“We’ve encountered them before,” Barrington said.
Rockford crossed the room and sat beside her, his presence grounding her against the tide of uncertainty. “They can whisper and maneuver all they like. But we won’t let them take this from you.”
She took a deep breath, drawing on every ounce of inner strength. “What do I need to do?”
Barrington offered a small, reassuring smile. “Your connections could be invaluable. If you can discreetly gather information from your social circle, it might lead us to the evidence we need.”
Lora’s gaze dropped to her hands clasped tightly in her lap. “Under the current situation, I’m not sure my connections are as valuable as you think.” A hint of bitterness crept into her tone.“Hastings has undermined each of us. Invitations have been withdrawn; whispers follow me wherever I go.”
“Not everyone has turned away.” Adam placed a steadying hand on her shoulder. “He thinks he has, but there are still resources at our disposal.”
She looked up at him, surprised by the fervor in his voice. “I’ve never seen you so adamant.”
He offered a faint smile. “I’ll spend some time with some of my contacts. Perhaps there’s something I can pick up, people who are discontent with Hastings or have noticed irregularities.”
“Rockford and I will concentrate on the financial records and transactions,” Barrington added, his strategic mind already at work. He glanced at Rockford. “Hughes is here from London. We can see if he has any information. He’s an excellent solicitor with resources that could be quite helpful.”
Rockford nodded. “He might be able to trace any unauthorized movements of funds or uncover discrepancies that tie back to Hastings and his allies.”
A fragile hope flickered within Lora. “Perhaps Harriet can help,” she mused aloud. “I’m expected at tea today. It might provide an opportunity to gauge where others stand and perhaps learn more.”
Barrington regarded her thoughtfully. “That could be advantageous, but you must be cautious. We can’t risk anyone knowing we are aware of what is happening too soon.”
“I understand,” she affirmed. “I’ll tread carefully.”
The room fell into a pensive silence, the enormity of their predicament settling upon them.
Adam was the first to speak. “We should move quickly. Time is not on our side. The twenty-first is only four days away.”
Barrington straightened. “Agreed. Let’s regroup this evening to share any developments.”
Lora stood, squaring her shoulders. “Thank you, all of you.”
As the group began to disperse, Adam approached Rockford. “A moment, if you will. I have a matter I’d like to discuss with you, but not here.”
“Of course, feel free to come this afternoon. I have some fine brandy we can share, and we won’t have to filch it from my father’s study.” Rockford clasped Adam’s shoulder, a wide, mischievous smile blooming on his face.
The others were gone, but Rockford lingered. “Lora,” he said softly, “if there’s anything you need, any support, I hope you know you can call on me.”
She offered a genuine smile, her eyes reflecting gratitude and something deeper. “I do. And it means more than you know.”
He nodded a silent promise passing between them.
Lora allowed herself a moment to absorb everything before straightening her shoulders. There was much to do, and she would not let Hastings unravel everything they had fought for.
“Anna, it’s time to get ready for tea.”
Anna carefully arranged the gown on the bed, her eyes twinkling with pride. “This soft lavender muslin will suit you perfectly for tea at Miss Harriet’s, my lady.”
“That will be perfect.”
Chapter Twenty-Six
17 October 1822
The soft murmurof conversation filled Harriet’s sitting room as guests settled into their seats. The lace-covered table, with delicate porcelain teacups and an assortment of pastries, was ready to be enjoyed. The scent of jasmine and fresh roses added to the elegance and warmth of the room.
“Thank you for hosting this, Harriet.” Lora smoothed the folds of her gown. She couldn’t help but feel a flutter of nerves.
