Page 28 of Mr. Darcy’s Honor (Darcy and Elizabeth Forever: Pride and Prejudice Variations #1)

“There is one matter that cannot wait,” Darcy said, deliberately changing the subject. “I understand Lieutenant Wickham has been seen near Rosings Park.”

The colonel’s expression sobered immediately. “Yes, though he had disappeared again by the time I made inquiries. None could say what business brought him there.”

Lady Catherine shifted in her chair, drawing Darcy’s attention. Was that discomfort in her expression? Something beyond her usual imperiousness?

“Aunt,” he said carefully, “has Wickham approached you in any way? Perhaps with some scheme or proposition?”

“Certainly not,” she snapped. “I would never entertain that scoundrel.”

“Yet you seem unsurprised by news of his presence near Rosings,” Darcy pressed, watching her closely.

“I keep myself informed of all matters concerning my estate,” Lady Catherine said stiffly. “Anne is in London, of course, well away from any possible unpleasantness. You need not concern yourself with Wickham. My steward has been instructed to turn him away should he appear.”

“I believe that’s enough excitement for now,” Colonel Fitzwilliam said, noting Darcy’s increasing pallor. “You need rest, Cousin.”

“Indeed,” Lady Catherine agreed. “We shall continue our discussion when you are stronger, Fitzwilliam. Once you are able to travel, you might consider completing your convalescence at Rosings. Kent is considerably closer than Pemberley, after all.”

The suggestion of removing to Rosings—further from Hertfordshire, further from Elizabeth—was immediately repugnant to Darcy, though he kept his expression carefully neutral.

“That is a discussion for another day,” he replied noncommittally.

Caroline Bingley moved closer to Lady Catherine. “Such a sensible suggestion, your ladyship. Mr. Darcy would surely benefit from the superior comforts of Rosings Park, away from… local disturbances.”

Lady Catherine bestowed an approving nod upon Caroline. “I am pleased that some young people still recognize the value of proper society. You must call on me when next in town, Miss Bingley.”

Caroline’s eyes gleamed with triumph at this social coup. “I should be honored, Lady Catherine. Come, let’s take a spot of tea in the drawing room. You must be exhausted with your vigilance over Mr. Darcy.”

“Fitzwilliam, we will remove you to Rosings Park when Mrs. Porter allows you to travel.” Lady Catherine gathered her reticule and shawl and left the room with Miss Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam.

Darcy noticed Georgiana standing near the window.

She wrung a handkerchief around her fingers, her shoulders stiff.

“Georgie,” he said. “Would you remain a moment?”

“I heard everything you told Aunt Catherine,” she said. “What will you do?”

“Please, close the door and bring me paper and pen. There’s a note I must write.”

“Are you certain you’re strong enough?” Georgiana asked, concern evident in her voice.

“It cannot wait,” Darcy insisted. “Not if I am to have any peace of mind.”

Darcy tried to take the pen in his left hand but could not scribble legible letters.

“Allow me,” Georgiana offered. “I will write as you dictate.”

Darcy hesitated, weighing propriety against necessity. The note he wished to send Elizabeth was personal, perhaps inappropriately so. Yet without it, she might believe his fevered words mere delirium, meaningless ramblings to be forgotten or dismissed.

“Very well,” he conceded, settling back against the pillows. “The note is for Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

Georgiana nodded, dipping the pen in ink. “Go ahead.”

“Miss Elizabeth,” Darcy began, choosing his words with care. “I write to express my deepest gratitude for your care during my illness, and my sincere regret for any distress my fevered words may have caused you.”

Georgiana’s pen paused briefly, but she continued writing without comment.

“Please know that while fever may have loosened my tongue, it did not invent my sentiments.” He chose his following words carefully, aware of his sister’s presence and the delicate nature of what he wished to convey. “What was spoken in delirium was merely the unguarded truth of my heart.”

He paused, wondering if he had gone too far. Georgiana continued writing, her expression carefully neutral.

“I have instructed Bingley to return your book of flower meanings, which I hope reached you safely. Miss Jane Bennet left a pink rose pressed within its pages—I believe she chose it for its meaning. I hope you will understand that I share her perception of your…”

Georgiana glanced up at him, and he quickly backtracked. “Please strike the last two words. End with her perception.”

She nodded. “I hadn’t finished the sentence, but I understand.”

“Please finish: With utmost respect and admiration, and let me sign my initials.”

Georgiana finished writing. “The pink rose has a special meaning, does it not?”

“All which pertains to Miss Bennet,” Darcy replied, suddenly self-conscious. “You disapprove?”

“Not at all,” she assured him, carefully folding the note. “I think it… perfect.”

“Will you ask Bingley to deliver it?” Darcy requested. “Discreetly, if possible.”

Georgiana nodded, tucking the note into her pocket. “I shall give it to him myself.” She hesitated, then added softly, “You care for her deeply, don’t you?”

Darcy met his sister’s gaze steadily. “I do.”

“Then I hope she receives your note in the spirit intended,” Georgiana said, rising to leave. “Rest now, brother. Your strength will return quicker if you do not fight against your body’s needs.”

“I will sleep better knowing Miss Elizabeth is safe and her reputation is restored.”

Georgiana leaned over and kissed his forehead. “Brother, I know the truth.”