“You ungrateful wretch,” he spat at Lora, his expression twisted with malice. “You could have had everything!”
She met his gaze unwavering. “Oh, dear. I believe I’ve struck a chord.” The sweetness on her face faded, replaced by a fierce determination. Her voice sharpened as she continued. “What makes you think,” she glanced at Rockford, “I don’t already have everything?”
“Hastings,” Rockford’s voice echoed with authority. “It’s over. We know what you are up to. Your fun is over.”
“You are so self-righteous when you, both of you, have the most to hide.” Hastings stepped forward, sneering. “Don’t you?”
Lora felt her heart quicken. What did Hastings know? His slick undertone made her uneasy.
People, overhearing the argument, gathered at the terrace door. The hum of curiosity and concern created a tension of its own.
Hastings produced an unopened letter with a flourish. “I have in my possession a piece of correspondence that was mysteriously intercepted. I believe it will shed light on certain… discrepancies. The missing royal correspondence.”
Lora’s breath caught in her throat. She recognized her father’s seal. How did he know about the correspondence? And how had he found it?
“Do you mean the correspondence that was never sent?” Lora’s voice was clear and steady. “Before you weave any more lies, let me clarify something.” Her eyes locked on him. “That letter wasn’t stolen from the courier pouch. I retrieved it from the front hall salver.”
Hastings’ smirk faltered slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. “A minor detail,” he scoffed. “It doesn’t change the fact that in this missive, your father’s intentions are laid bare.”
Lora countered. “You have twisted the truth for your gain, but your plotting ends here.”
How did he know where to look? She had tucked it deep in the hollow of the tree. The only one who would know where it was…the highwayman.
Hastings’ voice was smug as he stepped in front of her. “Shall we see what secrets this letter holds that made you remove it from the pouch?” He carefully broke the seal and slowly unfolded the parchment, his expression confident as he enjoyed the small drama.
As he read the contents, his smug expression faltered. A flicker of confusion, then disbelief, then something dangerously close to panic. His fingers clenched around the parchment, knuckles whitening. “This is impossible.” His voice, once so sure, wavered. “I spoke to the earl myself.”
Rockford stepped forward with deliberate ease, plucking the parchment from Hastings’ grip before the man could react. He unfolded it, his expression unreadable. “Let’s see what has you so shaken, Hastings.”
Chapter Thirty-Four
“Your Majesty,
“I trust this letter finds you in good health and spirits. As always, I remain grateful for your wise and benevolent leadership over our kingdom. It is with great respect and humility that I write to seek your gracious permission for a matter of personal and familial importance.
“My daughter, Lady Lora, has come of age and is at a pivotal moment in her life where the bonds of matrimony could greatly influence her future happiness and well-being. After much contemplation and consideration, I am convinced that a union between my daughter and…”
Rockford glanced at Hastings then at Lora.
Lora stepped between Rockford and Hastings. She removed the letter from Rockford’s hands. The scent of lemon and smoke hit her, unmistakable. She stared at Hastings, then continued reading, her voice softer but steady.
“I am convinced that a union between my daughter and Duke Rockford would be most advantageous for both our families and the realm at large.”
Her voice wavered slightly as she read on.
“It has come to my attention that Mr. Charles Hastings has also sought my daughter’s hand. However, his character and past actions render him an unsuitable match. It is not his common birth that concerns me, but rather his reputation for deceit and lack of honor, which would bring dishonor uponour family and jeopardize the stability we seek. Furthermore, please be informed that neither Duke Rockford nor my daughter are aware of this petition, ensuring that this request is made solely from my judgment of their suitability and the benefits to our lineage and the realm.
With glistening eyes, she continued loudly for everyone to hear.
“Garrett, Duke Rockford is a man of outstanding character, integrity, and dedication to his duties. His reputation as a noble and honorable gentleman precedes him, and I do not doubt that he would be a devoted and supportive husband to my dear Lora. Moreover, their union would strengthen the ties between our houses, fostering unity and stability within our noble community.
“I have not yet disclosed this intention to Lady Lora or Duke Rockford, as I wish to first seek your esteemed approval. I firmly believe that Your Majesty’s consent will lend significant importance to this proposal, ensuring its success and acceptance.
“Upon receiving your favorable response, I will joyfully inform my daughter of this arrangement, confident in the knowledge that it carries your royal blessing. Your Majesty’s wisdom and guidance in this matter would be deeply appreciated and cherished by our family.
“Thank you for your time and consideration. I remain, as ever, your loyal and devoted servant.
“With utmost respect and regard,
