Page 76 of A Dilemma for the Duke

In the cozywarmth 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 fathercomplained 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.”

---