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Chapter Thirty-Two

March 5, 1812 Longbourn Elizabeth

E lizabeth waited quietly for her turn to walk down the aisle. Jane had gone ahead on their father’s arm, looking resplendent in a gown of cornflower blue. Her bouquet, a delicate arrangement of early spring blossoms, complemented her angelic countenance—now made lovelier still by joy. Elizabeth followed her sister and took her place across from Darcy. He stood up with his friend, just as she did for Jane.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the sight of God to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony…”

Darcy met her gaze, and for the rest of the ceremony, they only looked at one another. Elizabeth imagined his thoughts mirrored her own. She pictured their wedding day; trees dressed in green, and flowers blooming everywhere. June felt far away. Part of her longed to elope, if only to bring this long wait to an end.

The ceremony concluded, and the bride and groom signed the register. Elizabeth took Darcy’s arm and followed them from the church. The wedding breakfast would be held at Netherfield, and so thither they would go.

Darcy handed Elizabeth into her grandmother’s carriage and then climbed in beside her. He had arrived with Charles and had sensibly yielded the bridalcarriage to the married couple. Caroline rode with the Hursts and Sir James. Privately, Elizabeth wondered how her friend could endure even a brief ride in the Hursts' presence.

They had warmed considerably toward Jane, and indeed toward the Bennets generally—Elizabeth included—after the Dowager Lady Montrose had arrived. Somehow, they had either missed the announcement in the London papers, or failed to connect Elizabeth Bennet with Elizabeth Montrose. Whatever the case, as soon as her connection to the Dowager became known, Mrs. Hurst promptly determined that Elizabeth must be her closest friend. Now it seemed there was no escaping the association—her dearest sister had married the brother of that most tiresome woman.

Mrs. Bennet’s hostess skills were on full display for the residents of Meryton and its environs. Longbourn’s cook collaborated with Netherfield’s to create a sumptuous feast worthy of an advantageous marriage. Elizabeth enjoyed the fare immensely and spoke with animation to her grandmother and Darcy throughout the meal.

When it came time for Charles and Jane to depart, the guests gathered on the front steps and waved them off. Carriages soon began to arrive to convey the remaining guests to their homes.

The Gardiners, having come from London, joined Elizabeth in the drawing room. Mrs. Bennet conversed with Mrs. Nicholls, ensuring that the manor returned to good order. Several of Longbourn’s servants had come to assist, easing the burden upon Netherfield’s staff.

“Have you heard from Mr. Winters regarding our offer?” Elizabeth asked her uncle.

“I have not. Are you so eager to be rid of your father’s assets? Holding on to a profitable concern is often the more prudent choice, even if your husband possesses a vast estate and considerable wealth.” Mr. Gardiner picked up a glass of port and sipped thoughtfully.

“Your uncle offers sound advice.” Darcy seated himself beside Elizabeth and took her hand. “If Mr. Winters has not responded by now, I would wager he does not intend to pursue the purchase. If that is the case, perhaps we ought to consider buying him out. I could engage a manager to oversee its operation. It would serve as an additional source of revenue.”

Lady Montrose nodded. “My husband was a fool, but even then, Henry perceived that times were changing and wished to be a part of it. Common men are amassing fortunes that rival, or surpass, those of earls and barons.”

Elizabeth ran her thumb gently across Darcy’s hand. “Will you prepare a proposal for Mr. Winters, Uncle?”

“I shall.” Mr. Gardiner replied with a smile. “And I thank you for allowing me to remain a part of your life. You are a great lady now, Lizzy—far too grand for the likes of me.”

“You and Aunt Gardiner are two of my favorite people. I shall never be ‘too grand’ for you. Or for my little cousins.”

Lady Montrose chuckled. “Let us delay any meeting with Mr. Winters until after your ball,” she said. “You will have more than enough to occupy you in preparation.”

She made a face. “I never thought to have a come-out, let alone be paraded before the entire ton. If I had my way, I would hide away in my chambers instead.”

“Then it is a good thing that I shall have my way.” Grandmother patted her hand gently. “It is not so terrible, Elizabeth. And once it is over, everyone will know that you are betrothed. That alone will spare you a great deal of unwelcome attention, particularly from gentlemen.”

“And just think you will be able to reassure Georgiana that the ordeal is not so fearsome as she imagines. My sister does not wish to come out, being of a shy and retiring nature.” Darcy grinned and gave Elizabeth’s hand a gentle squeeze.

“Oh, very well. You have managed to persuade me.” Elizabeth huffed in playful resignation. “I suppose the thought of my gown is enough to excite me.” Her grandmother had purchased an entirely new wardrobe, but the gown chosen for the ball was especially exquisite. It was a soft butter yellow, trimmed at the high waist with sky-blue ribbon. The square neckline dipped daringly low, though still within the bounds of modesty. The sheer sleeves of a fine silk net, worked with gold thread, came to her elbows. They completed the ensemble and gave the gown a regal finish, making Elizabeth feel like a princess.

