Leisen continuously shook her head and said, "I am reluctant to believe those rumors, but I can find no other reason for you to unwaveringly support Miss Flora Hastings apart from the rumors being true. To maintain Her Majesty the Queen's good image, I do not advise her to engage with a gentleman embroiled in scandal at such a sensitive moment."
Arthur listened quietly, with no expression on his face, until Lady Leisen finished speaking. Then he opened his mouth and said, "Is this the reason Buckingham Palace has been delaying my summons? To avoid suspicion?"
Lady Leisen was silent for a moment, seemingly contemplating whether to reveal the truth to Arthur.
