“A hunter. How practical.” Elizabeth picked up her needlework again, grinning. “I suppose if one must fall ill at a gentleman’s estate, it might as well be one with an excellent stable.”
“Elizabeth Bennet, you make me sound positively mercenary.” Her eyes sparkled with mischief.
“Not mercenary. You are simply a woman of good sense who appreciates the finer things in life.” Elizabeth added soberly, “Though in truth, Jane, Mr. Bingley seems genuinely concerned for your welfare. He asks after you every time I see him.”
“Does he?” Jane’s voice was soft, hopeful.
“He does. And his concern appears entirely sincere, unlike his sisters’ inquiries, which are more like attempts to determine when we shall finally leave.”
Jane sighed. “Miss Bingley has not been unkind to me.”
“Because you are ill and no threat to her designs on Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth bit her tongue before she could say more. Jane did not need to hear about Miss Bingley’s pointed remarks or open disdain.
“You believe she has designs on him?”
“I believe she would marry him within an hour if he asked. Which he will not, if his expression when she attempts to gain his attention is any indication.” Elizabeth shook her head. “Never mind Miss Bingley. Tell me more about Mr. Bingley.”
During the next hour, the sisters spoke of gentlemen, horses and rides they had never taken. Elizabeth dreamed aloud about what it might be like to gallopacross an open field with the sky above and freedom ahead. In her imagination, the horse she rode looked exactly like Gracie.
Darcy satat the writing desk in his borrowed chamber, a half-written letter before him. The solution struck him with such clarity that he wondered why he had not thought of it immediately.
There was a horse in his possession that was born the year Darcy was two. The gelding was dignified and steady—exactly what Miss Elizabeth needed for her first proper lessons. The animal had served both Darcy and Georgiana faithfully over the years. Darcy had ridden him exclusively after outgrowing his first pony, and later, Georgiana was comfortable with him until she desired more than his measured pace. Now, Atlas awaited transport from the London townhouse to Pemberley, where he would spend his remaining years in well-earned retirement.
Why not let him serve one more purpose before that final journey?
Darcy set down his pen. Once he set this plan in motion, he would cross a line he had told himself he would not.
Darcy stared at the half-written letter. He did this because Atlas needed exercise. Because it was practical. Because…because he wanted Miss Elizabeth’s face to light with joy again. Because the memory of her laughter, quickly stifled behind her hand, had followed him through every tedious dinner conversation and every one of Miss Bingley’s attempts to secure his attention.
He had been considering this since yesterday’s ride. No, if he were honest, since the moment mirth danced in her eyes. Two mornings at the paddock were not enough. He needed to be honest. This had nothing to do with Atlas’s needs. But his own.
With determination, Darcy left the room to find his host.
His friend was in the breakfast room, reading the newspaper with more enthusiasm than attention. His face brightened when Darcy entered. “Darcy! Just the man I wanted to see. Miss Elizabeth reports that Miss Bennet is improved this morning. Maybe she will be able to leave her room by tomorrow.”
“That is encouraging news,” Darcy said and meant it. “Bingley, I have a favor to ask. My sister will need to visit within the week, along with our cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam. I hope it will not be too great an imposition…”
“Imposition? Not at all!” Bingley was already on his feet. “I shall be delighted to see Miss Darcy again. And Richard, of course. I must tell Caroline immediately—she will want to prepare rooms.”
Darcy suppressed a grimace. Miss Bingley would indeed want to prepare, though her preparations would likely involve elaborate dinners and attempts to impress. “They will not require any special accommodations. Simple comfort will suffice.”
“Nonsense! Your sister deserves the best Netherfield can offer.” Bingley clapped him on the shoulder. “They are welcome for as long as they desire.”
“I suppose they shall remain for at least a fortnight.”
“Then we shall make them most welcome.”
As his friend hurried off to spread the news, Darcy returned to his chamber and took up his pen once more.
Richard,
I need your assistance with a matter that requires both discretion and expediency. I would be grateful if you could escort Georgiana to Netherfield Park. Bring Atlas with you. Georgiana should pack for an extended stay. Her maid and horse should accompany her, naturally. Instead of returning to Town, we will travel to Pemberley for the winter.
I shall explain all when you arrive. Suffice it to say, the journey will benefit both Atlas and a young lady who has long been denied an opportunity to learn to ride.
Darcy
He sealed the letter and wrote a second, this one to his sister.
