“I am determined only,” Darcy said, “to prevent you from abusing them further.”
At first, it seemed Wickham might reply.
Then, with a composure not entirely restored, he turned and withdrew.
They watched him go. The garden, which had seemed so open before, felt suddenly still.
Darcy did not immediately move. “You stayed.”
“I thought it better.”
“I would have preferred otherwise.”
“I know.” A pause. “I could not leave you.”
Darcy regarded her more steadily. “That is not a reason I can easily oppose.” He exhaled slightly. “I should wish you safe above all things.”
Elizabeth softened. “I understand.”
He hesitated, then said more quietly, “I am sorry you were exposed to him.” He raised his hand and touched her cheek. “I had not believed he would dare so much.”
“He has already dared it once,” she replied.
Darcy’s expression hardened.
Elizabeth cleared her voice. “He saw us the other day, here in the garden.
“It was him?” He looked away. “To come here, this way, the second time and accost my loved ones – this was deliberate.”
Elizabeth cleared her throat, “Your loved ones?”
Darcy was taken aback for a moment but then smiled. “Yes, my loved ones.” He looked her in the eye. “Would that offend you?”
Elizabeth could not speak immediately. She shook her head.
Darcy inclined his head, acknowledging it.
“What did he say?”
“Thankfully, not much. You came at a very good time. I think you were right when you said I had made an enemy. Just as you came, he-he meant to insult you – by presuming upon me.”
Darcy’s expression changed – decisively. “I have been too lenient with him,” he said under his breath. He drew her gently nearer. “I shall take care of it,” he said quietly.
And Elizabeth, who had held herself composed throughout, felt that composure at last give way. She did not resist him. Darcy pulled her into his arms.
At last, she allowed herself to tremble.
***
Elizabeth did not pause upon entering the house. She went directly to her mother, who was still in the breakfast parlour, full of activity and expectation. “Mama,” she said, with a composure that admitted of no interruption, “I must beg that you will do me a service.”
Mrs. Bennet turned at once. “My dear Lizzy, what is it? You look quite…”
“Mr. Wickham has been here.”
The name alone was sufficient.
“Here! In the garden? What could he possibly…”
