Mr. Darcy’s Complex Courtship

4. Chapter 4 An Outrageous Assertion

Chapter 4: An Outrageous Assertion

Friday, 15 May

Gracechurch Street

Elizabeth

T he days that followed Jane and Mr. Bingley’s return to Hertfordshire flew by with a delightful succession of calls, excursions, and meals with Mr. Darcy, often in company with Miss Darcy. My affection for him had grown with each passing day, and he monopolised my mind with alarming frequency.

Several nights earlier, Mr. Darcy and my uncle had discussed the shocking assassination of the right honourable Spencer Perceval, Prime Minister. At a pause in the conversation, Mr. Darcy had caught my gaze with a winsome smile. A frisson had coursed down my back, coinciding with a realisation: I loved him, completely and indelibly. Without question, I should accept his second offer of marriage with gratitude whenever he saw fit to pose it. My future happiness now depended on him—what a wondrous, and frightening, prospect!

Mr. Darcy had called alone this morning, and I agreed to his suggestion of a walk out of doors. We strolled arm in arm through the garden, and I sneaked glances at his handsome profile. Would he propose to me today?

He pointed at a bench up ahead. “Do you mind if we sit there?”

“No, not at all.” I had remarked on my fondness for this spot on an earlier occasion. I often came here to read on warm days. A flowering white dogwood tree provided shade, and a blend of pleasant fragrances wafted around us courtesy of the plentiful spring blooms.

We sat together in silence for a few minutes. Then he left his seat and knelt before me on one knee, taking my hand in his. A quiet gasp escaped me. It is happening!

His dark eyes flashed and held me in a caressing gaze. “Miss Elizabeth, I lost my heart to you long ago, and you are ever in my thoughts. Nevertheless, after these past weeks I am even more convinced than before that you are the only lady for me. I should be honoured if you would consent to be my wife. However, if you are not yet certain of your feelings or of our compatibility, I am prepared to wait as long as necessary.”

“I do not need more time.” A slight trill affected my words. “My affection for you has grown at an expeditious rate, and I accept your offer with pleasure.” An enticing smile overspread his countenance, making him more attractive than any man had a right to be. Gadzooks, he would soon be my husband .

“I have never been happier…Elizabeth.” He removed my glove and left a lingering kiss upon my palm.

Giddiness overtook me, and I suspended in place. After several moments, I found my voice. “Neither have I…Fitzwilliam.”

“And never has my name pleased me so well until you pronounced it.”

“Then I shall use it often, my dear Fitzwilliam.”

He rose and retook his seat on the bench, his eyes riveted on my lips. “May I kiss you?” His baritone sounded a bit hoarse.

“Yes.” Of late I had pictured and longed for this moment more than I should like to have admitted. With a hard swallow, I slanted towards him. My eyelids lowered, and his lips closed upon mine. I revelled in the delicious sensations he wrought, like mild flames licking my flesh, emblazoning me. His body pressed against mine, exciting every inch of my person in contact with him and warming me through to my core. Then he withdrew, leaving me aching for his touch yet more sated than ever before. “That was…incredible.”

With a tilt of his head, he peered at me. “I heartily agree.” He lifted my hand and left soft kisses upon my inner wrist. Then his fingers interlaced with mine. “Your father needs to be informed, so I shall go to him tomorrow.”

Oh dear—Papa. I ought to have warned him before now. “I expect he will be perplexed at the news.” My index finger grazed my lower lip. “I shall write a letter to him for you to take. And I shall ask my uncle to write one too.”

“That would be welcome, thank you.” A knot formed over his brow. “I regret I never took the time to speak to your father last autumn.”

“Oh no, let us not rue the past. Papa is certain to like you once he knows you better.”

Saturday, 16 May

Gracechurch Street

Elizabeth

Yesterday had elapsed like an idyllic dream: upon our return to the house, my aunt and uncle had expressed their mutual delight for my engagement. Fitzwilliam took me to a popular new tea shop, and later he retrieved Miss Darcy to dine with us at my uncle’s home.

By now, Fitzwilliam would be on his way to Hertfordshire. At breakfast, Aunt Gardiner shared the news of her sister Mrs. Selina Perry’s imminent visit.

A clear image of the canny, patient, and resolute older lady prompted my smile. “I have fond memories of the summer Jane and I spent with you five years ago while Mrs. Perry stayed here.” Aunt Gardiner’s dark-haired sister, a former companion, had instructed us in various subjects, including literature, mathematics, and Italian.

