Elizabeth was in her room when a knock sounded at the door from the adjoining sitting room. She nodded to Millie, who went to answer it.
Georgiana entered, her hands clasped tightly together. “Oh, I am quite concerned. Lady Catherine arrived after you left with William, and she was displeased he was not at home to receive her. She did not approve of the rooms I selected for her and Anne.”
Elizabeth slipped an arm around her shoulders. “You must not allow her to see that she unsettles you. That only encourages her.”
Georgiana’s voice dropped. “I am not brave, as you are.”
Elizabeth laughed softly. “That is the secret, my dear. You need onlyappearbrave. Think of it as a coat you put on. When you are wearing it, you are brave.”
She gave her a reassuring squeeze before stepping back toward Millie, who resumed fastening the last of her gown.
“And if you practice, it becomes easier,” Elizabeth continued. “Now, as for Lady Catherine, there are only two rules. Pause before you answer, and do not react. Treat her as though she were a second thought, not the whirlwind she wishes to be.”
Georgiana looked at her as though she found such a feat nearly impossible.
Elizabeth smiled. “Do not worry. I shall not allow her to devour you.”
Georgiana managed a small smile. “Shall we go down?”
As they left Elizabeth’s room, they found Jane and Mary waiting in the corridor. Both were dressed for dinner, though neither appeared particularly eager.
Elizabeth shook her head. “Not you two as well.”
Jane glanced toward the stairs. “Lady Catherine sounded most displeased.”
“Come along,” Elizabeth said lightly. “And look as though you have seen far worse.”
Jane gasped. “You cannot be serious.”
Elizabeth placed her hands on her hips. “Jane Bennet, I had thought you possessed more fortitude than that.”
Jane smiled faintly, though she still looked uncertain.
Elizabeth’s expression softened. “You need only appear calm, no matter what you feel, and, more importantly, no matter what she says.”
She paused, then added quietly, “Trust me.”
Elizabeth led the way downstairs, Georgiana beside her, with Jane and Mary following close behind.
They entered the drawing room, where Lady Catherine and Anne were already seated.
Elizabeth felt the moment sharpen, and met it with a ready smile. “Anne, that gown is most becoming. Lady Catherine, you are looking very well this evening.”
Lady Catherine’s gaze moved over Elizabeth and the others, and she frowned slightly when she found nothing in their appearance to fault.
“I make it a point to be properly dressed,” she said. “I am gratified to see that you have done the same.”
Darcy entered the room. “Your parents and younger sisters have arrived. They have requested trays to be sent to their rooms this evening.”
Jane murmured under her breath, “I wish it had occurred to me.”
Darcy’s lips curved faintly before he turned to his aunt. “I am surprised you chose to stay here,” he said evenly, “particularly without informing me, instead of at Matlock House.”
Lady Catherine rose. “Do not be absurd. You require proper chaperonage.”
Darcy inclined his head. “And you believed Mr. and Mrs. Bennet insufficient?”
She lifted her chin. “Not insufficient, but certainly capable of improvement.”
