Chapter Fifteen #2
“I perceive we share the same aesthetic sensibilities,” he remarked. “Alas, their extravagance extended far beyond mere horses and upholstery. They embraced every manner of excess with alarming enthusiasm, from diamond-encrusted snuffboxes to hideously expensive imported wines and vintage port.”
“Such a waste,” she murmured. “How fortunate that Jane’s affections were spared such a connection. Had he returned to Meryton as promised, she might have given him her heart completely. A most unfortunate outcome, considering our family’s altered circumstances.”
“Your sister appears quite philosophical about the matter. She quoted one of my favourite scriptures last week, that all things work together for good to those who love God. And from what I observe, her contentment seems well-founded.”
Elizabeth followed his gaze across the park, surprised to see Jane engaged in an animated conversation with Mr. Morgan, their heads inclined towards one another like two flowers turning to the same light.
“Shall we grant them a few moments more?” Elizabeth suggested with a mischievous glance. “Perhaps another circuit of the park?”
Mr. Darcy’s response was merely a warm smile that transformed his austere features, and a slight adjustment of their course, his hand covering hers where it rested in the crook of his arm.
Satisfied that her sister was in safe hands, Jane tilted her face skyward, basking in the sun’s golden caress upon her skin.
Mamma, if she knew, would surely scold her for such carelessness.
She could almost hear her say, “A lady’s complexion is her greatest treasure, to be nurtured with the greatest of care. ”
“Might I disturb your solitude, Lady Jane?”
Her eyes fluttered open to behold Mr. Morgan standing before her, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the dappled light filtering through the trees, and her heart raced.
In an instant, she was transported to her fifteenth summer when they first met, his boyish face now replaced by the chiselled features of a gentleman.
Would he also remember their innocent friendship?
“Your company would be most welcome, Mr. Propriety.”
“You remembered,” he murmured, settling next to her on the weathered oak bench that had witnessed their youthful confidences.
“I was uncertain if you would recall our past acquaintance, in this very park, on this very bench.”
“I have not forgotten, but did not know how to find you when I finally returned to town after my father’s passing.
” His countenance turned pensive, a shadow crossing his warm hazel eyes.
“Over the years, each time business brought me to your uncle’s door, I wandered these winding gravel paths hoping for a glimpse of you.
I imagined you wed, perhaps with rosy-cheeked children at your knee, and told myself I would rejoice in your happiness. ”
“How strange,” she replied softly. “I, too, have walked here countless times with my aunt’s children, searching every face for yours, wondering if you had found a wife to cherish.”
His gentle laugh warmed her more than the afternoon sun.
“Your uncle has sung praises of his two nieces countless times, yet our paths never crossed. We have been like ships passing in darkness... until this moment.”
“Until this moment,” she echoed.
“Lady Jane,” he said, taking her gloved hand in his larger one, the heat of his touch penetrating the finely woven material.
“I love you. I have loved you for over eight years, and I came today with the express purpose of seeking your hand in marriage.” He gazed deep into her eyes.
“Would you make me the happiest of men and be my wife?”
“Yes,” she replied simply, and lifted their joined hands to her lips.
“From the moment I saw you again, I knew you had always held my heart. I am so glad that events this past autumn changed my life most spectacularly, specifically, meeting you again. Had I not been able to love you as I do, I would have been miserable forever.”
“In that case, Miss Manners,” he said, his thumb tracing delicate circles on her wrist. “I am doubly glad your uncle invited my sister and me to the theatre. I very nearly swooned when we entered your father’s box.”
Jane stifled a giggle behind her free hand, her cheeks flushing pink.
“What amuses you?”
“The thought of my poor uncle rushing to catch you if you had actually fainted. Imagine Gabriella’s horror!”
“Thankfully, we shall never have such drama, at least not until you enter the church and walk down the aisle to meet me at the altar.”
“Oh, Joshua,” she sighed out, “I might swoon myself.”
“No matter,” he said with a grin. “I would simply pick you up, and we shall be the first couple married where the bride was held in the groom’s arms for the entire service.”
“You tease!” Jane cried out, squeezing his hand. “However, I would not mind, as long as the vows are spoken and we become man and wife, I care not how the deed is done.”
“With that happy thought, should we go and find your uncle?”
“We must wait for Lizzy and Mr. Darcy; they are walking about the park. In fact, I am surprised they have not returned.”
The words had barely left her lips when Mr. Morgan nodded his head, and Jane followed his gaze down the gravel path to where her sister and Mr. Darcy walked arm in arm.
One would have to be blind not to notice that Lizzy was radiant, while Darcy looked entirely pleased with himself.
Jane smiled. Her sister had finally found the steady partner her lively spirit deserved.