“As I recall”—my uncle’s smile took on a teasing quality—“you did not welcome my sister-in-law’s presence at first.”

“That is true. In the beginning, I resented Mrs. Perry’s lessons. She found fault with most of my work and did not permit me to be lazy.” I puckered my lips into a playful pout. “But once I directed my full attention to her instruction, I became fascinated with her lessons. She has an innate knack for making even the most tedious subjects interesting. By the time I left, I had grown fond of her, and I am thankful for everything she taught me. Under her guidance, my skills on the pianoforte improved, and she inspired Jane and me to expand our reading and continue our studies after we returned home.”

My aunt beamed at me. “I am glad you had the opportunity to benefit from my sister’s knowledge.”

For a time, I fell silent, preoccupied by the germ of an idea. When the concept took form, I swallowed a mouthful of toast and caught Aunt Gardiner’s gaze. “Do you suppose Mrs. Perry might be willing to edify Lydia the way she did Jane and me?”

“Hmm.” My aunt stirred sugar into her teacup. “That is an excellent suggestion. With her patient and tenacious nature, Selina could do wonders with Lydia. When she worked as a companion, one of her charges challenged her at every turn, but under Selina’s guidance, the young lady became genteel and made an impressive match in her first Season.”

“Your notion is a fine one, Lizzy.” Uncle Gardiner blew into his mug of coffee and took a sip. “Lydia needs a firm hand. Her lack of decorum ought to have been corrected years ago.”

“And there is an important reason to address this now.” My aunt pointed her slice of toast at me. “You and Jane will marry gentlemen of standing and will be exposed to an exclusive society. Any transgressions your sister makes will have far greater consequences than before.”

“What about Kitty?” My uncle’s sight drifted from my aunt to me. “Is her conduct of concern as well?”

I scrambled for any past instances of her poor behaviour in Lydia’s absence, but nothing came to me. “Without Lydia leading the way, I do not believe she would misbehave.”

He nodded. “Even so, she and Mary would benefit from a competent companion.”

“Yes, I agree.”

Aunt Gardiner raised her napkin and dislodged a crumb from her mouth. “Selina will arrive here on the day of Jane’s wedding. I shall write to her and ask whether she is willing to educate Lydia.”

My uncle cleared his throat. “And if my sister-in-law agrees to this weighty task, I shall write to your father and suggest he send Lydia here after Jane’s wedding and hire a companion for Mary and Kitty.”

“That would be ideal.” I set my fork down. “It would be best if Lydia did not know the true object of the visit. Otherwise, she might make a fuss, and I should not want any unpleasantness to mar Jane’s wedding festivities.”

“Yes, indeed,” said my aunt.

“Thank you both.” I smiled at them in turn.

“You are most welcome, Lizzy.” Aunt Gardiner reached over to pat my hand.

I returned my attention to my plate with renewed gusto. Could Lydia be convinced to curb her improper behaviour? What a relief it would be to never be mortified by her again!

Longbourn Estate, Hertfordshire

Darcy

I followed the butler, Hill, into the Bennets’ home. On the ride to Hertfordshire, I had rehearsed several cordial greetings for Mrs. Bennet or one of Elizabeth’s sisters in the event our paths crossed; even so, when I arrived at Mr. Bennet’s study without meeting any of them, the tension in my back diminished.

When I entered the long, narrow room, featuring sturdy bookcases brimming with volumes, Mr. Bennet’s lean frame rose from the chair behind the desk. “Good day, Mr. Darcy.” His grey, wiry eyebrows lifted.

“Good day, Mr. Bennet.”

“Please sit down.” He retook his seat and pointed to the worn chair before the desk. “You have piqued my curiosity. For the life of me, I cannot suppose what could have induced you to call.”

I sat across from him. His scornful intonation did not bode well for his opinion of me, but perhaps my news would improve his outlook. “I came to inform you that I have made your daughter Miss Elizabeth an offer of marriage, and she has accepted.”

Mr. Bennet shot to an erect posture, and his angular features contorted. “ You …and my Lizzy? You are engaged ?”

“Yes, we are to be married.” Blast , would he withhold his permission? What could I say to alleviate his disquiet? “This is not a sudden attachment on my part. I have admired Miss Elizabeth since last autumn. I encountered her in Kent when I stayed at my aunt Lady Catherine’s estate, and we met in London as well. I hope to receive your approval and blessing.”

