Page 137 of The Mistress of All & Torn

Elizabeth blushed again, stealing a quick look at Darcy. His face was stern.

“Wonderful indeed,” Elizabeth replied. “This is quite unexpected…”

“Until then, I will gladly assist you and Lady Kendal with anything that is in my power,” Darcy said.

“Thank you,” she whispered.

“Mr Darcy was concerned that we have unreasonable expectations of you and that you will be overwhelmed and overcome by all the duties falling on your shoulders,” Lady Kendal confessed.

“I still am. I shall not conceal that. In fact, I am certain that it would be impossible for anyone to learn to manage such a vast and complex fortune in just a few weeks. It is my opinion, and I am standing by it. Miss Bennet already knows that disguise of any sort is my abhorrence.”

He cursed himself for saying those words the moment he said them.

Elizabeth suddenly averted her eyes and sat down in a nearby chair. Ice enveloped Darcy’s chest, while he persisted in rebuking his own thoughtlessness. What on earth had happened to him? Had he lost his self-control entirely?

“I appreciate your concern, Mr Darcy, but I assure you it is not needed. I am perfectly aware of the enormity of my future,” she said.

“I am relieved to hear that, Miss Bennet. I was only worried that your generosity and your consideration for the feelings of others would induce you to take too much upon yourself.”

“You are too kind, sir. I do know how daunting my responsibilities will be. I feel honoured to be part of this family and to have gained Lady Kendal’s trust. If the effort was not too much for her ladyship, it will not be for me,” Elizabeth declared.

“Very well then. I wish you much happiness and the best of luck. Please let me know when I can start reviewing the books.”

“We will. Thank you again, sir,” Lady Kendal said.

“Please send Miss Darcy and Miss de Bourgh my best regards,” Elizabeth added in a trembling voice.

“I will,” he answered in a lighter tone. “Yes, both my sister and my cousin are well. Busy preparing for Brighton. Good day.”

He bowed then exited the library in some haste to escape into the fresh air so he could finally breathe.

How could he have agreed to destroy his fragile peace by committing himself to stay in Elizabeth’s company? He knew he was incapable of bearing so much turmoil! His mind was already so full of her image that he could not possibly concentrate on any business.

Furthermore, he was tormented by the nature of the arrangement Elizabeth had accepted. She seemed fond of Lady Kendal and willing to be a part of the family. She had declared as much. But what were the conditions imposed on her? Did she willingly accept or had she no choice? She might well be doing it for the benefit of her family, but obviously it was at Lady Kendal’s request.

How much was Lord Alveston involved? He appeared completely enchanted by Elizabeth—of the man’s affection Darcy had little doubt—but he had not even been at the meeting. As for Elizabeth’s feelings, he was puzzled and more distressed than he had a right to be.

He could not escape the sensation that he had to protect her, even against her own determination.

∞∞∞

Elizabeth stared at the closed library door. It had never crossed her mind that she might see him again so soon and even less so in Lady Kendal’s house. They had asked for his help! It was dangerous and presumptuous of Bingley to do so without asking her opinion!

But if he had, what would she have said? Would she have rejected the suggestion? On what grounds? Surely his experience and knowledge could not be doubted. So a rejection would have been based on her feelings only. But if so, were her sentiments such as to decline his support? Or the contrary?

“Elizabeth, my dear, what is it? What troubles you?”

She startled and turned to Lady Kendal.

“Forgive me…I was lost in my thoughts. I did not sleep well last night.”

“Are you well? Would you like to rest?” Her ladyship enquired.

“No…I mean, I am well. I would like to speak to Philip for a few minutes, then I shall go to Jane.”

“I will keep you company,” Bingley declared. “I only came to introduce Darcy and Lady Kendal to each other.”

“Let us hope Mr Darcy will not change his mind. He did seem reluctant,” Lady Kendal said.