“She is rising,” he said, nodding toward the horizon. Together, they stood and watched as the glowing orb climbed steadily into the sky, bathing its warmth and light across the landscape.
“It is impossible to despair in the face of such beauty,” she said softly. “Thank you for sharing it with me.”
“So it is…though I find the view beside me far more distracting. I shall join you for every sunrise when we are married.” He turned toward her and waggled his brow. “Though we may choose to stay abed a little later once we have achieved that happy state.”
She laughed and swatted him playfully. “Are sunsets in Derbyshire as pleasing as sunrises?” she asked. “Perhaps we shall watch those instead.”
“They are both beautiful, but neither compares to you.” He kissed her once more, then turned to untie his horse from a nearby tree. “I shall call later, my love.”
She watched him mount and ride away before making her way back down the hill. Her escorts emerged from amongst the trees and followed at a respectful distance as she returned to Longbourn. With only a few more days remaining before her return to town, Elizabeth had plans to visit the neighborhood. Charlotte and her family were already in London—she had their direction from Lydia, who had written to Maria. She would see her friend upon her arrival.
Chapter Thirty-Three
March 9, 1812
Montrose House
Elizabeth
LadyMontrosedescendedwearilyfrom the carriage, and Elizabeth followed close behind. She, too, felt the strain of the journey. They had stopped only once to refresh the horses before continuing on to London. The coachman had pushed the horses to maintain a brisk pace. The weather remained a touch too cold for comfortable travel and all aboard had longed to reach town as swiftly as possible.
They arrived at Montrose House before tea, to Elizabeth’s relief and quiet delight. Much asshe loved Longbourn, the cook in her new home possessed rare skill, and she had missed his delectable dishes. Once they changed out of their travel-worn garments, Elizabeth and her grandmother retreated to the drawing room and rang for tea.
When it arrived, Elizabeth poured for them both, adding a generous amount of sugar and cream to her own. She inhaled the aroma of the house blend with contentment before taking a sip.
Darcy had returnedto town ahead of them, having left Netherfield early that morning on horseback. He had told Lady Montrose that he had business with his solicitor, but Elizabeth knew he meant to meet with Mr. Browning regarding their situation. She hoped he would have news to share when he next called.
She slept soundly that night, her head resting on a feather pillow, and buried beneath her now-familiar coverlet. By morning, her grandmother’s strength would be restored, and together they would visit Bond Street for gown fittings. Then would come meetings with the florists, the cook, the housekeeper…the list was long. The very thought of it made her tired.
After breakfast, they left the house. Jameson accompanied them, ostensibly to carry packages. He also carried a pistol, however, should any protection be required. They went directly to Madame Dubois’s modiste shop, where one of the attendants quickly led them to the fitting room.
“It turned out perfectly, my dear.” Lady Montrose stood at Elizabeth’s shoulder, their reflections side by side in the mirror. “I have never seen a gown more suited to a young lady.”
“You are required to say so, because I am your granddaughter,” Elizabeth teased.
“I assure you, child, if you put on something wholly unsuitable, I shall not hesitate to tell you.” Lady Montrose gave a dignified sniff, then smiled and slipped an arm around Elizabeth’s waist. She rested her head against her granddaughter’s shoulder. With Elizabeth standing on the pedestal, the gesture was easily made, and Elizabeth leaned into her in return.
“I believe the sleeves need to be gathered here, and here.” Madame Dubois appeared with pins in hand, expertly adjusting the fabric until the sleeves lay more smoothly and the puffed shape was gently reduced. “A little fullness at the shoulder is all this gown needs. The embroidery is exquisite, is it not?”
“Yes, it is absolutely lovely. Could we add a gold ribbon at the sleeve hem? Lady Montrose asked, gently fingering the spot. “It may help the line lie better.” Lady Montrose fingered the spot and turned inquiringly to the modiste.
“Indeed, your ladyship, that is quite possible. I shall see it done and deliver the finished gown for a final fitting in two days. Will that be acceptable?”
Elizabeth listened with only half her attention. Her thoughts had drifted to Darcy, and she imagined him seeing her in this gown—the heated look that would appear in his eyes drew her in. Never before had she felt so beautiful, nor so truly part of the world into which she had been cast. Jewels and other accoutrements would complete the ensemble, but Lady Montrose had kept those a surprise. She meant to present them to Elizabeth on the night of the ball.
The rest of their busy errands were completed, and upon returning home, they collapsed in the parlor and called for refreshments. Thankfully, the morrow promised a day of rest. Elizabeth knew she needed it.
When Wednesday arrived, they remained at home to receive callers. Elizabeth would rather have hidden in her chambers, but she dutifully joined Lady Montrose in the parlor during calling hours.
Ladies trickled in and out, each staying no more than fifteen minutes and saying nothing of consequence. Mrs. Norton called, and Elizabeth conversed with her amiably for half an hour. The lady seemed genuine, and Elizabeth thought a friendship might be possible there.
Just as the hour drew to a close, another guest arrived. Elizabeth suppressed a groan and summoned a polite smile as Morton showed the lady in.
“Jane!” Her smile broadened at once and became genuine. She rose and embraced her sister warmly. Stepping back, Elizabeth examined her. “You are positively glowing!” “Marriage agrees with you. I did not expect to see you until June!”
“Surprise!” Jane laughed. “Lady Montrose arranged it all. Charles and I are to attend your ball. You could not possibly face thetonwithout someone from your family!”
Elizabeth turned to her grandmother, choking back a sob. Lady Montrose wore a smug grin which turned into a fond smile as her beloved Elizabeth hugged her tightly. “This is the best surprise I have ever had. Thank you so much.”