Mr. Bennet removed his spectacles and kneaded the bridge of his nose. “Excuse me, but I need a moment to collect my thoughts.”

I gritted my teeth to combat a growing sense of indignation. Then my fingers brushed my bulky coat pocket. Of course, the letters . I pulled out the missives and handed them to him. “I believe these may set your mind at ease.”

Mr. Bennet scoured both letters, then took up Elizabeth’s epistle again for a second perusal. At length, he raised his crinkled eyes to me. “Both my daughter and my brother have sung your praises. Nevertheless, you must give me leave to be perplexed by your tidings. In contrast to your friend Mr. Bingley, whose preference for Jane has been obvious, you hid your interest in Lizzy.”

“To my regret, that is true. The rapport between Miss Elizabeth and me developed in Kent and in town.” Under the older man’s scrutiny, the temperature in the room increased to a stifling warmth. “I love your daughter and will do my utmost to make her happy.”

His lower jaw moved up and down as he appeared to deliberate my words. He adjusted his seat forwards. “My approval and blessing is contingent upon one condition: you must agree to keep your engagement a secret for six weeks.” He moved his calendar closer. “That brings us to the twenty-seventh of June. So, the wedding could occur as soon as the sixteenth of July.”

No —I wanted to marry Elizabeth as soon as possible! A dull pain emanated from my chest. Yet I resisted the impulse to voice my protest. I could blame no one but myself for this predicament. If I had treated Elizabeth and her family better from the beginning, and if I had courted her last autumn as she deserved…but I had not. “I…accept your terms.”

“Very well.” Mr. Bennet reclined against his chair.

“Have you any questions for me?”

“No, not at this time.”

When I took my leave, Mr. Bennet escorted me out through a side door—not as a courtesy but for the stated aim of ensuring no one in his family would observe me and enquire after the purpose of my visit.

Gracechurch Street

Elizabeth

At the faint sound of a knock upon the front door, I stilled. Had Fitzwilliam returned? I stowed my sewing materials. But with a glance at the mantel clock, my fervour faded; he could not have returned from Hertfordshire so soon. Maybe one of Aunt Gardiner’s friends called.

Barnet appeared at the doorway. “Lady Catherine de Bourgh to see Miss Bennet.”

“Oh!” I rose as Fitzwilliam’s aunt strode in. “Lady Catherine, this is an unexpected honour.” My smile evaporated, and not merely due to her malicious scowl; dark half-moons obscured the skin beneath her eyes while a strange, wan cast marred the rest of her complexion. What ails her? The wrinkles covering her forehead had not been so prominent before. “Have you been ill, my lady?”

“No, I am perfectly well. Do not mistake the intent of my visit, Miss Bennet. No amount of solicitousness could deter me from my object. If not for the gravity of the matter at hand, I should never have deigned to call upon a tradesman’s home.” Her sight skimmed the room. “Your relations have made an admirable effort to give this house the appearance of elegance, but they will never belong in company with the gentry.”

I braced my mouth shut against the instinct to issue a heated retort. For Fitzwilliam’s sake alone, I should show her more grace than she deserved, yet her insult of my dear relations could not go unchallenged. “My aunt and uncle are among the finest people of my acquaintance. They would never insult anyone in their own home.”

“ Humph , I did nothing more than state the truth.”

Aunt Gardiner entered the room and came to my side. “Lizzy, will you introduce me to your guest?”

I stood straighter. “Lady Catherine, I should like you to meet my aunt, Mrs. Gardiner. And this is Mr. Darcy’s aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh of Rosings Park in Kent.”

My aunt curtsied. “Lady Catherine, it is a pleasure to meet you. You are welcome to my home.”

Lady Catherine offered the barest of nods.

“Shall we sit? I shall call for refreshments.” Aunt Gardiner shot me a questioning look.

With a subtle shake of my head, I attempted to convey my confusion at Lady Catherine’s unexpected presence.

“That will not be necessary.” Lady Catherine directed her cane towards the window with a view of the garden. “I see you have a prettyish walking path. I should like Miss Bennet to accompany me there.”

“Yes, of course.” A snarl of tension besieged my stomach. Why had Lady Catherine come?

We neared the back of the garden when she halted and whirled towards me. “I have received a most alarming report. Do you know to what I refer?” An ominous glare twisted her features.

“No, my lady, I have no notion.”

