you’re missed.”
The man nodded as he left the room. The door closed with a soft thud, leaving Hastings alone with his thoughts.
Hastings returned to his desk, picking up one of the forged documents. His fingers traced the elegant script, a mockery of the trust and honor he intended to destroy. He relished the sense of control, the power to manipulate and ruin those who stood in his way.
He set the document down with a final, satisfied glance at his handiwork. The path to his enemies’ downfall was clear, and he would walk it with ruthless precision.
*
In the cozy warmth of Barrington’s library, a small group convened Rockford, Barrington, Adam, Harriet, and Edward, Barrington’s brother. Shelves filled with ancient tomes lined the walls, the scent of aged paper lending an air of seriousness to their gathering. A fire crackled in the hearth, radiating a gentle heat that wrapped around them, warding off the chill of the evening.
Edward adjusted his spectacles, his eyes reflecting both wisdom and concern. “I’ve conducted a thorough examination of Hastings’ dealings. His veneer of respectability is paper thin.”
He spread documents, ledgers, correspondences, and evidence of embezzlement and fraud across the table. “He’s been siphoning funds from investors and creating fictitious companies to mask his activities.”
Adam leaned forward, his brows knit in concentration as he examined the documents. “The very things he’s accused Rockford of doing.” He paused for a moment. “If we present this to the authorities, surely they’ll act.”
“Perhaps,” Barrington straightened in his chair, setting the leather to creak. “Hastings has ingratiated himself in high places. We need conclusive proof and a public revelation.”
Harriet drummed her fingers on the table, a spark of an idea lighting up her eyes. “The gala.”
The room fell silent, all eyes on her.
“It’s the perfect stage.” There was a note of excitement in her voice. “Everyone who’s anyone will be there. If we expose Hastings, then he won’t be able to manipulate the story.”
Rockford nodded, his expression grave. “We’ll need to be incredibly careful. Any misstep could have things go very wrong.”
“I’ll help.” They all turned toward the door at the soft yet firm voice that interrupted their discussion.
Lora stood in the doorway, a quiet strength about her. “Hastings has used me and Rockford as his pawn. It’s time we turn the tables. There are things that I’ve discovered.”
Relief and admiration flickered across Rockford’s face. “Are you certain?”
She met his gaze steadily, her determination unwavering. “Absolutely.”
He couldn’t help but smile, his face softening. “I’m glad you’re here.”
Lora hesitated for a moment, gathering her thoughts. “I couldn’t stay away. Not when there’s so much at stake.”
She sat at the table, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, the tension visible in her knuckles. “I did some investigating after I received Hastings’ letter, and Harriet left. I found a great deal more than I expected.”
Everyone at the table gave her their attention.
“The rumors,” she began, her voice steady despite the tension, “about your intentions and my involvement, they’re widespread. It seems someone has gone to great lengths to spread these lies.” She took a deep breath, her eyes locked onto Rockford’s. “There are indications that Hastings and Viscount Montague are involved. Mr. Axbridge spoke with Jason Stonefield. Hastings is staying at his inn. He mentioned Hastings conducting meetings with the viscount and Marchand. There were factory owners from Royston Mills as well. The timing of those meetings aligns with when the letters started circulating.”
Rockford gripped the edge of the table. “That supports what Barrington was able to unearth. Montague and Hastings. This was more organized than we thought.”
Lora nodded, her gaze unwavering. “It appears so. They’re trying to dismantle your reputation and mine with calculated precision. Mr. Axbridge also mentioned that my father complained to Mother about someone nosing about into his accounts.”
“There’s more.” Edward leaned forward, his expression grave. “Hastings and Montague are members of the Order of Shadows. This clandestine group operates in the shadows, pulling the strings to manipulate political and financial outcomes for their own benefit.”
A hush fell over the room. “The Order,” Edward continued, “has deep connections, and they’re ruthless. Discrediting Rockford and sabotaging the clinic are just parts of their larger plan. And Lady Lora,” he nodded to Lora. “You’re information is quite correct. Your source is beyond reproach.”
Rockford reached for her hand, his touch gentle but firm. “Lora, thank you. This is valuable information.”
She glanced at their joined hands, her heart filled with conflicting emotions. “I know. But there’s so much we need to address.”
“Yes, we do,” Barrington declared. “Edward and I will coordinate with the local authorities and ensure everything is in place.”
Harriet touched Lora’s arm gently. “I’ll accompany Barrington. There’s some groundwork I can assist with.”
Lora nodded. “Thank you, Harriet.”
Barrington inclined his head. “I’ll make final arrangements and report back as soon as possible.”
After Barrington, Edward, and Harriet exited the room, an awkward silence settled between Lora and Rockford, punctuated only by the soft crackling of the flames.
Lora stared at the fire, her fingers knotting her handkerchief. “I am glad to see that you are well.” She kept her gaze on the fire. “I feared something terrible had happened to you.”
“I didn’t expect you to join us this evening.” Rockford put his hands in his pocket.
Lora turned her gaze from the flames to him, not hiding the softening around her eyes. “I realized that allowing Hastings to divide us only serves his purpose.” She moved to the terrace window to get away from the heat. She wasn’t certain if it was from the fireplace or her nearness to Rockford.
