After removing their outerwear, they rejoined Aunt Madeleine. She rang for tea and asked how they enjoyed their walk.
“I enjoyed it immensely,” Mr. Fitzwilliam said. “Particularly because Miss Bennet agreed to a courtship.”
“That is wonderful!” Aunt Madeleine exclaimed.
“That is excellent news indeed!” Elizabeth said, reaching for Jane’s hand.
Jane could no longer contain her pleasure and beamed brightly. She squeezed Elizabeth’s hand, and Elizabeth squeezed right back.
“He has already received Uncle’s consent to the courtship,” Jane said happily, her face flushed.
“Well then, Mr. Fitzwilliam,” Aunt Madeleine said with a teasing look, “it appears you have attained the same visitor status as your cousin after all.”
Mr. Fitzwilliam chuckled and nodded. “Yes, ma’am, I am thankful to have it.”
Chapter 27
They were moments away from arriving at Darcy House. Elizabeth laughed privately to herself as she thought of her aunt's excitement for their outing. Earlier, when Elizabeth and her sisters descended the stairs, Aunt Madeleine had stood at the bottom, looking each one of them over as they came down. She followed them to the drawing room, where they came to a standstill and obediently awaited further inspection. They were to go riding in Hyde Park and were wearing their new riding habits—Jane in royal blue, Elizabeth in emerald green, and Mary in teal blue. They also sported jaunty new hats to match. Aunt Madeleine had circled each of them with a close eye before bestowing her seal of approval.
“You three will look absolutely lovely riding in Hyde Park! Do me proud, girls!” Aunt Madeleine said enthusiastically.
When Uncle Edward—who had been watching the entire scene—shook his head and walked outside, they all laughed. Then Elizabeth and her sisters told their aunt goodbye and followed their uncle out to the carriage.
The carriage came to a stop in front of Darcy House. Now, seeing Fitzwilliam and the others standing with the horses, Elizabeth's own excitement for their outing began to build.
“Gentlemen, you will ensure the safety of my nieces and their reputations,” Gardiner said, a serious expression on his face.
“Of course,” Whit said.
“You may depend upon it,” Darcy added as Fitz nodded next to him.
Darcy led Elizabeth over to a chestnut gelding. “May I assist you?”
“Yes, thank you,” she replied.
He lifted her onto the horse, keeping his hands at her waist until she was steady. He then assisted Georgiana. After making sure both Elizabeth and Georgiana were secure in their saddles, he mounted his own horse. Fitz and Whit helped her sisters mount, and soon their group was ready to set off.
“Enjoy your ride. I shall see you all later,” Gardiner said, then boarded his carriage.
Elizabeth and her sisters waved goodbye to their uncle.
Darcy nodded to his cousin. Fitz then announced it was time to ride and led the group towards Hyde Park.
Darcy and Elizabeth were at the back of their party.
He smiled at her. “Ready?”
She returned his smile and nodded. They both urged their mounts forward until they caught up with the others.
Even though autumn was not the time of year most people went riding in Hyde Park, the weather was mild, and it was the fashionable hour. It seemed half of London was out strolling, riding, or being driven. This meant Darcy, Fitz, and Whit were repeatedly stopped by various acquaintances. A few of whommentioned how fortunate the three of them were to have the company of such beautiful women for a ride in the park. As their group moved through the crowds, Darcy did not miss the frowns and disappointed looks aimed in their direction from several debutantes and their mothers. Eventually, Fitz managed to lead their group away from the promenading so they could ride once again.
After riding a while, they slowed the horses down. Darcy walked his horse between Elizabeth’s and Georgiana’s horses. Miss Mary and Whit trailed behind them in deep discussion, while Fitz and Miss Bennet were bringing up the rear.
“I am so glad we were able to do this today!” Elizabeth said, her face glowing from the exercise and the fresh air.
Georgiana grinned. “Me, too!”
Darcy was about to respond as well when he heard his name called. He looked to his right and saw two acquaintances approaching them on horseback. It was not long before a few others joined them—all wanting introductions to Elizabeth and her sisters. Eventually, they were able to extricate themselves from the group. They made a circuit of the park once more, then Fitz led them back to Darcy House.