“Anne and I have been in town these past two weeks. Last night I received an express from Mr. Collins. He learnt from one of his servants that you had been alone with my nephew at the parsonage on at least two separate occasions. Do you deny this occurred?”

“No. Mr. Darcy called at the parsonage a couple of times when Charlotte and Mr. Collins had business elsewhere.”

“How dare you indulge in such indecorous behaviour with my nephew!” Lady Catherine pounded her walking stick on the ground.

“Those two instances occurred by chance. I never expected him to call, nor did I invite him to do so.”

“Do not bother pretending to be innocent. I have no doubt you made full use of your feminine wiles to entice him. A proper lady would have refused to meet him alone. Besides, he is to marry my daughter!”

“I believe Mr. Darcy would disagree with your assertion.” Darn , I had blurted the remark without forethought.

Her eyes hardened into slits. “Do you allege to know my nephew’s personal business? Why would he reveal his intentions to you?”

I pursed my lips. Lady Catherine ought to learn of our engagement from Fitzwilliam. “I suggest you speak to him.”

“No, it cannot be—this will ruin everything.” Her chin dipped. “He is nought but a man. Still, he would never overlook his principles and his obligation to…” Her speech degraded into muttering.

“I beg your pardon?”

Her sight centred upon me. “Goodness knows, I should not need to ask this question unless Darcy has lost every jot of his reason.” Her right hand curled atop her walking stick. “Has my nephew made you an offer of marriage?”

“I decline to say.”

“You must not comprehend the extent of my standing, reputation, and connexions—I am not to be trifled with! Now, I insist on hearing the truth.” Her mouth wrenched, with gnarled lips and bared teeth, lending her a feral appearance.

What would be worse, to acquiesce and answer the question or persist in my refusal? Maybe I ought to enlighten her. “Very well. I am engaged to Mr. Darcy.”

Lady Catherine’s lower lip trembled as she drew to her full height. “Do you mean to ruin him? You, with your relatives in trade and your shameful dearth of education? You are incapable of being mistress of a grand estate like Pemberley. You would taint the halls of Darcy’s home!” She raised a gloved hand to her throat. “My poor dear sister would turn in her grave if she knew how low her son has sunk—to have fallen for the tawdry allurements of one so coarse and unrefined.”

Such vile speech…and she called herself a lady! “How dare you spout such hateful nonsense?” The pulsation of my heart increased to a tumult. “You have no legitimate reason to object to our match. He has made his choice.”

“You will not be allowed to make my nephew an object of ridicule. I demand you agree here and now to break off this engagement.”

“I shall not dishonour my promise to Mr. Darcy.”

Lady Catherine raised her cane and shook it within inches of my face. I jerked backwards.

“You will end this unhallowed alliance. Otherwise, I shall make Darcy pay for this wretched mistake. I shall take his precious Pemberley away from him. Do you think he will still want you after you have caused him to lose what is most important to him—his legacy?”

“Pemberley belongs to him. You cannot change that.”

“That is the prevailing belief, but I have information that could cause Darcy to lose everything he owns. I have never had cause to use this before now, but I shall do so to avert his connexion to one so beneath him. You, however, can ensure he remains master of Pemberley if you end this betrothment without delay.”

She must be mad. In her agitation, she had resorted to lying. Nevertheless, a chill pervaded me. “I…I shall not.”

Lady Catherine’s discordant squeal assaulted the air. “Selfish, headstrong girl! Your answer proves you have no concern for him. You are heartless and mercenary.”

“If Mr. Darcy wants to be released from our engagement, I shall oblige him.”

“Is this your final word?”

“Yes.”

“Very well, I know how to proceed.” Lady Catherine strode away but stopped and turned round. “I send no compliments to your aunt, though she must revel in the fact I condescended to appear at her home. I take no leave of you, Miss Bennet, for you deserve no such attention. I am heartily disappointed, for I had thought better of you. But no matter, I shall prevail.”

A swell of moisture blurred my vision, and I stumbled twice on the way to the house. I came upon my aunt near the stairs and sagged forwards. My tears flowed without restraint. “Oh, Aunt, I was so happy before she came. Now I fear everything is…ruined.”

Her arms enclosed me. “There, there, Lizzy. I am certain all will be well.” She took me into the morning room, settled me on the sofa, and handed me her handkerchief. “I take it the lady disapproves of the match. Well, we cannot be surprised not everyone in Mr. Darcy’s family is in favour of the marriage. He must have anticipated this circumstance.”

