Page 22 of A Dilemma for the Duke

Rockford gazed at her. The theme was impressive and creative. To her point, it perfectly aligned with the clinic’s mission. Connecting the event’s aesthetic with its deeper purpose could result in larger donations.

Lora paused, her expression thoughtful. “There’s something else I’ve been considering. Whether the guests give money to the clinic or not, we should ensure they understand exactly how their contributions will be used. Perhaps we could create a pamphlet that outlines the specific projects, the needs of the clinic, and what their contribution will provide. This way, they will know exactly how their generosity makes a difference.”

Rockford raised an eyebrow, impressed. “That’s an excellent point.”

Lora smiled, encouraged by his approval. “Thank you. I believe truth and transparency are crucial for building trust and ensuring continued support.”

Lora’s sincerity was undeniable. And yet, here he sat, smiling congenially while planning to deceive her. He would cause her pain, that much was certain. What he hadn’t anticipated was how much it would cost him.

Rockford nodded. “Your foresight will undoubtedly contribute to the success of this event.”

“When should we hold this event? I would think the middle of October. What are your thoughts?” she waited for Rockford.

“I agree. The middle of October would be good.”

As they finished their discussion, Lora looked at him with gratitude. “Thank you. I couldn’t do this without you.”

Rockford smiled warmly. “That is not so.” Reaching across the table, he took her hands in his. “These ideas, very good ones, are yours. I only wish some of my colleagues in the House of Lords had your foresight and dedication. I thank you, Lady Lora. It is an honor to work alongside you.”

Lora’s eyes shone with determination. “I’m looking forward to working with you.”

“As long as you don’t lock me in the closet.” His eyes were full of mischief.

Lora laughed out loud, a large, unladylike laugh. “You still remember.”

“How can I forget? You asked me to fetch something in the next room. I walked through the door and the next thing I knew, the door was slammed and the lock was turned and I found myself in a closet.”

“I came back an hour later and sat by the door and read to you, but you didn’t answer. After a while, I got concerned. I kept calling you but you said nothing.”

Rockford nodded, trying not to laugh.

“I admit. I panicked and struggled to open the door. And when I did all I found was a stool with a half-eaten biscuit and you nowhere to be found.”

“For days I couldn’t figure out how you got out. I searched the closet and found nothing. It wasn’t until I confessed to Adam that he showed me where to find the latch for the jib door.”

“He was my accomplice.”

Her head popped up. “What!”

He looked at the papers on the table. “We vowed never to tell you.”

The warmth in her voice made Rockford hesitate. Planning this event with her had been a pleasant diversion, but it was only that, a diversion. The closeness they shared now would serve its purpose, drawing Hastings out. And when that happened, he needed to be ready.

As he stepped out of the drawing room, Rockford spotted the footman and approached him. “Who was the man at the gate earlier?”

The footman bowed slightly. “I’m not certain, Your Grace. He suddenly left before he told me his name.”

Rockford nodded, his brow furrowing in thought. “If you see him again, let me know immediately.”

The footman bowed again. “Of course, Your Grace.”

As Rockford walked away, his mind raced with possibilities. Who could that man be? He slowed his pace and took a breath. He was being foolish. It was probably a suitor for one of the housemaids.

*

Hastings sat inhis study, the rented suite of rooms at the Stonefield Inn, the dim light from the oil lamp casting long shadows across the modest room. Papers and documents layspread out before him, detailing the intricate web he had woven to undermine Rockford and secure his own position. He had been working tirelessly, too much was at stake to falter now.

He leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. The recent note, outlining Rockford’s involvement with the upcoming events in Sommer-by-the-Sea gave him what he needed. These events would be the perfect opportunity to further his schemes. With the elite of society gathering for various social functions, he could manipulate conversations, gather intelligence, and sow seeds of doubt about Rockford.

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