“They’ll undermine trust in the monarchy itself,” Rockford finished. “Recovering them is critical. The financial records implicate high-ranking officials, exposing just how deep this network runs.”
Barrington nodded, his expression dark. “If the wrong people intercept those documents, it could be catastrophic.”
“Exactly. And with the king arriving in four weeks, there’s no time to waste.”
Barrington exhaled, his mind already working through the possibilities. “We have some avenues to explore. Lord Whitfield has been unusually secretive, and there is something questionable about Sir Becket’s financial dealings.”
“And Hastings,” Rockford added. “His rise among the wealthy and powerful is suspicious at best. We need to dig deeper into his connections before it’s too late.”
Barrington tossed the papers onto the table with a scowl. “Hastings isn’t just a pawn. He’s facilitating these transactions, an intermediary for corrupt politicians, brokering deals in exchange for wealth and influence. He’s profiting from both sides of the scheme.”
Rockford took another sip of coffee, his mind racing. “If he’s this deeply entangled, bringing him down could unravel the network.” He exhaled sharply. “But we’d need more than just suspicion. We need proof that his involvement ties back to the forgeries and the missing documents.”
“Exactly,” Barrington agreed.
Rockford’s gaze darkened. “And Lady Lora? Hastings’ interest in her isn’t just social, is it?”
Barrington’s expression turned grim. “No. He’s after her fortune. The endowment from her grandmother is substantial. Marrying her would give him direct access to that wealth.”
Rockford’s posture stiffened. “How do you know this?”
Barrington let out a dry chuckle. “Because Hastings was careless enough to say it himself. I overheard him talking to Mr. Whitfield near the cliffs, both of them had been drinking. Hastings let slip that he had ‘inside knowledge’ from a banker about her endowment. He spoke as if her fortune was already his to claim.”
Rockford’s jaw clenched. “Then he’s not just using the scandal to ruin me. He’s maneuvering to trap her.”
*
Lora’s day beganas any other. She rose to a cup of hot cocoa brought in on a tray by Teresa. As she went about her morning routine, her thoughts drifted to the previous night. Dancing with Hastings had been pleasant enough, but it was her moments with Rockford that lingered. She couldn’t explain why she felt so strongly about him. They had known each other since childhood. Perhaps that was the reason. Familiarity.
Finishing her cocoa, she dressed, took her pelisse and reticule, and headed downstairs.
“Your carriage is waiting as you requested, my lady,” James said, opening the door and escorting her outside.
She took a deep breath, savoring the hint of a second summer mixed with the first chill of autumn. As James helped her into the carriage, she settled onto the seat, but her thoughts refused to do the same.
Rockford’s words from last night lingered in her mind, weaving themselves into her growing uncertainty. Hastings had been attentive, charming even, yet something about him never felt quite real. Rockford, on the other hand… he had always been a contradiction, distant one moment, frustratingly mysterious the next. And yet, when she was with him, the world seemed sharper, more alive.
By the time she arrived at Lockford Hall, her thoughts were no clearer.
Soon, she was seated at Harriet’s breakfast table, stirring her tea absentmindedly. “I’m conflicted about Rockford and Hastings,” she admitted, staring into her cup. “They’re so… different.”
Harriet looked up, her eyes filled with gentle concern. “Different, how?”
“Rockford is steadfast and reliable, but often infuriatingly overprotective,” Lora said with a sigh. “He reminds me of Father, always trying to steer my decisions.”
“And Hastings?”
“He’s intriguing,” Lora said, her eyes brightening. “Charming in a way that feels refreshing. When we spoke after the gala, he showed genuine interest in the clinic and even suggested ways to secure funding.”
Harriet furrowed slightly. “What sort of ways?”
“Loans for such projects can be arranged if one knows the right people,” Lora explained. “He offered to introduce me to people who would be interested.”
“Lora,” Harriet said carefully, setting her cup down, “isn’t it rather forward for him to discuss financial matters with you?”
“Perhaps,” Lora admitted as she met her friend’s gaze, “but he seemed sincere. It’s hard not to be intrigued by someone who shares my passion for the clinic.”
“Even so,” Harriet cautioned, “gentlemen don’t usually broach such topics with a lady he’s just met. It might be wise to exercise caution.”