I shuddered through a sob. “She…professed to have the means to take Pemberley away from Mr. Darcy.” I snuffled. “And she threatened to use this against him if…if I do not break the engagement.”

“Oh, my dear, I am so sorry. That is appalling! I cannot believe Lady Catherine’s assertion is true. Do you suppose she is rash enough to employ deception to influence you?”

“That may be the case.” I dabbed at my eyes with the cotton cloth. “I refused to acquiesce to her demand, but I told her that I shall release Mr. Darcy if that is his wish.”

Aunt Gardiner moved a stray curl from my eyes. “Do not fret. I am convinced nothing could make Mr. Darcy forsake you.”

Her affirmation acted as a balm to my frayed nerves; yet a kernel of doubt lingered. What if Lady Catherine had spoken the truth? No sensible man would give up his family home, his legacy and principal source of wealth, for any woman.

Darcy House

Darcy

Slade greeted me at the door with a rigid deportment. “Lady Catherine arrived an hour ago, sir, and awaits you in the morning room. She has insisted upon seeing you as soon as possible on a matter of utmost importance.”

“Thank you. I did not know she had come to town.” No doubt she had kept Slade busy with her exacting demands. “I shall see her after I have changed.”

“Yes, sir.”

My aunt tended to avoid London at this time of year. What could her urgent difficulty be this time? Had she become convinced yet again her hard-working, harried steward had stolen from her?

Upon reaching my chambers, I made my ablutions, changed, and quaffed a stiff drink. When I entered the morning room, my aunt sat before a table laden with sandwiches and sweet confections, sipping a glass of sherry. “Good day, Lady Catherine. This is a surprise.”

She set down her glass with a clang, rose, and rushed towards me. “Darcy, I must speak with you on a matter of vital consequence.”

“Yes, of course. Please sit.” She reclaimed her seat on the sofa, and I sat across from her, taking in her appearance. An artless application of face-paint lent her a bizarre look.

She leaned towards me. “It is high time you and Anne became engaged.”

No—not this again . “I am sorry to disappoint you, but I shall not marry her. She and I should not suit.”

“Stuff and nonsense.” Her voice gained strength. “Anne was born to be your wife. You must marry her!”

“She and I have discussed the topic, and we are in agreement.”

“If that is true, then Anne does not know what is in her own best interest! Has that cunning Bennet girl managed to turn you against your own cousin? I tried to convince the chit to cease her pursuit of you, but she is bound and determined to have your money. She will ruin you in order to get her greedy hands on your wealth!”

What had my aunt done? The liquor I had consumed earlier churned in my gut. “Do you mean to say you have spoken to Miss Bennet—here in town?”

“Yes, I called at her uncle’s home today, but she refused to see reason. You must end the betrothment at once!”

Criminy. I ran my hand through my hair. “What could have possessed you to go there? You had no justification to impose on her.”

“That is balderdash! How could I impose on her? Miss Bennet has received more notice from me than she deserves. With her humble origins, she has no business aspiring to elevate herself to our sphere.”

I recoiled. Not long ago, I had entertained similar views with regard to Elizabeth and her family; in short, I had been an arrogant fool. “She is my equal, a gentleman’s daughter, and she will be my wife.”

“No, you cannot mean to go through with this. She is not worthy of your name! Her father may be a gentleman, but who is her mother? Miss Bennet’s uncle is a tradesman, and she never received a proper education. She would be an embarrassment to you and the entire family.”

“You have overstepped your bounds.” My voice lowered to a cold, guttural sound. “I am my own master.”

Lady Catherine’s bearing wilted, as though her energy ebbed away. “It pains me to do this, Darcy, but you leave me no choice. I have discovered information that could be disastrous for you. I shall use what I know if necessary to save you from being attached to a low-born, mercenary shrew.”

I shot to my feet and paced the room. I quashed the urge to rail at my aunt, for it would accomplish nothing; instead, my fingers alternated between flexing and forming fists. When I had collected myself, I halted and confronted her. “Either you will cease insulting my future wife, or I shall have you removed from my home, and you will not be admitted again.”

“You do not understand what is at stake. This matter is much bigger than Miss Bennet—this decision could cost you everything: your wealth, this house, even Pemberley.”

Impossible. Did she imagine she could hoodwink me? “Pemberley is mine, and you have no power to change that.”

