Lady Fallsmith joined them, her elegant gown rustling softly. “Your Grace, you haven’t changed a bit,” she said warmly, hereyes reflecting genuine pleasure. “Perhaps a bit taller and less mischievous. We’ve missed your visits.”
Rockford chuckled as he bowed slightly. “Lady Fallsmith, the pleasure is mine. I’ve missed being here as well.”
“We must sit together. I’m eager for you to bring me up to date with what you’ve been doing.” Lord Fallsmith said. “With my brandy, not your father’s.”
Rockford and the earl both laughed. “I will see to it,” Rockford said.
“I was so surprised when Adam mentioned you had returned,” Lady Fallsmith went on.
The conversation went on for several more minutes. Lord Fallsmith gave a warm chuckle. “Well, Rockford, I trust you’ll find plenty of familiar faces here tonight. Do take the opportunity to reacquaint yourself.”
Lady Fallsmith nodded, her smile gracious. “Indeed, Your Grace. And if there’s anything you require, you need only ask. We won’t keep you from mingling.”
As he nodded and moved further into the room, he felt a sense of ease wash over him. Despite the years that had passed, the warmth and hospitality remained unchanged. He allowed a small smile to play at the corners of his lips. How easy it is to forget one’s roots when you’re away.
He scanned the crowd, looking for familiar faces, particularly Adam and Lady Lora. He nodded, greeting old acquaintances, his gaze sharp as he took in the subtle dynamics at play.
As he continued to weave through the gathering, Rockford spotted Lady Lora approaching him. Her emerald gown shimmered with every step, catching the light in a way that seemed almost deliberate. Her eyes sparkled, drawing him in with an energy that he could only describe as confident. Yes, that’s what it was. Confidence. It was in the graceful sway of her stride, the proud lift of her chin, and the way her shoulderssquared as though the room revolved around her. Conversations paused as she passed, people eager to acknowledge her. She had grown, he realized, not just in beauty but in a presence that commanded attention without effort.
“Lady Lora. How has your evening been?” His voice was smooth and inviting. “Would you join me for a turn around the room?”
She returned his smile, taking his offered arm. “The evening has been quite delightful, though I must admit, your presence adds a certain charm.”
Rockford chuckled softly, guiding her through the crowd. “You flatter me, my lady.”
She hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “I believe our last conversation was rather… tense. I apologize. I was… preoccupied with some troubling news.”
Rockford’s smile widened slightly. “No apology is necessary. We all have our moments.”
Lora walked beside him in comfortable silence for a moment before speaking softly. “I hope you won’t think me impertinent, but I wanted to ask after your well-being.”
He glanced at her, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. “That’s most kind of you. I assure you, I am quite well.”
She hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “It’s just that… I’ve heard some whispers recently. Rumors that concern you. They troubled me, and I thought it best to speak with you directly.”
Rockford maintained a neutral expression, but someone who knew him well would see the flicker of something deeper in his eyes. “I see. Rumors have a way of spreading—often without merit, don’t they?”
“For that, I am glad.” She met his gaze. “I have always held you in high esteem. Even when you pulled my hair.”
His eyes widened. “Only after you tied the legs of my breeches in knots while I was swimming in the lake.”
She smirked. “Ah, but you were quite the sight trying to undo them.”
Rockford chuckled. “You were wise to keep your distance. If I remember, my thoughts were… less than noble.”
“Yes, best leave it there.” They walked on in companionable silence.
“Those summers at the lodge were some of the best,” she mused.
“Simpler times,” he agreed. He glanced at her, warmth in his gaze. “Perhaps we should visit again.”
She shot him a knowing look. “Only if you promise not to swim in the lake this time.”
He leaned in, voice low. “No promises.”
Lora laughed. “Then I suppose we’ll just have to see what happens.”
Rockford’s grin was full of mischief. “It appears some things never change.”
