She hesitated, then sat again, visibly more composed. “When do we leave for town?”
Bingley shook his head. “We are not going to Darcy House. Darcy has not invited us.”
Her gaze sharpened. “Why not? We are his friends, far more so than the Bennets.”
“I should not have to explain it to you, Caroline. The Bennets’ home has been damaged by fire. I imagine even you must understand the difference.”
She was silent a moment, then said lightly, “Then we ought to go to town as well. There can be little reason to remain here.”
***
Elizabeth stood before Bramble’s stall, her hand resting on his nose. “I shall miss you.”
She looked up as Darcy entered the stable.
Darcy rubbed Bramble's neck, “Why not take him with you?”
Elizabeth turned, a little surprised. “To London?”
“Yes, of course. There is ample room for him and Willow. We might all ride together in Rotten Row.” He gave a small smile. “I am told it is quite the thing to do.”
Elizabeth’s expression brightened. “I should like that very much. I had not thought it possible.”
Darcy stepped a little closer. “There is something else I wished to tell you. Your father and I met with Colonel Forster this morning. Mr. Wickham has been discharged from the militia on account of his conduct.”
Elizabeth stilled, then shook her head. “I cannot say I am surprised. He seems determined to act against his own interests.”
Then her expression changed. “Oh no, Charlotte. She has only just returned, and we leave tomorrow.”
Darcy glanced at his watch. “It is not yet late. We could ride over and call upon your friend.”
Her face lit at once. “I should like that very much.”
She glanced down at her dress. “If you will excuse me, I shall return in a few minutes.”
Not long after, they were riding out together.
They soon reached Meryton and drew up before a neat brick house. Darcy assisted Elizabeth from her horse before stepping back.
“I shall take a short turn and return in half an hour, if that suits you.”
Elizabeth inclined her head. “Yes, thank you.”
She was admitted by the maid and shown into the drawing room.
“Charlotte, I am so happy to see you.”
Charlotte rose at once and embraced her. “My dear Lizzy, pray sit down.”
Elizabeth smiled warmly. “You look very happy.”
“I am,” Charlotte said, her countenance bright with quiet contentment. “Colonel Forster took me to his estate after our wedding. I believe we shall be very comfortable there.”
“And yet he remains with the militia?”
“For the present, yes. Though I hear Mr. Wickham has been obliged to resign.”
Elizabeth sighed lightly. “Yes. Mr. Darcy has just informed me.”