“You may recall that last year I hired a new housekeeper for my London residence, a Mrs. Pike.”

“How is this relevant?”

“When Mrs. Pike learnt of my relationship to you, she related a remarkable tale. Eight and twenty years ago, she assisted her mother, Mrs. Smith, the midwife who attended Anne’s delivery. She swore your mother gave birth to twins—two males.”

“That is an obvious prevarication.”

“I could not be present for Anne’s confinement due to a lingering ague. When I arrived at Pemberley two days after your birth, Anne described her remembrances of the delivery. She became insensible from exhaustion several times during her labour. According to Mrs. Pike, the two babes arrived within half an hour of each other. One of the infants had a deformity—one normal, dark eye and one bright blue eye. Mrs. Smith grew agitated at the sight of him and declared the infant to have been marked by Satan.”

I stopped before her and folded my arms. “I do not believe a word of this twaddle.”

“My housekeeper is a sane and competent woman. She has no reason to lie.”

“If there had been a second child, the surgeon or one of the other maids who had assisted would have seen him.”

“One might assume so, but they could have quit the room before he arrived.”

“What is supposed to have happened to this child?”

“Mrs. Smith ordered her daughter to take him into the woods, drown him in the stream, and conceal the body.”

“That is barbaric! You expect me to believe a midwife would tell her daughter to murder a child?”

My aunt shrugged. “The lower classes are influenced by all sorts of absurd superstitions and legends. I suppose Mrs. Smith considered the child to be a demon, evil personified. But Mrs. Pike did not heed her mother. She took the infant to friends, a childless couple who took him in to raise as their own.”

“Where is he now?”

“I did not ask. Once I realised the damage this information could wreak, I warned Mrs. Pike not to mention it to anyone again or I should have her prosecuted for kidnapping.”

“Why did you never tell me this before?”

She sputtered. “Because I wanted to protect you! The best course is to forget you ever heard this. Consider what would happen if Mrs. Smith’s account is authentic and this man, your twin, learnt his heritage? He would seek you out and demand his share of your father’s estate. Even worse, what if he had been born first? That would make you a second son!”

Had my aunt concocted this fable? Or could it be true? Might I have a living brother, one who could be the rightful heir to Pemberley? My stomach contracted as though I had been punched.

“Darcy, I beg you, for the sake of Georgiana if not yourself, do not force me to use this information against you. Break off your engagement with the Bennet girl now, and I swear to you, no one will ever learn you have a brother.”

I scrambled to call forth the details of my father’s will. If the report turned out to be true, Georgiana’s dowry would be secure. The loss of Pemberley would be a massive misfortune, but I owned other property that would not be affected.

“Now then, will you end your engagement?”

“No.”

“You are being unreasonable—no woman is worth losing your estate.”

“If this outlandish narrative of yours is accurate, and I am not my father’s heir, then I have no right to keep Pemberley.”

“I cannot believe you are this mulish!” She stood, raised her stick, and shook it at me. “Do not make a rash decision. Think of the scandal that would ensue if the details of your brother’s existence became known. This would hurt us all—Georgiana the most since she has yet to make her debut. But you can ensure this remains a secret. All you need to do is ask Miss Bennet to release you. She assured me she will do so if it is what you want. Once you have considered the consequences, I know you will decide to be rational.” She strode from the room.

The possible implications of my aunt’s revelation swirled in my head with a dizzying effect. I had to speak to that housekeeper. But a more immediate concern broke through my stormy thoughts: Lady Catherine must have subjected Elizabeth to hurtful and derogatory speech. I must see her without delay.

Gracechurch Street

Darcy

After a twenty-minute wait, I leaped from the sitting room chair at the approach of footsteps, eager for a glimpse of Elizabeth.

Mr. Gardiner strode towards me, his aspect gruff, eyes steely. “Mr. Darcy, are you aware that Lady Catherine de Bourgh called here today?”

“Yes, she came to my home as well, and I—”

“Your aunt used abusive language with my niece and insulted my wife as well.”

Damn it, Lady Catherine! “I am appalled at her behaviour and very sorry for the vexation she caused. How is Miss Elizabeth now?”

“She remains distressed.”

My lungs emptied of air. What must she think of me? “I am grieved to hear this. I came as soon as I learnt Lady Catherine had been here. May I see Miss Elizabeth?”

“First, let us speak in my study.”

“As you wish.”

