“I advocate for prudence.” Charlotte returned her smile. “Though he is not without his… compensations.”
“His compensations?”
“A comfortable home, independence from parental authority, a respectable position.” Charlotte’s expression grew thoughtful. “Not every woman has the luxury of marrying for affection, Lizzy. Some must be content with security and companionship.”
Elizabeth studied her friend’s face, seeing something she had never noticed before—a resignation that held its own dignity. “You would consider Mr. Collins?”
“I would consider any respectable gentleman who offered me the chance to be mistress of my own household,” Charlotte replied honestly. “At seven-and-twenty, my prospects diminish daily.”
“Oh, Charlotte.” Elizabeth embraced her friend tightly. “You deserve so much more.”
“We all deserve more than life often provides,” Charlotte said, returning the embrace. “The art lies in making peace with what is possible rather than yearning endlessly for the ideal.”
They stood together by the fire, two friends united by genuine affection despite their different perspectives.
“Promise me you won’t attempt this journey alone,” Charlottesaid finally, drawing back to look into Elizabeth’s face. “Promise me you’ll consider safer alternatives.”
Elizabeth wanted to promise, wanted to ease the worry in her friend’s eyes, but found she could not lie—not to Charlotte, who had always been honest with her. “I cannot promise what I do not know. My path forward is shrouded in uncertainty.”
“Then promise me this,” Charlotte said firmly. “Whatever you decide, whatever path you choose, you will write to me. You will not vanish without a word, leaving me to wonder and worry.”
This, at least, Elizabeth could honestly agree to. “I promise. And will you promise to keep my secret? To tell no one, not even your parents, what I have revealed today?”
“I promise.” Charlotte took Elizabeth’s hands in hers, her grip warm and steady. “Your secrets are safe with me, as they have always been.”
The two friends embraced once more, and Elizabeth felt tears rising again—for Charlotte’s loyalty, for her own uncertain future, for the impossible choices that lay before her.
“I should return before I am missed,” Elizabeth said, gathering her damp cloak and concealing the valise beneath it.
“Lizzy.” Charlotte’s voice halted her at the door. “Remember that true courage lies not in reckless action, but in facing difficult truths and making wise choices despite fear.”
“I understand your reasoning,” Elizabeth said quietly, rising to take her leave. “Though I confess I had hoped for different counsel.”
“I give the counsel of someone who loves you,” Charlotte replied, embracing her warmly. “Do not let pride prevent you from choosing security, my dear friend.”
“Goodbye, Charlotte.” Elizabeth stepped back into the gray morning, her heart heavier than when she had arrived. If Charlotte would not support her quest for alternatives to Collins, who would?
CHAPTER NINE
A DEVIL’S BARGAIN
A drizzle dampenedthe gray day as Elizabeth turned away from Lucas Lodge. Charlotte’s refusal, though gentle, left her with dwindling options and a growing sense of desperation. The valise beneath her cloak grew heavier with each step, and her situation felt impossible.
She could not—would not—return to Longbourn. Not with Mr. Collins waiting and her mother already planning the wedding breakfast. She could never spend her life bound to such a man while the truth of her identity remained buried.
With Lucas Lodge no longer an option, Elizabeth turned toward Meryton. Her Uncle Philips was a solicitor. Perhaps he could advise her on inheritance law and direct her to the proper authorities. It was a desperate hope, but the only one remaining to her.
But she could not risk making her secret known. Her Aunt Philips was one of the worst gossips. If she should hear a whiff, she would take a carriage to Longbourn with the news, possibly even arriving before Mr. Collins himself.
The walk to town provided time to construct a plausible story. By the time she reached the Philips house, Elizabeth had crafted a talethat contained enough truth to be believable while concealing the dangerous reality of her situation.
She hid her valise behind a bench before knocking on the door. Her aunt greeted her with surprise and concern.
“Lizzy! What a dreadful day to be out and about. What brings you to town in such weather?”
“I wished to speak with Uncle on a legal matter,” Elizabeth explained, allowing her aunt to take her damp cloak and heavy pelisse. “Is he at home?”
“In his study. Though I must say, you’ve chosen a peculiar day for legal consultations.”
