Chapter 23

Down in London, the past twenty-four hours for Oliver had been a roller coaster. He had spiralled between despair and elation multiple times as Fate had toyed with him. Now as he sat eating a quiet lunch in his hotel room he tried to go over the turn of events and rationalise his situation.

Upon arriving at the Gilded Falcon from Lady Daphne's gathering, he was surprised to be denied entrance for the first time. Despite his title and connections it appeared his name had a red creditor mark against it. The odious bald gatekeeper had politely and in a quiet voice reminded him that his previous visit was still unpaid.  

Sulking angrily at the bar he watched the other gentlemen gamblers come and go. Sipping a claret, his mind was a torrent of self-pity and unfairness.