Page 13 of A Dilemma for the Duke

“Quite well, thank you. The community has been busy, as you can see,” Mrs. Bainbridge said, gesturing to the lively ballroom.

Rockford nodded. “Indeed. I was just speaking with some of the guests about the expansion of Dr. Manning’s clinic. It seems to be the topic of the day. What are your thoughts on the project?”

Mrs. Bainbridge’s expression grew thoughtful. “I believe it’s a noble endeavor. Dr. Manning’s work has been invaluable to the community. However, there are concerns.”

Rockford sighed. “Yes, I’ve heard quite a bit tonight. It’s a complex issue, but I’m hopeful a way can be found to address them and support Dr. Manning’s needed work.”

“Honoria, Lord Barrington.” Lady Beatrice glided towards the refreshment table with an effortless grace, her gown sweeping elegantly across the floor. She paused, her smile warm yet composed, as she inclined her head in greeting.

“Lady Beatrice, you know Duke Rockford.” Mrs. Bainbridge motioned toward him with a slight nod.

“Of course.” Lady Beatrice smiled warmly at Rockford. “It’s always a pleasure to see you, although it has been some time.” She glanced at Rockford and Barrington with a coy smile. “Would you gentlemen mind if I stole Mrs. Bainbridge away? Just for a short time.” She pinched her forefinger and thumb together to emphasize the brevity.

Mrs. Bainbridge glanced at him and Barrington. “Excuse me. I shant be long.”

As the ladies took their leave, Barrington leaned toward Rockford. “There’s been an odd fellow around town. Sanderson mentioned noticing him a few times.”

Rockford raised an eyebrow. “Oh? Should we be concerned?”

Barrington shrugged subtly. “That’s difficult to say. He’s been seen at the tavern and around gatherings but keeps to himself. Seems to disappear before anyone gets a good look or has a chance to approach him.”

“Interesting,” Rockford glanced at the empty corner. “He blends into the background?”

“Exactly,” Barrington agreed. “Just something to be aware of. With everything happening around the clinic and the recent rumors, it’s wise to stay cautious.”

Rockford nodded. “Agreed. We’ll keep a wary eye out for him.”

Before the conversation could continue, the soft rustle of silk caught Rockford’s attention. Lady Lora approached, her eyes bright and inquisitive. Rockford turned to her, allowing a warm smile to soften his features. The enigma would have to wait. He welcomed the distraction of her company.

“Lady Lora.” He offered her a warm smile. “Would you care for some punch?”

“Thank you, Your Grace,” she replied, accepting the cup he handed her. “Are you enjoying yourself?”

“Quite.” He gave her his best neutral stare.

“I haven’t noticed you on the dance floor.”

Rockford turned to her, his neutral stare tuning into a playful glint in his eye. “Would you do me the honor of a dance?”

Lora’s eyes sparkled with delight. She put the cup down. “I would be delighted, Your Grace.”

“You’ll excuse us, Barrington.” Rockford didn’t wait for a response. He offered her his arm, and they made their way tothe dance floor. The music swelled, and they moved gracefully in time with the melody.

“You dance beautifully,” he said. “You’re no longer stepping on my feet, I see.”

“Thank you, Your Grace. And you’ve finally learned to lead properly,” she replied with a smile.

Rockford chuckled, appreciating the lighthearted banter. It felt natural and easy, a pleasant contrast to the more serious matters occupying his mind. As they danced, he found himself lost in the rhythm. The warmth of Lady Lora’s hand in his and the grace with which she moved made the moment feel almost timeless.

As they glided across the floor, Rockford’s gaze swept briefly over the assembled guests. His eyes met those of Lord Fallsmith, Lady Lora’s father, who stood at the edge of the ballroom. The older gentleman watched them with a discerning eye. When their gazes connected, Lord Fallsmith gave a subtle nod, a hint of approval in his expression.

Rockford felt a surge of satisfaction at the unspoken acknowledgment. This moment was unlike any he had known before, uncomplicated, effortless, right.

Here, with Lady Lora, everything felt right. He was drawn to her not just by her beauty but by her spirit and intelligence. She was a woman who could stand at his side, not behind him. For now, there was only the dance, the music, and the woman in his arms.

He was disappointed when the music ended, the moment slipping away too quickly. They bowed to each other, lingering just a heartbeat longer than propriety dictated before he escorted her back to Barrington. As they approached, he noted Mrs. Bainbridge’s return, her familiar smile suggesting she had been watching with keen interest.

Their conversation was light, but a subtle shift in the air caught Rockford’s attention—an undercurrent of unease threading through the hum of the ballroom. It wasn’t until he noticed the small breaks in conversation around them that he turned.

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