“I am eager to see it,” Darcy said huskily, causing Elizabeth to glance up at him through her eyelashes. The look of love in his eyes said more than words could convey, and she felt her heart beat faster.

“When will you return to London, your ladyship?” Mr. Gardiner asked, drawing her attention back to the conversation.

“Elizabeth wished to visit with the Bennets for several days,” Lady Montrose replied. “We shall return on the ninth to see to the final preparations for the ball. There is still so much to be done! The ballroom has not been used in an age. I set the servants to cleaning it before we left, but I expect we shall return to a list of repairs and adjustments before that night.”

Her grandmother launched into her plans for the ball, and the Gardiners listened attentively. Darcy gave Elizabeth's hand a light tug, and they rose, quietly slipping from the room with none the wiser.

Darcy led her to the library. A cheerful fire crackled in the grate, keeping the spring chill at bay. Since no one had used the room all day, she knew he must have arranged it just for them. They crossed to the settee, and he drew her down beside him, wrapping her in his arms and pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Alone at last,” he murmured.

“Be careful, sir, lest your words summon company down upon us!” Was that not what always seemed to happen? Having been interrupted so many times in the past, she would rather not tempt fate.

His chest rumbled with laughter as he pulled her closer. “If anyone claims compromise, I shall gladly purchase a common license and marry you tomorrow.”

They were silent for a time, simply content with each other’s company. “Any news from your men?” she asked idly, lacing her fingers through his and placing his hand into her lap.

“None. There has been no movement at the house. If fortune favors us, the man responsible has fled.”

“But you do not think that.” She turned to look at him. He met her gaze briefly, then gave a slight shake of the head. Disappointment settled in her chest, and she turned back toward the fire, resting her head lightly against his chest. “You do not believe I am safe,” she whispered.

“I do not. Elizabeth, someone wanted you dead twelve years ago. Now that you have been found, they intend to finish what they began. Who knows what drives such a villain? Your fortune alone might tempt someone, but with the earldom involved…”

“Could this have something to do with my inheritance?” she asked, more serious now. “I mean the earldom. Could someone have murdered my family to prevent my father from inheriting?”

“He had an elder brother. I do not know who would have stood to inherit if all of Lady Montrose’s immediate relations were gone, but it seems unlikely that the title itself set all this in motion.” He stroked her arm, sending shivers down her spine, and she breathed deeply, taking in his citrus and sandalwood scent.

“So now what arewe to do?” Elizabeth had no wish to live in fear, always watching and wondering when something might happen. She wanted to move about freely, to travel as she pleased without the worrythat something would befall her. And what of the future? If she had children, would that fear become dread, knowing it was not only her life at risk?

She felt safe in Darcy’s arms and never wished to be away from him. But alas, after a blissful hour in quiet companionship, they were discovered. Lady Montrose was highly amused as she observed them.

“Comfortable?” she asked archly. “I wondered where you had gone. Naughty children, sneaking off to the library.”

“We have done nothing but sit, Grandmother,” Elizabeth replied in mock affront. “Sit, and talk, and watch the fire.”

“Very well, I believe you. Darcy is an honorable man. He would not dare betray my trust. Now, it is time to be off. Your mother has called for the carriages, and the servants have the clearing up well in hand.” Lady Montrose turned and departed, glancing over her shoulder to ensure the couple followed her.

Darcy withdrew his arm from around Elizabeth and rose. He turned and extended his hand, helping her to her feet. She adjusted her shawl, then tucked her arm through his. Together, they went to the entrance hall, where she retrieved her outerwear.

Mrs. Bennet bustled into view. “Mr. Darcy!” she exclaimed, beaming. “I trust you will join us for Lizzy’s birthday celebration on the eighth? Miss Bingley and Sir James are welcome, too.”

Elizabeth smiled. The Bennets would not attend her ball. Though they wished her every happiness, they believed it best for her prospects if they were not present. Moreover, though Mrs. Bennet delighted in society, she had no desire to field prying questions about her adopted daughter.

“I should be honored, madam,” Darcy replied with a respectful bow. I shall extend the invitation to Miss Bingley and Sir James. They intended to return to town, though I am uncertain when they mean to leave Hertfordshire.” Darcy turned to Elizabeth and took her hand, raising it to his lips in a gentle kiss. “The view from the mount must be spectacular in the morning,” he murmured.

She caught his meaning at once and gave a small nod. “Yes. I have often walked there. I believe I might enjoy it again.”

He leaned a little closer. “Bring a footman,” he said beseechingly. “And take care.”

“Of course. At dawn?” He inclined his head. “Dawn.”

“Come, Elizabeth!” Lady Montrose called, her walking stick tapping smartly against the marble floor. “The carriage is waiting. I am not as young as I once was, and I need to rest.”

Elizabeth stepped forward and offered her grandmother her arm. Together, they descended the steps and climbed into the waiting carriage. She settled on the rear-facing seat opposite her grandmother, leaned into the plush squabs, and closing her eyes, she breathed deeply. The gentle motion of the carriage soothed her as they trundled away toward Longbourn.

