When at last the carriage wheels sounded upon the gravel, her palms grew slightly sweaty. She rose, smoothed her gown unnecessarily, and reminded herself that she had met formidable persons before and survived the encounter.
Darcy entered first, bowing with his usual reserve. Behind him came Lady Anne and Miss Darcy.
Elizabeth curtsied.
Lady Anne was not imposing in stature. She was slight, her movements quiet and unhurried. Dark hair framed a pale countenance, and her eyes—
Elizabeth’s breath caught almost imperceptibly.
Green.
Not precisely her own shade, but near enough to be unmistakable.
Lady Anne seemed equally struck. Her gaze lingered upon Elizabeth in open assessment, widening faintly before she recollected herself.
Giving herself a small internal shake as introductions were made, Elizabeth focused her attentions on the young woman introduced as Miss Darcy. The girl was lovely in a quiet way, her fair hair and delicate features lending her an air of timidity in spite of her taller, well-formed frame.
“Please, do be seated. Would you care for something to eat?”
“You are very kind,” Lady Anne replied softly. “Tea would be most welcome.”
Georgiana inclined her head. “Thank you.”
Elizabeth poured, grateful for the familiar occupation of her hands. “You have had a comfortable journey, I hope?” she asked.
“Quite so,” Lady Anne answered. “The roads are in good condition for the season.”
“And Hertfordshire has greeted us with civility thus far,” Darcy added, with the faintest hint of dryness.
Elizabeth’s lips curved. “We endeavor to astonish Derbyshire with our refinement.”
That earned her a quick, surprised glance from Georgiana—and a quiet huff of amusement from Darcy.
Lady Anne’s eyes did not leave Elizabeth’s face. “You have long resided here?” she asked.
“All my life,” Elizabeth replied. “Though I confess, I sometimes think the hedgerows have grown accustomed to me and refuse to present novelty.”
“Familiarity can be a comfort,” Lady Anne said gently.
“And sometimes a trial,” Elizabeth returned lightly.
Georgiana smiled at that, though she did not speak.
Elizabeth turned toward her deliberately. “Your brother tells me you are accomplished at the pianoforte.”
Georgiana’s hands tightened slightly around her cup. “I practice.”
“That was not the question,” Elizabeth said with playful gravity. “Are you accomplished?”
A faint flush rose to Georgiana’s cheeks. “I hope to improve.”
Darcy intervened quietly. “She understates.”
“I hope to judge for myself sometime,” Elizabeth said with a warm smile. “I would ask you to do so now, but I fear that would be far too intimidating for a first visit. Instead, I shall content myself to ask you about your favorite composers.”
“Yes,” Georgiana said softly, relief plain upon her features. “I am particularly fond of Clementi, though my brother prefers Mozart.”
Darcy’s mouth twitched faintly. “I prefer that which is played with discernment.”
