It was ironic that Elizabeth had wanted so much to hear from Riquer, but had never really thought about the implications. Of course, Riquer would only be in touch if he had to give them bad news. He was being watched, and he certainly would not take a huge risk to have a social conversation.
There was no doubt that he was warning them that something was about to happen, but she did not know what it was. Everyone had questioned her, trying to deduce something from the fragmented information she received, but no matter how they tried, they could not make sense out of the warning.
Only one thing was abundantly clear. They had to leave for the coast without delay. Their time at Rosings was over.
***
For most of the night before their departure, Elizabeth stayed in the sick room, sitting beside Jane. She wanted to be with her sister as long as possible. Even though Jane was better, she had not yet recovered, and there was always a possibility something could go wrong.
At some point, Papa came and insisted on taking Elizabeth’s place.
“I have slept a few hours, Lizzy. I would like to spend some time with my daughter.”
Elizabeth was about to object by saying they could both be there, when Mr. Bennet forestalled her.
“In any case, you need your rest, Lizzy. You cannot stay up all night. We do not know what is in store for us tomorrow.”
Reluctantly, she agreed. She had not slept much the last few nights and she was feeling the effects.
She pressed Jane’s fingers lightly. “I will see you in a short while,” she whispered, not wanting to wake her up.
Jane’s eyes opened, and she moved her dry lips in a faint smile. “I’ve put you through so much trouble.” she murmured. “You are all so good to me. I do not deserve it.”
“You deserve it and more,” said Elizabeth, gently. How very like Jane to care about others. “You must promise me not to exert yourself, so you can join us in a day or two. We have arranged to have Mrs. Jenkinson look after you, and she will accompany you to join us once you are recovered enough. I’m sure you will catch up with us in the next few days.”
She looked happy to hear it, but her unhealthy, clammy skin made Elizabeth doubt her own words. Then she chided herself. It was natural that Jane would look poorly when she had been so badly wounded. She was on the mend now and would soon be fully recovered.
Elizabeth rose to her feet, kissed her sister on the brow, and left the room. Bingley was pacing outside the door. Elizabeth had made him go away earlier when he had dozed off and almost fell off his chair.
“You are not supposed to be here,” she remarked.
“I tried to sleep, but I was too restless. How is she?”
“She seems better,” replied Elizabeth, as much for her own sake as for his.
He nodded. “Good.” He stared longingly at the door. “Do you think I could –?” he gestured to the room.
“Of course. You are engaged, are you not?”
He nodded brightly. “Yes. Yes of course.”
“Besides, Papa is in there.”
He bounded inside, and Elizabeth closed the door. In a daze, she made her way to her bedchamber. Miss King and Miss Bingley were both sound asleep. She would do well to emulate them, just in case Riquer chose to contact her in the morning. She had to be sharp and in full control of her magic.
Elizabeth did manage to sleep, but she woke up when Miss King got up.
“Ready to leave?” said Miss King.
“No. It will be so difficult to leave my sister behind.”
“It is only for a few days.” Miss King’s tone was practical.
Elizabeth consoled herself with that.
She went quickly to the sickroom to say goodbye, but Jane was asleep. Elizabeth sat there, taking advantage of the last few minutes, while Mr. Bennet went to refresh himself. Bingley was holding Jane’s hand and looking at it as if he would never let go.
A few minutes later, Miss King knocked at the door to remind Elizabeth that the others were waiting to depart. There was no point in delaying. Elizabeth went out, and a minute later, Bingley emerged, looking as if he had been crying. However, he straightened his shoulders and inclined his head briefly to indicate he was ready to leave.
