Chapter 27
The Darcys returned to Netherfield after what was to be their last evening at Longbourn during their stay.
Alone in their apartment, Elizabeth placed her arms around Darcy’s neck, resting her head on his chest as he moved to enfold her in his arms. “May I commend you for holding your tongue when Mama mentioned Lydia’s letter stating how much she looks forward to visiting Pemberley at Christmas with her new husband? ”
Biting his tongue was more like it. Darcy swore he tasted blood.
“I saw no need to broach the subject with your mother, further upsetting her over the prospect of not seeing Lydia for who knows how long. However, you must know that I have no intention of ever receiving Wickham in my home, especially not after what he has done.” Darcy recalled how appalled Elizabeth was, and rightfully so, when he shared his suspicion that Wickham had violated her sister weeks before stealing away with her.
Softening his stance, he said, “As for whether your sister is received, that is entirely up to you.”
“After what those two have done, the damage to our family’s reputation as well as Mr. Bingley’s, I understand your sentiments perfectly well. However, Lydia is my sister. I do not think that I could ever completely turn my back on her.”
“I say we do not give the matter another thought, at least not tonight.”
“Then, what shall we discuss?”
“There is one thing I wish to mention. I have been giving some thought to speaking with Mr. Coolidge about adjusting his lesson plans.”
“Pray this means you have reconsidered your stance against Samuel’s presence in the classroom with Ben.”
“I feel I must. Ben’s friendship with Samuel is important to him.
Their camaraderie brings so much joy to Ben’s days.
I want Ben to enjoy his childhood for as long as he can, without thoughts of his place in society, his future responsibility as a landed gentleman and all that comes with such privilege.
If having Ben’s friend enjoy some of the same privileges is the means of bringing that about, then so be it. ”
“You amaze me, my love.” She lightly placed her hand on her stomach. “Pray does this philosophy also apply to the future heir of Pemberley?”
Her innocent gesture gave him cause to wonder whether his wife was speaking hypothetically or if there was something he ought to know.
However, in light of their tacit agreement to eschew talk of any such matters that might give rise to disappointed hopes, he decided not to press her.
All would unfold when the time was right.
He reached for Elizabeth’s hand, raised it to his lips and brushed a kiss across her knuckles before continuing his speech.
“Indeed it does. Of course, this is the direct opposite of how my father taught me to regard my role as his heir. When the time comes, if I should falter, I shall expect you to help me along the way.”
“You can have no doubt I will do just that. Speaking of your father, I take it that you have no more concerns about the great sins of elevating young Samuel beyond the sphere into which he was born?”
“Having witnessed my father’s mistakes first-hand, I have a good idea of which ones to avoid. However, I trust you will help me with that as well.”
“Indeed.” Elizabeth’s countenance brightened. “I can think of one person, other than Ben and Samuel, who will be delighted by your change of heart.”
“Who else?”
“Why, Mrs. Reynolds, of course. Oh, I know what she said about everyone having their place, but what grandmother would not relish such opportunity for her grandchild?”
The following week, the Darcys’ travels saw them arrive safely in Derbyshire once more. After so many months away, the collective spirit in the procession of fine carriages was one and the same. Pemberley—how good it was to be home again.
Elizabeth’s prediction proved true as regarded the impact of Darcy’s change of heart on Mrs. Reynolds, for upon hearing of her master’s new-found philosophy, Mrs. Reynolds’s pleasure could not be repressed.
She more than just thanked Mr. Darcy for his benevolence towards her only grandchild; she embraced him with open arms.
The last time Mrs. Reynolds, who was more like a mother to him than not, had embraced him was when he returned from Cambridge for the first time.
Her simple act of kindness meant more to Darcy than she could ever know.
While watching her quit the room, a not too distant moment came to mind—the day he and his family returned to Pemberley.
Many of the household servants had stood in line to welcome the family, young Samuel included among them. Breaking with decorum, he raced towards Ben as soon as Ben descended his carriage. The two hurried off towards the stables.
As excited as Ben was to be reunited with his friend, mid-stride, he spun about on his heels and tore off in Darcy’s direction.
Darcy caught his son. He lifted Ben high in the sky.
Heartfelt joy and laughter filled the air.
When Darcy lowered him, Ben threw both arms around Darcy’s neck. He clung to him. “Thank you, Father!”
Darcy’s eyes sought Ben’s. “Father? Pray you are not vexed, my son.”
“Oh, no! I am happier than ever.”
“Yet, you just called me—”
“Father—I know, as I shall call you forever more, for you are my father.” Ben rested his head on Darcy’s shoulder. “I have the best father in all the land.”
The End