The Lyon’s Alliance (The Lyon’s Den Connected World)

Chapter Twenty

T he air in Richard’s study was thick with tension as Dalley stood before him, his expression grave. Dalley’s presence filled the study with a noticeable sense of urgency as he faced Richard, his features etched with concern. The rumors about Richard’s supposed involvement in the scandal had been a source of distress for Dalley, and now, armed with new information, his unease had only deepened.

“Richard, I’ve come directly from Mrs. Dove-Lyon at Hartfield House,” Dalley began. “She contacted me in my capacity as a money sleuth and asked for my assistance about the recent F&T Capital Management scandal and the recent rumors it has spawned.”

“Please, sit down and tell me what you’ve found.” Richard urged, motioning toward the hearth with a welcoming hand, “You look grave, what have you uncovered?”

Dalley took a deep breath. “There is no way to make this sound acceptable. I have found who originated the rumor about you and F&T Capital Management.”

Richard’s eyes widened. “Who would create such lies?”

“Lord Wolfton.” Dalley stood helplessly by and watched the disbelief wash over Richard’s face.

The name echoed in Richard’s mind, disbelief etched on his face. “Wolf? No, I can’t believe that is true. There must be some mistake. You must have misunderstood.”

“I know it’s difficult to believe.” Dalley’s gaze was steady as he nodded solemnly, his expression softening with concern for his friend. “I understand your reluctance to accept this, and I wish I were wrong, but I assure you that I am not.”

Richard’s hands clenched, the betrayal by someone he considered a peer—a friend—was a bitter revelation. “What proof do you have of this?”

“I have witnesses and their accounts. I hope we’ve caught this in time. You may need to be prepared for the effect of these accusations as false as they are. These rumors may already be tarnishing your reputation, whether you like it or not.

“Furthermore, I may have something else. I still need to corroborate the information regarding Falkenham.”

Richard absorbed the information, his mind racing with the implications. After a moment, he put the gossip aside and faced Dalley. “And what of Falkenham?”

Dalley leaned forward, his voice low. “Falkenham is liquidating his assets, dismissing staff, and preparing to leave for America with Mrs. Miller. He may be leaving as soon as this Saturday evening. It’s a drastic move that coincides with an embezzler’s timeline.”

Richard stood abruptly. “We cannot let him escape justice. If Falkenham is the embezzler, we must gather evidence before he vanishes.”

“Excuse me, sir.” Richard’s butler entered.

Dalley and Richard turned to his butler. “Yes, Mr. Varley?”

“Mr. Hughes sent this and asked that you read it at once.” The butler handed Richard the evening edition of the London Chronicle .

“How did Mr. Hughes get an advance copy of the London Chronicle ?” Dalley gazed at Richard, seemingly impressed by the solicitor’s ability.

“The man is full of surprises and contacts.” Richard turned to the gossip column.

In the hallowed halls of London’s elite, whispers abound of a scandalous scheme woven by the threads of envy and deceit. It is said that a specific gentleman, fueled by jealousy and ambition, has embarked on a treacherous path to tarnish the sterling reputation of a rival, all in the name of winning the favor of a fair maiden.

But let it be known that such rumors are naught but the fabrications of a vengeful heart seeking to cast aspersions upon the character of an honorable man. For in the court of public opinion, truth shall prevail over falsehood, and justice shall be served to those who dare to manipulate the truth for their own nefarious ends.

Let us not be swayed by the whispers of malice and deceit. Instead, let us uphold the values of integrity and honor that have long been the cornerstone of our society. In the end, it is not the rumors that define us. It is, instead, the strength of our character and the integrity of our actions that truly matter.

And to you, RSJ, I extend my humble apology for being unwittingly entangled in the dissemination of such baseless accusations. May the truth shine forth and vindicate your name from the shadows of slander.

“I was correct,” Dalley blurted out.

“Correct about what?” Richard placed the paper on the table.

“I’ve been trying to figure out why Wolf would start rumors about you. Don’t you see?” Dalley was breathing heavily with excitement. “He has been accompanying Miss Hartfield to all the Society functions of late. You are his rival. He is jealous of you spending time with her, working with her.”

