Elizabeth hesitated only a fraction before inclining her head, her gratitude plain but unexaggerated. “That would be of great assistance, sir. Thank you.”
***
Riding hard for the house, Darcy reflected that speaking to Bingley would be far easier than attempting the same with Miss Bingley, who was unlikely to view any interruption to her evening plans with indulgence, particularly if it threatened her dinner.
Upon entering the house, Darcy felt a measure of relief at the sight of Bingley in the hall.
“Bingley,” he said, more loudly than he intended. He checked himself at once and glanced about. Lowering his voice, he added, “May we speak in your study?”
“Certainly,” Bingley replied, though a slight crease appeared between his brows as he led the way and closed the door behind them. “You are not about to propose missing the assembly, I hope.”
“No,” Darcy said. “At least, not entirely.”
Bingley’s frown deepened, and Darcy continued.
“While riding, I passed a cottage where I heard a woman in distress. She is in labour, and the midwife cannot be procured. Mrs. Potter was mentioned as someone who has assisted before, and I offered to fetch her.”
Darcy paused, awaiting Bingley’s response.
Bingley regarded him for a moment, then gave a soft laugh. “You have a habit of involving yourself where you are not expected.”
Darcy’s expression cooled slightly. “I see nothing unusual in offering help where it is needed.”
“Nor do I,” Bingley said easily. “You may, of course, take Mrs. Potter. I only pity myself when Caroline learns of it.”
Darcy clasped Bingley’s shoulder briefly. “You have my thanks.”
“Then I suppose you will not return in time for the assembly,” Bingley said, with a sigh.
“I will not,” Darcy replied. “I must leave immediately. I hope you enjoy the evening.”
***
Caroline entered into Bingley’s study, frowning.
“Charles, what is this nonsense? I am told dinner will be delayed. The housekeeper claims you gave the cook permission to run off and assist some tenant’s wife.”
Bingley rose, pressing his fingers briefly to his temples.
“Caroline, it is an emergency. We may have a simple dinner this evening. I will have a tray sent up to your room. That will allow you time to prepare for the assembly.”
“And what is Mr. Darcy to think? That we cannot even offer him a proper supper. Or has he gone out as well?”
“Caroline…” Bingley hesitated. “Darcy is fully aware of the situation and understands. Pray go and make ready.”
Caroline’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Indeed.”
***
Mr. Darcy sat across from Mrs. Potter in his carriage. He leaned forward slightly. “Thank you again for agreeing to assist. Miss Bennet was very concerned when it was discovered the midwife would not be available until tomorrow.”
Mrs. Potter smiled warmly. “I do not mind assisting, sir, particularly for Miss Elizabeth. Though I confess I dread what may be said when Miss Bingley discovers I am gone. She is a spirited lady and not easily pleased. She complained my dinner was not to her taste.”
Darcy sat back and smothered a cough. “I believe Miss Bingley will endure the inconvenience. If any complaint is made regarding your absence, you need only refer it to me. Mr. Bingley has given his full permission.”
Soon they arrived at the cottage. Mrs. Potter wasted no time in alighting and hastening inside. Darcy followed at once.
***
