They entered the library and, unlike any other time before, he politely asked her to sit. She obeyed.
“Miss Bennet, what I wish to ask you might overstep the boundaries of your assignment and please rest assured that I would not mind if you declined it.”
His voice was full of emotion and it even trembled slightly; she was puzzled and genuinely worried, as she imagined something distressed him exceedingly.
“Mr. Darcy, I would never decline anything that you asked of me, as long as it is for the benefit of the household or the family.” She was being honest and her eyes, locked with his, showed him as much.
“Thank you. I shall not deny that I have long reflected upon this request, as I could only address it to someone who I trust completely.”
He stopped and she blushed, waiting.
“I first intended to talk to Mrs. Reynolds, but considering what I know of you, I feel you might be the right person to support my sister. She has been through some highly distressing circumstances in the last few weeks and she could use the discreet support of a friend, to regain her usual self.”
Elizabeth was now completely stunned. His words, but most importantly the gravity in his voice and his expression, proved the significance of his request.
“I cannot reveal any details to you, and it is not because I do nottrust you. Furthermore, I would insist on you not questioning my sister either; for many reasons this would be too painful to her and would only worsen her state.”
“Sir, my only question is whether Miss Darcy’s health is in danger and if she needs some particular support in this regard,” she replied.
“No,” he answered without hesitation. “Fortunately, her health is as good as it can be. She needs companionship, I believe. She should not be left alone for too long but not imposed upon either. I would gladly be her companion, but as a brother more than ten years her senior, I feel she is not comfortable with me. I fear my constant presence troubles her more than it helps.”
He seemed helpless and Elizabeth felt the need to comfort him.
“Mrs. Reynolds told me that Miss Darcy’s affection for you is very strong, so I am sure she enjoys your company. But I can understand your concern; sometimes, a young woman is more comfortable with another woman close to her age. I love my father dearly, but most of the time I prefer to be with my sister, Jane.”
“Precisely. This is why I applied to you.”
“I would be delighted and honoured to offer Miss Darcy my company,” Elizabeth declared, still puzzled by the conversation.
“Thank you,” he repeated. “I know this should be the duty of a lady’s companion, and I am looking for someone for this position. The previous lady proved to be unworthy of our confidence and betrayed our trust in a most harmful way.”
“I am sorry to hear that, Mr. Darcy. I cannot imagine… If only… Could you suggest to me some activities Miss Darcy enjoys, so I can approach her without bothering her?”
“Yes. She likes to play the pianoforte and I dare say she is very talented. Do you play, Miss Elizabeth?”
She tried to jest. “A little and very ill, I’m afraid. But I do love music and adore a good performance.”
“Good. She likes books, theatre and opera, to walk, to ride… All things that I imagine you enjoy too,” he said, and she smiled.
“All except riding being the noticeable difference. I am fond of horses, but only if I can watch them from the ground.”
A little smile appeared on his lips too. “I believe that will do very well.”
It was silent for a moment and the library seemed suddenly too small to accommodate their nearness that had grown equally uncomfortable and dangerously pleasant for both. He rose and she did the same.
“Miss Bennet, please keep this conversation completely secret, even from Mrs. Reynolds. As much as we appreciate her affection, my sister would not want to be surrounded by pity or concern.”
“You may depend on my discretion, sir.”
“Thank you. And, Miss Elizabeth…”
“Yes?”
“As I said, I know my request exceeds your duties. I would be happy to repay your effort properly…”
His words cut her heart like a blade and she stared at him in disbelief, while the burden of pain and disappointment fell on her shoulders.
“You wish to repay my friendship, Mr. Darcy?” she whispered, grieved and hurt. “That will not be necessary, I assure you,” she said, then gathered herself enough to step towards the door. In a heartbeat, he was beside her and he grasped her arm again. This time, his fingers remained on her arm, holding her gently but firmly.