“Nonsense. He has nothing…to worry about.” Richard’s voice was firm, though his mind raced. Christina had no inkling of Wolf’s true nature—how he toys with women’s hearts. Surely, she would see through him. He glanced at Dalley. Wouldn’t she?

“Doesn’t he?” Dalley’s raised an eyebrow, his expression inscrutable.

Richard raked his hand through his hair. The cancellation of the astronomy program had robbed him of a legitimate excuse to be near Christina. But now, with the truth about Wolf and Falkenham coming to light, his feelings for her were undeniable.

“You love her, Richard.” Dally’s voice cut through his thoughts. “It’s about time you admitted it to yourself.”

Richard’s breath caught, his mind spinning like a celestial map. Finally, he turned to Dalley, his eyes wide. “Yes, I do. I love her.”

A satisfied smile spread across Dalley’s face.

Richard’s journey to Hartfield House was a tumultuous one, his mind a whirlwind of emotions as he reflected on his interactions with Christina and Wolf. The closer he got to Hartfield House, the more certain he became that Dalley’s findings were accurate, Wolf’s jealousy was the catalyst for the rumors.

Finally, he walked up the steps to Hartfield House. Mrs. Murthy opened the door before he knocked.

“Mrs. Dove-Lyon wanted to speak to you alone, sir,” Mrs. Murthy ushered him to the drawing room.

The air was thick with tension as he paced in front of Mrs. Dove-Lyon and recounted Dalley’s revelations about Wolf’s role in the accusations.

Mrs. Dove-Lyon, seated gracefully in an upholstered armchair, listened intently. When he finished, she nodded thoughtfully, a glint of determination in her eyes.

“I believe I may have something that could help,” she said, retrieving a piece of paper from her pocket. “It’s an article that was set to be printed in tomorrow’s London Chronicle , but the entire edition will be dedicated to a different story. I managed to convince the editor to ignore this one.”

Unfolding the document, Richard scanned the words with growing dismay.

In the latest buzz circulating our esteemed society’s drawing rooms and parlors, whispers of a clandestine affair have stirred the pot of intrigue and speculation. While discretion veils the parties’ identities, keen observers cannot help but wonder about the sudden shift in the dynamics of London’s social scene.

Rumors abound about a mysterious gentleman known for his charm and charisma who has long held court as the undisputed master of the social sphere. Yet whispers now suggest that his illustrious reign may face an unexpected challenge—a woman of discerning wit and unwavering resolve who refuses to be ensnared by his beguiling attraction.

Indeed, where once his prowess reigned supreme, this mysterious lady seems to be a formidable adversary, captivating hearts and minds with her steadfast independence and sharp intellect. Reports hint at his eminent rejection as she rebuffs his advances, unswayed by his practiced charm.

As tongues wag and speculations fly, one can’t help but wonder if this esteemed gentleman has finally met his match?

But there’s more to this tale than meets the eye, as whispers of a wager made in the hushed corners of our society’s most exclusive clubs begin to surface. Could our charming gentleman have staked his reputation on pursuing this captivating woman, only to find himself ensnared in a game he never expected to lose?

As the intrigue unfolds and secrets simmer beneath the surface, one thing remains certain: no one is immune to the siren song of scandal and desire in the game of love and society. Keep your eyes peeled, dear readers, for the next chapter in this captivating saga of passion and intrigue.

With a resolute nod, Richard folded the article and slipped it into his pocket. He watched Mrs. Dove-Lyon leave the drawing room. He made himself as comfortable as he could and waited.

Mrs. Dove-Lyon hesitated outside the library door, her heart heavy with the burden of what she was about to reveal. She knocked softly, her knuckles rapping against the polished wood.

“Come in,” Christina’s voice called from within.

Mrs. Dove-Lyon entered, finding Christina sitting by the window, a book lying forgotten in her lap. The room was bathed in soft light, which cast long shadows across the floor.

“Christina, my dear,” Mrs. Dove-Lyon began, her voice gentle. “There’s something I need to tell you, something of great importance.”

Christina looked up, her brow furrowing in confusion. “What is it, Mrs. Dove-Lyon? You look troubled.”