Worrying over the identity of her assailant would only bring added anxiety, and so Elizabeth resolved to put it from her mind. Her past had been marked by fear and uncertainty; now she longed for a future shaped by security and peace. In Darcy, she would find both. His steady presence calmed her troubled heart, and she felt deeply grateful that her grandmother would remain a constant part of her life. Lady Montrose had become as dear to her as any of the Bennets.

Life would change considerably after her presentation at court. There was still much to learn about her role as countess, but Darcy would guide her. His uncle was an earl, after all, and he himself oversaw a vast estate; who better to assist her in learning her new responsibilities? All would unfold as Providence intended. What must be, would be; and no one could stand in the way of it.

Jane had married, too, bringing further change to Elizabeth’s life. And Mary was betrothed to Mr. Collins. Her heart ached, just a little, for the simple days of her girlhood, even as she rejoiced in the happiness that these changes had brought to those she loved.

Change was inevitable. She would embrace it and live her life to the fullest.

Early the next morning, Elizabeth awoke and selected a simple gown from her wardrobe. It was nothing compared to the garments her grandmother had bestowed upon her, but its plainness pleased her. She could dress herself without the assistance of a lady’s maid. After tying her hair in a modest knot at the nape of her neck, she took up her cloak and slipped quietly to her chambers.

Jameson awaited her in the vestibule. She ought not to be surprised. Her grandmother’s faithful servant had taken her safety as his personal responsibility. Once her father’s valet, Jameson had shared many stories of her father with her that she would otherwise never have known—some, he claimed, that even her grandmother did not know. A second footman stood ready to accompany them, ensuring she would not go unguarded.

She walked briskly, hoping the exercise would soon drive away the morning chill. Though spring had arrived, the air still carried a bite, and whilst her cloak and pelisse were too warm, neither alone seemed quite sufficient. No matter. At the end of her walk, Darcy would be waiting, and she would find warmth in his embrace.

As Oakham Mount rose into view, she quickened her pace. Her escorts trailed behind, their labored breathing testifying that they could benefit from more vigorous exertion. The mount, little more than a hill, truth be told, ought not to have posed such a challenge. Yet they huffed and puffed as they trudged after her. The slope gradually evened out, and she slowed as she crested the summit.

He waited for her. Darcy sat on a fallen log, elbows resting on his knees, his head bowed. At the sound of her approach, he looked up and smiled. Rising, he opened his arms. Elizabeth slipped her hands inside his greatcoat and wrapped them around his waist, sighing as his warmth surrounded her.

“It is colder this morning than I expected,” she murmured, burying her face in his lawn shirt. “It is not fair that gentlemen may wear breeches or trousers. Surely, they must be warmer than a gown.”

“I cannot say, and I have no intention of donning a gown to find out.” His teasing made her giggle, and he chuckled in reply.

“I cannot picture you in one,” she said, her smile spreading ear to ear. “What a sight it would be! I shall ask Georgiana to sketch the image I have in mind.”

“Do not dare! My sister would never let me forget it.” He affected a scowl and kissed her nose as she looked up at him.

Sighing, she stepped back and moved to the log. She sat, and he joined her. “June seems so far away,” she said quietly. “I only want everything to be over…to have it all made right again.”

“That is no small wish. Life offers trials and misfortunes, and you have known more than your share of both. And though I do not doubt there will be more ahead, I believe the worst of your troubles is nearly behind you.”

“You have more faith than I,” she muttered.

“Dearest Elizabeth, I have your love. That alone gives me cause for hope.” He took her hand and pressed a kiss to it, then lifted his other hand to her cheek and kissed her gently. “In a few short months, I shall carry you off to Derbyshire, and we shall hide ourselves away at Pemberley for a month. The knocker will be down, and every visitor will be turned away at the door.”

“That sounds delightful.” He kissed her again, and they remained agreeably engaged for several quiet moments in one another’s arms. Then something caught his attention, and Darcy broke their embrace.

“She is rising,” he said, nodding toward the horizon. Together, they stood and watched as the glowing orb climbed steadily into the sky, bathing its warmth and light across the landscape.

“It is impossible to despair in the face of such beauty,” she said softly. “Thank you for sharing it with me.”

“So it is…though I find the view beside me far more distracting. I shall join you for every sunrise when we are married.” He turned toward her and waggled his brow. “Though we may choose to stay abed a little later once we have achieved that happy state.”

She laughed and swatted him playfully. “Are sunsets in Derbyshire as pleasing as sunrises?” she asked. “Perhaps we shall watch those instead.”

“They are both beautiful, but neither compares to you.” He kissed her once more, then turned to untie his horse from a nearby tree. “I shall call later, my love.”

She watched him mount and ride away before making her way back down the hill. Her escorts emerged from amongst the trees and followed at a respectful distance as she returned to Longbourn. With only a few more days remaining before her return to town, Elizabeth had plans to visit the neighborhood. Charlotte and her family were already in London—she had their direction from Lydia, who had written to Maria. She would see her friend upon her arrival.