Page 64 of A Perfect Stranger

A s he and the Colonel left Chestnut Creek and headed south towards London, Mr. Darcy found himself on the horns of a dilemma. He very much wished to return to Miss Elizabeth, but if he were to go to Meryton, he would be expected to stay at Netherfield. And that was a problem for him, as he was not certain he could contain his ongoing anger at his sister. That said, he knew he needed to get over his anger in order to be able to succeed in his courtship.

“Darcy!”

Mr. Darcy raised his head. “No need to yell, Richard.”

“No need? I have said your name three times!”

“I apologise,” Mr. Darcy said, stiffly. “I was lost in thought.”

“And what weighty matters have you so engrossed?”

Mr. Darcy sighed.

“No, no, do not tell me; let me guess. You want to see Miss Elizabeth, but you do not want to see Georgiana.”

Mr. Darcy scowled at his cousin.

“Ah, I see I am right. You do understand that you are going to have to make your peace with Georgiana at some point, Darcy.”

“I suppose you are right.”

“You know that I am. So I suggest that we go to London first, as I need to resign my commission, and then repair to Netherfield. Also, it is almost Christmas.”

“Why does Christmas matter?”

“Darcy, do you prefer to spend the holiday with my parents, in Meryton, or – hold on, let me guess – all by yourself at Darcy House? Or even Pemberley? No, do not bother growling at me. I would like to spend Christmas with Jane. And with you as well, Darcy.”

“Very well,” Mr. Darcy said, resigned. “Once we reach London, I will send a message to Bingley to let him know that we will be his guests.”