“Thanks,” Hastings said, slipping the paper into his pocket. “I appreciate it.”
“Sometimes, all we need is a little push in the right direction.”
“Will I see you again?”
“No, my friend.” He stood and put a coin down on the table. “I’m off to France to fight for… Well, to fight.” The man raised his glass in a toast. “To the journey ahead.” Then he slipped into the night.
Hastings watched him leave. He couldn’t help but wonder what this new direction would bring. He found himself available at the moment with nothing to lose.
To the journey ahead.Hastings took those words to heart, dreaming of a future where he had everything he wanted.
He was fortunate, indeed. The next day, Hastings found himself outside a stately home. He took a deep breath and knocked on the door, ready to embrace whatever opportunity awaited him. The door swung open, revealing a tall man with a stern yet welcoming expression. His imposing frame was softened by a neatly trimmed beard and a pair of sharp, intelligent eyes. His attire was refined and casual, hinting at a man of means who valued substance over show.
“Mr. Thompson, I presume?” Hastings asked.
“Indeed,” the man replied.
Over the course of three short months, Hastings came to deeply respect and trust the man. He understood what the stranger had meant when he said he should have followed Mr. Thompson’s advice. So, Hastings listened and learned, valuing his guide and advisor’s wisdom.
“Charles, you have the potential to do great things,” Mr. Thompson had said. “But remember, true success requires integrity. Never lose sight of who you are.”
“Another young man is joining us today,” Mr. Thompson continued, “His father, may he rest in peace, was a good friend of mine. He’s in the drawing room.”
Together, they entered the drawing room.
Reid, Viscount Lonsdale, stood tall with an air of confidence that came from a lifetime of privilege. His presence was commanding, not because of his physical appearance but because of his grace and integrity. His eyes, sharp and intelligent, seemed always to be observing and understanding those around him. He was the kind of man who listened intently, spoke thoughtfully, and made those around him feel valued.
The two men quickly formed a strong bond, their camaraderie rooted in mutual respect. Hastings adhered strictly to the rules, determined to prove his worth through hard work and dedication.
Their friendship shifted when Hastings and Lonsdale found themselves competing for a prestigious scholarship. It had been a bright summer morning when the announcement was made.
Hastings stood among the other candidates, his heart pounding in his chest. When Lonsdale’s name was called, a wave of frustration and bitterness crashed over him. He forced himself to shake Reid’s hand. ‘You gave it your best. Don’t lose hope.’ But inwardly, Hastings seethed. He believed that bending the rules could have secured him the scholarship.
“I know you are disappointed.” Mr. Thompson said gently, his face etched with concern. “But integrity matters. True success isn’t just measured by what you achieve, but by how you achieve it. The choices you make define who you are.”
Hastings listened, his expression neutral, but nothing could dull his resentment. Reid’s triumph was a stinging reminderof everything Hastings had been denied. That day, he made a decision, he would never let integrity stand in the way of ambition again.
Now, sitting in his rented room, Hastings reflected on that vow. The world didn’t favor those who played fair, it rewarded those willing to seize what they wanted. And so, he had embraced ambition, no matter the cost.
He returned his attention to the documents before him. The clinic was his means to an end, a carefully crafted stepping stone to elevate his standing. It wasn’t about proving he was as good as the others. It was about surpassing them and securing the influence he craved. Manipulation, deceit, and bribes were merely tools in his arsenal.
But Lora’s words from their last encounter echoed in his mind. She had spoken of integrity, trust, and the value of honorable actions. Her conviction had struck a chord, one he had long buried beneath layers of his ambition.
His hand slammed onto the desk, scattering papers to the floor. He couldn’t afford to waver now, not with success so close. Sentiment was a luxury for those who had nothing to lose, and Hastings intended to take it all.
Chapter Thirteen
8 October 1822
Afternoon
At 3:30 inthe afternoon, carriages entered the drive at Fallsmith Manor. Lady Beatrice, Lady Harriet, and Mrs. Bainbridge had come for tea, as did Lord Davenport, Mr. Hastings, and Rockford. All were greeted with the aromas of strong black tea and Mrs. Kelly’s freshly made lemon bars, scones, and sumptuous trifle.
The guests gathered in the drawing room, where the afternoon sun filtered through the lace curtains, brightening the room. Lora moved gracefully among her guests, ensuring each was comfortably seated with a cup of tea. The room buzzed with conversation ranging from the latest London gossip to passionate debates about art and culture.
“Have you all heard the latest scandal in London?” Hastings announced with a sly grin, his eyes locked onto Rockford’s. “A certain prominent Member of Parliament has found himself in quite the financial debacle. It seems he’s been creative with the books at the investment firm where he serves as a board member, and now the entire firm is under investigation.” His words hung in the air, a provocative challenge clearly intended for Rockford.
Lady Beatrice leaned in with interest, momentarily distracted from recounting her recent travels. “Oh, do tell more, Mr. Hastings. Scandals always make for the most riveting tales.”