Taking a deep breath, Mrs. Dove-Lyon confessed the wager to Christina.

“You mean to say… there was a wager placed on me?”

Mrs. Dove-Lyon nodded, her expression filled with remorse. “No. Not you. On a situation that involves you. And for that, I am truly sorry.”

Christina’s hands clenched into fists, her anger simmering just beneath the surface. “Who would do such a thing? And why?”

“It was Wolf,” Mrs. Dove-Lyon confessed, her voice heavy with regret. “He made a wager that whomever he accompanied in my place would fall in love with him. I did not agree. However, I… I did foolishly agree to take that wager.”

Christina’s eyes blazed with fury, her voice dripping with disdain. “How could you do this, Mrs. Dove-Lyon? To manipulate my feelings and wager on my heart in such a way…I trusted you, and this feels like a profound violation of that trust.”

Mrs. Dove-Lyon gasped at Christina’s accusation.

“Christina, please understand that there was no betrayal intended. When I made that wager, you weren’t even a consideration. But as fate would have it, you became involved, and I realized I had nothing to fear. You, with your discerning heart, would never fall for Wolf’s charms. Yes, he’s charismatic and entertaining, but love? True love requires more than mere charm. I wagered not against you, Christina, but against the notion that Wolf could be genuinely loved for who he is rather than for the image he projects. It was his vanity I challenged, not your heart.

However, I must admit that Wolf took the wager too far. His actions went beyond what I ever intended, and for that, I am deeply sorry. As soon as I realized the extent of his betrayal, I knew I had to take action. I deeply regret if I have hurt your feelings in any way. For that, I offer my sincerest apologies.”

Christina’s breath caught, and her mind processed the implications of Mrs. Dove-Lyon’s words. “A wager?” she repeated, surprised. “I shouldn’t be shocked, given Wolf’s nature.” Her heart skipped a beat as a sudden thought struck her. Her eyes widened, and she glanced at Mrs. Dove-Lyon. “Richard… does he know?”

Mrs. Dove-Lyon nodded, her expression somber. “Yes, he does.”

Christina sighed deeply, a wave of relief mingled with a deep sense of disappointment. “What was Wolf thinking?” She glanced at Mrs. Dove-Lyon, her eyes pleading for an answer. “Was it the wager or his manliness?”

Christina fidgeted with hands, unable to sit still. She stood, placing one hand on her hip while the other absentmindedly smoothed the hair at the nape of her neck. She moved to the window, looking out at the carriages passing by.

“I don’t know if I can ever trust Wolf again.” She walked back and lowered herself into her chair. “He took John Lyly’s comment, ‘the rules of fair play do not apply to love and war.’ His actions were driven by jealousy and revenge. He manipulated us all, and it hurts to realize how far he went. He could have ruined Richard.”

Mrs. Dove-Lyon’s eyes softened with shared sorrow. She reached out and gently took Christina’s hand, her touch warm and comforting. “I feel the same way, Christina. Wolf’s betrayal runs deep, and it will take time to heal from this. But together, we will move forward.”

Christina felt a tear escape, but she quickly brushed it away, finding strength in Mrs. Dove-Lyon’s words. “Thank you. It’s a relief to finally understand how the rumors started, even if the truth is painful. We will overcome this together.”

Mrs. Dove-Lyon squeezed Christina’s hand gently, a hint of relief in her expression. “Yes, and we will be stronger for it. We best speak to Richard.”

Christina went to the door and called to Mrs. Murthy. “Please ask Richard to join us.” Her heart raced as she waited for him to join them.

“Christina,” Richard’s voice was tense as he entered the room.

“Wolf has been connecting stars to form a damning picture of me.”

“Mrs. Dove-Lyon and I were discussing Wolf. But why would he take such drastic action?”

“Because he’s a selfish, manipulative coward, Christina.”

Before she could finish her sentence, she heard a familiar yet unexpected voice from the doorway. She turned to face her father.

Captain Hartfield, Christina’s father, entered the room with the help of Mr. Murthy. His expression was grave as he approached them with purpose. “I’ve kept silent for too long, but I can’t bear to see you suffer. Your mother told me not to interfere.”

