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"This time, you will not distract me with your word games.

Tell me, once and for all, what happened," Mr. Darcy replied sharply.

"I cannot tell you, because I gave my word—and I always keep it.

Do not look at me like that. I shall tell you everything I am able to share.

" Richard sat down, gestured for his cousin to do the same, and began his explanation.

"As I came down the path, I saw Miss Bennet and approached her to say hello.

She was speaking to a dog and said something that.

.. I found amusing. Then I made a remark, and she smiled—" "And if she smiled and seemed so cheerful, why was she so nervous when Georgiana and I joined her?

" "If you do not interrupt me, I might be able to finish my story.

I can also share my opinion on the matter—if you are interested.

" Mr. Darcy motioned for him to continue, and Richard did so.

"As I was saying, I made a comment to Miss Bennet, and she smiled.

Then, upon seeing you approach, she implored me not to repeat anything to you and said she ought not to have spoken aloud.

I assured her there was nothing to worry about and that I would not mention it to you.

Before you arrived, I had no chance to tell her that nothing she said seemed inappropriate—in fact, I found it quite amusing.

That is all that happened." "And what exactly did she say?

" Mr. Darcy asked, curious. "I am sorry, Darcy, but I gave my word, and I shall not break it.

What I can tell you is that her comment was clever and amusing, in my opinion.

But for some reason—which you probably understand better than I—she felt extremely uncomfortable and did not wish you to hear it.

" "Can you at least tell me what the comment was concerned with?

Was it related to me?" Mr. Darcy asked casually.

He suspected that perhaps Elizabeth had spoken of him—maybe even confessed to some lingering feeling—and, conscious of the disparity between their circumstances, had felt ashamed.

"No, Darcy, it was not about you. She said something related to your family history.

.. But do not press me, for I shall not reveal anything further.

" "I see..." Mr. Darcy stood and poured himself another glass of brandy.

"You said you wished to share your opinion.

Go ahead—I am listening," he said, returning to his seat.

"I shall, though I suspect it will anger you.

I believe—or rather, I am convinced—that you said something to Miss Bennet which made her afraid to express her thoughts freely around you.

" "Afraid of me? Fitzwilliam, surely you do not know what you are saying.

Afraid of what, exactly?" "She is not afraid of you, per se; otherwise, she would not remain employed here.

But I believe she fears saying something that might offend or displease you—and therefore risk her position.

I know you to be a fair employer, and I know you pay generously.

From what Georgie has told me, Miss Bennet's family depends upon her income.

" "If I am indeed a fair employer, why would she fear losing her position?

" "Because, perhaps, you made a comment that reminded her she is an employee in this house—and that you are its master.

She sees you not as her friend's brother, but as her employer, and that shift demands a different kind of respect.

" "And what evidence do you have to suggest that?

" "When she is alone with Georgiana, Miss Bennet is noticeably more at ease.

She even speaks to me in a relaxed and natural manner.

Georgie mentioned that Miss Bennet prefers to call her 'Miss Darcy' when you are nearby.

To me, that clearly indicates she wishes to avoid conflict with you.

And frankly, I understand her. She is here as Georgiana's companion—not her friend—and it makes sense that she would wish to maintain a respectful distance.

That is also why, once Georgiana left the table, she no longer felt it appropriate to remain seated with us.

" "It is late. We should retire, especially if you mean to rise early tomorrow," Mr. Darcy said, clearly unwilling to continue the conversation.

"I agree, but another ten minutes of talk will not prevent us from waking early.

You asked me a question, and I believe I am entitled to ask one in return.

" Mr. Darcy shifted uncomfortably, knowing his cousin to be perceptive.

If he refused to continue, Fitzwilliam would likely draw his own conclusions—incorrect ones.

"Very well. What do you want to know?" "Why do you care so much about what Miss Bennet says or thinks?

She has, by all accounts, done excellent work in caring for and guiding Georgie.

" "Miss Bennet used to be... livelier. And well, I suppose I thought that perhaps—I do not know.

Fitzwilliam, in some way, I feel responsible for her and her well-being.

" "She was livelier, certainly—but consider all she has endured.

She lost her father and her status as a gentleman's daughter, and had to leave her home and family to seek employment.

What did you expect? She cannot simply forget all that has happened and feel fortunate merely to be living at Pemberley.

" "I suppose you are correct... Well, it is time to rest," Mr. Darcy said, signalling the end of the conversation.

"Yes, cousin. It is time to retire." Richard now had all the information he needed—and, truthfully, he was a little tired.

Later, once in his room, Mr. Darcy reflected on his cousin's words.

He realized that the incident in the library had indeed altered Elizabeth's manner toward him.

'I admit my words were harsh. I could have handled the situation differently.

But what is done is done—and perhaps it was for the best.' He told himself those words to ease his mind, but deep down, he felt uneasy knowing that Elizabeth might avoid him out of fear of losing her position.

The next morning, Richard bid farewell to his cousins, and they agreed to meet again soon in London.

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