Page 28 of The Mistress of All & Torn

Elizabeth took the reproach to heart, with no means to argue it. Indeed, she had barely considered Lady Augusta at all.

“I look forward to visiting your country estate and spending more time with Lady Augusta, sir,” she agreed, most willing to meet her new family’s expectations.

“Good.”

“Lord Barrington?”

“Yes?”

“I would like to visit my parents tomorrow, as they will depart the next day.”

“You should do as you please, madam.”

“And I would like to speak to Cece briefly too, since we will be gone for several weeks.”

“I can hardly imagine what you have to talk about with that woman—but I see no reason for another argument. It is your choice,” the earl responded, his displeasure obvious.

The next morning Elizabeth did not meet her husband at breakfast, but she followed her plan. She spent more than two hours with her parents and sisters, taking a warm farewell. She tried to sound joyful and optimistic, despite her heavy heart. While her father held Elizabeth’s hand all the time, her sisters and mother were excited about her future attendance at balls and parties. Jane seemed oblivious to everything, except the fact that Mr. Bingley was expected to open Netherfield in a week's time.

Later in the afternoon, she left her family and, barely concealing her sadness, she called briefly at Lady Sedgewick’s house and had a cup of tea with Cece.

“Will you remain in town?” Elizabeth asked. “Or do you prefer to retire to your property?”

“I do not know, Lady Barrington. I would rather stay in London and wait for your ladyship, in case you need me. I will do as your ladyship requests. I wish to be of help in any way I can.”

“I have no requests for you, Cece. I confess I would like to take you with me, but...”

The young woman startled. “Oh no, your ladyship, please no!”

“Do not worry, my dear,” Elizabeth said, puzzled by the reaction and trying to comfort her.

“I do worry, Lady Barrington. Mostly for you! I am thinking of you all the time.”

“My dear, I appreciate your concern, but truly there is no need,” Elizabeth answered, embracing her. Cece seemed surprised by the affectionate gesture, and returned it hesitantly.

“Please do not tell anyone that I own a property, Lady Barrington. I do not want anyone to know.”

“Of course. You may trust in my secrecy. I must leave now, but we will speak again soon.”

“God bless you, Lady Barrington.”

“Goodbye, my dear. Do not worry, I will take care of everything,” Elizabeth said.

She walked back home, lost in her thoughts. The emotions of the separation overwhelmed her. She knew she was being silly—any woman in her position would be happy to leave with her husband—an earl. But she wished for nothing more than to be home at Longbourn again.

“Miss Bennet?” she heard a voice calling to her and raised her eyes in disbelief.

Already fighting her own turmoil, she was stunned to see Darcy only steps away, together with a young woman of exceptional beauty who was holding his arm tightly.

“Mr. Darcy!”

He bowed with apparent distress. “Forgive me—Lady Barrington, I understand? Please allow me to congratulate you...”

“Thank you, sir...” They were in the middle of the street and she briefly wondered if someone was still watching her and would report it to her husband.

“Would you allow me to introduce my sister to you?” he asked hesitantly.

Elizabeth turned to the young lady who was looking at her with curious blue eyes.