She smiled thoughtfully before replying. “I believe ladies are resolved to act in a manner which will constitute their own happiness, without reference to anyone other than themselves. If attention can be drawn by a few cleverly displayed baubles, then so be it. However,” she said, cocking her head to the side and arching her brow, “would a woman truly want a suitor who would merely notice her for her wealth?” She smiled again. “Yet, I do believe ladies enjoy things that are beautiful and distinctive. I confess, I fall into that category.”
Her light laughter flitted about the room as Colonel Fitzwilliam nodded his accord. While Miss Darcy began to regale them with tales of her Italian tutor who had arrived earlier in the day, the colonel looked distracted.
“What say you, Fitzwilliam?” asked Miss Darcy.
“Pardon?”
“I asked if your parents are in good health.”
“Yes. They are in perfect health and would have gone with me to the theatre tonight but Mama had a headache.” He took another sip before continuing. “I had asked Anne but Aunt Catherine refused to allow her out of doors after her shopping excursion yesterday, fearing her health would take a turn before the great event.”
“What great event is that?” Mr. Darcy asked at Colonel Fitzwilliam’s raised brow.
“Only your wedding.”
“Of course.” Mr. Darcy took a long draught from his wine glass. “And is Anne in good health? She appeared well enough when we visited.”
“She is fine.”
When the white soup was finished, the veal consumed, and Cook’s lemon tarts were gone, Mr. Darcy rose. “Let us go directly to the music room. Georgie, would you play for us?”
“Of course,” she said linking her arm with Kitty’s. “Miss Katherine and I have been practicing a duet we would love to play for you.”
“Do you think it is ready? You are a much stronger player than I.”
“Oh posh,” her friend chastised. “Your playing has improved so much over this last month. I believe it almost rivals mine.”
“Miss Darcy! What a falsehood.” Kitty laughed.
“Then she is a true friend, Kitty.” Elizabeth smiled. “To promote your ability above her own. And,” she added in an exaggerated whisper, “to tell a falsehood to bring you comfort? You have met someone who values your heart and feelings as a true sister would.”
“Miss Bennet,” Colonel Fitzwilliam interrupted as Kitty and Miss Darcy moved to the pianoforte. “Am I to understand that you believe telling a falsehood is acceptable if it is for love?” He sat down in the chair next to her and leaned forward awaiting her answer.
“Now, Colonel. You would paint my character in a most unflattering light if you actually believed that. True love should not need lies, however an occasional falsehood to protect someone you love may be permissible. But remember, my statements are in theory only.”
“Theory, Miss Bennet? Are you saying Cupid’s arrow has never pierced your heart?”
She chuckled at his comment. “No, sir. I have not had the pleasure.” Her eyes dropped, before glancing at the two girls giggling at the instrument.
“What say you, Darcy? Do you agree with Miss Bennet? Have you felt the arrow from Eros?”
Mr. Darcy had been caressing his watch and quickly snapped it shut when his cousin spoke to him. “What?”
“Do excuse me.” Lizzy walked toward the girls. “I am so sorry,” she said to the young musicians. “How can you play with no one to turn the pages?”
Fitzwilliam watchedher go and from the corner of his eye, saw Darcy’s eyes follow her retreating figure.So, she is not mercenary and is quite indifferent to discussing money or wealth. She is not silly nor does she have any propensity to be such. It appears Darcy is not blind to this treasure of a woman. Blast that letter from his mother.He swallowed the last contents from his glass when Darcy asked, “What trouble are you trying to stir up, Richard? Leave Miss Bennet alone. She does not need to be exposed to your base humor.”
“Darce, I was merely attempting to sketch her character, nothing more. Besides, I am sure Cupid has been nowhere near the confines of your heart.”
“What does that mean?” Darcy snapped, setting his glass down and glaring at his cousin. “If you are implying…” He ceased his tirade when he realized the music had stopped and all three ladies were staring at him. “Excuse me. Richard, might I speak to you in the study?”
“Ah, yes. Ladies,” he said before bowing, “if you will excuse us.”
* * *
When the clockstruck half past the hour, Lizzy felt it was time for her to take her leave.
“Miss Darcy, might you call for the carriage? The hour is late and I do not wish to worry my aunt.”