We took seats in the wood-panelled room, and the frostiness in Mr. Gardiner’s expression thawed. “I took umbrage at my wife and niece being mistreated in my home, but it is unfair for me to blame you for your aunt’s actions.”

“Nevertheless, you have my apology.”

Mr. Gardiner’s fingers drummed upon the desk. “In light of the threats your aunt made, do you intend to end the engagement?”

“No. Nothing she said or did could induce me to change my mind.” I shifted forwards. “May I meet with Miss Elizabeth in private?”

“With her agreement, you may speak to her here, but I insist on remaining in the room.”

I clenched my mouth to forfend a frown. “Very well.”

When a solemn, puffy-eyed Elizabeth entered the study with her aunt, my arms ached to hold her. Nevertheless, I followed decorum to greet Mrs. Gardiner first, then stood before Elizabeth, locking my limbs at my sides. “I am dismayed at Lady Catherine’s abusive conduct.” I sent Mrs. Gardiner a glance. “I hope you will both accept my apology for her offensive remarks.”

“You are not culpable for her actions.” Elizabeth’s voice sounded foreign and weak.

“Indeed, that is true.” Mrs. Gardiner presented a fleeting smile.

“In any case, I wish I had been here to forestall her.”

“You must tell me…” Elizabeth avoided my gaze. “Do you wish to be released from our engagement?”

“ No , I should never want that.” My hand inched towards her, then fell back again. Mr. Gardiner’s inimical presence deterred me from touching her; if he chose to do so, he could deny me access to Elizabeth.

Her chest heaved. “But…Lady Catherine alleged she could cause you to lose Pemberley. Did she dissemble?”

“That remains to be seen. My aunt recounted a disturbing tale this afternoon that I must share with you.”

We took seats, and I provided a summary of Lady Catherine’s account, including her threat to make the information public.

The room remained quiet for almost a minute until Mr. Gardiner broke the silence. “What do you intend to do now?”

“I shall question my aunt’s housekeeper. If she affirms the report, I shall attempt to confirm its veracity. If the relevant details are true, and I have a brother, I shall seek him out.”

An artery jutted out on Mr. Gardiner’s temple. “Are you resolved to proceed on this course despite the possibility you could lose your estate?”

I glanced at Elizabeth, whose brows knitted in a pensive mode. “If I have an elder brother, then Pemberley belongs to him.”

“In that event, how would you support my niece?”

“A year or so ago, a family friend left me a small estate in Somersetshire that clears almost three thousand a year. I also have ten thousand pounds in bonds.”

Mrs. Gardiner’s feet slid back upon the green-and-gold Persian carpet. “I imagine the revelation of a second Mr. Darcy would be an enduring topic of gossip in town.”

“Yes, I am afraid so. I believe Lord and Lady Matlock, my uncle and aunt, would help to deflect any negative repercussions.” I fixed upon Elizabeth. “Do you have questions or concerns?”

Her shimmering orbs raised towards me. “I…I have so many thoughts. It is horrifying to think anyone would want to harm a helpless baby. And a brother heretofore unknown to you is a momentous prospect. I imagine it would be a blessing for you to have another family member with whom you may forge a close association. Yet, for you to relinquish the estate you love, your home, would be a grievous outcome. Furthermore, your brother could prove to be less honourable and responsible than you. In spite of the risks, though, I agree with your decision.”

I searched her countenance. “It must be a disappointment to learn that as my wife, you might not be mistress of Pemberley.”

A blossoming smile raised her cheeks. “No, not at all. I do not doubt Pemberley is beautiful, but I should be pleased to be mistress of a small estate in Somersetshire. My concern is for the significant loss you would sustain.”

My breath hitched. I love her so much. She had withstood Lady Catherine’s unpardonable abuse, yet her primary worry was for me.

Elizabeth eyed Mr. Gardiner. “Now that we have settled the most vital details, may I speak to Mr. Darcy alone?”

“Shall we go, Edward?” Mrs. Gardiner moved her weight forwards.

“Yes, my dear.” We all stood, and Mrs. Gardiner left the room. Mr. Gardiner followed his wife but paused at the doorway to look back. “I shall give you ten minutes.”

When the door closed behind him, I took Elizabeth in my arms, and she gripped my waist, laying her head upon my lapel. Her delectable warmth and alluring essence fed my senses as my hands roamed over her back. “Are you well?”

