Page 25

After dinner, Elizabeth excused herself and retired to her bedchamber.

She believed Georgiana required time alone with her brother and cousin to discuss family matters.

Taking advantage of the quiet evening, she wrote to her family, sharing news of her new life.

She spoke only of Georgiana, emphasizing her kindness and gentleness, intentionally omitting any mention of Mr. Darcy so as not to raise concern.

The following morning, Elizabeth rose early to deliver the letters to Mr. Moore.

She felt slightly embarrassed for having written five, but Mr. Darcy had insisted on covering the cost of her correspondence, and she preferred not to go against his wishes.

Since the incident in the library, she had experienced no further difficulties with the master of Pemberley, which brought her a sense of ease.

Upon receiving the letters, Mr. Moore informed Elizabeth that three had arrived for her earlier that morning: one from her mother, one from her Aunt Gardiner, and one from Mary.

She left them in her room and proceeded to Georgiana's chamber to discuss the day's plans.

Georgiana explained that she would be riding with her cousin and brother and would require Elizabeth's company only after luncheon, when they were to rehearse for that evening's performance, which included three songs.

Elizabeth was pleased to have the morning free.

She was eager to hear from her family, especially Jane, whose silence had begun to trouble her.

The day was bright and sunlit, heralding the arrival of spring.

She resolved to read her letters outdoors and enjoy the fresh air.

The letters were dated nearly twenty days prior.

In an effort to economize, Mrs. Bennet had hoped that Mr. Phillips's assistant would travel to London and deliver them to Mr. Gardiner, who then forwarded them to Derbyshire.

Elizabeth made her way to the stables and sat on a bench facing the small lake before the mansion.

Upon seeing her, Oscar ran to her side and climbed onto her lap.

"How are you, dear Oscar? I hope you do not wish to play, as I intend to read these letters.

" Oscar wagged his tail and rested his head on Elizabeth's legs.

She gently stroked his head and began reading.

She started with her aunt's letter, which offered reassurance about Jane.

Her aunt explained that Jane was well, though unable to write at present due to her travels and the resolution of certain matters.

She promised that Jane would write soon with good news.

Elizabeth could not help but feel curious—had Mr. Bingley found Jane and declared his love?

"I hope Jane is well and happy, Oscar. My sister deserves the best." Next, Elizabeth read Mary's letter, learning that Kitty and Lydia were spending most of their time at home, caring for Mrs. Bennet, whose health had declined.

They feared something serious might occur.

Aunt Gardiner had suggested that Mrs. Bennet was not truly ill but deeply saddened.

Though she attempted to appear strong, the events of recent months had taken a toll on her nerves.

At last, Elizabeth opened her mother's letter—a lengthy message filled with love and pride for her daughter.

My dear girl, I know that I was not always fair to you, but I want you to know that I have always wished the best for you—even if, at times, I failed to consider your own wishes or what was truly in your best interest. If I have ever caused you pain through my impulsiveness, I humbly ask your forgiveness.

Believe me, Lizzy, there is not a day that passes without my missing your witty remarks; of all my daughters, you are the only one who inherited your father's sense of humour.

Elizabeth had to pause to wipe away her tears.

More than ever, she needed to feel the love and support of her family.

Lizzy, your sisters and I are doing everything we can to save money so that, in time, you and Jane will no longer need to work.

We have spent only a small portion of what you have sent and are saving the rest to invest in your uncle's business.

According to Mary's calculations, in two years—thanks to your support and our savings—we shall be able to live together again.

It will be a modest life, but we shall be together, my dear Lizzy.

My only wish is that you are well and near me.

I love you and miss you deeply, Your mother Elizabeth reread the letter several times, her heart swelling with pride.

Her mother, once quick to complain, was now doing everything in her power to adapt to their new circumstances and protect her daughters.

Placing the letters in her pocket, Elizabeth invited Oscar to accompany her along the forest path.

She felt peaceful and content, eager to enjoy the beauty that surrounded Pemberley.

Without realising it, she wandered into the forest, lulled by birdsong and the gentle murmur of a stream.

Oscar, too, seemed joyful as he explored among the trees.

After nearly half an hour, Elizabeth leaned against a tree and gazed across the vast meadows.

She recalled the history of the Darcy family and smiled.

"Oscar, now I understand why Mr. Darcy's great-great-grandfather worked so hard to purchase this land—and why his great-great-uncle did everything he could to populate it with his descendants.

" "Old Eustace is certainly a legend in this region," said a voice, laughing.

Startled, Elizabeth turned to see Colonel Fitzwilliam on horseback, smiling at her with evident amusement.

She was about to respond with a witty remark when she noticed Mr. Darcy and Georgiana approaching.

Her mother's words echoed in her mind—she could not afford to jeopardise her position or generous pay.

Remembering Mr. Darcy's displeasure over her interest in his family's history, she wished to avoid any further conflict.

"Colonel, please, I beg you not to repeat that comment to Mr. Darcy.

I should not have said it. I assure you, I would never have spoken so freely if I had known someone might overhear.

Please, sir… please!" Alarmed by her nervous tone, Richard dismounted and approached her gently.

"Miss Bennet, please do not worry. I give you my word—I shall not say a thing.

" Georgiana and Mr. Darcy soon arrived. "Lizzy, did you walk all the way here?

It is nearly two miles from the house," Georgiana said in surprise.

"Miss Bennet enjoys walking very much," Mr. Darcy remarked, noticing Elizabeth's unease.

He suspected his cousin had said something to make her uncomfortable.

"Yes, I do enjoy walking… but if it is inconvenient, I promise I shall remain closer to the house.

I apologise if I have caused any disruption.

" Elizabeth recalled Mr. Darcy's criticisms at Netherfield and grew increasingly anxious.

"Do not worry, Lizzy. You may walk wherever you like—in fact, next time, I should like to join you," Georgiana said kindly, also perceiving Elizabeth's discomfort.

"Indeed, Miss Bennet, walking is a most beneficial habit," Richard added, hoping to ease her distress.

"Well, if you will excuse me, I must return to the house.

Miss Darcy, I shall wait for you in the music room with the sheet music prepared.

If you will excuse me," Elizabeth said, quickly retreating with Oscar.

"I believe it is time we returned home," said Mr. Darcy.

"I agree—the horses could use a rest," Richard replied.

"And I am quite hungry. I want to eat and rest before our rehearsal," added Georgiana, who led the way back.

As he rode, Colonel Fitzwilliam reflected on Elizabeth's distress, wondering whether Mr. Darcy was the cause.

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