Page 117 of Bitterness of Spirit

“That is an excellent idea,” Darcy readily approved. “I would like to be part of it if you will allow me. I shall help in any way I can, and I am sure Elizabeth and Georgiana will be happy to assist you.”

“I am counting on that. Now—what about another glass of wine?” Wilson asked, and the conversation suddenly turned towards this new subject.

Along with fears, disappointment, anger, regrets, and sorrow—twenty-five years of hate and revenge—Mr. Wilson’s scar slowly lost its painful significance.

Lord Matlock hurried to comply with the request of the man he tried to murder twenty-five years ago, filled his glass, and handed it to him.

***

The Matlocks remained at Pemberley for a few hours. They were privately informed about their son’s engagement to Anne—to their astonishment—and their joy matched their surprise.

“I would like to keep it secret until I am able to tell Mama,” Anne explained shyly. “I do not want to upset her.”

“I applaud your loyalty, my dear, but I believe it is time for us to give less importance to Catherine’s upsets. You should think only of your happiness,” the earl told his niece. “If you and Richard agree, you should apply for a special license and marry as soon as possible.”

“I surely do agree,” the colonel said. “Anne and I admitted our feelings for each other more than two months ago. I believe our engagement has been long enough,” he said, taking Anne’s hand.

“I am not certain. I must think about it…but it is good to know you approve of our marriage,” Anne said thankfully, smiling at her betrothed and her relatives.

“We do, most heartily,” Lady Matlock said. “We never imagined it might happen. We always felt you were like our own daughter and never thought of you in any other way. But what a joy, what excellent news you have given us! Will you not come with us to Matlock? It is quieter, less crowded, and more peaceful. Would it not be more comfortable for you?”

“No…” Anne responded. “We would rather stay here. I feel so good—so alive…”

“I agree,” the colonel supported her. “We shall let you know what we decide. And we might visit you one of these days.”

After the conversation in the library, Darcy was deeply affected and barely recovered from it the entire day. He struggled to behave properly, but he could not deceive Elizabeth, so her worried glance followed him until they had the chance to be alone.

When dinner ended and silence finally fell upon Pemberley, he went to his beloved’s room. He was so sad that her heart broke. As he sought comfort in her arms, he told her about the devastating revelation that his aunt, at the age of only twenty, conspired to murder a man who had fallen in love with her.

Elizabeth took half of his sorrow and readily shared his dark secret. That night, they proved to each other that their love was deeper than a yearning passion and that their embraces were meant not only to fulfil desires but also to provide support and safety.

***

Less than a week remained till the wedding of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy to Miss Elizabeth Bennet. All the arrangements were ready; the Matlocks announced their desire to be present, and a large party was planned not only for the Pemberley guests but also for the tenants and the other families in Lambton.

One late afternoon, the joyful party was disrupted by the impromptu appearance many had expected. Lady Catherine de Bourgh descended upon Pemberley, accompanied by her fury and opposition against the nephew who betrayed her by marrying the unworthy daughter of a country nobody.

“What is this?” she yelled when she entered the drawing room.

Anne and Georgiana both startled while Darcy and the colonel rose to their feet, placing a barrier between her and the other guests. Mr. Wilson, a glass in his hand, watched the newcomer with perfect composure and attentive scrutiny.

“Good day, Aunt Catherine. What do you mean?”

“I mean this…this gathering…you look to be invaded by all the Bennet relatives. There is no wonder you fell into their trap in a moment of infatuation. I should not wonder with what arts and allurements this woman here made you forget what you owe to yourself and to all your family!”

“Mama…” Anne attempted shyly.

“Not a word, Anne. You will come home with me this instant! How can you be such a fool without pride or consideration? How can you allow yourself to be so offended and remain in the same house with the woman who destroyed your long-standing engagement?”

“Mama, you are completely wrong. Will you not sit and speak calmly—perhaps in the library where we may speak privately? I have something to tell you…”

“I want to hear nothing from you!” she shouted louder. “I came to speak, not to listen, and I want everybody to hear what I have to say!”

“We shall allow you the privacy you need,” the Gardiners suddenly said, leaving the room, followed by Mrs. Jenkins, Mrs. Annesley, the Bingleys, and the Hursts. Elizabeth, Anne, Georgiana, Darcy, and the colonel remained.

Mr. Wilson remained unmoved, his face suddenly reflecting a strange amusement.

“Aunt Catherine, how may we help you?” Darcy asked conciliatorily.