Chapter 53
Chapter Fifty-Three
When Elizabeth reached home, she did not enter the parlour where she could hear her family chattering. Instead, she marched upstairs, thinking she would like to be alone, but stopped at Mary’s door, suddenly desirous of her sister’s company.
She knocked, and entered. As many times as she had seen Mary’s shape altered by the child within, it still came as a mild shock.
She wondered if she, herself, would ever have such an experience.
If Darcy were found guilty, in all likelihood she would never have a child, for she felt certain she would never love again, and she would not marry without love.
“You look pale, Lizzy. Did it not go well at the inquest?”
Elizabeth moved forward and sat in the chair at Mary’s bedside. “Our sisters testified.”
“Heavens.” Mary frowned and added, “I know they were required to, but I suspect their air was not one of gravity.”
Elizabeth offered a grim chuckle. “You know them well.”
“And the rest of it?”
Elizabeth shrugged. “I spoke briefly. I do not know if I helped or harmed his situation. In fact, I do not understand these matters at all. The authorities are currently seeking out Mr Thompson who was with some unsavoury characters just before Mr Wickham’s death.
He might have information, and the inquest will reconvene tomorrow.
” Elizabeth tugged at the ribbon of her bonnet and pulled it off.
“I am full of dread, Mary. I know you hate Mr Darcy, but I love him, and I—I cannot—” She felt a trembling begin within her and feared she might begin to weep.
Mary adjusted herself so she was sitting up taller. “While I have every reason to hold on to anger towards Mr Darcy, I do not wish for his harm. I do…I do truly hope he is released so you might be together.”
“Oh, Mary! You cannot understand the relief I feel at hearing you say this.” Elizabeth flung herself at Mary and hugged her, careful not to lean too hard on her swollen middle.
Though it took a moment for Mary to reciprocate, she did, and the sisters clung to one another until a burst of laughter came from below.
“How can our family laugh and carry on as if there were no cares in the world?”
Mary shrugged, and Elizabeth knew she must have asked herself this question regularly.
Elizabeth said, “If Mr Darcy must proceed to the assizes, our wedding shall be delayed. I know that is a frivolous concern—”
“Not frivolous. You wish to be with the man you love with no delay.” More laughter pierced the air, and she added, “Perhaps one day they shall be tamed, but I do not hold out hope. Perhaps if they read enough of Fordyce, they might be altered.” She smiled wryly, and Elizabeth was amazed, for she had not seen her sister smile in many months.