Page 41 of A Dilemma for the Duke

“We’ll turn this to our advantage,” she said firmly. “Together, we’ll outmaneuver Hastings, quietly, but decisively.”

The muscle along his jawline pulsed as he stared at her. When he looked into her eyes, he saw unwavering determination and strength. And something shifted inside him.

It was as if a tight knot in his chest suddenly gave way, and he was flooded with clarity he hadn’t felt before. He would sacrifice the mission if it meant keeping her safe. She was more than a part of his life now; she was the very center of it. The mission and its secrets paled beside her safety. He would face any danger to ensure she remained unharmed. Losing her was unthinkable.

“Do you want to tell Barrington, or shall I?” Rockford’s smile softened, a rare warmth in his voice. “That you’re part of Barrington’s Brigade.”

Barrington was in for a surprise. Lora was smarter than he thought, and, more importantly, she was up to the challenge.

The conversation, heavy with unspoken truths, was interrupted by a firm knock at the door. Rockford’s eyes widened, a flicker of concern crossing his face. “Wait here,” he said quietly, rising to his feet.

He opened the door, “Barrington,” he paused more from relief than surprise. “This is unexpected. It seems to be a day filled with surprises.”

“Rockford, may I come in? There’s an urgent matter we need to discuss.”

Rockford stepped aside. “Of course.” He stepped aside.

Barrington entered, his gaze falling first on Lora by the hearth, her satchel at her feet. Surprise flickered across his face before disapproval settled in his eyes. Rockford braced himself.

“I was preparing to return to Rockford Manor when Lora arrived.”

Barrington straightened, his posture impeccably formal. “Lady Lora,” he greeted with a slight bow. “I hadn’t expected to find you here.”

Rockford tensed when a flush rose to Lora’s cheeks, but he knew he needn’t have been concerned when Lora met Barrington’s gaze with composure. “Lord Barrington,” she titled her head. “I needed to discuss urgent gala matters with His Grace.”

Barrington’s expression softened slightly. “I see.” He straightened his coat with a deliberate motion, then turned to Lora. “Forgive me, Lady Lora,” he said before turning to Rockford. “May we speak privately?”

“Of course,” Rockford replied, his stomach tightening at the urgency in Barrington’s voice. Whatever the matter, it promised to test his already strained resolve.

Chapter Seventeen

“Rockford, do yourealize the position you’ve put Lady Lora in? And if you believe for one minute that I consider that feminine satchel at her feet to be yours, you are mistaken.” Barrington began, his voice firm but not unkind. “To play the rival for affection is one thing, but this is…not like you.”

Rockford met his gaze steadily. “She came here unexpectedly. I did not plan, nor did I invite her here.” He glanced at the door. “If anything, I came here to get away from her.”

Barrington sighed, his brows knitting together. “Regardless, if discovered, an unchaperoned lady alone with a gentleman at a remote location could lead to ruinous gossip.”

“I am well aware,” Rockford replied, tension edging his voice. “I intend to escort her back promptly.”

“Good.” Barrington gave a firm nod. “I know you care for her. That’s clear. But you must proceed with caution. The stakes are high, and not just regarding Hastings.”

“I appreciate your counsel,” He was sincere with Barrington as they walked toward Barrington’s horse. “She’s already entangled in this more than I’d like. It’s time we involve her properly. Our original plan was for me to stay close to Lora to gather information about Hastings and become his rival for her attention.”

“You’re letting emotions cloud your judgment. You care for her—anyone can see that—but including her in this mission? That’s a dangerous precedent.”

“Hear me out. She has proven herself to be resourceful and trustworthy. I believe she should be included in what we’re doing.”

Barrington raised an eyebrow, considering Rockford’s words. “You’re that certain? This is not a decision to be taken lightly.”

“I’m that certain. I wouldn’t have suggested it if I hadn’t thought it through.” Rockford waited and watched Barrington tumble his words in his head. “She knows more than we give her credit for, and her insight could be invaluable. Besides, keeping her in the dark puts her at greater risk.”

Barrington untied a rolled parchment from his saddle and then turned to Rockford. “Very well, then. We proceed together. We must ensure her safety and propriety. Now we best return.”

Relieved, Rockford and Barrington started back to the lodge. They found Lora at the table, her pen and paper ready, her open satchel beside her. Her gaze met Rockford’s. He nodded at her makeshift desk with a smile.

“Lady Lora.”

She directed her attention to Barrington.

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