“Yes, now that you are come. It had crossed my mind that if Lady Catherine’s assertion had been true, you would at least consider ending our engagement—especially since my father has insisted our attachment remain a secret for the next six weeks.” She peeked up at me. “He sent an express to my uncle today with a letter to me as well.”

“No, I never considered giving you up. Earning your regard has been one of my finest and most arduous accomplishments. Now that I have your affection, I intend to treasure it always.”

“My father’s dictate is regrettable and frustrating. It is rare for him to be this strict.”

“I share your sentiment and should marry you tomorrow if I could.”

“Upon my return home for Jane’s wedding, I shall attempt to convince Papa to relent.”

“That would be ideal.”

She pulled back to view me. “I almost forgot—my father wrote that Mr. Wickham has left Hertfordshire.”

“Where has he gone?”

“Colonel Forster had him transferred to a regiment near the Scottish border.” Her left eyebrow cambered. “If the local gossips are to be believed, Mr. Wickham spent too much time with Mrs. Forster for the colonel’s comfort.”

That would not surprise anyone who knew Wickham well. “At least he is gone from the neighbourhood, which is welcome news.”

“Yes, it is a great relief.” Her palm pressed against my chest. “You ought to know my feelings for you surpass anything I have experienced before. I…love you.”

Under the soft pressure of her hand, the thudding of my heart soared, and I took a moment to savour the full force of her sweet declaration. “Elizabeth, my dearest, would you indulge me by repeating that?”

She blinked, her hazel eyes shiny. “I love you, Fitzwilliam.”

Without a vestige of forethought, my mouth seized hers in a rapturous contact, sending a shudder throughout my insides. Nothing could compare to the enthralling softness of her pink lips; their intoxicating allure held me spellbound.

Elizabeth moaned, and the velvety, feminine sound spurred my cravings and emboldened me. My tongue gently prodded until her lips parted, allowing me to explore her mouth and taste her unique essence. The finest wine offered to a parched man could not have been more satisfying. And yet I hungered for more. The length of her body clung to mine, but I wanted, needed, her to be closer still. Then she made a tentative start with her tongue, mirroring my actions and sending me deeper into her thrall. Thank heavens a portion of my consciousness kept sight of our precarious situation—her aunt and uncle waited nearby. My self-control had never been more strained as when I pulled back from her, panting.

Her eyes flew open. “Why did you stop? Have I…displeased you?”

“The opposite is true. As much as I should prefer to continue kissing you, I cannot take the risk at present.” I stroked her upper arms. “The temptation you present to my sobriety is unparalleled, yet restraint is in order—especially since our engagement must remain a secret for now.”

Her mouth quirked into an adorable pout. “I suppose that is sensible.”

I left soft, chaste kisses around her mouth and cheeks, and her smile returned. A firm knock on the door startled us apart.

Elizabeth’s complexion flushed, and her forefinger traced her lips. Would her aunt and uncle notice their slightly swollen state? It seemed not, for Mr. Gardiner retained an amicable demeanour when he and his wife returned. Mrs. Gardiner asked me to stay for dinner, and I accepted the invitation with gratitude.

During the meal, I described my meeting with Mr. Bennet.

Mr. Gardiner met my gaze with a tight frown. “Whilst I do not agree with my brother’s stipulations, he is Lizzy’s father, and I am bound to abide by them.”

“I understand.”

Elizabeth inched forwards to catch her uncle’s notice. “Neither of us are inclined to wait, though, and I hope to convince Papa to rescind his edict.”

“Nevertheless, for now, you have restrictions. In his letter to me, your father specified Mr. Darcy and you cannot take any action to incite rumours the two of you are courting.”

“Yes, I know.” Her chin descended. “His letter to me contained the same mandates.”

I set down my fork and faced Mr. Gardiner. “In light of this, what shall Elizabeth and I be permitted to do?”

“In my view, everything you and Lizzy have done thus far has been acceptable. But I cannot allow you to demonstrate a marked preference for her in public, and that includes using her given name. If the two of you attend a ball, you may partner with her no more than once, and it cannot be the first set.”

“Very well.” I gnashed my teeth at the notion of her dancing with other men.

Elizabeth raised her eyes to me, and her mouth formed the words, “I am sorry.”

Despite my frustration, I smiled for her. At least I should not be prevented from seeing her. I should endure Mr. Bennet’s constraints—they amounted to nothing in comparison to the infinite reward of having Elizabeth as my wife.