Chapter 20 #2
“Lydia, you should be reserved with your expectations about parties and balls. Both Jane and I shall be busy with other duties,” Elizabeth scolded.
“Do not worry, we shall find a way to please everyone,” Lady Kendal answered conciliatorily. “For now, let us celebrate this special day upon which I have been gifted with a granddaughter and a most reliable friend.”
“And I with a most wonderful wife and companion!” Lord Alveston added, kissing Elizabeth’s hand.
The entire day was spirited and joyful, as such a celebration required. The Bennets, the Gardiners, and the Bingleys remained at the cottage until late in the evening. Mrs Bennet used any excuse to call her daughter ‘Lady Alveston’, and the others ceased any attempt to ruin her pleasure.
Elizabeth felt her extended family’s satisfaction, her husband’s pride and delight, and her new grandmother’s enjoyment.
She knew she had made the correct step towards keeping her promise.
She would not repine, but the sensation of fulfilling her duty did not diminish the misery that burdened her heart.
She forced herself to show happiness, to smile at every kind word, to laugh with everyone. And most of all, she forced herself to not think of Darcy on her wedding day. And she failed.
Late that night, her family returned to their homes and silence fell over the cottage.
Mary hurried to her chamber, and Lady Kendal, the earl, and his new wife remained at the dinner table for a little longer.
Philip looked pale and exhausted, but his eyes sparkled with adoration when he looked at Elizabeth.
“We should ring for Marlowe,” Elizabeth said. “You have not rested a single moment since morning, and it is time to do so without delay.”
“I do feel tired, but I am happier than I have ever been,” Philip answered. His eyes narrowed, and Elizabeth knew this was a sign that the light was hurting his eyes and causing a headache.
He seemed to be struggling for air but smiled again. “I shall call for Marlowe soon. But I would like to have another glass of wine with you. I know I have already had one too many, but I must be allowed to dismiss any caution on my wedding night. Would you join me?”
As he tried to pour some wine, his hands trembled from fatigue and he dropped the glass. He cursed, then apologised, embarrassed by his weakness.
“Perhaps you should call for Marlowe and prepare for the night,” Elizabeth suggested, “and I shall come to you later and we can have a glass of wine together in your chambers. Would that be acceptable?”
Philip looked at her with astonishment. “Acceptable? That would be wonderful!”
Marlowe took his master up the stairs while Elizabeth remained a moment longer with Lady Kendal.
“Thank you, my dear. That was very considerate of you,” her ladyship said.
“What do you mean?”
“That you intend to spend a little time with Philip tonight. Even under the peculiar circumstances, this is the most special night of his life. He has been all anticipation the last fortnight, and I believe this excitement has enhanced his strength.”
“I surely do not deserve any thanks. It gives me pleasure to make my husband happy, you know that quite well. And, although our marriage will not be conventional, I have every intention of behaving as any wife would.”
“Thank you, my darling,” her ladyship repeated, overwhelmed with emotion. “Now I know that, if anything should happen to me, Philip will be well taken care of and everything I have started will continue.”
“None of that, Lady Kendal,” Elizabeth replied. “You are healthy and strong. Let us entertain only happy thoughts on this day.”
“May it be as you say. Now let me wish you good night, my dear. I am proud to call you my granddaughter, and I would be delighted if you would consider me your grandmother and call me so.”
“I would be glad to, Grandmamma.” Feeling emotional and burdened by the faith Lady Kendal had placed in her, Elizabeth embraced her lovingly. If only she would rise to such high expectations and not disappoint them.
Half an hour later, Elizabeth was in her chamber, dressed in her night rail, dressing gown, and bedroom slippers. She tied her hair with a ribbon and glanced at her image in the mirror.
With some emotion, uncomfortable with the notion of entering a man’s bedchamber, even if he was her husband, she stepped into the hall hesitantly and knocked on Philip’s door. Marlowe answered her knock and then excused himself to the dressing room.
Philip was in his bed, propped up against pillows, covered to his chest. He was pale, his blue eyes surrounded by dark circles. He smiled at her. The window was half open, and the soft breeze chilled the air.
On the small table, there was a bottle of port and two glasses. Elizabeth poured the red liquid, then drew up a chair to the bed.
“You look beautiful, Lady Alveston. Stunning.”
“Thank you, Lord Alveston. You look handsome yourself.”
“I do not. I know that only too well. I just hope I do not look appalling to you.”
“Never fear that! And never say that again.”
“I know as my health worsens, my looks will fade.”