Her father shook his head, his expression grave as he lowered himself into a chair and met his daughter’s gaze. “Christina, there’s something you need to understand about Wolf,” he began, his voice heavy with regret. “He’s not the hero you think he is.”

Christina’s eyes widened in shock at her father’s words. “What do you mean?” Her voice was barely more than a whisper. “I heard of his deeds when he was given the award.”

“All these years. I’ve never said a word. Like a good soldier, I’ve kept my silence.” He glanced at his daughter. “But I cannot keep silent any longer, not where you are concerned.”

He said nothing. He stared at the floor and fought his private battle to speak the truth.

“Take your time, Sir.” Richard quietly handed him a cup of tea that Mr. Murthy brought in. The older man accepted it with a nod, taking a sip to soothe his throat before continuing. Hartfield took a deep breath.

“During Wolfton’s time in the military, he was known for his bravery and courage on the battlefield,” he explained an edge of bitterness in his voice. “But there were rumors, whispers among the ranks, about his tactics and willingness to sacrifice others for his own gain.”

Christina’s face blanched at her father’s words. A sinking feeling settled in the pit of her stomach as she realized the gravity of what he was saying.

“The Reynold’s boy didn’t want to go into the battlefield. Wolfton didn’t order him to go. He teased and suggested. But, in the end, he never tried to stop him.”

The sergeant’s words cast a shadow over Christina’s once unwavering beliefs. Her father’s words shattered the illusion of honor that had surrounded Wolf. The man she had thought a hero was now tainted by suspicion and moral uncertainty in addition to his lies and betrayal of Richard. Her gaze shifted from her father to Richard, her eyes filled with sorrow.

Richard’s expression mirrored her turmoil. They were both caught in the crossfire of secrets and betrayal. Richard had trusted Wolf.

Richard turned toward her. “There are things that we don’t know, and before this gets out of hand, we must speak with Wolf.”

“All for his self-esteem.” Mrs. Dove-Lyon’s mind was fixed. “To do so, he weaved tales—half-truths, insinuations. The ballrooms, the clubs—they all echo with his stellar lies.”

“Surely people see through his ploy?” Christina pleaded with them. She turned to Richard. “Everyone knows you, your character.”

Everything in her world seemed to be spinning out of control. As the truth unfolded before her, her mind struggled to reconcile the image of the man she met and, dare she say, admired with the reality of his true character. Christina looked into Richard’s eyes—the eyes of a man wronged yet unwavering in his commitment to truth and justice—she knew what she had to do.

“We cannot stand by without taking action.” Christina stood before them. “We have formed an alliance determined to get at the truth. We have only partially succeeded. Now, we must finish our quest and make this right. What can we do?”

“We? My North Star.” Richard stared at her with admiration.

“I will do anything within my power to vindicate you.” She gazed into his eyes. “Surely, you know that.”

Richard’s heart swelled with gratitude as he took in Christina’s simple yet profound response. Her unwavering belief in him was the very thing that gave him strength and purpose. He stepped closer, his voice filled with emotion. “Christina, your support means more to me than words can express. Thank you from the depths of my heart.”

She reached out and took his hand, her eyes shining with emotion. “I believe in you and will stand by you, no matter what. We must speak to Wolf. We cannot condemn him without hearing from him.”

“Tomorrow night,” Mrs. Dove-Lyon said. “Mr. Dalley will have the rest of his evidence gathered. Sergeant Hartfield, that was a heavy burden to carry, but it was time to let it go. You have helped with some of the pieces. Now,” Mrs. Dove-Lyon rose, “if you will excuse me. I will see you tomorrow.” She looked at Richard.

“It’s a lovely evening, Richard. Hartfield House has a lovely garden. Why don’t you and Christina walk in the garden? It will do wonders to clear your heads,” Mrs. Dove-Lyon suggested.

Mrs. Dove-Lyon leaned close to Richard. “Opportunity, my dear. Do not let it slip by.” She straightened. “Enjoy your evening. My coachman will deliver me home.”

Richard glanced at Christina. “Fresh air does sound inviting.” Richard offered her his arm and led her into the garden. They walked through the arbor. The heavy green vines held wisteria that had already gone to sleep for the night. At the far end of the garden, tucked behind the summerhouse, was a small waterfall.

