She tilted her head. “And here I thought dukes were fearless.”
“Oh, we are.” He offered his arm. “But even a duke knows better than to underestimate Lady Lora Preston.”
She laughed again, genuine and light. “Perhaps I’ve gained a reputation.”
“One that’s well-deserved.”
She rested her hand lightly on his forearm. “Shall we continue? There are some new faces you might be interested to meet.”
“Lead the way.” Rockford gestured gracefully. “I’m at your disposal.”
They continued their stroll through the ballroom, weaving elegantly between clusters of guests. The soft glow of candlelight bathed the room in a warm ambiance. The music, a combinationof strings and pianoforte, blended into a cheerful melody that underscored the murmur of conversations.
The fragrant blooms strategically placed throughout the rooms and hallways added a subtle sweetness to the air, with the heady aroma of roses and honeyed notes of jasmine. The crisp, clean scent of lilies provided a refreshing contrast, and lavender added a calming, herbal undertone. Amid the floral symphony, a faint trace of lemon and smoke lingered, unexpected, yet easy to overlook.
As they walked, Rockford leaned in slightly. “I must admit, it’s refreshing to be back here. London has its charms, but it lacks the… authenticity of Sommer-by-the-Sea.”
Lora glanced up at him. “It’s a place that’s filled with nostalgia.”
“Indeed,” he nodded in agreement. “Tell me, who among our old acquaintances are present tonight?”
She pointed discreetly with her fan toward a distinguished gentleman speaking animatedly near the fireplace. “Lord Penton is here, still regaling anyone who’ll listen with tales of his travels.”
Rockford smiled. “Some things truly never change.”
“And over there,” she continued, “are Lord and Lady Atherstone. Their daughter Amelia has just returned from a season in London.”
“Ah, to be young and enamored with the ton,” he mused.
Lora gave him a sidelong glance. “You speak as though you’re ancient.”
“Merely experienced,” he replied with a wink.
Lora shook her head and chuckled. They paused briefly to greet a passing couple, exchanging pleasantries before moving on.
“How have you truly been, Rockford?” Lora asked softly as they resumed their walk. “It’s been ages since we’ve had a proper conversation.”
He considered her question for a moment. “Busy, as always. The responsibilities of the position, you know.”
She nodded. “I can only imagine.”
“But enough about me,” he said, steering the conversation. “I’ve heard of your involvement with the clinic’s expansion. That’s quite an undertaking.”
Her eyes brightened. “It’s a cause I believe in deeply. Access to proper medical care is something everyone deserves.”
He admired the passion in her expression; it lit up her face and made her even more beautiful. “Your dedication does you credit.”
Lora’s smile widened at the compliment. She turned her gaze briefly toward the crowd.
As they moved through the ballroom, a sharp, clipped voice rose above the hum of conversation. Rockford’s attention snapped to a group of men near the fireplace, their hushed but urgent tones setting them apart from the polite chatter around them. One man jabbed a finger toward another, his expression taut with frustration. Another shook his head sharply, his lips pressed into a thin line as if restraining his temper.
Their well-tailored coats and commanding stances suggested they were politicians, or at least men accustomed to wielding influence. Whatever their dispute, it was no idle discussion. Rockford glanced back at Lora, her voice still echoing in his thoughts, but his curiosity pulled him toward the gathering storm brewing by the hearth.
Lora noticed his momentary distraction and followed his gaze, leaning in slightly. “They seem quite… engaged, don’t they?”
Rockford nodded. “Indeed. It appears they’re discussing something of great importance.” He wondered what had them so excited.
“There is Lady Grantham. We must say hello.” Lora gestured near the fireplace. Rockford glanced at her, noting her expression. She seemed genuinely curious, not mischievous.
