Rockford smiled. “Indeed, it is. But I enjoy the change of pace.”
Lora hesitated for a moment, then continued, “You mentioned you were visiting Lord Barrington. How long will you be staying in Sommer-by-the-Sea?”
Rockford paused, considering his response. “For a few more weeks, at least. There are some matters I need to attend to here.” He glanced around and then refocused on her. “But I must admit, being here seems… perfect.”
Lora kept her eyes fixed on him, a hint of nervousness in her voice. “I’ve always loved it here. There’s just something special about it, don’t you think?” She smiled, perhaps a bit too widely, and her chatter was more than usual, filling the space between them.
He noticed how she was so focused on him, not even looking where she was going. When the door to the fabric store swung open, he gently held her back, narrowly avoiding a mishap. She glanced at him, a grateful smile on her lips.
“Thank you, Your Grace,” she said softly.
“Of course,” Rockford replied, his tone warm. She didn’t utter a word for several minutes.
“Did you enjoy the gala?” she eventually said, giving him a side glance.
“I definitely did.” He gave him a side glance. “The article in the Sommer Chronicle was nothing but accolades.” He nodded. “They mentioned how the event was ‘a dazzling display of elegance and generosity, bringing together the finest of society for a noble cause.’ It was truly a night to remember.” He leaned toward her. “Should I go on?”
Her laugh bubbled with delight. “Please, spare me. I believe Mama read the article to me several dozen times this morning. The Chronicle was quite generous. Mother was pleased. She enjoys creating the autumn event and is already planning one for the winter. You must attend.”
“If I am still in Sommer-by-the-Sea, I will make every effort to be with you as long as you save a dance for me.” He leaned close to her. “Now that I’ve learned to lead, I must practice and show off my skills.”
Lora’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “You’re going to be quite the sought-after dance partner,” she teased, her earlier nerves giving way to genuine laughter.
Her laughter, soft and unguarded, eased the tension gripping him. Rockford found himself drawn to her warmth, her charm a momentary reprieve from his worries. The vibrant display of flowers ahead provided an easy excuse to linger. “Do you have a favorite flower?”
“Lavender.” She glanced at the assortment and didn’t look at him. But he noticed her purse her lips trying to hide her smile. “The scent is so soothing, and the color is lovely.”
Rockford nodded. “Ah, a muse for poets and dreamers, a gentle lullaby that calms the spirit.” He turned and caught her eye. “Lavender depicts the depth of emotion and beauty of atender heart.” He paused. “I think lavender fits you very well,” he said, his voice low and promising.
Lora blushed slightly as he held her stare. “Thank you, Your Grace. Perhaps we should move on.”
“Of course.” He picked up her hand and looped it through his arm. They walked on in companionable silence for the next few moments, each lost in their own thoughts. Rockford found himself genuinely enjoying her company, her presence a soothing balm.
“Do you recall the time we snuck into your father’s library after dark?” he asked, trying not to smile.
“And you insisted on reading ghost stories by candlelight. I was terrified for weeks!” Lora chuckled.
“It made for memorable nights. I still laugh at how we jumped at every creak and shadow.”
“I made you escort me to my room.” She shook her head. “How young and daring.” She took a deep breath. “But I wouldn’t change any of that for the world.”
They walked on, each in their own thoughts for several minutes.
“Lady Lora,” he began, breaking the silence. “As a member of the Health and Home Care Committee, I wanted to thank you for your dedication to the clinic. Your commitment to this work is truly admirable, and it’s inspiring to see such passion and devotion.”
Lora looked up at him, her eyes shining with gratitude. “Thank you for your kind words. Your impression means a great deal to me. The clinic is my way of serving the community, seeing to what, for some, are their basic needs.”
Rockford’s smile warmed. “Your work is truly admirable.”
Lora’s expression lifted with quiet pride. “Thank you, Your Grace.” She hesitated for a moment, then continued, “Actually, I’ve been contemplating how to accelerate the project. It needsmore financial support to prove to others that it’s not just my idea but is a project that interests others enough to provide funds to move it forward. I’ve even been approached with an offer for a loan.”
Rockford’s smile faded, his protective instincts taking hold. “A loan? Loans must be repaid with interest, Lady Lora.”
Lora nodded slowly. “Yes, I am aware, but the proposal is tempting.”
He rubbed the scar on his forearm, his instincts on alert. “Interest payments can double a project’s cost, leaving you, or an investor, trapped.” The idea of someone exploiting her naivety left a bitter taste in his mouth.
Lora’s eyes widened slightly as she absorbed his words. “I hadn’t considered the long-term implications of taking on a loan with high interest.” She paused, her expression thoughtful. “I’m grateful for the explanation, Your Grace. It’s clear that I need to explore other avenues for funding.”
