“Which is?”
“Whether Miss Bennet would consider such an arrangement.” Darcy rose and moved to the window, gazing out at the grounds where Elizabeth had walked with William just that morning. He could picture her there still—the child’s hand in hers, her laughter carrying on the autumn air, and her dark hair catching the morning light.
Georgiana’s laugh was unexpectedly musical. “Brother, for a man of such intelligence, you can be remarkably obtuse.”
“I beg your pardon?”
“Elizabeth cares for you,” Georgiana said simply. “Surely you must have perceived it during your dance last night? The way she looked at you when you spoke? The manner in which she allowed liberties that would have been considered quite improper with any other gentleman?”
Had he perceived it? The memory of Elizabeth’s hand in his, the warmth in her eyes, the way she had not withdrawn when he drew her closer than the dance strictly required—all suggested an attachment beyond mere friendship.
“I believe,” he said carefully, “that she may have some regard for me. Whether that regard extends to acceptance of a formal arrangement, considering her circumstances and William’s position…”
“Society be damned,” Georgiana said with uncharacteristicvehemence, causing Darcy to turn in surprise. “I apologize for my language, Brother, but truly—what does it matter what a collection of gossiping matrons might think? You are master of your own destiny. If you care for Elizabeth, if she makes you happy, then that is all that signifies.”
“You sound remarkably like Aunt Eleanor,” Darcy observed with amusement.
“I shall take that as a compliment. Aunt Eleanor possesses excellent judgment in matters of character.” Georgiana joined him at the window, her expression growing more serious. “Elizabeth has shown nothing but grace and dignity throughout her stay here. You will find no better wife than a woman with her loyalty, kindness, and intelligence.”
“I’m inclined to agree with you,” Darcy said warmly, excitement rising in his heart. “Her strength through adversity has been remarkable to witness. Another woman might have become bitter, or grasping, or dependent upon the charity of others. Elizabeth maintains her independence of spirit despite her reduced circumstances.”
“Will you speak to her soon?” Georgiana asked with barely concealed excitement. “About your intentions, I mean?”
Darcy considered this, weighing his desire to secure Elizabeth’s affections against the need for appropriate courtship. “I believe a gradual approach would be wisest. I would not wish to overwhelm her with declarations when she may still feel uncertain about her welcome here.”
“Uncertain?” Georgiana looked genuinely puzzled. “Brother, surely you must see how she looks at you? The way her entire countenance lights up when you enter a room? Even Mary has remarked upon it.”
“Has she indeed?” Darcy felt ridiculously pleased by this intelligence. “What precisely has Mary observed?”
“Oh, merely that Elizabeth’s spirits seem considerably improved since your arrival at Bellfield. That she takes greater care with her appearance and seems more inclined toward cheerful conversation.”Georgiana’s eyes danced with mischief. “Mary attributed it to the beneficial effects of having stimulating company after months of rural isolation.”
“Stimulating company,” Darcy repeated dryly. “I am flattered by Miss Mary’s assessment of my conversational abilities.”
“You know perfectly well what she meant,” Georgiana scolded gently. “Elizabeth values your good opinion, Fitzwilliam. I believe she would welcome your addresses more warmly than you might expect.”
The possibility sent a surge of hope through Darcy’s chest, though he attempted to maintain appropriate caution. “I pray you are correct. I find myself quite dependent upon her regard for my own happiness.”
“Then you must tell her so,” Georgiana urged. “Aunt Eleanor will be delighted when she returns from London. She has always been fond of Elizabeth, you know.”
“Has she mentioned Elizabeth specifically?” Darcy asked, curious about his aunt’s assessment of the situation.
“Only to say that she is a remarkable young woman who has weathered considerable hardship with admirable strength,” Georgiana replied. “I believe Aunt Eleanor sees great potential for happiness in this attachment.”
Darcy nodded thoughtfully, encouraged by the prospect of his aunt’s approval. Lady Eleanor’s judgment in matters of character was unerring, and her support would be invaluable in establishing Elizabeth’s position in society.
“I envision bringing them both to Pemberley after a suitable interval,” he mused. “William would benefit from the estate’s resources—the library, the grounds for exploration, proper tutors to develop his obvious intelligence.”
“And Elizabeth?” Georgiana prompted with a knowing smile.
“Elizabeth belongs wherever brings her happiness,” Darcy said quietly. “I hope that might someday be at my side, as my wife.”
“Oh, Fitzwilliam!” Georgiana embraced him warmly. “I am sohappy for you and Elizabeth, and dear William, too. Please make haste and speak to her soon as I shall be so happy I will explode, and she will ask me why. You know, Brother, how I cannot keep a secret.”
“Then you are perhaps hastening me to my demise,” Darcy remarked, although his heart was giddy at the thought of her acceptance. “I am no means assured that I have cleared all the obstacles to such a felicitous union.”
“I believe there are no obstacles, Brother,” Georgian observed in a teasing manner. “Only your fears, and perhaps your legendary reserve.”
A comfortable silence settled between them as both contemplated the pleasant domestic future that seemed to beckon. Darcy imagined Elizabeth presiding over Pemberley’s breakfast table, William racing through the halls with the same joyful energy he brought to every activity, perhaps other children joining them in time.
