The King’s eyes twinkled. Then, his gaze fell on the Rockford necklace. “You have my permission, and my heartfelt congratulations to you both.”
The guests erupted, the room filling with renewed excitement.
The king addressed the crowd. “Let us raise a toast to truth revealed, to noble causes, and the happy couple. May their union bring joy and prosperity.”
Glasses were raised as a resounding “Hear, hear!” echoed through the hall.
The musicians began to play, and the dance floor beckoned.
Rockford turned to Lora, offering his hand. “May I have this dance?”
Lora glanced at the king.
“You go on. I need to talk to Barrington. He can fill me in on what has happened.”
They moved onto the center of the ballroom. The challenges of the past weeks faded away, leaving only the promise of their future together.
Lady Dorset whispered to Lady Napier. “They make a splendid couple, don’t they?”
Lady Napier nodded. “Indeed. Their bond is strong. And to think we nearly let baseless gossip cloud our eyes.”
Ellington approached Lady Harriet. “I must say, the clinic’s expansion will do wonders for the community. I’ve alwayssupported your father’s efforts. Excellent doctor. I’m increasing my contribution.”
Harriet smiled appreciatively. “Your generosity is most welcome. It’s heartening to see everyone come together.”
As the evening progressed, it became a celebration not just of Rockford and Lora’s engagement but of truth, reconciliation, and the strength of the community.
Later, after the king departed, as the gala began to come to an end, Rockford and Lora slipped out onto the terrace. The night air was cool, a gentle breeze rustling the leaves.
Lora looked up at the stars, the night air crisp against her skin. “Everything feels right now,” she murmured, the weight of the past weeks lifting. For the first time, there were no unanswered questions, no lingering doubts, only the steady warmth of the man beside her and the promise of the future they would build together.
Rockford wrapped an arm around her. “It does. With Hastings exposed and the truth now known, we can move forward unhindered.”
She rested her head on his shoulder. “I’m excited for what the future holds.”
He pressed a kiss to her temple. “As am I. We’ll accomplish great things together.”
They stood in comfortable silence, content in each other’s company.
Finally, Lora spoke softly. “Thank you for believing in me.”
He turned to face her fully. “It’s I who should thank you. Your courage and perception were pivotal. You are, without a doubt, the heroine of this story.”
She laughed lightly. “Perhaps we can share that title.”
He smiled. “Perhaps we can. But regardless, I am grateful to have you by my side.”
“Always,” she agreed.
Chapter Thirty-Six
23 January 1823
The crisp Januarymorning brought a delicate layer of frost to Fallsmith Manor, casting a magical shimmer over the estate. The manor’s drawing room, warmed by a crackling fire, was transformed into a winter wonderland for the intimate ceremony. Fresh blooms of winter roses and evergreen sprigs adorned the space, their subtle fragrances mingling with the crisp air.
Lora stood in a sunlit room, adjusting the delicate lace of her gown. Harriet’s eyes, sparkling with excitement, added the final touches to Lora’s veil. “You look absolutely radiant,” she whispered, her voice filled with emotion.
Lora smiled, her heart brimming with anticipation. “Thank you, Harriet.”
