Elizabeth’s step faltered slightly. “Did he?”
“He is betrothed to your sister Jane. He also told me of your disappearance, and how heartbroken your eldest sister has been.”
Elizabeth’s hand tightened on his arm. “I am pleased that Jane will have a happy future. I hope that Mr. Bingley has been able to cheer the family, too.”
“I know. But Elizabeth, listening to Bingley…”
“Do not dare feel guilt, Fitzwilliam Darcy. My father and mother should bear the weight of the turmoil in their household, not you. Any fear, disappointment, or dismay belongs to them, not us.”
She was correct. He adjusted his thoughts before continuing. “I have been thinking. You will reach your majority in six days.”
“I will. What are you proposing?”
“What if Jane and Mary could be here? For the wedding?”
Elizabeth stopped walking. “Is that even possible? If Jane comes to London, she will see me. My father would know where I am before I reach my majority.”
“Not if we time it carefully.” Darcy turned to face her, taking both her hands in his. “What if I were to suggest to Bingley that Jane and Miss Mary come to London to meet Georgiana? To begin shopping for Jane’s and possibly Mary’s wedding clothes? They could stay at Matlock House as Georgiana’s guests.”
“How soon could they come?”
“Not until the afternoon prior to our wedding. We would keep you hidden until the next morning. Before we leave for the chapel, we invite Bingley, whereupon we reveal everything. By the time Mr. Bennet learns where you are, you will already be my wife, beyond his reach.”
Elizabeth stared at him, her eyes wide. “You would do that? Risk everything for Jane and Mary to be here?”
“I would do it for you,” Darcy said. “I know how much you love your sisters. I know how much it pains you that Jane is suffering because of our choices. If there is a way for her and Mary to share in your joy, should we not take it?”
Tears filled Elizabeth’s eyes. “I do not know what to say.”
“We will be careful. Bingley need not know the true reason for the invitation. He will think I am being generous to his betrothed. He is aware of what his sisters are like. He would not want either Miss Bingley or Mrs. Hurst to take charge of their orders at the dressmaker. He would appreciate having them this close, I have no doubt.And did you not mention a favored aunt and uncle who live in Town? Might they want to witness your wedding?”
Elizabeth pulled her hands free and threw her arms around his neck. “Oh, William. You are the best of men. The very best.”
He held her close, breathing in the scent of her hair. “Is that a yes?”
“If you think it can be done safely, then yes. I want Jane and Mary here. I want them to know I am happy and safe. I want Jane to stand up with me.”
“Then I shall call on Bingley tomorrow and make the arrangements.”
They returned to the house hand in hand, and Darcy knew that whatever risks this plan entailed, it was worth it to see Elizabeth’s face glowing with hope and happiness.
The following afternoon,Darcy presented himself at Bingley’s townhouse. His friend received him in the study, surprised but pleased by the unexpected visit.
“Darcy! To what do I owe the pleasure?”
“I have been thinking about what you told me yesterday,” Darcy began. “About Miss Bennet’s heartbreak over her sister’s absence.”
“It weighs on her terribly.”
“I have a proposal that might help, at least in some small way.” Darcy settled into a chair. “Georgiana is in Town, as you know. She is eager to make the acquaintance of your betrothed, and I thought—what if Miss Bennet and perhaps one of her sisters came to Londonfor a week? They would stay at Matlock House. Georgiana would benefit from their company, and Miss Bennet could begin shopping for the wedding in earnest. Perhaps Miss Mary would like to accompany her? She seems to have the same interest in music as my sister.”
“Darcy, that is extraordinarily generous. But I could not impose?—”
“It is no imposition. I have already spoken with my aunt. She has taken charge of the arrangements, and she would welcome the company. Besides,” Darcy added carefully, “it would be good for Miss Bennet’s reputation in society to be seen under Lady Matlock’s protection. Your sisters would be…jealous, perhaps, but it would remind them that your betrothed is a gentleman’s daughter, regardless of her lack of fortune.”
Bingley’s attitude shifted at the mention of Caroline. “You are not wrong. Caroline has been making pointed comments about Jane’s connections. This would certainly give her pause.”
“Then it is resolved. Extend the invitation. Do not allow Mrs. Bennet to replace Miss Mary with either of her two youngest. My aunt would not be pleased.”
