Page 75 of Intrigue and Inheritance (Crime and Consequences #3)

“That is most thoughtful,” Georgiana said softly. “Alexander and I would be delighted to accept, though we have plans to travel to Pemberley later in the summer.”

Townend, who had been listening attentively without his usual restless energy, nodded agreement. “I confess I have been eager to see the Pemberley chapel’s famous organ. Georgiana tells me it dates from Queen Anne’s time and has pipes of exceptional quality.”

“You shall have ample opportunity to see it,” Darcy said. “Though I gather your primary interest lies in its chapel’s acoustics rather than its architectural features.”

“Indeed, sir,” Townend confirmed with a smile. “Georgiana has expressed a wish to be married at Pemberley, and I can imagine no more fitting location for our union.”

“During the harvest,” Georgiana added, her voice gaining conviction as she spoke of her preferences for perhaps the first time in company. “When the grounds are at their most beautiful, and the local families are celebrating the conclusion of their labours.”

Elizabeth moved to sit beside her sister-in-law, taking her hand and saying warmly; “That would be perfect, Georgiana. The Harvest Festival is Pemberley’s most joyful tradition.”

“Speaking of settling in Derbyshire,” Richard addressed Townend, “have you considered where you and Miss Darcy might reside after your marriage?.”

Townend glanced at Georgiana before responding. “We have discussed this, actually. We hope to find a property close to Pemberley. Somewhere within easy visiting distance.”

“Perhaps Eastfield Court,” Darcy suggested, having already considered this matter thoroughly.

“The property adjoins Pemberley’s northern boundary and has been vacant since old Mr. Watlington’s passing last winter; I had made an offer to purchase the land only, but the heirs wished to sell the estate complete.

The house is in good repair, with excellent southern exposure for the music rooms you would undoubtedly wish to establish. ”

Georgiana looked up in surprise. “Eastfield? But that is scarcely seven miles from Pemberley.”

“Precisely,” Darcy confirmed, allowing himself a small smile. “Close enough for regular visits, should you wish it, yet separate enough to establish your own household independently.”

The gratitude in Georgiana’s eyes warmed him immeasurably.

She had not voiced her concern about being separated from her childhood home, but Darcy had understood it nonetheless.

This solution would allow her the independence of marriage while maintaining the close connection to Pemberley that had been her emotional anchor throughout her life.

“Would you truly help us secure it?” Townend asked, visibly moved by this practical demonstration of support.

“I have already made preliminary inquiries,” Darcy admitted. “Should you find it suitable after inspection, the arrangements could be finalised before your wedding.”

As the conversation shifted to more immediate practical matters, with Jane and Elizabeth discussing the logistics of the house party at Netherfield, Darcy found himself contemplating the curious symmetry of the two engagements.

Each match seemed perfectly suited to the young lady in question, reflecting their distinct characters and preferences.

“You appear deep in thought, Darcy,” Richard observed, taking the chair beside him while the ladies continued their animated wedding discussions.

“I was reflecting on how fortunate we have been in these matches,” Darcy replied quietly. “After the recent unpleasantness, to find such genuine happiness emerging...”

Richard nodded, understanding immediately what Darcy left unspoken. “Life continues, cousin. Through tragedy and triumph alike. These marriages represent not merely personal happiness but the natural progression of family bonds, extending and strengthening our connections.”

“Philosophical as always, Richard,” Darcy observed with a slight smile.

“Military training,” Richard returned lightly. “One learns to see patterns in apparent chaos, purpose in seeming randomness.”

Darcy’s gaze returned to Georgiana, noting how she had grown in confidence even in the short time since Mr. Townend's proposal, offering opinions and preferences with increasing assurance.

The shy child he had protected so vigilantly was blossoming into a woman capable of making her own choices, yet she would remain close by, her happiness within easy reach of his continued care.

There was profound comfort in this knowledge.

Through all the tumult of recent months, the murders and investigations, the secrets exposed and lives lost, this simple fact emerged as a point of stability: his sister would build her new life within sight of her childhood home, her future connected to her past by bonds of both blood and choice.

Whatever changes the coming years might bring, whatever adjustments their family circle might require, this continuity represented a victory over the darkness that had temporarily engulfed them, a testament to the enduring power of family bonds to survive even the most severe tests.