“No reason other than a wish for privacy. I had no guarantee that curious busybodies would not stalk our front door, hoping for a glimpse of us.”
“Would they? Are you such a fine catch that they would need to view and dissect the woman you married?”
She said it in jest, but he answered seriously, “Yes they would. I have been ‘on the market,’ as it were, for a long time. I have been approached by more than one peer seeking to broker a marriage between me and his daughter. And do not forget the many misses who have attempted to force my hand.” He took a bite of eggs, pausing before he continued. “The new Mrs. Darcy will be under intense scrutiny.”
Elizabeth felt unaccountably nervous. “And if they find me wanting?”
“Any person who values their connection to me will do no worse than welcoming you coolly instead of with warmth. My family is well-respected. There will be disappointed mothers, but most will curry your favor rather than your wrath.”
His assurance did much to bolsterherconfidence, and she smiled at him in gratitude. “I am invited to tea with Lady de Bourgh and Charlotte this afternoon,” she said after a few minutes of silently enjoying her breakfast. “She says we have much to discuss.”
“Lady de Bourgh is kind to sponsor you, especially when our connection with her is not familial. Georgiana will not be here until just before dinner, and I have much business to attend to today. You may attend without concern.”
Elizabeth bristled. This was the first time in almost two weeks that his officiousness had shown itself. She almost did not respond, but she needed to begin as she meant to go on, and she would not tolerate such behavior.
“If I may, sir, are you implying that I must seek your permission to make calls or invite guests?”
He looked at her and blinked owlishly. “I do not comprehend your meaning,” he said after a few moments.
“Your words suggested that I must seek your permission,” she continued, maintaining her calm. ‘You may attend without concern,’you said. I am simply attempting to understand your meaning.”
“I assure you, I meant no such thing,” he blustered. “I wished only to reassure you that you need not concern yourself about missing Georgiana’s arrival, or with putting me out because I did not have your company. I would not wish you to believe all your time must be spent entertaining me or my sister. That is, we value your company and love to have you here, but…”
His attempt to placate her made her smile, and she wondered if he truly gave no thought to how his words might be construed by others.He likely believes himself to be understood regardless of how the recipient of words feels.“Thank you for clarifying, sir. There is no need to trouble yourself further.”
He nodded in apparent relief and returned to his meal.
“Lady de Bourgh will likely insist on a shopping excursion,” she warned him. She knew her pin money to be extravagant, but she did not wish her husband to be angry when bills from the shops eventually came.
“I have accounts with every major modiste and shopkeeper on Bond Street. Simply put purchases under my name.”
She paused, considering her next words carefully. He had previously expressed disdain for her Cheapside relations but had treated her aunt and uncle with kindness since meeting them. But now they were married. Perhaps he would change his mind.
“My uncle has fabric in his warehouse,” she began. “I wish to peruse his wares first, before having gowns made. It is more economical, and I can ensure the fabric is fine quality if I purchase from Mr. Gardiner.”
Darcy’s fork froze partway to his mouth. He lowered it slowly and regarded her steadily. “You wish to go into Cheapside to find fabric?” he asked.
“Yes, that is what I said.”
“Elizabeth,” he began, “it is not a done thing for a Darcy to venture into that part of town.”
She frowned. “Is it because it would sully your name?”
“As a matter of fact, yes, it would. It is one thing to visit your relations on Gracechurch Street when we were only engaged. Even now that we are married, visiting once a month would do no harm, but to shop at warehouses? It does not speak well of your position.”
“Why? Because a Darcy would never stoop to perusing a merchant’s wares before they have reached the fashionable shops? If I purchase from my uncle, I not only support him, but I will not be subject to the additional price that modistes attach to fabrics after acquiring them from the merchants.” Her voice rose a little, and the irritation she felt bled into her words.So much for unobjectionable company.
Her husband sighed. “It is not so simple, Elizabeth. Everything you say or do, everything you wear, every place you go, they reflect onme.Every person you associate with will either bring approval or disapprobation to the Darcy name. You are alreadyat a disadvantage since joining my circle. You have no dowry and no connections. Thetonwill ferret that information out and use it against you. If you go to Cheapside, you further disadvantage yourself by openly declaring your low origins. Would you ruin your chances at a successful entrance to society for a few pounds of savings?”
Each word made her bristle, though they made sense in a certain light. Still, she frowned and determined she would find a way to shop as she wished without harming her husband’s oh-so-important image. She did not reply but busied herself with finishing her meal in silence.
When Darcy finished, he stood from his chair and came toward her. He kissed her head. “Please understand,” he whispered in her ear. His breath tickled her neck, sending a thrill through her. She nodded but said nothing. He turned and left, leaving her alone with her thoughts.
An idea struck her, and she left the table for the small, private parlor where her writing box currently resided. Quickly she penned a note to her aunt, hoping Mrs. Gardiner would respond favorably.
Dear Aunt,
How do you do today? It has been two weeks since we last saw each other but I miss you fiercely.