“This has always been one of my favorite places,” Christina said softly. “I used to hide here. And on a clear night, you can see the stars.” She glimpsed at the sky and realized that Richard hadn’t said anything. Turning to glance at him, she froze. His eyes held a depth of emotion that rendered words unnecessary. He said it all in his gaze—admiration, longing, and something deeper that made her heart race.

He put his arms around her. The warmth of his body enveloped her, and she pulled him into a tight embrace. Richard’s arms enfolded her, solid and steady. The outside world faded, leaving only the two of them—partners, collaborators, and more.

As Richard’s chest rose and fell against hers, a rush of warmth flooded her senses. With a soft sigh, she nestled closer to him, her cheek against his shoulder. There was something undeniably secure in his embrace, a feeling she belonged there, with him and among the stars they had just pinned to the board.

And in that quiet moment, the universe seemed to conspire as their breaths aligned. The stars faded into insignificance, replaced by the uncharted territory of their hearts. Christina tilted her head, her lips brushing his collarbone, and for the first time, the boundaries blurred. The kiss was inevitable—a celestial collision, a fusion of longing and possibility.

Richard’s lips met hers, and the world shifted. The constellations spun, and the garden dissolved. In that stolen breath, they tasted the promise of discovery.

As they pulled back slightly, Christina couldn’t help but detect the way Richard’s eyes sparkled as his gaze met hers. It was as though they shared an unspoken understanding, a connection that bound them together in ways words could not express.

“Christina.” His chest rumbled. She didn’t want to move. She snuggled closer. He laughed, and she nearly swooned because she could hear and feel it. Contentment.

Her body melted against his. His fingers ran down her cheek to her neck. Each touch ignited a fire within her. She turned and faced him. He captured her lips tenderly, passionately.

How someone could be chilled and on fire at the same time was beyond her. All from his kiss. His hands ran down her body with a gentle touch that made her shiver. He rested his hand on her back, and she felt its comforting warmth through her gown.

With her head back, his kisses marched down her throat with small licks that tickled in odd places, making her smile all the more. But when he kissed her below her collarbone and lingered there, something else happened. She had a driving need for him, only him.

She lifted his head and kissed him as he had kissed her, deeply, passionately. Then he responded and kissed her chest. She let out a gasp. But he didn’t stop. Richard continued ever so lightly at first, but his kisses grew more urgent as he stroked her chest.

Everything they had worried about and the world around them faded away as they became lost in their embrace.

His kisses, his gentle touches, took her places she had never dreamed about. She was sailing in the sky, Richard and her as one. She opened her eyes and gazed at his face and the stars behind him.

“This must be heaven,” she murmured in his ear.

“Oh, no, my love. This is only the beginning. There is so much more.” He kissed her passionately, each kiss a celebration of their love.

Her heart pounded as his touches stroked a fire that grew from the embers into a roaring storm and grew even more. She was sure she would burst if he didn’t stop, but please, let him never stop.

He whispered something in her ear, but she only felt the overwhelming sensation of his breath and warmth. As their urgency grew, she hung onto him, afraid she would shatter into a million pieces. The storm increased inside her until she couldn’t remain still but held onto Richard and kissed him deeply to quench her need. It increased even more until, like a starburst, a brilliance that radiated in all directions.

Richard held her close as her body trembled with release. With his soft, tender kisses, she came back to earth. They held each other, their hearts beating as one.

“We best go inside.” His voice was soft and wonderful.

She nodded and stepped away. He took her hand, and they went inside through the drawing room door. “Tell your family good night for me. Sleep well. I’ll see you at the gala.”

Christina smiled softly, her heart still fluttering from his kiss. “I will. Good night.”

He gave her hand a gentle squeeze before letting go. With one last lingering look, he turned and made his way to the door.

“Good evening, Mr. Murthy.” The butler held the door open. He stepped out into the cool night air. He glanced above at the stars, then turned to see Christina, nodded, and went on his way.

Christina watched him leave, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. She took a deep breath, composed herself, and walked into the drawing room to join her family. Her mind was already drifting to the upcoming gala and confronting Wolf.