Page 164 of The Mistress of All & Torn

“I do not wish to make you uneasy.”

Elizabeth laughed. “Please. You certainly expected no company.”

He replied with no little amusement. “I confess, I like swimming and the water is perfect. I have come here quite often.”

She stared at him. “Have you? I did not know that.”

“I like to swim at home, too,” he said awkwardly.

“I remember the lovely lake at Pemberley. It looked beautiful.”

“I am glad you liked it.”

Suddenly, they seemed to have run out of words; there was only the wind, the sound of the waves, and their tormented feelings. She felt conscious of her appearance while considering how attractive he looked.

Darcy glanced towards his horse. Elizabeth was aware she should not stay any longer.

“Are you… Will you walk any farther? You are rather a long way from the house,” Darcy said.

“I shall not go farther today. I just felt the desire for a walk, and I liked this place the first time I saw it.”

“I agree but... Forgive me, I know it is not for me to advise you, but you should not walk alone, Miss Bennet. There are all sorts of people in Brighton, and you might put yourself in danger.”

“I know you are correct, sir, but there is no one about.” Elizabeth smiled.

“Precisely. If someone wished to harm you, you would be all alone.” He studied her intently. His look thrilled her as much as the wind that was now blowing their wet clothes and hair.

“I shall return now,” she whispered.

Darcy seemed undecided how to proceed.

“Would you consider allowing me to accompany you? At least until we get closer to your home?” he enquired hesitantly.

She quivered in delight, nodding.

“Thank you.”

“Allow me a moment to fetch my horse.”

Donning his waistcoat and securing his remaining clothes to the saddle, he grabbed the reins, tossing them across the horse’s neck, and returned to Elizabeth, gesturing to her to accompany him.

“Do you have any news about Mr Wickham?” she asked.

“Not much. I have hired someone to watch him. I have discovered that he is not part of any regiment at present, but he still spends his time in company with officers from the army and militia. He is quite skilled at making friends.”

“Yes. But not as skilled at keeping them,” Elizabeth replied. The memory of their debate during the Netherfield Ball affected her, and she was at a loss to find another subject.

They walked together, side by side, with the horse following. From time to time, Elizabeth turned to look at the stallion.

“Do you mind him?” Darcy asked.

“Oh, no. It is just that I am surprised to see him following you. You are not holding the reins.”

“Thunder was born at Pemberley. We are accustomed to each other.”

“He is an impressive beast. And intimidating,” she admitted. Just like his master, she added to herself.

“But he is also loyal and obedient. And he is brave and adventurous,” he said with a gentleness that showed his own affection for the animal.