“I don’t know if that can be accomplished in the eyes of the law, but perhaps Denshire can be tried and condemned in the court of public opinion,” Simon said with narrowed eyes. “A large amount of convincing evidence would be required. Credible witnesses to what actually happened that evil night. Ideally, recantation from one or more of the men who testified on Denshire’s behalf.”

Lucas said slowly, “I have an idea. Though it may be mad.”

“Tell us the idea and we’ll let you know if it’s mad,” Suzanne said helpfully.

“Kendra wants custody of her son and her reputation restored. Both were taken away by the legal system, and perhaps that is how they need to be restored.”

Kendra frowned. “That sounds reasonable, but how can that be accomplished when women have so little legal standing?”

“As a peer of the realm, I can introduce a Personal Act in the House of Lords to redress a specific wrong once we have incontrovertible evidence,” Lucas explained. “I would introduce the private bill charging Denshire with fraud and defamation, and pointing out that it’s proof he’s unfit to be the guardian of his son.”

There was a collective gasp from the others. Simon said, “It’s a bold and imaginative plan, but can it work? Has there ever been a private bill like this introduced into the Lords?”

“I have no idea, but a peer of the realm has a great deal of freedom as to what bills he introduces.” Lucas’s mouth twisted. “It’s ironic that Kendra was not allowed to speak on her own behalf, but a man, even a dishonored one like me, will be listened to. Not fair, but the way of the world.”

“It might not be necessary to go as far as introducing a private bill, Lucas,” Suzanne said. “If we have compelling evidence, we can present it to Denshire and ask if he wants to make himself an object of disgust and loathing among his peers. We’ll refrain from making his crimes public if he gives custody of Christopher to Kendra. It’s not as good as utterly destroying his public reputation, but it would achieve Kendra’s most important goal.”

“Blackmail.” Kendra’s brows furrowed. “That might work. He has more than his share of pride and wouldn’t want his reputation to be blackened before his friends. But it would take a great deal of evidence to convince him.”

“There are many kinds of evidence,” Suzanne said, her gaze probing. “Kendra, did Denshire ever seriously injure you? Seriously enough that it would be an outrage to decency?”

Kendra felt her blood drain away as the other woman’s words struck her deepest shame. She hadn’t wanted to reveal this, yet honesty was her best hope for freeing herself from her current hell. She dropped her gaze and whispered, “Yes, he beat me when he wanted money.”