He exhaled, steadying himself before speaking. “Lora, after everything… you still came.” His voice was low, almost reverent. “That gives me hope.”
She faced him fully, her eyes reflecting pain and hope. “Trust isn’t easily rebuilt, Your Grace. Especially not now.”
He nodded. “I understand your hesitation. But, I believe we can rebuild that trust. Not just in our fight against Hastings and the Order, but for ourselves.”
Lora studied him for a long moment, then gave a slight nod. “Perhaps. We should go over the plan. I have a feeling these next two days will go quickly.”
Rockford’s expression shifted, a flicker of regret passing through his eyes as he offered her a tight smile, but he didn’t move. “Our primary responsibilities are to greet and mingle with our guests. Be open to having discussions so we can resolve any questions they may have.” Rockford paused for a moment. “We’ll come from a position of strength. There is no need to apologize to anyone for anything unless you’ve done something wrong. And we have not; therefore, if necessary, we merely explain. Do you agree?”
“Yes. I do. I assume we use the same tactic with Hastings? He prefers to separate you from others and intimidate you into submission.” She crossed her arms, her brows furrowed in concern.
“We won’t let that happen.” His gaze was unwavering. “We should keep all conversations focused on the clinic. That is why everyone is there. We still want our project to succeed.”
“I agree with you.” Lora sighed softly. “I think we will be the entertainment for the evening no matter how hard we try otherwise.” A wry smile played on her lips.
“You are probably correct, but we control the conversation. We direct the energy. The rest they can put together on their own. If they see how—”
“Enraptured, we are with each other.” Lora stood with her back resting against the window casing, staring into his eyes.
A silence settled between them, filled with unspoken understanding. Rockford’s breath hitched, and his body reacted to her words and soft tone. The realization of their meaning overpowered and humbled him.
He took a deep breath, his voice softening. “Enraptured with each other?” He echoed her words. He braced his hand on the wall behind her, then leaned forward, closing the distance, creating a private space just for them. His eyes darkened with emotion. “I’ve never been more captivated in my life, Lora. Every moment with you is a gift.”
Her whispered words, “I’ve missed you, too. More than words can say,” trembled with emotion. Even now, the remnants of everything that had passed between them lingered, but in this moment, it wasn’t the past she clung to, it was him.
Rockford caressed her cheek, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. “I’ve missed you too.”
His smile. She let out a deep sigh. It was the smile that curled toes. She feared never seeing it again.
He observed her closely, noticing how she shivered in delight and the tension between them melting away. The vulnerability in her eyes tugged at his heart. Gently, he pulled her into his arms, wrapping her in a protective embrace, feeling her softness against his chest. “More than words could ever say.”
His other hand found its way to her waist, drawing her closer until their bodies were nearly touching. He leaned in, his forehead resting against hers. “Nothing must ever come between us again,” he murmured, his breath mingling with hers. He pulled away slightly, his eyes locked onto hers with an intensity that made her heart race. “Nothing.”
“Nothing.” Her voice was a whisper, her desire for him intoxicating. Nervously, she wet her lips. His chest rumbled with a deep groan. Breathlessly, she waited for his kiss.
With a bent finger, he raised her chin, his lips hovering just a breath away from hers. “I would do anything for you,” he whispered, his voice raw with emotion. His lips met hers in a tender kiss, a soft moan escaping her as he deepened the kiss, pouring all his love and longing into it.
The barriers between them fell away, leaving them bare, with only their genuine connection binding them together.
The touch of his mouth on hers sent a tremor through her entire body. He tempted her with his tongue and teased her mouth open. He swooped in, and she let him claim her mouth. She quivered at the sweet tenderness of his kiss. It was nothing like any of the kisses he had given her before.
He hadn’t stopped kissing her. With a slow, steady hand, he began his possession. He kissed the hollow at her throat and then down the gentle slope of her chest where he freed her of her bodice and honored her with kisses.
Every part of her screamed for him. She teetered on the edge, torn between restraint and surrender, until restraint no longer mattered.
He took her hand and encouraged her to explore his body. She touched him in forbidden places and was rewarded with a guttural growl that made her heart hammer and her pulse pound. She was on fire with a liquid heat concentrated between her thighs and gasped at the sweet agony.
He whispered words in her ear that were only for her. They sent a shiver through her, not just of pleasure, but of something deeper. A promise. A vow she wanted to believe. As his hands explored her body, her skin tingled and throbbed as an all-consuming feeling came over her and intensified into small waves.
She reached up and whispered in his ear. His answer was a deep, soft chuckle that made her smile.
He held her closer, kissed her deeper. The small waves became larger and kept building, pounding until an unimaginable need to release swept over her. Wave after wave crashed then slowly began to ease.
He held her, gently stroking her hair and whispering soothing words. As her heartbeat returned to normal, Rockford’s warmth comforted her. She slowly opened her eyes, and when their gazes met, she fully realized the profound depth of their connection—the unspoken bond that held them together.
They remained entwined in each other’s arms for what felt like an eternity, silently watching the flames dance in the hearth, their hearts beating in perfect harmony.