Page 69 of Unwillingly Mrs. Darcy

Darcy remained unfazed. “It was Elizabeth’s idea,” he replied, his eyes flickering with affection towards her.

Lady Catherine regarded Elizabeth thoughtfully, then gave a curt nod. “A good choice.”

Elizabeth smiled, her heart swelling with pride. “Anne is a lovely young woman. I have grown quite fond of her, and I have never heard a bad word spoken about Sir Lewis.”

Lady Catherine sighed as if begrudging the compliment. “Very well. I shall make my way to Netherfield now. I merely wished to extend my greetings in the proper fashion.”

As she departed, Elizabeth locked eyes with Charlotte Lucas. Charlotte smiled brightly while Mr Collins merely nodded stiffly before following his patroness’s carriage. She would have to find a time to converse with her later on during their stay. Mrs Bennet escorted Mr Bennet back inside, leaving Elizabeth alone with her husband at last.

“Would you walk with me?” Darcy extended his arm, and Elizabeth slipped her hand through his, relishing the familiar comfort of his touch.

They made their way into the garden and Darcy smiled. “It is rather nice to have a moment’s peace,” he mused, glancing around the garden at the gentle play of sunlight filtering through the trees.

Elizabeth chuckled, leaning into him as they walked. “With a child in the house, such moments are indeed rare.”

Darcy’s arm slipped around her waist, drawing her closer. “And yet, I look forward to all we will experience as parents.Faith, Elizabeth. I owe you all my happiness,” he murmured softly against her ear.

Elizabeth leaned her head against his shoulder, feeling her heart swell with affection. “And I owe you mine, dear Fitz. Together, we have forged a life of joy.”

Their footsteps led them into the house, where laughter and love enveloped them, a testament to the bond they had nurtured. As they stepped into the warmth of home—their shared sanctuary—Elizabeth felt giddy with anticipation for what lay ahead, knowing their adventure had only just begun.

THE END