Epilogue
Morning
The carriage swayed as we traveled down the road away from Netherfield. It had been a wonderful visit with Charles and Jane culminating in a ball.
"I cannot believe we defiled Bingley's library," said Darcy with a grin that was not in the least remorseful.
"One might as well commit the sin one has been condemned for. And I do not think that chair suffered any lasting damage. Besides one must take the opportunity when it presents itself. We cannot have tea in our own library without someone interrupting."
The someone in this case specifically being Belinda and Henrietta.
Mrs. Vane had let her husband live and had convinced James of his innocence.
The girls were very happy that they now got to see their father, but they had remained at Darcy House with their mother while he worked to regain Mrs. Vane's trust.
"It was a good ball," Darcy observed.
I laughed. "You only say that because we spent half of it dallying in the library."
"Yes."
"I was so proud of Lydia tonight, her behavior is so much altered from last year. Staying with Margaret has settled her."
"I find it difficult to believe my great aunt has a settling influence on anyone. Perhaps it is Sir Sebastian who brought about the change."
I nodded. Lydia had become Margaret's companion following her near ruin.
It had allowed her to be around Sir Sebastian and stay in town while being better looked after.
Dora had remained at Darcy House where every month she most excitedly received a new specimen of beetle from Mr. Farthingham who was still off on his scientific expedition.
It was the strangest courtship I had ever heard of, but I felt certain they would be happily wed when he returned to England in two years' time.
Rebecca and James were the proudest parents I had ever met. Their little moon and star were the light of their world. And speaking of babies. . . .
"There is something I must tell you," I said. I had been putting it off because, though I knew my news would make him incandescently happy, I also knew he would become over-protective to the point he would drive me mad.
"You are going to be a father."
Darcy released a long strangled, "Urrghh." Then he grinned. Then he chuckled. Finally he let out a boyish whoop.
"You are pleased I take it?" I asked.
"Indeed," he said. My favorite word of our marriage thus far.